What is a Bachelor of Software Engineering?
Software engineers design and develop computer software and applications and work with other information technology (IT) professionals to create working programs that meet users' needs. Software engineers enjoy good job prospects. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that software developer jobs will grow21% from 2018-2028, much faster than the national average for all occupations.
An online bachelor's degree in software engineering prepares students to enter this rapidly growing field and choose from a variety of software engineering careers. This page provides an overview of what you can expect from these programs, including entry requirements, joint courses and potential salary. It also answers the most frequently asked questions.
Should I major in software engineering?
An online bachelor's degree in software engineering offersmany advantages, as B. Increased salary potential, as well as career and networking opportunities. The list below outlines some of the key benefits of undergraduate software development programs.
- Employment Opportunities:Earning a bachelor's degree creates employment opportunities, which is one of the most common reasons students pursue a college education.
- Salary increment:A bachelor's degree can offer graduates more job opportunities with higher salary opportunities.
- unemployment insurance:Bachelor's degree graduates generally enjoy greater job stability and security than those with just a high school diploma.
- Job satisfaction:Bachelor's degree graduates report greater job satisfaction and are more likely to find their work challenging and rewarding than those without a degree.
- Networks:Bachelor's degree programs allow students to form connections with other software professionals, which can lead to greater employment opportunities.
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Advice from a software engineering graduate
Cole Stuart
Cole Stuartgraduated from Brigham Young University in Idaho in 2015 with a degree in Computing Information Technology from the university's business school. This course focuses on solving business problems with software. After graduation, Cole worked at Oracle for two and a half years, providing technical support for enterprise features software. He currently works for an insurance company processing two acquisitions while moving to the cloud.
Why did you decide to do a Bachelor of Software Engineering?
What was the deciding factor in choosing your specific program and school?
How was your job search after finishing your degree in software engineering?
How has your studies prepared you for your current career and past roles?
My degree covered many topics including networking, web design, security, databases, application development and project management. I focused on databases and took every available course on the subject. Oracle is the biggest database company, but my first job was technical support for a heavyweight Java application. I was learning ERP software and processes specifically related to accounting, which was difficult. Eventually, I tried switching to a database driven team.
When that was not possible, I changed jobs. My college education provided a good foundation, but my two-year stint in tech support somewhat dulled my database skills. I had to relearn some syntax and commands, and working with production databases is often much more complex than anything you'll see in a classroom. However, once you've laid the groundwork, you can still figure things out.
What are some of the most rewarding aspects of working in software engineering? Some of the more challenging aspects?
Salary can be much higher than average, especially for those with advanced skills. Job security is pretty high most of the time, and I probably have five recruiters trying to offer me a new job every week. It's also good to work frequently on important projects; My current project is frequently mentioned by the CEO and other VPs of Corporate Communications.
Many challenges result from misunderstandings, e.g. B. Business users who don't understand the functionality or possibilities. Many projects go way beyond their deadlines. Things can change quickly when new software is introduced. Teams can be "siloed" or somewhat isolated, which can make it difficult to get work done if you trust and expect different teams to complete small parts of a larger process.
What advice would you give students who are thinking of majoring in software engineering?
Admission requirements for the Bachelor of Software Engineering
Each school has its own admissions requirements, but most undergraduate software development programs require students to have a high school diploma or GED. More selective colleges may require a minimum GPA and/or minimum SAT or ACT scores. Some colleges may also require letters of recommendation and a letter of intent. Hundreds of public and private universities use Theshared app, which allows students to apply to multiple schools at the same time with the same online application.
What can I do with a Bachelor of Software Engineering?
graduates with aonline graduationWith a degree in software engineering, you can further your education, e.g. B. a higher degree, or enter the workforce immediately. The following sections examine these two options in more detail.
Career and Salary Outlook for Software Engineering Graduates
Information technology is a rapidly growing field, and software engineers enjoy many challenging and rewarding job opportunities. The growing demand for skilled IT professionals has led to rapid job growth. As already mentioned, the BLS plans races forsoftware developergrow above average from 2018 to 2028.
Software Engineering graduates can undertake a variety of activities.IT jobsin areas such as software development, programming, systems analysis and database management. Salaries are generally competitive, with mid-career IT professionals earning between $70,000 and $80,000 a year in many roles.
The following section outlines some of the most popular career options for software engineering graduates.
software developer
information systems manager
computer programs
systems analyzer
database administrator
| professional title | Entry level (0-12 months) | Early Career (1-4 years) | Mid-career (5-9 years) | Experienced (10-19 years old) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| software developer | 62.000 $ | 68.000 $ | 81.000 $ | 91.000 $ |
| information systems manager | 59.000 $ | 67.000 $ | 79.000 $ | 91.000 $ |
| computer programs | 52.000 $ | 57.000 $ | 69.000 $ | 78.000 $ |
| systems analyzer | 55.000 $ | 61.000 $ | 70.000 $ | 77.000 $ |
| database administrator | 54.000 $ | 63.000 $ | 79.000 $ | 90.000 $ |
Advanced Training in Software Engineering
Online bachelor's degrees in software engineering prepare graduates for advanced degrees and professional certifications. Continuing education offers many career benefits, including greater career opportunities and salary potential. Read on to learn more about the best software engineering training opportunities.
- Maestro:Master's degrees generally represent the highest level of education required for software engineers and prepare graduates for advanced positions of greater responsibility. These degrees usually take 2-3 years to complete. Many online programs offer students the flexibility to work while studying.
- Promotion:A PhD is the highest possible level of education in software development, although most positions do not require this degree. Comprehensive and Highly Specialized Knowledge Development, Ph.D. Programs are typically geared towards students interested in academic and research positions, although some graduates go on to senior software engineering positions.
- Certifications:Many certifications, such as Qualifications, such as the Oracle Certified job title, can help IT professionals increase their employment opportunities and earn higher salaries without the significant time and money investment of a degree.
Learn more about Masters in Software Engineering
Discover other software engineering careers
Earn your bachelor's degree in software engineering
program requirementsThese vary by school, but students can generally expect online bachelor's degrees in software engineering to be around 120 credits and take about four years of full-time study. Many schools also offer part-time and/or accelerated enrollment options.
Most degree programs in software development are bachelor's degrees, although some schools may offer bachelor's degrees. Students accumulate basic knowledge in computer science topics such as programming languages, operating systems, database management, and communication networks. Students also complete specialized courses in software design, engineering, and architecture.
The nature of the material makes software engineering degrees a natural choice for an online degree. Many schools offer complete online programs that allow students to complete their courses without ever visiting campus.
Comparison of Bachelor's Degree Programs
Software engineering is a diverse and rapidly evolving field, and many schools offer degrees with slightly different approaches to the subject. These programs rarely offer fundamentally different course materials, but students may find that some specializations better serve their personal and professional goals than others. The following list shows three common types of software development programs.
Bachelor of Science in Softwaretechnik
Bachelor of Engineering - Software Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology - Software Development
Popular Bachelor's Degree Software Engineering Courses
MajorityOnline Software Engineering-Bachelorstudiengängeprovide an overview of the information technology field and allow students to specialize their knowledge and skills through electives and/or concentrations. Programs often include a foundational project that links key curriculum topics and allows students to demonstrate their overall learning.
The following list contains five courses commonly found in software development programs. The exact course titles may differ between schools, but the overall content remains similar.
- Introduction to Programming
- This course develops fundamental knowledge of programming principles and languages (generally Java). Students gain an understanding of fundamental programming topics such as design, coding, documentation, and debugging. Most courses focus on object-oriented concepts and may also cover topics such as data structures and input/output instructions.
- information security
- Security plays an important role in all areas of information technology. This course provides an overview of basic security concepts, including threats, vulnerabilities, and system security optimization. Most courses also address legal issues related to cybersecurity and cybercrime, as well as vulnerabilities in software systems.
- project management
- This course examines project management principles in the context of software engineering. Students learn to apply business and organizational management skills to information technology. Courses often cover the various methods of organizing and learning, including team-based and discovery-based methods.
- Mobile architecture and programming
- Mobile computing is a fast-growing IT industry. These courses focus on mobile application development and cover topics such as design patterns, mobile functionality, security, and compatibility with mobile operating systems.
- scripts da web
- A web scripting course examines the tools needed to build websites and other online platforms. These courses usually focus on server-side scripting, web design, creating web documents, creating forms, and aspects of mobile design including the user interface.
Combine internships with your education
Internships can play a valuable role in professional and academic development. Internships usually take place in approved (often corporate) IT environments and allow students to apply course concepts in professional practice.
In addition to expanding knowledge and skills, internships can create valuable professional connections that will serve students well upon graduation. Successful internships can open doors to full-time positions or provide networking opportunities, which can facilitate future job searches.
Choosing your degree in Software Engineering
Prospective students must consider many factors when choosing the best school for their needs. Some important considerations are:
school size
Small schools generally offer more individual attention than larger schools, but larger schools may offer more resources and program options.
Costs/Financial Support
Tuition fees are one of the main concerns of most students. Public schools generally cost less than private schools, but many factors affect tuition. Some schools offer discounted tuition for online students.
Concentrations/Specializations
Some programs offer specialized concentrations that can help students excel in the job market. Potential concentrations include mobile development and web development.
program duration
Some students may be attracted to accelerated programs that require very intensive study but allow them to enter the workforce quickly. Students working full-time may prefer part-time enrollment, which allows for a lighter course load but requires longer completion times.
Online x Face-to-face
Online courses offer more flexibility, but they also require a high degree of independence and personal responsibility from students. While face-to-face events are less convenient for working students, they are generally more structured.
accreditation
Accreditation indicates that a school meets high academic standards. Students should look for regionally accredited schools that expand jobs, financial aid, and educational opportunities.
Should You Take Your Software Engineering Degree Online?
Online learning offers more flexibility than traditional on-campus learning. However, online formats require more independence and self-control from students. Online courses often allow students to complete classwork at any time of the day, but most programs still impose deadlines and students must take responsibility for completing their work without the structure of weekly meetings.
Ultimately, online students must decide whether they are willing to adopt less structured academic environments in exchange for greater flexibility. Many students, especially those who work full-time or live far from college campuses, find the move worthwhile.
Accreditation for software engineering schools and programs
Prospective students should ensure that all schools of interest have proper accreditation. Accreditation indicates that institutions meet high standards of academic and professional quality. Students attending non-accredited schools may not qualify for federal admissionfinancial helpor be able to transfer your credits to other accredited universities.
Schools may receive regional or national accreditation, with regional accreditation generally considered the more prestigious of the two. Aspiring software development students should look for schools accredited by one of thesix regional accreditation organizations.
Programs within a school may also be accredited. Computer science and IT programs can receive programmatic accreditation fromEngineering and Technology Accreditation Entity.
resources
Professional software engineering associations
Software engineers and other IT professionals can leverage professional organizations to stay current in an ever-changing field. Professional organizations can offer benefits such as networking, professional development, and continuing education opportunities. The following list shows three popular professional organizations for software developers.
Scholarships for Undergraduate Programs in Software Engineering
Software engineering students can potentially fund their studies through a variety of avenues, including scholarships offered exclusively to technology and engineering students. This section details five popular scholarships for software engineering students.
IN. Anderson Scholarship
Who can apply:Full-time STEM students who identify as Native American, Alaskan villager, Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, or part of another indigenous group are eligible for this award.
Team:1.000 $
Banatao Family Filipino American Education Fund
Who can apply:Freshman tech students attending California universities can apply. Applicants must have at least 50% Filipino heritage.
Team:5.000 $
Subsídios da Entertainment Software Association (ESA) Foundation.
Who can apply: Womenand minority students seeking careers in game design, including majors in software engineering, can apply.
Team:Varia
Google-Stipendium generation
Who can apply:Computer science students who identify as members of historically underrepresented groups are welcome to apply.
Team10.000 $
Society of Women Engineers Scholarships
Who can apply:Female students enrolled in ABET-accredited programs are eligible to apply. The organization offers a wide range of scholarships each year.
Team:Varia
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Frequently Asked Questions about the Degree in Software Engineering
Which bachelor's degree is best for software engineers?
How long does it take to become a software engineer?
What is the monthly income of a software developer?
What discipline is software engineering?
further reading
Bachelor's Degree in Softwaretechnik
Master in Software Engineering
Discover careers in computer science