Economics vs Computer Science: Which Major is Better in 2025?

I've traded millions of dollars on Wall Street and created applications used by tens of thousands worldwide. Today, I want to settle a debate that countless students ask me: Which major is better — economics or computer science?

Having earned my bachelor's degree in economics from the University of Rochester and my master's degree in computer science from the University of Pennsylvania, I've lived in both worlds. If you're an international student, you should also read my take on why computer science is the best major for international students since visa considerations change the equation significantly. Let me give you the hardcore truth about these majors that admissions officers won't tell you during college open days.

The Good: What Economics Offers You#

Economics is fundamentally about understanding markets and scarcity — how you allocate limited resources in a world where demand exceeds supply. This knowledge branches into everything from international trade to finance, where you'll learn to determine equilibrium prices in various markets.

Strong Career Opportunities#

Here's what I love about economics: the versatility. I've seen economics graduates enter:

• Data science
• Investment banking
• Finance
• Business management
• Market research
• Policy analysis

Solid Starting Salary#

Economics majors can expect to earn over $60,000 starting out — that's substantial money for launching your career.

Real-World Understanding#

The biggest advantage? You'll understand how the world actually works. Everything from your local grocery prices to international stock markets operates on economic principles. Whether we're in a recession or expansion phase directly impacts your quality of life, and understanding these dynamics gives you a massive advantage.

The Good: What Computer Science Delivers#

Exceptional Starting Salaries#

This is where CS shines brightest. It's not uncommon for computer science graduates to make six figures in their first job — significantly higher than most other majors.

High Market Demand#

There's typically much higher demand for CS students than economics students. Companies are constantly hiring for software engineering positions because, as any good economist would tell you, technology is a scarce resource that companies desperately want to acquire.

The Bad: What They Don't Tell You About CS#

AI is Changing Everything#

Here's the uncomfortable truth: AI can now write 80% of basic code that companies use. This means companies don't need as many junior developers as they previously did. AI agents are handling tasks that would have required entry-level programmers.

The employment market for CS graduates is uncertain. We don't know if AI will create more demand for developers (because more applications get built) or if companies will simply eliminate junior developer positions entirely. My prediction? Companies will cut back on junior developers.

Highly Theoretical Coursework#

Most computer science courses are heavily theoretical. Only 3-4 classes you take will actually be useful in the real world:

• Introduction to programming languages (JavaScript, Java, Python)
• Data structures
• Algorithms
• Web development

Complexity theory, graph theory, and similar subjects rarely apply to real-world work.

Technical Interview Nightmare#

You'll face technical interviews with LeetCode-style questions — a major barrier that doesn't exist in most other fields. On top of that, the job search for international students adds another layer of difficulty with visa sponsorship requirements.

The Bad: Economics' Hidden Challenges#

Fierce Competition#

The biggest negative about economics is fierce competition for entry-level jobs. Want to become an actual economist? You'll most likely need a master's degree. Without it, landing economics-specific roles becomes extremely challenging.

Heavy Math Requirements#

Economics requires substantial math, particularly econometrics (regression analysis and statistics). Depending on your math comfort level, this could be a dealbreaker.

My Controversial Opinion: Economics Wins#

Here's my controversial take: I believe it's better to major in economics than computer science in 2025.

Here's why:

AI can write code, but it cannot:

• Understand markets
• Predict human behavior
• Spot market opportunities
• Navigate complex business dynamics

By 2035 or 2045, AI will be exponentially more sophisticated. It might not just write basic code — it could handle much more advanced programming tasks.

The Perfect Combination#

My recommendation: Major in economics with a minor in computer science.

This combination gives you:

• Market understanding and opportunity recognition
• Ability to leverage AI for coding tasks
• Technical skills that match or exceed many CS majors (thanks to AI assistance)
• Protection against AI replacement

With basic coding knowledge and AI tools, you can code as effectively as CS majors while possessing superior market intelligence.

The Future Landscape#

The barriers to entry for tech are lowering because AI democratizes coding. You don't need four years of computer science to understand technologies when AI can teach and assist you.

Meanwhile, understanding human behavior and market dynamics becomes more valuable than ever as AI handles routine technical tasks.

Which Should You Choose?#

Remember: there's no definitively right or wrong answer. If you're passionate about computer science, pursue it. If economics excites you more, go that route. Both fields offer strong employment prospects.

But if you're asking for my strategic recommendation based on future market trends: Economics major + Computer Science minor positions you best for the AI-driven economy ahead. And if affording a US degree is a concern, check out how to get a full ride scholarship as an international student.

The students who'll thrive are those who can leverage AI tools while understanding human behavior and market opportunities — exactly what this combination provides.

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More Guides#

• OPT Guide for International Students — understand work authorization timelines for STEM vs non-STEM majors
• How to Study for Free in the USA — make either degree affordable as an international student
• Full Scholarship for a Bachelor's Degree — fund your undergraduate education without loans
• Complete Guide to Studying in America — everything from applications to career planning

Get More Help#

Join my free community — thousands of international students figuring it out together.

Book a 1-on-1 Call With Me — 60 minutes of focused guidance on your specific situation.