As artificial intelligence systems continue to expand their capabilities, a narrative has emerged in society suggesting that the field of computer science (CS) is on the verge of becoming obsolete. This view is sometimes conveyed as well-meaning advice to prospective students, yet much of it stems from hearsay—often from highly intelligent individuals who are not experts in computer science. Prominent figures, including Nobel laureate in economics Christopher Pissarides, have expressed similar sentiments, lending broader credibility to the idea. In some cases, high school career counselors have even actively discouraged students from pursuing computer science, despite having little knowledge of the field.

These perspectives typically suffer from two flaws: first, the advice comes from non-computer scientists; second, there is a widespread misunderstanding of what computer science truly entails. While AI can write code, boost productivity, and accelerate workflows, this does not equate to computer science. The discipline encompasses building complex systems, designing infrastructure, ensuring cybersecurity, and verifying system correctness—tasks that AI cannot reliably perform without significant human involvement.

AI excels at prediction and can make internet content more user-friendly, but it does not truly "think"—it relies on statistical shortcuts. It cannot reason, feel, or desire, and operates in ways fundamentally different from human cognition. Although the concept of "prompt engineering" briefly gained traction, job postings for such roles have largely disappeared, while the responsibilities of computer science professionals have actually expanded.

AI provides computer scientists with more powerful tools, but human expertise remains essential across many domains. Whether designing hedge fund algorithms that adapt to new economic conditions, diagnosing cloud service outages, or building safe and controllable AI systems, computer science knowledge and skills are indispensable.

Computer science remains vital. AI will reshape how engineering and computer science are practiced, but what we face is a transformation in working methods, not the demise of the field. Maintaining AI systems, constructing new platforms, and developing trustworthy AI all require computer science support. Technical expertise—particularly in computer science—is more valuable than ever.