First, some facts. Of the Computer Science graduates from Princeton University we've analyzed , here's how many have used (or NOT used) their degree in their career:
These are estimates based on AI analysis of 10 LinkedIn profiles (see below).
The verdict? Above average. Overall, with an average relevance score of 77%, Computer Science graduates from Princeton University have a higher likelihood (+10%) of finding work in this field compared to the average graduate across all fields:
And for comparison, here's the chart for all profiles we've looked at across all degrees.
Also, after graduating, 40% of these graduates have pursued further education other than another Bachelor's degree (such as a Masters degree or other), compared to the average across all profiles of 35%. This suggests you may need more than just a Bachelors degree to be competitive as a Computer Science graduate.
See the details:
Relevance score: 0%We think this person has NOT gone into a career related to their degree.DEGREE INFOGraduated in 2021 from Princeton University with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science. No other secondary education since. JOB HISTORY SINCE GRADUATION2nd LieutenantUS Army May 2021 - May 2022 Assistant Operations Officer (AS3) US Army May 2022 - Oct 2022 Battalion Logistics Officer (S4) US Army Oct 2022 - Feb 2023 Mechanized Infantry Platoon Leader US Army Feb 2023 - Present ABOUTI am currently a US Army Infantry Officer as of May, 2021. I graduated as a Computer Science major at Princeton University and am interested in technology, law, and cybersecurity. While at Princeton, I conducted research with Professor Jennifer Rexford to develop a framework for monitoring network traffic in the data plane by domain name. |
The top 10 most common jobs done by the graduates we've analyzed (ranked most common to least) are:
When looking at the career paths of Princeton University graduates with a degree in Computer Science, a few common trends come to light. Many of them have landed roles such as Software Engineers, which are definitely in line with their academic background. These positions require strong programming and problem-solving skills—exactly what a Computer Science degree is all about. In fact, Software Engineering roles have been quite prevalent among recent graduates, especially in major tech firms like Meta, Citadel Securities, and LinkedIn. Other roles, such as Forward Deployed Engineer or Research Assistant, also heavily rely on computing principles, showcasing how grads apply their knowledge directly to real-world problems.
However, not all career choices among these alumni seem to directly relate to Computer Science. For example, roles like Project Manager or positions in military operations (like the US Army) often prioritize skills outside of the technical realm, emphasizing leadership or project management over coding or software development. Similarly, some graduates took on finance or marketing roles that don’t leverage their computer science expertise to a full extent. Overall, while a significant portion of these alumni are working in tech-related roles that align with their education, there are also several who have ventured into fields where their computer science background isn’t the main focus, highlighting the diverse career options available to graduates.
Here is a visual representation of the most common words in job titles for Computer Science graduates (this is across all Computer Science graduates we've analyzed, not just those who went to Princeton University):
Looking at the career trajectories of Princeton Computer Science graduates, it’s pretty clear that many of them have landed in strong roles relevant to their degree right after graduation and continue to build impressive careers. For instance, a lot of the graduates start off as software engineers, analysts, or developers, which are all typical entry-level positions in tech. You see names of notable companies like Meta, Citadel Securities, and LinkedIn popping up, indicating that a lot of these grads are stepping right into high-demand tech roles where they can apply their computer science skills effectively. This trend suggests that a solid foundation from a prestigious school like Princeton often leads to initial jobs that are both fulfilling and lucrative.
Fast forward a few years, and many of these individuals seem to thrive in their respective fields. Those who started at companies like Palantir and Electronic Arts have climbed the ranks into project management and leadership positions. Others have diversified their experiences, moving into roles that blend tech with strategy or operations, like becoming a Chief Marketing Officer or taking on roles in the military. The trajectory appears promising, with many graduates making significant impacts well within the tech landscape, even just a few years out of school. Overall, it seems like a Computer Science degree from Princeton opens up a world of opportunities, leading to successful and relevant careers for most graduates.
Honestly, a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science at Princeton is no walk in the park, and it’s likely tougher than average. The coursework is rigorous, with a mix of theoretical concepts and hands-on programming, plus you'll deal with complex algorithms and data structures. On top of that, Princeton has a pretty intense academic environment where everyone is aiming high, so it can feel extra competitive. If you’re serious about it and willing to put in the time and effort, it’s definitely doable, but you should be ready for some challenging late nights and problem sets that will really make you think!
Most commonly, in the LinkedIn profiles we've looked at, it takes people 4 years to finish a Bachelor degree in Computer Science.
So, looking at these Princeton grads' careers, it seems like they’re doing pretty well financially! The ones from the earlier classes, especially, are in solid positions at big-name companies like EA, Palantir, and J.P. Morgan, which typically pay really well. The recent grads are already snagging roles as software engineers at places like Citadel and LinkedIn, which are known for decent salaries and great benefits. Even those in more specialized roles like research assistant and military positions are set to have good earning potential down the line. Overall, it looks like these folks are on track to make some serious cash, especially considering the demand for tech jobs nowadays!
Here is a visual representation of the most common words seen in the "about" section of LinkedIn profiles who have a Bachelor degree in Computer Science (this is across all Computer Science graduates we've analyzed, not just those who went to Princeton University). This may or may not be useful:
Here are all colleges offering a Bachelor degree in Computer Science (ordered by the average relevance score of their Computer Science graduates, best to worst) where we have analyzed at least 10 of their graduates: