Without software, computers are just pricey paperweights. Software engineers design the programs that allow computer hardware to actually do something useful – from making a video game character jump to helping a plane make a safe landing in a storm. Earning a college degree can help technology-minded individuals break into this in-demand profession – and online programs can make the process more convenient and affordable. Keep reading for an in-depth look at online software engineering degrees and the career paths that may follow.
Online software engineering programs allow students to work towards their degree while meeting other time obligations and learning valuable skills to excel in this field. To help students enter this field with the proper credentials, many schools now offer software engineering programs with online learning opportunities. We’ve ranked schools all over the country based on our comprehensive methodology to help students choose the best program that meets their personal and academic needs. Explore the top online software engineering programs for 2017 here.
| Rank | University Name | Score | Net Price | Financial aid percent | Online Programs Aavailable | Student-Teacher Ratio | Grad Rate | University Information | Credit for Experience | Placement Services | Counseling Services | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Baker College | Score99.78 | Net Price |
Financial aid %72% |
#Online programs4 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate25% |
Technical skills to build software applications, manage computer networks and monitor complex computer programs are specific outcomes of the Bachelor of Science in Mobile Application Software Engineering degree program at Baker College. In addition to learning how to develop and monitor websites, including large corporate websites, students learn how to design and secure growing mobile applications. Types of classes that instructors teach in the program are database fundamentals, principles of computer science, programming for mobile devices and unit testing and interfaces. Eight credit hours of work experience and a capstone course are also part of the program. | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| 2 | Harvard University | Score99.42 | Net Price |
Financial aid %56% |
#Online programs2 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate97% |
After earning a bachelor's degree in computer science or software engineering, technology students could apply for Harvard University's graduate software engineering degree. As part of the admissions process, prospective students must complete a theoretical foundation class and two software engineering classes. The lowest GPA that prospects can earn in prerequisites is a 3.0. Once accepted into the program, students take courses like dynamic web applications, user experience engineering, developing international software and secure software development. Students have up to five years to finish the degree. The university has an enrollment team that helps students through the admissions process. | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| 3 | University of Alabama in Huntsville | Score95.77 | Net Price |
Financial aid %66% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate47% |
Six foundational courses provide an in-depth education for software engineering majors who are enrolled in the Master of Science in Software Engineering program at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Among the foundational courses are design and analysis of algorithms, introduction to computer architecture, operating systems and data structures. Within the program itself there is a thesis option and a non-thesis option. If students choose the non-thesis path, they must take three more hours of electives and complete a software engineering studio capstone course. A 3.0 GPA or higher in a bachelor's program or passing college entrance exams are needed to start classes. | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| 4 | Mercer University | Score95.66 | Net Price |
Financial aid %99% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate63% |
Within the School of Engineering department at Mercer University, faculty teach courses that lead to a Master of Science in Software Engineering. Another degree at the university that targets computer engineers is the Master of Science in Software Systems. At the end of the program, students should be proficient in programming, software development and design, especially using refactoring. Classes are taught online. Non-Georgia based students should contact the school to confirm that the program is taught in the state where they reside. Careers that the degree aligns with include software architecture, software tester and computer programmer. | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| 5 | DePaul University | Score95.35 | Net Price |
Financial aid %94% |
#Online programs2 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate68% |
Instructors that teach classes in DePaul University's Master of Science in Software Engineering program lecture, share research information and engage students in discussions on topics like software system technologies, techniques and methodologies. Foundational and emerging software engineering practices are covered during classes. Four concentrations that students can register for are software architecture, software development, real time game systems and entrepreneurship and technology leadership. it's possible to take some courses using the university's distance learning platform. There is a heavy research component to the training. Applications for acceptance into the program can be submitted online. | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| 6 | Purdue University-Main Campus | Score95.12 | Net Price |
Financial aid %47% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate70% |
Adults accepted into the Master of Science in Computer Science at Purdue University can earn a graduate's degree online. Academic advisors work with students to help them select classes to register for each semester. Concentrations that individual classes are taught in include software engineering, data mining, programming languages and compilers and information security and assurance. A thesis and a non-thesis option are available. Regardless of the option that students choose, they must complete at least 30 credits to graduate. To get admitted into the program, students need at least a bachelor's degree in engineering or computer science. | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| 7 | West Virginia University | Score94.79 | Net Price |
Financial aid %57% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate56% |
Students enrolled in the Master of Science in Software Engineering program at West Virginia University are held to high academic standards. Regular software engineering majors need to have a 3.0 GPA or higher to start taking classes in the degree program. They also need a computer science or related bachelor's degree. Provisional software engineering majors can have a bachelor's degree in any subject. They also need at least one year of software engineering work experience. Minimum GPA for these students is a 2.75. Classes in the 33 credit program include software project management, software evolution and software analysis and design. | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| 8 | North Dakota State University-Main Campus | Score94.39 | Net Price |
Financial aid %37% |
#Online programs2 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate53% |
The Master of Science in Software Engineering degree at North Dakota State University is a part of the school's distance and continuing education unit. The program targets adults who have existing computer science or software engineering educational or work experience. One year is the fastest that the program can be finished. Part-time students with less flexible schedules can take up to five years to graduate. Credits for one course per semester can be earned by passing an examination. To earn the credits, students must pass the examination at the start of the semester. | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| 9 | East Carolina University | Score94.26 | Net Price |
Financial aid %50% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate58% |
East Carolina University's College of Engineering and Technology offers an advanced computer science degree. The school's Master of Science in Software Engineering degree combines emerging software engineering trends and techniques with established traditional training. The school has been awarding the degree since 2008. Classes cover engineering topics like software project management, programming languages, software systems architecture and object oriented design. Teaching environments are online and on campus. Admission into the program may require adults to take and pass graduate entrance examinations. A program's admission committee reviews some applications on a case by case basis. | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| 10 | University of Michigan-Dearborn | Score94.20 | Net Price |
Financial aid %71% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate52% |
Adults who want to earn a Master of Science in Software Engineering from the University of Michigan in Dearborn seek admittance through the school's Rackham School of Graduate Studies. Two options available to adult learners are on campus evening classes and online courses. The 30 credit hour degree is an interdisciplinary program that educates adults in subjects like local area networks, software quality assurance, software engineering and embedded systems. Students can elect to pursue a thesis or a non-thesis degree path. If students take the non-thesis path, they must complete a project course in addition to passing another non-project course. | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| 11 | Pace University-New York | Score94.19 | Net Price |
Financial aid %97% |
#Online programs2 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate56% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 12 | Robert Morris University | Score93.66 | Net Price |
Financial aid %87% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate54% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 13 | California State University-Fullerton | Score93.28 | Net Price |
Financial aid %34% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate51% | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 14 | Texas Tech University | Score93.03 | Net Price |
Financial aid %39% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate62% | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 15 | Kennesaw State University | Score91.98 | Net Price |
Financial aid %1% |
#Online programs2 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate37% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 16 | University of Maryland-University College | Score89.90 | Net Price |
Financial aid %3% |
#Online programs2 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate4% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesNo | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 17 | University of Houston-Clear Lake | Score89.86 | Net Price |
Financial aid %N/A |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad RateN/A | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
The bureau of labor statistics provides the following data about job growth in the Software Engineering industry. As well as the following national median salary data for several different careers in the field of Software Engineering.
| Career | National Job Growth(2014-2024) | National Median Annual Salary (May 2014) | Minimum Education |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Systems Analyst | 21% | $82,710 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Computer Hardware Engineer | 3% | $108,430 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Computer Network Architect | 9% | $98,430 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Computer Programmer | -8% | $77,550 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Database Administrator | 11% | $80,280 | Bachelor’s degree |
Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Those who earn online software engineering degrees have numerous professional paths available to them. Here’s a sample path that a hardworking software engineer could take.
Takes a computer programming class and advanced math classes
Obtains Bachelor of Science in software engineering
Takes summer job at tech startup and learns how mobile apps are developed
Writes computer code under the direction of senior software engineer
Obtains online master’s degree in software engineering
Becomes lead software engineer and receives CODiE award
Those who attend an online software engineering program receive the same quality education as a traditional student, yet have the advantages of distance learning flexibility. Most online software engineering programs are 100 percent online with no need to travel to the school’s campus. The programs are often self-paced, allowing students to complete their degree as quickly or slowly as they choose. This not only offers an ideal, personalized learning environment, but allows the student to continue working in their established job while obtaining the degree.
Fittingly, the educational content in software engineering programs is delivered using innovative and advanced software. Distance learning software programs and suites make it possible for students to receive the same lectures and class materials that their on-campus counterparts get while attending class in person. Students can watch class lectures on their own time table, whether it’s live or in the middle of the night, and they can interact with other students and professors via chat rooms, message boards and video conferencing.
Even though there are several degree options available for those seeking an online software engineering degree, the predominant online degree can be found at the graduate level, either as a master’s degree or certificate. Online software engineering degrees can be found at other levels, but they are relatively rare.
Most online certificates in software engineering are intended for those who are already working in the field and have software engineering work experience. Most certificate curriculums are for students who already have a bachelor’s degree in software engineering (or a related area), but desire additional knowledge of software engineering concepts.
Each school has its own unique certificate program, but typical certificate programs consist of four to six classes totaling about 10 to 18 credits. In order to get an online software engineering certificate, students will need a strong background in computer programming in modern languages such as C++ or Java. Depending on the certificate program, students may also need a bachelor’s degree with a certain number of computer science or software engineering courses.
Students seeking an associate degree in software engineering need to be willing to attend a traditional, on-campus program, as online associate degrees in engineering are extremely rare. However, there are some related online programs available, such as software technology, information technology or computer technology.
Online software engineering bachelor’s degrees are relatively rare. As is true with most other bachelor’s degrees (both online and traditional), students can complete their online degree in four years; accelerated classes might cut that time down a bit. In addition to software engineering coursework, students can expect general education classes as a part of their curriculum.
The vast majority of online software engineering degrees can be found at the master’s level. A master’s degree is ideal for those who already have an undergraduate degree in software engineering, computer science or a similar program. Most master’s students will also have at least several years of experience in the software engineering industry. By getting their master’s degree, these software engineers will obtain specialized computer engineering instruction and therefore be able to take on more in-depth projects, possibly helping to advance their career.
Taking about two years and usually accumulating to 36 credits, the curriculum for an online master’s software engineering degree consists of classes such as advanced software design concepts, advanced operating systems and database software design. There is also usually opportunity for students to take a few electives to gain additional knowledge in subjects of their choice.
The curriculum is designed to allow students to continue working full-time while completing their degree in two years. However, some programs allow for accelerated coursework, which means students can complete their master’s degree in as little as one year. In addition to traditional coursework, a large number of programs also require students to conduct a software engineering project in order to complete their degree.
Online doctoral degrees in software engineering are rare. Of the doctoral level degrees that are available online, they are in areas related to software engineering, such as computer science with a concentration in software development or computer engineering.
Even though each school has its own curriculum for students and flexibility in their specific course load, there are commonly found courses in the typical online software engineering program.
This class will delve into the process of developing relational databases by incorporating user needs and software and hardware limitations.
The theoretical concepts and techniques of how humans and computers interact are examined in this class. Students will learn fundamental principles for creating and designing the most efficient computer-human interfaces.
The basic principles and theories of major software architectures and design are studied here. Both scientific and mathematical concepts and how they form the basis of software creation and logic are covered.
In this class, students learn advanced artificial concepts such as problem solving and algorithms and apply them to real world situations such as voice recognition and natural language comprehension.
The most recent industry standards as they apply to protection of networked information will be covered in this course. Encryption, firewall and other protection protocols will be discussed.
There are plenty of online software engineering degree programs to choose from, so narrowing down a list of schools to apply to and attend requires some time and effort. Some of the traditional criteria for choosing a school, such as location, weather and campus facilities, are rather a moot point with distance learning. The below list will provide a few steps to take in deciding where to apply.
Any degree takes a great deal of effort to complete. One way to make sure this effort is worthwhile is to confirm that the educational institution is accredited. Accreditation ensures that the institution granting the degree meets certain educational standards.
Accreditation usually takes place at the geographic or program level. At the program level, the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) is the preeminent engineering program accrediting body. However, very few online software engineering programs are accredited by ABET. Instead, the schools offering the online degree or certificate in software engineering are more often accredited at the regional or national level.
To determine which regional or national organization has accredited a given software engineering program, check out the US Department of Education’s Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs.
The application process can take several months and require many steps. The below chart will discuss what some of these steps are and when you should take them. Because a master’s degree is the most common, we’ve focused on applying to an online master’s degree program.
| Time Before Program Start Date | |
|---|---|
|
Step 1
Earn a bachelor’s degree in software engineering, computer science or a related field. |
5 or more years |
|
Step 2
Gain real world experience by working in the software engineering industry. |
1 or more years |
|
Step 3
Take the GRE |
About 1 year |
|
Step 4
Complete and submit admission applications |
Varies, but usually about 6 to 9 months |
|
Step 5
Finish filling out the FAFSA so that financial aid determinations can be made by the government or school. |
About 9 months |
Perhaps you know which degree you want and even have that dream school you’re eyeing. How can you make sure you get accepted, or at the very least make sure you give yourself the best chance of getting in?
Those who graduate with a degree in software engineering don’t necessarily have to become a software engineer. The skills and knowledge gained during the degree pursuit lend themselves well to other, related professions. Here are just a few.
Computer systems analysts work with organizations, businesses and even government entities to help them work more efficiently with their computer and information systems.
Computer hardware engineers design and develop the physical hardware and ensure it will work with a variety of computer software.
Computer network architects design computer networks using the parameters and instructions provide by their customers.
Using the directions from software developers, computer programmers actually write the computer code to create the software.
Database administrators store, manage, secure and organize data using specialized database software.
There are dozens, if not hundreds, of certifications available for computer engineers. Some of the certifications are application or programming code specific while others are more general. Below is a list of several of the more widely known certifications.
These certifications are designed to confirm a software engineer’s understanding of engineering concepts and fundamental knowledge.
These certifications require the completion of several parts which validate a software engineer’s overall knowledge in a broad range of areas.
Offered by Microsoft, this certification covers a wide range of modern programming languages that are likely to be used in today’s software industries.
A wide range of certifications covering many different software engineering concepts and contexts.
Getting a software engineering degree or certificate isn’t the only way to work with a computer or software. These degrees might make a great alternative to those who don’t necessarily want to move into software engineering, but do prefer to work in a related field.
Most commonly found at the master’s level, the data science degree takes ideas from many different areas, such as statistics, data mining and computer science. The data science degree teaches students the theories, principles and concepts that allow them to find useful information and compile applicable conclusions from various sources of data.
Generally obtained at the undergraduate level, a computer programming degree will teach students the basics of computer coding. Students can expect to learn the fundamental concepts of programming as well as how to code in a variety of programming languages.
Largely studied at the bachelor’s level, a web development degree will allow graduates to learn the ins and outs of creating content for the Internet. From the basics of common programming languages to concepts and ideas for creating the most compelling web content, a web development degree will teach students how to be a part of this growing industry.