5 tech college majors that are quickly getting more popular

Technology is reshaping the job market with extraordinary speed. As artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing, and cybersecurity become integrated into virtually every industry, students are rethinking which college majors offer the greatest promise. 

Majors that once seemed niche or specialized are now surging in popularity. These shifts reflect not just tech-industry demand, but a broader transformation. Companies outside “traditional tech” are hiring technologists, and students increasingly want degrees that offer flexibility, high pay, and long-term relevance.

The steady rise of data collection, automation, digital infrastructure, and AI-powered tools means careers in tech are no longer confined to Silicon Valley. Whether they're in finance, healthcare, manufacturing, or retail, many businesses now rely on people who can code, secure, and analyze data.

The result: Majors with strong technical foundations, especially those in emerging technologies, are gaining ground rapidly.

Here are five of the top tech college majors seeing fast growth in popularity or demand.

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Data science is surging because employers want graduates who can turn raw information into strategy. According to the Illinois Institute of Technology, data-science roles are projected to grow 36% from 2023 to 2033, a pace far above average. Students see that companies in every sector now depend on quantitative modeling and predictive analytics. The major’s versatility makes it one of the fastest risers.

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Cybersecurity keeps accelerating as global threats intensify. The Illinois Institute of Technology reports that information-security analyst jobs are expected to grow about 33% through 2033, driven by the demand for stronger digital defenses. Students understand that secure infrastructure is foundational across industries. That combination of urgency and high pay is attracting more majors each year.

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Artificial intelligence majors are expanding rapidly as students chase skills tied to the most disruptive technologies. According to a recent report by  Esther Shein at eWeek, universities across the U.S. are launching standalone AI degree programs at a “rapid pace” to meet surging student demand.

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Software development remains a steady draw even as newer specializations rise. The Illinois Institute of Technology notes that software-developer roles are projected to grow 17% through 2033, reinforcing the value of core programming skills. Data from the University of Cincinnati shows that IT roles, including software engineering, have median wages more than double the broader U.S. average. Students still see this major as the most flexible foundation in tech.

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Advanced computing research is attracting students who want to work on the cutting edge of AI, algorithms, and large-scale systems. The Illinois Institute of Technology projects 26% growth for computer and information research scientists due to increasing demand for breakthroughs in machine learning and cloud architecture. These roles often require graduate degrees, but they rank among the highest-paid in tech. Students who choose this major aim to shape the next generation of computational tools.