I'm planning to start a computer science program and eventually work in programming or IT, but I'm worried that my felony conviction for aggravated assault involving a deadly weapon will limit my options. I've been out of prison for five years, have a high school diploma with college credits, and have stayed focused on moving forward. I'm also considering whether expungement or record sealing might be possible. Could a conviction prevent me from enrolling in a computer science program, passing required exams, receiving financial aid, or getting hired afterward? Would a trade school be a better first step, or should I pursue a full degree? I'd appreciate practical advice from anyone who has navigated education or technology work after a conviction.
5 Answers
People with serious convictions do work in technology, including at large companies. It may take more applications and careful explanation, but a clean record since release, completed education, certifications, and a strong portfolio can help. Start building practical proof of your skills with small projects, GitHub work, internships, or nonprofit experience. Smaller employers and contract work may have more flexible hiring policies, although every employer makes its own decision.
For most computer science programs, the conviction itself usually won’t prevent admission or stop you from taking classes. The bigger issue is employment, since some companies run background checks. A violent conviction may close certain positions, especially government, defense, security, or jobs involving sensitive systems, but it doesn’t automatically rule out programming or general IT. Check your state’s rules and speak with a reentry or expungement attorney before assuming your record can be cleared.
Don’t lie if an application asks about convictions. Background-check rules vary by location, and some employers must consider how old the offense is and whether it relates to the job. Answer only what is asked, keep the explanation brief, and focus on accountability, rehabilitation, and what you’ve done since release. A workforce agency that specializes in helping people with records may also know employers and training grants that are actually available.
A trade program can be a faster and less expensive way to test the field and start earning, especially in help desk, networking, or technical support. A computer science degree is still worthwhile if you want software engineering or more advanced roles. You could begin with community college courses, meet with the school’s financial-aid and career offices, and ask specifically about eligibility after a conviction rather than relying on general assumptions.
Certain government-clearance, law-enforcement, military, and security-sensitive roles may be especially difficult, but that is not the same as being barred from the entire technology industry. Data-access restrictions also depend on the employer and role. Get the exact requirements for each position, and don’t assume that one rejection means every programming or IT job is off the table.
That distinction is important: a conviction can affect eligibility for particular jobs without preventing someone from studying computer science or working in many private-sector technology roles.