A branch of
computer science, software engineering involves establishing user requirements and creating software to meet these requirements. Software engineers document the creation process, test the software, and sometimes perform maintenance and upgrading.
Online master's in software engineering degrees meet the degree requirements for many lucrative computer and information technology occupations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these careers offer a median annual salary of $88,240.
Many of these careers also offer strong job growth projections. For instance, the BLS projects jobs for software developers to grow 22% between 2019-2029.
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Learn More About Software Engineering
Is a software engineer degree worth it?
March 2021 PayScale salary data indicates that software engineering master's graduates earn an average salary of $88,370 annually, making the degree a worthwhile investment for many students.
What can you do with a software engineering degree?
Graduates with an online master's in software engineering can pursue roles like information security analyst, computer programmer, web developer, and software developer.
Do software engineers get paid well?
According to March 2021 PayScale data, software engineers make an average salary of $86,980 annually.
What is the difference between a software engineer and software developer?
Software engineers often work on a larger scale and collaborate with other IT professionals, while software developers often work independently on smaller-scale projects.
Why Get a Degree in Software Engineering?
A bachelor's degree meets the minimum degree requirements for many computer and IT careers, but a master's degree positions graduates for leadership roles in the field. This degree often leads to promotions and networking opportunities. Graduates can pursue jobs such as computer and information research scientist. These professionals make a median annual salary of $122,840.
Earning a software engineering degree online often costs less than on-campus programs and gives students the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations.
How Much Does a Software Engineering Degree Cost?
The U.S. News & World Report reports that online software engineering master's degrees often cost between $7,000-$38,000. However, degree prices vary widely based on factors like program, school, and location.
The College Board's 2020 college pricing report suggests that attending an in-state public school rather than a private school or an out-of-state public school can cut expenses down by nearly 75%. Additionally, the College Board report indicates that colleges in states like California and New Mexico cost much less than many schools in New England.
Earning a software engineering degree online can save students money. Many schools offer tuition discounts to online students. Additionally, online students can often avoid many of the expenses that on-campus students incur, such as transportation costs.
Break down your current financial situation, and receive a college tuition estimate you can afford to pay.
How Much Do Software Engineering Majors Make?
Salaries vary widely based on factors like position, experience, employer, and industry, but software engineering graduates typically earn ample salaries. For instance, computer programmers and software developers make median annual salaries of $86,550 and $107,510, respectively.
A master's degree may also qualify graduates for computer and information research scientist and computer and information systems manager jobs. These advanced careers offer median annual salaries ranging from $79,540-$146,360.
Courses in Software Engineering
Master's in software engineering degree programs usually require 30-39 credits. Enrollees typically complete core coursework in software engineering fundamentals, software requirements analysis, agile methods for software development, and software testing and quality assurance. Core requirements may also include a capstone project that showcases key skills in analysis, engineering, and development.
Some online master's in software engineering programs offer concentrations in areas such as geographic information systems, modeling and simulations, digital and embedded systems, and network-centric systems. Additionally, software engineering may be a concentration of a broader computer science degree.
Courses vary by program, but the following list outlines courses commonly found in online master's in software engineering programs.
Fundamentals of Software Engineering
This introductory course familiarizes participants with key software development processes and practices. Enrollees learn about heavy- and light-weight software lifecycle process models. They use industry-standard software engineering tools and build skills in object-oriented analysis and design and project management.Software Requirements Analysis
This course explores techniques for identifying and eliciting requirements from stakeholders. Participants learn how to convert this information into more detailed requirements suitable for creating a software product. The course surveys requirement specification, modeling, and analysis methods.Agile Methods for Software Development
This course examines agile software development practices. Enrollees learn agile methods such as Scrum, Lean, Extreme Programming, and Crystal. Other topics include feature-driven development and dynamic systems development. This project-based course covers the use of agile methods during all development stages.
Certifications and Licensure for Software Engineering
Certifications can help master's graduates stand out in the job market. Some industry vendors, such as Microsoft, Citrix, Amazon, and Google, offer related certificate and certification programs. Nonprofit organizations also offer software engineering credentials. The following list outlines several certifications for software engineers.
This set of software certifications helps professionals demonstrate specialized skills in areas including Windows software and mobile applications and games. Candidates can pursue multiple certifications simultaneously.
The IEEE grants this certification to candidates who pass an examination covering 11 knowledge areas. Candidates need at least four years of college education and four years of industry experience.
Some jobs require software engineering licensure, which state boards administer. Requirements vary by state, but they often include a four-year degree and four years of relevant professional experience. Candidates must pass two exams to earn licensure.
Scholarships for Software Engineering
Software engineering students can take advantage of financial aid opportunities to help offset the cost of their degree. Unlike loans, scholarships do not require repayment, making them ideal forms of financial aid. The following list outlines several scholarship opportunities for software engineering students.
Scholarships for Software Engineering
| Scholarship |
Amount |
Who Can Apply |
National Science Foundation Scholarships |
Not specified |
This program supports low-income U.S. students who show promise in STEM fields. Candidates must inquire at their school's financial aid office to apply for an S-STEM project scholarship. |
Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association Graduate Diversity Scholarships |
$3,000 |
This scholarship supports women, minorities, and Gold Star members seeking STEM-related graduate degrees at accredited schools. Candidates need a minimum 3.0 GPA and status as active-duty service members, veterans, or Gold Star Family Members. |
Fulbright Foreign Student Scholarship Program USA |
AMOUNT |
International graduate students seeking to study in the U.S. qualify for this opportunity. Each of the 155 participating countries specifies its own requirements. U.S. students can pursue Fulbright scholarships in other countries. |
Online Master's in Software Engineering Programs
#1 Online Master’s in Software Engineering
California State University, Fullerton
- Fullerton, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
California State University, Fullerton delivers online and in-person graduate programs. Busy learners can enroll in a master's program in software engineering, which the public institution delivers in a convenient online format. Program graduates often qualify for advanced positions with high-level responsibilities and increased earning potential.
Faculty advisors help master's students examine complex issues and develop a strong overall understanding of the field. While earning the master's degree, enrollees complete a rigorous curriculum comprising core and specialized coursework. Coursework emphasizes analytical and leadership skills applicable to roles in the industry.
Learners at the school access affordable tuition rates and institutional funding, which can reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Financial aid counselors help degree-seekers understand funding options and minimize the overall cost of earning a degree. The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible.
California State University, Fullerton Fast Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 49
Total Online Programs: 7
Number of Online Students: 15,479
Graduate Tuition In-State: $7,176
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $16,680
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#2 Online Master’s in Software Engineering
East Carolina University
- Greenville, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its Greenville, North Carolina, campus, East Carolina University enrolls degree-seekers in undergraduate and graduate programs. Learners in a variety of fields can pursue online graduate degrees from the school. Students interested in software engineering can pursue the master of science in software engineering from the institution in a flexible online format.
Enrollees complete rigorous coursework and can access faculty and career advising. Learners balancing academics with personal or professional obligations can take advantage of the online software engineering program's flexible scheduling options. Master's programs typically take 1-2 years for full-time master's degree-seekers to complete.
The institution holds accreditation, which means students can qualify for federal financial aid programs. Of the student population, 53% take out loans. In addition, the institution reports that 79% of its learners obtain financial aid to fund their education.
East Carolina University Numbers:
Total Programs: 187
Number of Online Programs: 69
Online Master's Programs: 72
Number of Online Students: 13,890
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
Allows Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Online Master’s in Software Engineering
University of Houston-Clear Lake
- Houston, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Houston-Clear Lake offers master's programs that prepare students for new job opportunities and career advancement. The accredited MS in software engineering program uses a rigorous curriculum taught by experts. Distance learners can save money on transportation, childcare, and on-campus housing. The curriculum includes video lectures, assignments, and class discussions.
Students may be able to lower their cost of tuition through loans or scholarships. The admission rate is 74% for incoming students across all programs.
University of Houston-Clear Lake Facts:
Total Online Student Enrollment: 3,781
Online Master's Program Totals: 8
Graduate School Tuition: $7,920 in-state; $17,568 out-of-state
Average Aid Awarded: $13,184
Average Net Price: $9,215
The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Online Master’s in Software Engineering
Texas Tech University
- Lubbock, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
With a main campus in Lubbock, Texas Tech University delivers graduate programs in various fields. The public institution offers online master's programs. Students enrolled in the flexible master's in software engineering program often work full time while earning their software engineering degree.
Master's students begin the online program by completing foundational coursework in software engineering. After completing core requirements, degree-seekers can select elective classes to customize the program to their interests and career goals. In addition to classroom learning, students receive access to faculty mentorship and practical learning experiences.
A master's in software engineering can lead to leadership roles, which often pay higher salaries. The institution's career counselors help master's students identify career opportunities and develop professional plans.
Degree-seekers with financial need can submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal grants and loans. Learners can reduce the cost of earning a master's degree by applying for grants, fellowships, and employer-sponsored tuition plans. According to the school, 78% of students receive financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
52%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Online Master’s in Software Engineering
Kennesaw State University
- Kennesaw, GA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
With a main campus in Georgia, Kennesaw State University delivers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields. The school offers 14 bachelor's programs and 20 master's programs in an online format that is ideal for busy learners.
Online degree-seekers can enroll in the convenient master of science in software engineering program to gain advanced knowledge in software engineering. The flexible course options and rigorous curriculum allow professionals to launch or advance their software engineering career. Students in the school's master's programs can access faculty mentorship, career counseling, and experiential learning programs.
Online enrollees at the school pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. The institution holds accreditation, which means students can receive federal grants, scholarships, and loans. Learners who need additional funding can secure private scholarships and institutional fellowships.
Kennesaw State University Numbers:
Students Receiving Aid: 92%
Students Receiving Loans: 47%
Total Master's Programs: 43
Total Online Master's Programs: 43
Awards Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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