One High School Computer Science Course Can Boost Gen Z’s Earnings by 8%, Study Finds

Looking to secure a higher salary right out of college? The key might be hiding in your high school schedule.

A recent study has found that high school students who take just one computer science class can earn, on average, 8% more by the time they land their first job, regardless of the career path they choose. For students from low-income backgrounds, Black students, and female students, the increase could be as much as 14%.

This wage boost holds true across industries, not just for those entering the tech field. According to researchers from the University of Maryland, the benefits of computer science education extend far beyond the classroom. The study highlights that even outside of tech, having AI and computer science skills is becoming a major competitive advantage in the modern job market.

As of 2024, the median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations stands at \$105,990, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In comparison, the median wage for all workers is just \$49,500. The importance of computer science literacy is evident, especially since AI skills are now among the fastest-growing competencies in the workforce, according to LinkedIn.

Bethlam Forsa, CEO of Savvas Learning Company, explains the trend, saying, “Computer science is no longer a niche subject—it’s the connective tissue across nearly every industry shaping our modern economy. It should be viewed as a foundational skill in today’s tech-driven world, much like reading and math.”

The Lack of Access to Computer Science Education

While the rewards are clear, access to this essential education is still limited. Just 6.4% of U.S. high school students enroll in computer science courses, leaving many young people without the opportunity to develop these valuable skills.

Cameron Wilson, president of Code.org, a nonprofit dedicated to computer science education, says, “When students don’t have access to computer science, they’re being shut out of the modern economy. Computer science education isn’t just about programming; it teaches critical thinking, problem-solving, and an understanding of the systems that shape every industry today.”

In response to this lack of access, Wilson is spearheading an initiative that includes over 250 CEOs, demanding that all U.S. high school students have access to computer science and AI education. The initiative has garnered support from major tech leaders like Microsoft’s Satya Nadella, Airbnb’s Brian Chesky, and Salesforce’s Marc Benioff.

Wilson emphasizes that exposure to computer science not only opens doors for Gen Zers to pursue high-paying tech jobs but also prepares them to succeed in any industry by fostering problem-solving skills that are valuable across the board.

What If You Missed Out on Computer Science in High School?

If you didn’t have the chance to take a computer science course in high school, don’t worry—there are still plenty of ways to boost your earning potential. For those looking to make up for lost time, AI is a great place to start. Many companies are now offering premium salaries to employees with AI skills, especially in fields like finance, marketing, and human resources.

For instance, companies are willing to pay about 42% more for AI-savvy finance workers, 43% more for those in sales and marketing, and 35% more for employees in human resources. The best part? Many resources to learn AI are available online for free.

In addition to AI, there are other ways to increase your earnings. Research has shown that attractive workers can earn nearly \$20,000 more than their average-looking peers. Taking care of your appearance can also pay off, with employees making over \$80,000 a year spending more on grooming and professional image maintenance.

Another way to boost your paycheck is through negotiation. According to a study published in the Journal of Organization Behavior, employees who negotiate their salary rather than accepting the first offer typically increase their starting pay by an average of \$5,000.

Conclusion

While high school computer science education may not be accessible to everyone, it’s clear that those who have the opportunity to learn these valuable skills early are reaping the benefits in their careers. For those who didn’t have access to coding classes in high school, there are still plenty of opportunities to learn and increase your earning potential through AI and other in-demand skills. Whether it’s gaining expertise in new technology, enhancing your personal image, or negotiating your salary, there are multiple avenues to boost your income in today’s competitive job market.