Replit CEO warns against studying computer science for Google paychecks

According to Replit's CEO, studying computer science just for a high salary is not advisable.

During the "20VC" podcast episode that aired on Saturday, Amjad Masad advised against young people pursuing a CS degree if it's not a genuine interest for them.

"If you aren't naturally inclined like a moth to a flame, don't opt for it merely because you hear it pays well at companies like Google," he mentioned.

"It's not smart to push people toward computer science if they lack a real innate interest."

Masad co-founded Replit, a comprehensive coding platform, in 2016. The venture has transitioned into a builder for AI-driven applications, now competing against Microsoft's GitHub, Cursor, and vibe-coding tools like Lovable and Emergent. Backers include Andreessen Horowitz, Coatue, and Y Combinator.

On the podcast, Masad remarked that, during the 2000s, individuals entered this area out of a genuine desire to grasp computers and programming.

However, as it grew more popular, CS programs expanded because it appeared to be an easy path to financial success, he said. With the advent of AI, that's no longer true.

"Now, if it's where your interests lie, there are still many ways to contribute. You could delve into areas like ML and AI and join significant labs or a firm like ours," he said, alluding to machine learning.

He highlighted that even with AI's evolution, core concepts such as data structures and algorithms remain unchanged, and the tech world will always require those who comprehend CS fundamentals.

Masad is joined by other tech industry figures who affirm the importance of a CS education.

In a recent podcast, venture capitalist and Affirm CEO Max Levchin stated that crafting quality code is an art form, not something AI can take over.

"The LLMs aren't likely to consistently create beautifully designed, elegant, and scientifically precise code," Levchin stated.

He also shared, "Without a firm educational background in computer science, I wouldn't be capable of achieving that as a programmer."

During a December interview with Business Insider, AI trailblazer Geoffrey Hinton commented that while AI is taking over certain coding duties, that doesn't devalue a CS degree.

"Many assume a CS degree is just about programming," shared Hinton.

"Coding involves more than just writing code," he added. "Studying computer science is an exceptional path to learn about system engineering."