Computer Science Attracting Fewer Applicants

By Sean Cavanagh

Not that long ago, the promise of a solid career—and a fat paycheck in a soaring industry—had computer-savvy high school students looking to boost their know-how with specialized college degrees.

But with the slumping technology economy, some of the nation's top undergraduate computer-science programs have seen a major drop in applications from seniors around the country.

Applications for admission next fall to computer schools at California Polytechnic State University, Carnegie Mellon University, and other popular degree programs have fallen, with students seeking out majors in other specialized fields, or...