collageLike all undergraduate degrees in computer science, a bachelor’s in software engineering begins with general education and tech fundamentals, with students gaining more in-depth knowledge as they progress toward graduation. A typical four-year curriculum includes study of computer programming, mathematics, and the software life cycle.
An associate degree in IT or computer science can provide access to select entry-level jobs in this field, but a bachelor’s degree is the standard minimum education requirement for software engineers. Earning a master’s degree allows you to pursue research, management, and information security careers.
In this comprehensive degree guide, you’ll learn key details about software engineering programs and gain perspective from an expert in the field.
What are the best Software Engineering programs of 2020? Here are our top 10:
| Rank | School | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arizona State University | Scottsdale, AZ |
| 2 | Pennsylvania State University | University Park, PA |
| 3 | Western Governors University | Salt Lake City, UT |
| 4 | Washington State University – Everett | Pullman, WA |
| 5 | Saint Cloud State University | Saint Cloud, MN |
| 6 | Champlain College | Burlington, VT |
| 7 | University of Maryland – Global Campus | Adelphi, MD |
| 8 | Bellevue University | Bellevue, NE |
| 9 | The College of St. Scholastica | Duluth, MN |
| 10 | Southern New Hampshire University | Manchester, NH |
Related Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.AD
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What Is Software Engineering?
Software engineering encompasses the systematic design, development, production, and maintenance of complex computer programs. This process requires collaboration and teamwork as software projects move from one life cycle stage to the next: analysis, design, coding and implementation, validation, installation, and maintenance.
Ready to earn your bachelor’s degree? Find out more about the top software engineering colleges in the U.S. on our program rankings page.YOUR GUIDE TO EARNING A SOFTWARE ENGINEERING DEGREE ONLINE IN 2019
What Does a Software Engineer Do?
Software engineers create operating systems, mobile and web applications, and networking applications. Though the two roles have some overlap, it’s important to distinguish between software engineers, who complete tasks throughout the software life cycle, and software developers, who primarily focus on one part of the life cycle: writing and testing code.
A software engineering degree prepares graduates for work in a variety of computer science occupations.EXPAND ALLSoftware DeveloperComputer and Information Systems ManagerComputer ProgrammerComputer Systems AnalystWeb Developer
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Want to know more about the types of jobs you can pursue after earning a software engineering degree? Explore your future with our comprehensive career guide.NURSING CAREERS GUIDE
Interview
Sam Gavis-Hughson
Founder of Byte by Byte
Sam Gavis-Hughson, founder of Byte by Byte, helps software engineers interview for jobs at top tech companies. He is the author of “Dynamic Programming for Interviews,” an e-book that shows how to succeed at dynamic programming interviews. Through his blog and free content, Sam has helped thousands of students — and 40+ coaching clients — land jobs at Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Bloomberg, and Uber.EXPAND ALLWhy did you choose to earn a degree in computers? Was this a field you were always interested in?What was the job search like after completing your degree? Did you feel fully prepared when making the transition from school to the workplace?What are some of the challenges you face in your work on a day-to-day basis?How is the job interview process for software engineering jobs different from the process for other jobs in computing? How have you seen the process change over time?Why did you decide to start your own business?What advice would you give to students who are considering a degree in software engineering?
What to Expect in a Software Engineering Program
Students pursuing a software engineering degree learn how to build software from the ground up. Coursework covers knowledge and use of specific programming languages; project management methodologies; and design, coding, and testing techniques used in software development. Learn more about popular concentration options and common courses below.
Concentrations Offered for a Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering
EXPAND ALLComputer ProgrammingWeb DesignProject ManagementSoftware DesignInformation Technology
Software Engineering Courses
The required courses in any software engineering degree vary, depending on the college and program. However, most degree programs cover the same basic principles and techniques of programming and software design. Some common software engineering courses are listed below.EXPAND ALLComputer ProgrammingSoftware Specification and DesignSoftware Project ManagementSoftware ArchitectureSystems Programming
How to Choose a Software Engineering Program
Choosing a bachelor’s program in software engineering can be challenging. Programs vary widely, and each student has particular needs and preferences. You should carefully assess each program, considering factors such as academic requirements and costs.
Students who plan to concentrate in a particular area of software development, such as web design or computer programming, should select schools that offer relevant specializations and electives. Those who value experiential learning should choose a program that includes opportunities for developing software in a real-world setting via an internship. Program accreditation is also an important consideration.
Along with calculating tuition costs, learners should factor in fees and other expenses. On-campus students should also consider the cost of relocating, living in a new area, and potential job opportunities after graduation.
Programmatic Accreditation for Bachelor’s Programs in Software Engineering
In general, you should attend an accredited school to ensure other institutions and future employers recognize your software engineering degree. Accreditation requires a lengthy review process and indicates that an institution meets academic standards. The federal government offers financial aid only to students at accredited institutions. Most employers and graduate programs require candidates to hold a degree from an accredited school.
Schools can earn institutional accreditation, while programs can receive field-specific accreditation. Software development students should look for programs with accreditation from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). Programs may also receive accreditation from the Computing Accreditation Commission, a body within ABET.
Software Engineering Admissions
Students should research admission requirements in advance to avoid last-minute issues. Most colleges in the U.S. accept the Common App, a standard application comprising a single form and essay, which students can submit to many schools. Most schools also request official high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores. Others may require an interview component, a supplemental application, or an additional essay.
Most students apply to 6-9 institutions, including safety schools, target schools, and reach schools. The admissions process for online programs can be more time-consuming than that for on-campus programs.
Prerequisites
- Minimum GPA: Schools generally require applicants to have a minimum 3.0 GPA. Most institutions consider applicants with lower GPAs who excel in other areas.
Admissions Materials
EXPAND ALLApplicationTranscriptsLetters of RecommendationTest ScoresApplication Fee
High School Preparation
If you are a high school student wondering how to become a software developer, the best tip we can offer is to commit to early, pre-college preparation.
Taking STEM classes — even if they aren’t focused specifically on computer science — will help develop your analytical skills and critical thinking abilities. At home, consider setting aside some time to study computer programming languages like JavaScript, SQL, or Python. Understanding the fundamentals before you start college can give you a real boost in future coursework.
Finally, stay focused on college application requirements. Don’t forget to take admissions exams. Craft your personal essays with care. Know in advance whom you want to ask for letters of recommendation.COMPUTER SCIENCE RESOURCES GUIDEBACK TO TOP
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SOFTWARE ENGINEERING DEGREES & CAREERSHow to Become a Software Engineer
EXPAND IN-PAGENAVIGATIONCHOOSE A PROGRAM Select a Degree Associate’s Bachelor’s Master’s Doctorate Certificate / Diploma Graduate Certificates Select a Category Art & Design Business & Management Computers & Technology Criminal Justice & Legal Education & Teaching Liberal Arts & Humanities Nursing & Healthcare Psychology & Counseling Science & Engineering Trades & Careers Select a Subject Computer Engineering Computer Forensics Computer Programming Computer Science Database Management Information Systems Security Information Technology Mobile Development Network Administration Software Engineering Web Development GOADWas this page helpful? Yes No
Software engineering is a field that is vitally important to computer technology as a whole. Without the software to run the computer hardware, that hardware is simply a clump of plastic, silicon and metal – perhaps useful as an overpriced paperweight.
In the strictest sense, software engineering is the application of engineering principles to the design, development and implementation of software. Because software engineering is such as a unique, scientific and technically-driven field, special training and formal degrees are required. By getting a degree in software engineering, graduates can work in any number of fields creating video games, developing internet applications, running computer networks or implementing computer security measures for an organization. Find out more about software engineering degrees and careers, and learn about salaries and employment projections for this specialized field.
WHAT DOES A SOFTWARE ENGINEER DO?
SOFTWARE ENGINEERING BASICS
Combining business sense with programming know-how, software engineers devise software application solutions for business problems. Software engineers work with different platforms, such as the Internet, mobile devices, and desktop computers.SOFTWARE ENGINEERING IN-DEPTH
The practice of software engineering blends engineering, computing, project management, and software development. Software engineers manage a comprehensive list of critical functions across broad knowledge areas, such as Web and mobile applications, embedded systems, networking, data, security and systems administration. These critical functions span the entire development process, which often includes business needs and use analysis, design and development, implementation, quality assurance testing, and product release.
As a profession, software engineering has two central specializations: software/systems development and applications development. Applications developers review the needs of a user to design and code computer applications for different platforms, such as Web, social media, and mobile. Software/systems engineers, on the other hand, use programming languages and frameworks to design and create systems that keep technology functioning correctly.
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SALARIES
The market demand for qualified software engineers has created an arms race for the top talent. Salary research from ComputerWorld, the Bureau of Labor Statistics and Robert Half International all reveal the same thing: Companies are willing to pay a premium to acquire top talent, with some annual salaries pushing northward of six figures. ComputerWorld’s 2015 IT salary survey reported average salaries of nearly $109,000 for software engineers, while Robert Half reported earnings that range from $96,000 to $147,000. The financial climate is good for individuals considering a career in the field — Robert Half projects salaries will climb by 6.6 percent in 2016.
| TOP CAREER IN SOFTWARE ENGINEERING | MEDIAN SALARY |
|---|---|
| Software Engineer, Application | $95,510 |
| Software Engineer, Software | $102,880 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational and Wage Estimates, 2014
STEPS TO BECOMING A SOFTWARE ENGINEER
Software engineering is an ever-changing profession, one that adapts as new technologies are developed. Because of its shifting nature, there are multiple entry points into the profession. Although no single path to becoming a software engineer exists, the steps below outline the general path to employment.1GET AN EDUCATION
Completing a formal education is the first step toward becoming a software engineer. Prospective students can select from both traditional and nontraditional training programs to gain the education necessary to pursue entry-level positions. Some options include:
- ASSOCIATE DEGREE (TWO YEARS).Although employers typically prefer candidates with a four-year degree, an associate degree can open the door to entry-level jobs in the field. Students may choose to pursue majors in several related areas, such as software engineering technology or software systems engineering. Curriculum focuses on the core principles of software engineering, programming languages, and modern approaches to software development.
- BACHELOR’S DEGREE (FOUR YEARS).A bachelor’s degree in computer science, or a related field, is the traditional minimum degree preferred by employers. Bachelor’s degree programs expose students to a broader curriculum, one that provides a foundation in mathematics and computer science. Students develop a comprehensive understanding of programming, software architecture, and software testing. They may also take specialized courses in application areas, such as networking or embedded systems.
- CODING BOOTCAMP (8 TO 12 WEEKS).Coding bootcamps are a relatively new educational path for aspiring software engineers or developers. These programs typically last between eight and 12 weeks and place students into a hands-on, immersive learning environment. Upon graduation, students should be ready for entry-level careers as software engineers or developers.
Popular Programs
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2DO AN INTERNSHIP
Completing an internship provides students with real world experience. Technology companies may offer internships for students with a bachelor’s or master’s degree who are seeking to expand their skills in specific areas, such as Java, XML or SQL. Internships typically last between three and six months and allow students to work on specific projects or products related to their skills.3PURSUE A SPECIALIZATION
Generally speaking, there are two specializations within software engineering: applications and software/systems development. However, distinct areas of practice exist within each of these areas. Software engineers may choose to become experts in a single programming language or type of development. Below is a list of example specialty areas to consider:
- Web development
- DevOps
- Mobile development
- Technical stack (e.g., Python, Ruby)
4PURSUE ENTRY-LEVEL CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
After earning a computer science or related degree or completing a bootcamp program, the next step is to seek out entry-level employment. Because of the demand, software engineering has been rated one of the best entry-level careers available, according to Forbes. Although the dream job may be at Google, prospective software engineers can start with a small, local job hunt because, in the profession, experience is a critical commodity for career advancement.5GET CERTIFIED
Although some certifications have lost their luster, they remain an integral part of the tech industry. Software engineering is precise and technical, and gaining certification verifies an applicant’s knowledge and abilities. Along with experience, certification can improve a person’s marketability in an increasingly competitive marketplace. Certifications are available from technology vendors (e.g., Microsoft, Cisco and Oracle) as well as professional organizations (e.g., IEEE) and are tailored to specific areas of practice.6ATTEND CONFERENCES
Innovation drives change. That means software engineers need to stay abreast of the latest developments in both the general profession and their specialty. Attending conferences is a great way to network with other engineers and learn about new products, business practices, and technologies. Popular conferences for software engineers include the International Conference on Software Engineering and the International Conference on Automated Software Engineering.7EARN A GRADUATE DEGREE
A graduate degree offers the opportunity to qualify for management and leadership positions in the industry. In addition, there is more to engineering than just programming. Software engineering calls upon interdisciplinary skills such as critical thinking, cost analysis and project management — skills that can be enhanced in a master’s program in computer science, computer engineering, information science or software engineering.
SOFTWARE ENGINEERING DEGREES & CONCENTRATIONS
MATCHING GOALS TO SOFTWARE ENGINEERING DEGREES
| Career Goals and Educational Needs | Associate | Bachelor’s | Master’s | Doctorate | Online |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| I am already working in the computer technology field, but I want to advance my career. Perhaps I could take on more responsibility by managing large software development projects or eventually working my way into a management position. | |||||
| I have no educational background in computer technology or computer science, but I’m pretty sure I want to become a software engineer and begin working in the field as soon as possible. | |||||
| I think I want to study software engineering, but I’m not 100% sure. I’d hate to waste four years and tons of money on a bachelor’s degree on something I may not end up enjoying. I’d love it if there’s a way I can get exposure to the fundamental software engineering classes without committing to four years of schooling. | |||||
| I have an extensive software engineering background, having worked in the private sector for many years. My experience has given me many ideas I would like to explore and research. Also, I may want to try my hand at teaching. | |||||
| I want to get work as a software engineer, but I can’t afford to move to attend school, nor do I have the time to attend on campus classes during the day. Additionally, I enjoy self-paced learning so I can speed through the stuff I understand, but take my time with more challenging material. |
SOFTWARE ENGINEERING DEGREE LEVELS
For those interested in a software engineering degree, there are many options to choose from on both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Depending on prior work and educational background, as well as professional aspirations, one degree will probably make more sense than the other. Let’s take a look at the software engineering degrees available.
Software Engineering Associate Degrees
An associate degree in software engineering takes about two years to complete. The associate degree can be a useful way for students who want a degree to take on an entry level software engineering position without spending the time and money getting a four-year degree. As an added bonus, some associate degrees can serve as stepping stones to getting a bachelor’s degree later on.
Classes typically found in software engineering associate degree programs include:DATABASE MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
This course covers how database management systems work, as well as how to design, create and implement systems within an organization to meet their specific needs.Skills Gained
- Gaining familiarity in commonly used database management systems
- Learning the principles of relational, hierarchical and object-oriented databases
- Understanding the current trends in data management, such as data mining and business analytics
WEB APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT
The architectural design of web applications, as well as programming languages and technologies to help build web applications, are reviewed in this class.Skills Gained
- Designing a web application
- Implementation and testing client and server solutions
- Learning user-interface principles
OPERATING SYSTEMS
Foundational concepts, as well as fundamental principles of operating system design and operation, are examined in this class.Skills Gained
- Commonly used operating system programming languages
- Computer architecture design considerations
- File management techniques
NETWORKING
Teaches students the basic principles of networks, and the role software plays in their functionality and application.Skills Gained
- Network security protocols
- Types of networks
- Network design considerations
Software Engineering Bachelor’s Degrees
For students fresh out of high school (or shifting over from another career) who want to maximize their professional potential in software engineering and give themselves the best chance of finding ideal post-graduate employment, the bachelor’s in software engineering is worth pursuing. In fact, most entry-level software engineering positions will require this four-year degree. Some more advanced positions may require a master’s degree in software engineering. In that case, a bachelor’s degree could be a prerequisite to admission.
Four of the typical classes that can be found at most software engineering bachelor’s degree programs are described below:OBJECT-ORIENTED SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT
Students will take an advanced programming language in order to solve common computer problems and tasks.Skills Gained
- Computer programming expressions
- Understanding how fields and methods work
- Programming logic
COMPUTER SECURITY
Students receive an overview of computer security. Ethical, legal and practical considerations will also be discussed.Skills Gained
- Disaster and data loss recovery
- User access methods
- Fundamentals of cryptography
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Techniques and methods for designing and developing software projects on schedule and on budget should be covered in this class.Skills Gained
- Understanding project lifecycles
- Project planning
- Risk management
USER INTERFACE
By applying the concepts of human communication methods, students should learn how to create user-friendly software that can communicate with people.Skills Gained
- User interface design considerations
- Tailoring software to human user specifics
- Usability testing
Software Engineering Master’s Degree
Depending on the program, a master’s degree in software engineering takes about two years to complete. Many programs are designed for students who are working full-time. The master’s degree not only provides additional knowledge of the software engineering field, but also offers education in management and leadership, so that graduates can take on more complex projects, be able to successfully coordinate those projects and work well with a team.
Students who enter a master’s degree program in software engineering can expect to cover classes such as these:MATHEMATICAL MODELING
Mathematical modeling Students are introduced to mathematical models, which have applications in understanding and predicting natural phenomenon and human nature.Skills Gained
- Applying models to real world problems
- Identification of a particular mathematical model for a given situation
- Quantification of variables and intended results
SOFTWARE DESIGN
Software design Students should expect to examine different programming languages and learn how their particular characteristics can be applied to software creation.Skills Gained
- Reinforcement of object-oriented programming principles
- Critically analyze existing computer code
- Techniques to effectively and efficiently design programs
SOFTWARE TESTING
Tools and techniques for practical testing of software, as well as analyzing theoretical testing models, are the focus of this class.Skills Gained
- How to troubleshoot
- Methods of debugging
- Analyzing and interpreting test results
SOFTWARE SYSTEM ARCHITECTURE
Covers the fundamentals of software architecture paradigm and their application to the software development process.Skills Gained
- Identify software architectural techniques
- Analysis of software design
- Tools used for software architecture design
Software Engineering PhD Degree
While PhD programs in software engineering do exist, they are far less common than the bachelor’s or master’s degree. Usually taking at least four years to complete, PhD software engineering degrees are often research-oriented, culminating with a dissertation. In addition, students will take focused classes on very specific areas of software engineering, such as robotics, distributed systems, software security and quantitative research methods. A PhD is usually necessary for those who desire a career in research or academia, such as teaching at a college or university.
By enrolling in a PhD software engineering program, students can tailor a curriculum that’s unique to them. As such, there are very few similar class schedules among students in the same program. However, the following courses would likely be helpful in the PhD course list:SOFTWARE MODELING AND DESIGN
Principles for developing large scale software systems.Skills Gained
- Identification of design concepts to use when designing software
- Familiarity with the Unified Modeling Language
- Utilization of advanced object-oriented software architectures
- Understanding of various design notation
ECONOMICS OF SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
Students will be taught how to take profitability and economic considerations into account when designing and managing softwareSkills Gained
- Quantitative modeling of software lifecycle
- Cost-benefit analysis during software design
- Commonly used software evaluation metrics
SOFTWARE ENGINEERING FOR THE INTERNET
Principles on how to create useful and effective web-based software and applications are taught in this classSkills Gained
- Factors that make a useful interactive web application
- Client-server programming methods
- Understanding middleware
EXPERIMENTATION IN SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
This course covers how the scientific process can be applied to software engineeringSkills Gained
- Utilizing the scientific method to conduct empirical studies
- Application of software engineering experimentation techniques
- Present findings in effective and compelling manner
COMPONENTS OF A SUCCESSFUL SOFTWARE ENGINEERING CAREER: SKILLS, TOOLS AND TECHNOLOGY
SKILLS
Software engineers are expected to have a broad knowledge base and skill set in multiple proficiencies, including both nontechnical and technical areas.Nontechnical Skills.
Because software engineers work non-engineers such as with vendors, customers, and other team members, employers value individuals who possess nontechnical skills. A good software engineer should be a:
- COLLABORATOR.Able to leverage the input of others to devise solutions.
- TEAM PLAYER.Works effectively in group settings.
- CREATIVE THINKER.Able to develop new approaches to development.
- PROBLEM-SOLVER.Understands complex issues and knows how to use technology to solve them.
- COMMUNICATOR.Can speak in both technical and nontechnical terms to a variety of audiences.
Industry-Specific Skills.
Software engineering requires a comprehensive technical skill set and knowledge base that ranges from understanding business requirements to testing products. Below is a list of the core software engineering competencies from the National Workforce Center for Emerging Technologies.
| SKILL | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Software Requirements | The ability to determine the needs of the software user or objective of the software |
| Software Design | The process of planning and developing specifications for software solutions |
| Software Construction | The development of software through object-oriented programming (coding), testing and debugging |
| Software Testing | The review of software systems or components prior to product release |
| Software Maintenance | The process of modifying software products to make improvements or solve issues |
| Software Configuration Management | The tracking and management of software changes |
| Software Engineering Management | The management of the software development process, from design to product delivery |
| Software Engineering Process | The methodology applied to software development (e.g., agile methodology, waterfall programming) |
| Software Quality | The ability to create and maintain software that meets its functional requirements |
| Software Engineering Economics | The knowledge of software costs, production estimation and current market trends |
According to Robert Half Technology, computer software engineers who possess valuable technical skills in the following programming, database, and Web areas may see a related increase in earning potential.
| SKILL AREA | % PAY INCREASE |
|---|---|
| Java | 9% |
| C# | 8% |
| Java EE/J2EE | 8% |
| .NET | 8% |
| PHP | 8% |
| Web services | 8% |
| Hadoop | 7% |
| ASP | 5% |
| C++ | 5% |
| DCOM/COM/Active X | 5% |
Professional certifications in software engineering establish an individual’s qualifications within the field. Certifications demonstrate a conceptual understanding and technical expertise in specific areas of the profession. Software engineers can select from a variety of credentialing programs based on their career needs and professional goals. Below is a snapshot of potential certifications.
- C++ CERTIFICATION.The C++ Institute has designed multiple certification programs for both the C and C++ programming languages. Advancing in difficulty, there are associate, professional and senior examinations available for each programming language. Associate certifications are foundational in nature, demonstrating the candidate’s basic knowledge of C/C++ programming. Professional certifications are advanced, measuring the candidate’s understanding of complex C/C++ programing techniques. Senior is expert-level certification, testing the candidate’s knowledge of highly complex C/C++ coding problems. Certifications include:
- C Programming Language Certified Association (CLA)
- C Certified Professional Programmer (CLP)
- Certified Senior Programmer (CLS)
- C++ Certified Associate Programmer (CPA)
- C++ Certified Professional Programmer (CPP)
- C++ Certified Senior Programmer (CPS)
- IEEE PROFESSIONAL SOFTWARE DEVELOPER CERTIFICATION (PSD)Sponsored by the IEEE Computer Society, the Professional Software Developer Certification (PSD) tests the candidate’s knowledge of software engineering requirements, design, construction and testing.
- IEEE PROFESSIONAL SOFTWARE ENGINEERING PROCESS MASTER CERTIFICATION (PSEPM)The PSEPM measures the candidate’s critical knowledge of software engineering. A two-part examination, the first test covers software requirements, software construction and testing, software design, maintenance and configuration management. The second examination reviews software engineering management, software engineering processes, software models and methods, quality and engineering economics, and software project management.
- IEEE SOFTWARE ENGINEERING MASTER CERTIFICATION (PSEM)An advanced certification, the PSEM tests the candidate’s knowledge of software engineering principles as well as technical skills through an applied examination. The applied examination places the test taker in the position of a professional developer and requires the completion of two performance tasks, which are reviewed and rated.
- MICROSOFT CERTIFIED SOLUTIONS DEVELOPER (MCSD)The MCSD certification is designed for professionals working with Microsoft languages and enterprise development tools. The MCSD covers several certification areas, including Windows Store apps, Web applications, SharePoint applications, Azure Solutions Architect, application lifecycle management, and Universal Windows Platform.
TOOLS AND TECHNOLOGY
Software engineers have a multidisciplinary, multifunctional skill set that goes beyond programming languages to incorporate everything from project management to computer science. In turn, they rely on a variety of tools and technologies to leverage their technical talent, for example:Integrated Development Environment.The environment refers to the programming tools and applications used in software development.
- Microsoft Visual Studio .NET
- Oracle Netbeans
- Eclipse
- DreamWeaver
Object-Oriented Programming Languages.Software engineers use object-oriented programming languages in programming and software application development. Languages often include:
- Python
- C++
- Ruby
- PHP
- Java
Operating System SoftwareOperating system software manages both the software and hardware resources of a computing system and is required by application programs to operate. Examples include:
- Windows
- iOS
- Android
- Linux
Program Testing Software.Program testing software is used to find bugs and validate applications operate as designed. Examples include:
- LoadRunner
- Testcloud
- Jira
- Critiware
Web Development SoftwareWeb development software is used in the production of websites and applications. Some of the commonly used development software includes:
- Apache Tomcat
- WebMatrix
- Xamarin
- Coda
CAREER TRENDS IN SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
The demand for software engineers is driven by the emergence of the information economy and the need for technological solutions for both consumer- and enterprise-based markets. For example, Robert Half Technology reports that healthcare organizations are seeking new software solutions to improve patient care, while financial service organizations are looking for ways to provide more effective technology-driven services to customers. Coupled with these traditional industries, emerging markets — such as big data, mobile computing, and security — are creating new opportunities for software engineers. Finally, because the complex skills of a software engineer translate across any industry, it is a must-have position in nearly every business sector.RELATED CAREERS
Below is a list of related career opportunities that are projected to experience double-digit employment growth between 2012 and 2022, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.Business Information Analyst
Combining business knowledge with computing expertise, business information analysts help companies translate business needs into technical solutions. In their role, business information analysts draw upon an analytical skill set to research, plan and manage how information systems and software can be used to solve business problems.Job Growth :19%Web Developer
Web developers have a strong command of Internet conventions and Web applications. Using Web technologies and programming languages, such as JavaScript, HTML or AJAX, Web developers write code for websites, integrate backend systems (such as databases with websites) and develop new website features and applications.Job Growth :20%Help Desk Support Specialist
Help desk support specialists have a comprehensive understanding of software, hardware and networking systems. They provide a variety of technical support to companies and their employees, from resolving hardware problems to managing software program installation to troubleshooting networking issues.Job Growth :20%Computer Systems Analysts
Computer systems analysts use an in-depth knowledge of hardware and software systems to determine how an organization can best utilize those resources to operate effectively. They assist companies in identifying technical infrastructure needs, research the design and installation of computing packages, and prepare cost-benefit analyses for information systems.Job Growth :25%Information Security Analyst
Information security analysts are at the forefront of computer and network security, such as encryption technologies and firewall protection. They perform security audits, conduct risk assessments and make recommendations to improve the security of a company’s data systems. By identifying weaknesses, information security analysts develop appropriate security policies that keep data safe.Job Growth :37%Database Administrator
Database administrators have a technical foundation in database structure, installation and maintenance. With specific knowledge of relational database languages (e.g., Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server), they manage company databases, maintain database stability, perform database backups and modify the structure of databases in accordance with the company’s data needs.Job Growth :15%
The hottest, most in-demand software engineering skill is currently mobile application development because of exploding growth in mobile networks, phones, and commerce. By 2017, the global mobile app market will be worth $77 billion, according to the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and the mobile Web market will be worth $850 billion by 2018 says mobile industry consulting firm Digi-Capital. As a result, mobile application developers possess skills that companies want. Below is a list of three spotlight careers in the software engineering field and their corresponding salary figures according to a Robert Half Technology survey.MOBILE APPLICATION DEVELOPERMedian salary: $134,500
Mobile application developers employ languages and platforms such as JavaScript, .NET and Objective-C to build applications and websites for mobile devices (e.g., iPhone, iPad, Samsung Galaxy). Working with mobile operating systems such as iOS and Android, developers design, code, test, debug and document the mobile application development process. A degree in computer science or computer engineering is recommended. In today’s mobile-first world, the increasing demand for personal and enterprise mobile apps has led to a crushing need for developers. Gartner Inc. projects that by the end of 2017 the market demand will outpace available talent for enterprise mobile app developers by at least five to one.QUALITY ASSURANCE ENGINEERMedian salary: $76,000 (QA Engineer – Manual); $89,000 (QA Engineer – Automated)
Quality assurance engineers devise and execute testing and quality review plans to identify issues during the software development process. With an understanding of the software development lifecycle and quality assurance principles, QA Engineers define the scope of testing, conduct manual and automated testing plans, and work closely with developers to identify areas of improvement. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has labeled the career field as an emerging and high-growth field, and it is expected to create 100,000 new jobs nationally between 2012 and 2022.APPLICATIONS ARCHITECTMedian salary: $126,625
Applications architects combine a knowledge of development tools and system architecture with business savvy and team leadership skills to coordinate the creation of enterprise-level applications. An important position, an applications architect serves as the team liaison that brings together user experience and front-end developers, programmers and quality assurance specialists on each project. A bachelor’s degree in computer science or information systems is traditionally required, and it is one of the best paying occupations in the information technology field.
SOFTWARE ENGINEER JOB GROWTH, PROSPECTS, AND OUTLOOK
Today, software accounts for 19 percent of the IT market in the United States, according to research from CompTIA. A convergence of several factors are contributing to the age of the software engineer: the shift to cloud-based infrastructure, the rise of mobile devices and computing, the explosion of big data analytics, the yet-to-be-tapped potential of social media, and the need for companies to provide managed services.
WHAT DO RELATED OCCUPATIONS MAKE?
Whether in online technology services, data storage, network management or security, technological innovation is driven by a central need: more effective and powerful computing solutions. Because programming languages and frameworks (e.g., HTML, SQL, Java, C++) cut across industry channels, individuals with both education and experience can stand out in today’s crowded and competitive IT marketplace. In turn, other tech roles are growing alongside software engineering, with salaries that can exceed $100,000 for experienced professionals.
RELATED OCCUPATIONS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
The need for high-skilled informational technology talent stretches across specializations, from information systems to networking, databases to business intelligence. An education in computer science and software development can lead to a variety of related career opportunities throughout the technology industry. Below is a list of example occupational avenues:
BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE ANALYST
18.6%Salary
$90,860Education and Training:
Bachelor’s degree
COMPUTER SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR
11.7%Salary
$79,770Education and Training:
Bachelor’s degree
DATABASE ADMINISTRATORS
15.1%Salary
$82,280Education and Training:
Bachelor’s degree
HELP DESK/USER SUPPORT
20.2%Salary
$51,500Education and Training:
Some college, no degree
INFORMATION SYSTEMS MANAGER
15.3%Salary
$136,280Education and Training:
Bachelor’s degree
NETWORK SUPPORT SPECIALIST
6.9%Salary
$66,140Education and Training:
Associate degree
SYSTEMS ANALYST
24.5%Salary
$87,320Education and Training:
Bachelor’s degree
TECHNICAL WRITER
14.8%Salary
$71,950Education and Training:
Bachelor’s degree
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational and Employment Wages, 2014
SOFTWARE ENGINEERING DEGREE & CAREER RESOURCES
ABET is a leading organization for accrediting undergraduate and graduate programs in science, technology and engineering fields.Association for Computing Machinery
The ACM is the world’s largest computer society with the mission of promoting computer science and related fields in the educational and professional realms.CompTIA
CompTIA promotes the interests of information technology professionals by advocating on their behalf and providing professional certifications and educational opportunities for those working in information technology.IEEE
IEEE is a leading professional organization with the goal of helping humanity through the support of advanced technology.Institute for the Certification of Computing Professionals (ICCP)
The ICCP is a non-profit organization that offers many internationally-recognized computer certifications.Software Engineering Radio
This excellent podcast updates every two weeks or so with compelling expert guests and insider information on the world of software engineering, past, present and future.Try Engineering: Computer Software Engineer
This site offers insight into a variety of engineering careers, including software engineer. This is a great basic description of what software engineers do.
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