Deciding to pursue an Online Master’s in Software Engineering can be an exciting endeavor, accompanied by many questions that might feel overwhelming. Is an online master’s degree in software engineering worth the investment? This page is crafted to guide prospective graduate students, offering essential information for deciding and applying to a degree program aligned with their goals. Whether currently engaged in a programming-related field or completing a computer science-related bachelor’s degree, this guide is a valuable resource for making crucial decisions that can shape one’s career and academic trajectory.
To create a compilation of the most cost-effective online Master’s in Software Engineering programs in the United States, Online Master’s Colleges (OMC) conducted thorough research on universities offering online Master’s in Software Engineering programs. The methodology involved analyzing data related to tuition fees, financial aid options, program duration, accreditation, and graduation rates.
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College Name & Address | Tuition | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
#1 Middle Georgia State University 100 University Parkway, Macon, Georgia 31206 | $3,582 | 23% |
#2 East Carolina University East 5th Street, Greenville, North Carolina 27858-4353 | $4,749 | 66% |
#3 Kennesaw State University 1000 Chastain Rd, Kennesaw, Georgia 30144 | $5,328 | 48% |
#4 Texas Tech University Broadway and University Avenue, Lubbock, Texas 79409-5005 | $5,958 | 61% |
#5 Columbus State University 4225 University Ave, Columbus, Georgia 31907-5645 | $6,300 | 38% |
#6 Arizona State University 1475 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, Arizona 85257 | $6,384 | 73% |
#7 North Dakota State University 1301 12th Avenue North, Fargo, North Dakota 58108-6050 | $6,743 | NA |
#8 The University of West Florida 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, Florida 32514 | $7,088 | 46% |
#9 California State University, Fullerton 4001 South 700 East Suite 700, Salt Lake City, Utah 84107 | $7,176 | 69% |
#10 University Of Houston, Clear Lake 2700 Bay Area Blvd, Houston, Texas 77058-1002 | $7,920 | NA |
#11 Auburn University Auburn, Alabama 36849 | $7,996 | 52% |
#12 Kansas State University 919 Mid-Campus Drive, Anderson Hall, Manhattan, Kansas 66506 | $10,212 | 85% |
#13 University Of Alabama, Huntsville 301 Sparkman Dr, Huntsville, Alabama 35899 | $10,632 | 83% |
#14 Washington State University French Administration Building, Pullman, Washington 99164 | $11,493 | 60% |
#15 Thomas Edison State University 111 W State St, Trenton, New Jersey 08608 | $12,024 | NA |
#16 University Of Michigan, Dearborn 4901 Evergreen Rd, Dearborn, Michigan 48128-1491 | $12,770 | 56% |
#17 University Of Maryland University College College Park, Maryland 20742 | $13,158 | 87% |
#18 Lewis University One University Parkway, Romeoville, Illinois 60446-2200 | $14,400 | 67% |
#19 Regis University 3333 Regis Blvd, Denver, Colorado 80221-1099 | $14,441 | 64% |
#20 Strayer University 2620 Thousand Oaks Blvd Ste 1100, Memphis, Tennessee 38118 | $14,940 | NA |
#21 Mercer University 1501 Mercer University Drive, Macon, Georgia 31207 | $15,422 | 66% |
#22 DePaul University 1 E Jackson Blvd, Chicago, Illinois 60604 | $19,584 | 74% |
Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available
When choosing the best universities for software engineering master’s programs, various factors should be considered, including the offered courses, program duration, research areas, emphasis on research, awards, and job prospects. When assessing the rankings of Master’s in Software Engineering programs, we employed a comprehensive methodology that considered these and other elements to list the best programs:
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College Name & Address | Tuition | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
#1 Carnegie Mellon University 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213 | $45,037 | 97% |
#2 Stevens Institute Of Technology Castle Point On Hudson, Hoboken, New Jersey 07030 | $36,680 | 85% |
#3 University Of Southern California University Park, Los Angeles, California 90089 | $46,272 | 92% |
#4 Harvard University Massachusetts Hall, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138 | $48,008 | 97% |
#5 Kansas State University 919 Mid-Campus Drive, Anderson Hall, Manhattan, Kansas 66506 | $10,212 | 85% |
#6 University Of Alabama, Huntsville 301 Sparkman Dr, Huntsville, Alabama 35899 | $10,632 | 83% |
#7 Boston University One Silber Way, Boston, Massachusetts 02215 | $54,720 | 88% |
#8 Brandeis University 415 South St, Waltham, Massachusetts 02454 | $47,600 | 95% |
#9 Columbia University In The City Of New York West 116 St and Broadway, New York, New York 10027 | $45,037 | 89% |
#10 Auburn University Auburn, Alabama 36849 | $36,680 | 87% |
#11 Regis University 3333 Regis Blvd, Denver, Colorado 80221 | $14,441 | 79% |
#12 Arizona State University 1475 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, Arizona 85257 | $6,384 | 73% |
#13 University of Maryland, College Park 10 West 35th Street, Chicago, Illinois 60616 | $29,487 | 70% |
#14 East Carolina University East 5th Street, Greenville, North Carolina 27858 | $4,749 | 66% |
#15 California State University, Fullerton 800 N State College Blvd, Fullerton, California 92831 | $7,176 | 69% |
#16 Lewis University One University Parkway, Romeoville, Illinois 60446 | $14,400 | 67% |
#17 Texas Tech University Broadway and University Avenue, Lubbock, Texas 79409 | $5,958 | 61% |
#18 Mercer University 1501 Mercer University Drive, Macon, Georgia 31207 | $15,422 | 66% |
#19 Drexel University 3141 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104 | $35,181 | 69% |
#20 University Of West Florida 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, Florida 32514 | $7,088 | 46% |
#21 North Dakota State University 1301 12th Avenue North, Fargo, North Dakota 58108 | $6,743 | 79% |
#22 DePaul University 1 E Jackson Blvd, Chicago, Illinois 60604 | $19,584 | 74% |
#23 University Of Houston, Clear Lake 2700 Bay Area Blvd, Houston, Texas 77058 | $7,920 | NA |
#24 Kennesaw State University 1000 Chastain Rd, Kennesaw, Georgia 30144 | $5,328 | 46% |
Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available
A master’s degree in Software Engineering is designed to prepare students to work in finance, gaming, healthcare, research, and numerous other industries. Most places of employment rely on some form of software to facilitate day-to-day operations. A degree in Software Engineering unveils a comprehensive exploration of advanced software development principles.
This interdisciplinary journey integrates Computer Science, Software Design, and Project Management elements, equipping graduates with a profound understanding of cutting-edge technologies. The program facilitates a flexible learning environment, empowering students to navigate the intricacies of software engineering from anywhere. Tailored to accommodate various career paths, this online master’s experience ensures a holistic grasp of software engineering, fostering innovation and expertise in this rapidly evolving domain.
The online Master of Software Engineering Program features a meticulously crafted curriculum designed to impart comprehensive knowledge and skills essential for thriving in the dynamic software engineering landscape. This program ensures a well-rounded education, covering key aspects of software engineering to prepare students for diverse roles and challenges in the field. Commonly taught courses in online master’s in software engineering programs include:
Software Architecture
In this course, students will understand programs and how they are built and managed while learning how to utilize and choose relevant software design patterns.
Software Development in C++
As one of the most widely-used programming languages, an advanced understanding of C++ can help students advance in their education and careers. This course helps students learn how C++ is used in the foundation of software development and how to apply it.
Web Development
This course looks into programming in developing and designing web creation. It examines how we use the internet and how to properly engineer websites for growth and success.
Software Development Methodology
Software Development Methodology (SDM) is a course in which students are exposed to standard processes followed by technology companies when developing software. Students go through various stages of software development, such as designing, creating a minimum viable product (MVP), development, testing, deployment, and production support.
Modern Technologies
Many schools have added modern software engineering concepts such as cloud computing, data science, virtualization, etc. Depending on the school and specialization, students can expect to go through courses that deal with theoretical courses such as software foundations, software design fundamentals, etc.
A student gains several abilities from a master’s in software engineering, including:
In the field of Software Engineering, students pursuing master’s degrees typically find only one option: the Master of Science (MS) in Software Engineering.
The MS in Software Engineering covers various subjects, encompassing object-oriented design, software systems architecture, software testing, cloud computing, and software project management. Combining computer science with software engineering, this degree program provides graduates with competitive skills in the rapidly evolving realm of technology and computing solutions.
A graduate program focused on engineering is still possible for students without an undergraduate degree in an engineering-specific field. Some schools accept students with unrelated undergraduate degrees or may require a few prerequisite courses to meet their admissions requirements. Explore a few of these schools and learn more about these programs:
Degree programs often have specializations students can choose to focus their coursework towards their desired career. Below are a few emphases students may choose to guide their academic and career prospects.
Area of Focus | Description | Careers This Concentration Prepares For |
---|---|---|
Software Development | This emphasis focuses entirely on instilling a refined understanding of software processes, development, implementation, and maintenance in students. Software Development careers exist in nearly every industry. | Computer Programmer; Web Developer; Network Engineer; Software Engineer |
Game Design | Some students are specifically interested in the video game or casino gaming industries. The skills these students develop will be similar to those of other software engineers but will focus more on entertainment. | Game Designer; Game Programmer; Game Artist; Level Designer; Lead Animator |
Cybersecurity | Students specializing in cybersecurity will apply their software development knowledge to keep computer systems and programs as secure as possible. | Security Engineer; Cryptanalyst; Security Analyst; Forensic Computer Analyst; Security Systems Administrator |
Software Architectures | This specialization teaches students how to architect large-scale software applications while keeping the best standards and dependencies in mind. Architectures also include designing the software to be reusable and scaleable, have a low footprint, and be quick to execute. | Software Architects; Software Designers |
Typically, the overall time frame for an academic program depends on how quickly the student wants to finish the program. Many programs allow for both full-time and part-time scheduling, meaning students can choose whatever pacing best fits their extracurricular schedule.
The primary benefit of online learning is its flexibility. Online learners can worry less about in-person time obligations and more about the other busy aspects of their lives. With this flexibility, schools often allow students to choose the heaviness of their semesterly courseload. A student looking to finish a program quicker may finish in 1.5 to 2 years, while a different student may want to pace themselves and spread their curriculum across 2.5 to 3 years.
Accelerated software engineering programs offer an expedited path to acquiring advanced knowledge and skills in a shorter timeframe than traditional programs. These options are designed for students seeking a quicker route to degree completion. Exploring the advantages of accelerated programs is essential for those eager to advance their expertise in software engineering efficiently. Here are a few universities that offer such accelerated software engineering programs:
Typically, getting admitted to an online master’s program in software engineering involves meeting specific criteria set by each institution. These prerequisites ensure that students are well-prepared for the program’s challenges. Understanding these entry conditions is crucial for aspiring candidates pursuing an advanced degree in software engineering through online platforms. Below are a few common entry requirements:
Many online master’s degree programs in software engineering do not require applicant’s scores from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). Explore the following schools to learn more about online master’s degrees in software engineering that do not require the GRE:
Accreditation is vital for educational programs to ensure they meet established quality standards. Institutions and programs voluntarily undergo evaluation by accrediting bodies, assuring educational excellence. Accreditation is essential for student confidence, employer trust, and access to financial aid, promoting the overall integrity of academic offerings. Software engineering master’s programs are frequently accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology 8 or ABET, and accreditation status can be checked with the U.S. Department of Education 9.
Most colleges also gain regional accreditation by one of six regional accrediting agencies:
Graduate students seek affordable college options; surprisingly, some software engineering programs are free. Although no accredited full master’s programs in software engineering are entirely free, certain programs offer access to past lectures and free courses from reputable schools. While not conferring a master’s diploma, these courses provide learning comparable to other online master’s institutions. Although free to watch and learn, some courses offer certificates for a small fee. Explore the following programs:
Course | Foundations of Software Engineering16 |
Provided by | MIT OpenCourseWare |
Description | This course fundamentally explores contemporary software development techniques in engineering and information technology. It encompasses designing and developing component-based software (utilizing C# and . NET), addressing data structures, algorithms for modeling and analysis, basic problem-solving methods, web services, and software management and maintenance. |
Course | Algorithms, Design, and Analysis17 |
Provided by | Stanford University |
Description | In this course, the acquisition of fundamental principles of algorithm design is emphasized. The divide-and-conquer design paradigm is explored, featuring rapid sorting, searching, and multiplication applications. Additionally, various highly efficient primitives for graph computations are covered, addressing topics such as computing connectivity information and determining shortest paths. |
Course | Compilers 18 |
Provided by | Stanford University |
Description | This self-paced course explores the key concepts employed in implementing programming language compilers. Topics covered include lexical analysis, parsing, syntax-directed translation, abstract syntax trees, types and type checking, intermediate languages, dataflow analysis, program optimization, code generation, and runtime systems. |
Financing a Master’s in Software Engineering can be daunting due to the high costs associated with these programs. Students often seek various funding options, such as scholarships, grants, and student loans, to alleviate financial burdens. Exploring these avenues helps aspiring software engineers make informed decisions about financing their education and achieving career goals. Here are a few examples of how students can fund their software engineering master’s program:
Scholarships are financial awards based on academic achievement, leadership, or specific criteria. They alleviate the financial burden of education, enabling access to higher learning for deserving individuals. Scholarships are merit-based, need-based, or cater to specific talents.
Grants are non-repayable funds awarded to individuals for academic pursuits. These grants, often based on merit or specific criteria, alleviate financial barriers, enabling access to education and supporting diverse learning initiatives
Internships allow graduate students to apply their academic expertise while pursuing their degree professionally. Many internships pay students for their time and work, and some programs allow students to transfer their professional experience into college credits that can be put towards their degree, reducing the degree’s time and cost.
Graduate Assistantships offer students valuable hands-on experience in academia. Typically, graduate students work part-time, aiding professors in research, teaching, or administrative tasks, providing financial support, and enhancing their professional development.
Student Loans are financial aids students can borrow to cover educational expenses. These loans must be repaid with interest, usually after completing the academic program, and various options are available.
FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is a form prospective students can fill out and submit to determine their eligibility for financial aid.
Read the Financial Aid Guide for more information on funding higher education.
Scholarships offer a valuable financial lifeline for students pursuing a master’s in software engineering. These funds, typically free, alleviate the financial burden, reducing the dependence on student loans. Scholarships are accessible from various sources, including educational institutions and organizations, providing financial support to deserving students and making education more affordable. Here are a few online master’s in software engineering scholarships students can explore and apply for:
Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Deadline |
---|---|---|---|
Generation Google Scholarship 19 | Generation Google Scholarship, a scholarship administered by tech giant Google. This scholarship aims to help aspiring computer scientists excel in technology and become leaders in the field. The program is open to qualified students from historically underrepresented groups. Eligibility criteria include – Students currently enrolled in an accredited university in the U.S. and studying computer science or closely related technical fields. | $10,000 | Varies |
Women Who Code Scholarships 20 | Women Who Code is a non-profit organization to empowers women in technology. Bloc is an online education company with intensive mentor-led programs for aspiring developers and designers. Bloc and Women Who Code sponsor and administer a scholarship program for women who can code via boot camp. The scholarship is awarded every month. | Varies | Varies |
Rural Technology Fund Scholarship 21 | Rural Technology Fund (RTF) is an organization that recognizes that there is a “digital divide” between rural and non-rural areas. RTF wants to help rural students recognize opportunities in technology careers and gain the education necessary to work in the computer industry. Among other activities, RTF administers a scholarship for students from rural communities anywhere in the U.S. Applicants for this scholarship must be planning to enroll in a computer technology-related field with a focus on cybersecurity. | $ 1,000 | Varies |
Society of Women Engineers 22 | SWE is an organization that acts as a catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. SWE administers scholarships to support women pursuing bachelor’s and master’s programs. Several scholarships are available for women pursuing master’s degrees in software engineering. | Varies by scholarship | Varies by scholarship |
An online Master’s in Software Engineering opens doors to diverse career paths with competitive salaries. Graduates can explore fulfilling roles in various sectors, leveraging their advanced technical skills. This degree enhances employability, offering opportunities for professional growth and financial success in the dynamic field of software engineering. Below are a few potential careers:
Job Title | Average Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2032) | Job Description |
---|---|---|---|
Computer and Information Research Scientists 23 | $136,620 | 23% (Much faster than average) | Computer and Information Research Scientists are tasked with innovating new approaches and designs for computing technology. Their responsibility encompasses addressing issues through technological solutions. |
Software Engineering Manager 24 | $156,481 | No data available | A Software Engineering Manager leads and supervises the design and advancement of software applications. The role involves guiding engineers in implementing best practices for software development. |
Computer Programmers 25 | $97,800 | -11% (decline) | Computer Programmers collaborate closely with software developers, and their responsibilities may overlap in certain business scenarios. In such instances, programmers might assume tasks traditionally designated for developers, including program design. They utilize code libraries and compilations of independent code lines to streamline writing and enhance efficiency. Programmers may develop their own code libraries or leverage existing ones. |
Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers 26 | $124,200 | 25% (much faster than average) | The entire process of software program creation involves collaboration among software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers. Developers often initiate by understanding how customers intend to utilize the software and identifying essential user needs. They also assess additional requirements, such as security measures. |
Database Administrators 27 | $112,120 | 8% (faster than average) | Database administrators and Architects design or arrange systems to store and safeguard various data, including financial information and customer shipping records. They also ensure that the data is accessible to authorized users. |
Certifications for Online Master’s Students in Software Engineering provide specialized knowledge and validation of skills, enhancing job prospects and professional credibility. Recognized by industry leaders, these certifications cover diverse aspects of software engineering, from development methodologies to specific programming languages, offering a well-rounded skill set for successful careers in the dynamic software industry. Some certifications that graduates of online master’s in software engineering can pursue include:
Before graduating and earning a master’s degree in software engineering, students should take advantage of professional organizations and resources to help them connect with others in their field, access helpful and relevant data and information, and apply what they learn to their degree and career down the road. These organizations can provide software engineering students career development, networking, and other valuable resources. Here are some examples:
Opting for an online Master’s in Software Engineering offers flexibility, enabling individuals to balance education with other commitments. This option provides access to diverse perspectives through virtual collaboration, enhances crucial technical skills in the software industry, and often accommodates working professionals seeking career advancement without requiring relocation or disrupting their work schedule.
California State University, Fullerton
Penn State University, World Campus
The University of Texas Austin
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
MIT OpenCourseWare- Foundations of Software Engineering
Stanford University – Algorithms, Design and Analysis
Stanford University – Compilers
Rural Technology Fund Scholarship
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Software Engineering Manager
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Computer Programmers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Database Administrators
Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP)
Professional Software Developer Certification
Google Developers Certification
IEEE Computer Society Software Developer
IEEE Computer Society Technical Council on Software Engineering
International Association for Social Science Information Service & Technology