Software Engineering

Computer software engineers design and develop software. They apply the theories and principles of computer science and mathematical analysis to create, test, and evaluate the software applications and systems that make computers work. Software engineers design and develop many types of software, including computer games, business applications, operating systems, network control systems, and middleware. They must be experts in the theory of computing systems, the structure of software, and the nature and limitations of hardware to ensure that the underlying systems will work properly.

Computer software engineers begin by analyzing users' needs, and then design, test, and develop software to meet those needs. During this process they create flowcharts, diagrams, and other documentation, and may also create the detailed sets of instructions, called algorithms, that actually tell the computer what to do. They also may be responsible for converting these instructions into a computer language, a process called programming or coding, but this usually is the responsibility of computer programmers. Computer software engineers can generally be divided into two categories: applications engineers and systems engineers.

Software Engineer Education & Training
For software engineering positions, most employers prefer applicants who have at least a bachelor's degree and broad knowledge of, and experience with, a variety of computer systems and technologies. The usual college majors for applications software engineers are computer science, software engineering, or mathematics. Systems software engineers often study computer science or computer information systems. Graduate degrees are preferred for some of the more complex jobs.

Software Engineering Career Outlook
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of computer software engineers is expected to increase by 32 percent from 2008-2018, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. In addition, this occupation will see a large number of new jobs, with more than 295,000 created between 2008 and 2018. Individuals with practical experience and at least a bachelor's degree in a computer-related field should have the best opportunities. Employers will continue to seek computer professionals with strong programming, systems analysis, interpersonal, and business skills. In addition to jobs created through employment growth, many job openings will result from the need to replace workers who move into managerial positions, transfer to other occupations, or leave the labor force. Consulting opportunities for computer software engineers also should continue to grow as businesses seek help to manage, upgrade, and customize their increasingly complicated computer systems.

Drexel University

Software Engineering - Master of Science
The online Master's Degree in Software Engineering is designed to address the rapid rise in demand for software engineering professionals by offering online degrees and courses that provide students with the skills employer's desire, and knowledge needed to make an immediate contribution to the workplace. The multidisciplinary curriculum provides an understanding of the latest technologies and tools that are being developed, and encompasses behavioral, managerial and technical aspects of software engineering. The online software engineering degree program is designed specifically for students interested in a range of application domains and prepares students for key roles in industry, government agencies, academia and other institutions.

• Rigorous study in software engineering courses with the option of taking courses from the Information Science and Technology, Computer Science or Engineering programs.
• Taught by experienced faculty who are also successful professionals in the software engineering field and are regularly recognized internationally, nationally, and within the institution for their professional achievements and scholarly work.
• Highly interactive e-Learning method designed to challenge and engage students, while remaining convenient for working professionals.

Software Engineering - Master of Science
Information Science & Technology Track
The Information Science and Technology track supports students interested in applying software engineering to information systems problems in commercial organizations and other settings. The track's principle focus is the process by which user and system requirements are converted into cost-effective, maintainable software systems. This focus is complemented by a concern for defining, creating, understanding, and evaluating the full range of software life cycle products. The track places particular emphasis on systems values, such as the human-computer interface, front-end user requirements analysis, modeling and validation, and the use of off-the-shelf tools and components to assist in software processes.

Software Engineering - Master of Science
Computer Science Track
The Computer Science track welcomes students who are interested in a variety of technical topics pertaining to the development of software systems such as databases, networks, operating systems, graphics and animation systems, compilers, expert systems, and systems for scientific computing. Students will learn and apply a variety of programming languages and techniques to specify, design, implement, test, and maintain software systems.

Regis University

Software Engineering - Master of Science
The Master of Science in Software Engineering from Regis University focuses on the application of a systematic, disciplined, and quantifiable approach to the process of assessing requirements, analysis, design, construction, operation, configuration, and maintenance of software. The discipline of software engineering encompasses knowledge, tools, and methods for defining software requirements, and performing software analysis and design, software construction, software testing, and software maintenance tasks.

Systems Engineering & Database Technologies - Master of Science
Regis University's Master of Science in Software Engineering and Database Technologies prepares career-oriented adults and technical professionals in the areas of computer systems design and analysis, software engineering, and database administration. Regis CPS and NUI Master of Science in Software Engineering and Database Technologies online curriculum covers the latest areas of IT design and development, including: Software Engineering, Comptuer Architecture and Operating Systems, Oracle Databse Administration, and Enterprise Portal Design and Development using XML.

University of Phoenix

IT / Software Engineering - Bachelor of Science
The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology/Software Engineering (BSIT/SE) program offered by the University of Phoenix provides the knowledge to successfully apply information technology theory and principles to address real world business opportunities and challenges. Under the guidance of practitioner faculty, the student uses innovative digital materials to develop competencies to apply: Systems Analysis and Design, Computer Programming, Database Development, Network Technologies, Information Systems Security, Web Technologies and Project Planning. This program's specialization, Software Engineering, concentrates on principles of software application development. The curriculum is designed to produce graduates ready to function in information technology positions with the competencies, skills, and attitudes necessary for success in the workplace. It forms the basis for continued career growth, life-long learning as an IT professional, or a future graduate program.

For program disclosure information, click here

Capella University

Software Architecture - Bachelor of Science
Software architecture, one of the fastest growing job sectors in the country, focuses on integrating and maintaining complex software systems within an organization. This specialization offers courses in software development, design, and construction in multiple platforms, including Web and mobile. It also emphasizes project management and communication skills, providing a blend of business and technology skills increasingly valued in today's businesses. People who choose this specialization are often pursuing technical specialist positions in software, data, or applications architecture; software development; or database administration.

Colorado Technical University

IT / Software Systems Engineering - Bachelor Science
The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology - Software Systems Engineering offered by Colorado Technical University features courses in Software Requirements Engineering, Software Design and Software Testing. In this curriculum, students can learn to elicit, identify, define, and document software requirements; develop use case scenarios for requirement creation and software design; apply appropriate software design models to develop a software solution; and plan, implement, and report software testing. This course of study is designed for students focused on career opportunities as a Software Engineer, Computer Programmer, Systems Manager, Software Developer, Applications Engineer and many others.

Computer Science / Software Engineering - Master of Science
Colorado Technical University's online Master of Science in Computer Science with a concentration in Software Engineering is geared towards motivated students and professionals seeking to enhance their credentials and advance in the vital, dynamic field of software engineering.

The explosive impact of computers and information technology on our everyday lives has generated a need to design and develop new computer software systems and to incorporate new technologies in a rapidly growing range of applications. The tasks performed by software engineers evolve quickly, reflecting new areas of specialization or changes in technology, as well as the preferences and practices of employers. Successful organizations recognize the need for software engineers that can apply the principles and techniques of computer science, engineering and mathematical analysis to the design, development, testing and evaluation of the software and systems that enable computers to perform their many applications.

Core curriculum is focused on providing students and IT professionals with an understanding of operating systems and networking, a knowledge of computer system architecture and the software system engineering process, as well as a foundation in playing a vital role in software development.

Systems Engineering - Master of Science
Colorado Technical University's Master of Science in Systems Engineering (MSSE) is geared towards computer science professionals motivated by opportunities to gain a competitive edge and pursue increasing levels of responsibility in their careers. In response to this growing need for knowledgeable, skilled professionals responsible for the design of today's complex products and systems, coursework is focused on teaching students how to select and apply modern SE tools, define the role and scope of SE and its interface with the related areas of project management, operations, logistics, performance, test, manufacturing, training and support, reliability/maintainability, quality assurance and disposal. This Master of Science degree program features courses including: System Dynamics, Modeling and Simulation; Quantitative Analysis for Systems; Applied Managerial Decision-Making and many others. Coursework is structured to teach computer science professionals to plan, manage and participate in the complete SE life-cycle process and sub-processes from commercial industry and government contractor perspectives.