Best Computer Software Engineering colleges in the U.S. 2024

Software engineering degrees traditionally offer students the skills to create various software, systems, and tech-based applications. Considering that software is somehow associated with almost every element of our lives, software engineering graduates can establish themselves in many careers.

Students pursuing a career in software engineering traditionally complete an undergraduate degree in software engineering or computer sciences. In addition to honing essential tech-based skills, software engineering students often shape their degrees to mirror their professional interests. This can include professional areas like manufacturing, management, or cybersecurity.

Most students tackling a software engineering degree rely on strong skills in math and science while also possessing equally strong problem-solving and analytical attributes. Software engineers often work in collaborative environments alongside various programmers and sales professionals.

Students pursuing an undergraduate software engineering degree typically complete about 120 credits before graduation. These degree-seekers complete a mix of general education requirements along with a substantial curriculum of software engineering classes. Alongside core classes, students often have the opportunity to select an academic concentration in areas such as software design, project management, web design, and information technology.

Prospective students must hold a high school diploma or a GED. In addition to an online application, applicants typically submit official high school transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement outlining academic and career goals. While it's becoming less common, some schools may require SAT/ACT scores.

Students completing a Master's in Software Engineering hone the technical and leadership skills they need to pursue various managerial roles. While most Master's in Software Engineering Degrees take about two years to complete, some programs offer an accelerated option where students graduate in as few as 15 months. 

Enrolling master's students traditionally have a strong background in software engineering or computer science and complete core classes such as software systems engineering, software security technologies, and software engineering processes. Additionally, graduate students also tackle specialized coursework in areas like software architecture, project management, and data analysis.

Prospective students must hold a bachelor's degree in a relevant field with a cumulative GPA of around 3.0 for many programs. Applicants also submit a professional resume, letters of recommendation, and a graduate essay outlining their interest in the program.

While software engineers are not required to complete, the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) has created a licensure process for software engineers. That said, hiring employers typically look towards academic performance and professional experience as indicators of professional performance. While not required, software engineering graduates can secure licensure to enhance their credentials and job options.

Electrical engineering degree graduates can also complete various graduate certificate programs to enhance their skills and professional marketability. Often provided as an online option, common certificate courses cover topics like C++ programming, user interface design, and blockchain applications.

Students completing their software engineering degrees often take advantage of widely marketable skills that often translate into generous salaries. Graduates often secure positions as software developers, digital designers, and computer systems analysts. Additionally, graduates often find themselves in various fields such as healthcare, finance, energy, and telecommunications.

While an undergraduate software engineering degree is often your ticket to a lucrative position in a growing field, working professionals continually enhance their career options and earning potential through graduate-level coursework and professional certifications. These professional development opportunities span from coding boot camps to various developer certifications and can dramatically enhance your marketable skills.

Specific program requirements can vary between online software engineering degrees, so applicants should reach out to program officials to see if there are any in-person requirements. Online software engineering degrees provide students with a flexible and affordable option ideal for working professionals. 

Depending on the program, students can anticipate synchronous (real-time) and/or asynchronous (at your own pace) coursework. Online programs also rely on digital platforms that facilitate class discussions and group work while providing students with easy access to all course materials. The best online programs offer coursework identical to on-campus options while supplying students with a similar list of student services and resources.

• Is software engineering a good degree?
  • Whether on-campus or online, graduate or undergraduate, a software engineering degree can lead to a professional toolkit of widely marketable skills utilized in nearly every industry imaginable. Software engineering students hone various technical skills throughout their coursework while working in a collaborative, project-based environment. From finance to healthcare, these industries rely on effective software engineers to accomplish their business goals.
• What can I do with a software engineering degree?
  • Upon graduation, software engineering students commonly tackle careers as software engineers, web developers, and cybersecurity professionals. Software engineering students traditionally have access to a wide variety of careers and can enhance their professional opportunities through various certificate programs and graduate-level coursework. Experienced professionals often take on leadership and managerial roles within their field.
• How much money can I make with a software engineering degree?
  • While salaries vary between specific jobs and industries, software engineering degree graduates can anticipate higher-than-average pay in a growing field. Experienced professionals in leadership roles often make the most, but the median salary for software developers exceeds $110,000 per year.