What Can I Expect from an Online Master’s in Software Engineering?

Software engineers work with computers, writing programming code and making sure software programs meet the requirements of a variety of businesses in nearly every sector. They develop new software applications and maintain and fix existing applications. With technology ever-evolving, software engineers are in high demand with continual job growth expected. Earning your master’s in software engineering enhances your ability to learn and grow with changing needs and sets you apart from your peers. Completing your degree online offers a flexible alternative to on-campus programs, especially for professionals already working in the field and looking to expand their knowledge and seeking career advancement. When choosing an online software engineering graduate degree programs, compare curriculum, concentrations, coursework delivery options and overall program requirements to find the best match for your personal and professional development.

Concentrations Offered for an Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Software engineering is often offered as a concentration within a master’s in engineering or computer science program. When software engineering is offered as its own master’s program, you’ll find numerous concentrations like the ones listed below.

Curriculum for an Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Software engineering master’s programs combine principles and practices that let you tackle increasingly complex software and systems challenges. Graduate programs thoroughly train you in all aspects of software creation with advanced knowledge in technical planning, risk management, project management and software architecture. Online master’s programs in software engineering differ from one school to another with electives geared toward your concentration. However, most programs have a similar curriculum with certain core courses common, including those listed below:

How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Master’s in Software Engineering?

The amount of times it takes to finish an online software engineering master’s degree differs between programs. Course availability can sometimes slow your progress because some smaller schools may only offer required courses once per year. Other factors that affect completion time include whether you pursue your degree part-time or full-time, your concentration, whether the program requires a thesis or research project and the number of credit hours required. Online master’s in software engineering programs typically require 30 to 36 credits, which should take you about two years to finish as a full-time student. Some programs are offered in accelerated, six-week or eight-week term formats that let you finish sooner. Part-time students, however, usually take three to four years to finish the same program.

Certifications and Licenses an Online Master’s in Software Engineering Prepares For

Because there are numerous programming languages and software, database and computer systems vendors, there are literally hundreds of certifications suitable for software engineers. Your online master’s in software engineer can prepare you for any of the following, which is only a small sampling of the certifications available.

Accreditation for Online Master’s in Software Engineering

When comparing schools and programs, be sure they’re accredited by a legitimate credentialing agency recognized by the Department of Education or Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Accreditation ensures your online master’s in software engineering programs meets high educational standards and assures your eligibility for financial assistance through the federal and state government. While there are accrediting organizations at the national and regional levels, top level schools have regional accreditation. Besides institutional accreditation, some software engineering programs are accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

Employment Outlook for Master’s in Software Engineering Graduates

Job Placement: Master’s v. Bachelor’s

An online master’s in software engineering can help you earn top level positions and advance in your career quicker. It can also help you earn a higher salary according to Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce. In 2015, computer science professionals with a bachelor’s degree earned a median salary of $83,000 while those with a master’s degree earned $100,00; Bachelor-level computer engineers earned $87,000 while graduate-level computer engineers earned $101,000.

Expected Salary

Depending on your concentration, your advanced degree in software engineering prepares you for a variety of jobs, including many upper level positions. Your field of expertise and level of experience factor into your expected salary. For an idea of what you could earn, compare the following salary ranges for popular careers for software engineering master’s degree graduates.

Software engineers have some of the most in-demand skills in the nation and around the world, and geography has a tremendous effect on your paycheck. Larger cities or cities home to the highest paying tech companies are smart choices for talented, well-educated software professionals. The following table demonstrates the states with the top salaries for two types of software developers. Notice that California, home to Silicon Valley, ranks high on both lists and employs the most professionals in both fields by far.

Career Opportunities

The job outlook for software engineers is tremendous. Software developers in all areas are expected to see a 24 percent growth between 2016 and 2026, and employment of software developers specializing in applications is projected to grow 31 percent. Your online master’s in software engineering helps you stand out from your peers and snag the highest paying jobs with the best career advancement opportunities. Some popular career choices for software engineers with a master’s degree include the following.

Professional Organizations

Affiliation with professional associations looks good on your resume, and membership offers numerous members-only benefits that help enhance your professional development. Many professional organizations also offer continuing education opportunities throughout your career and help you keep current on industry updates, which is important in the rapidly changing field of software and computer technology. Listed below are some notable professional organizations for software engineering professionals.

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Computer Society Technical Council on Software Engineering: TCSE co-sponsors professional conferences and several informal workshops every year. It also offers professional publications for the latest industry news, professional awards, mentorship, online courses, practice exams, webinars and numerous other benefits.

Network Professional Association: A global organization for IT and network computing professionals, NPA provides resources and opportunities to grow and prosper in your career. Some of the many benefits of membership include career-building opportunities, peer-to-peer networking, leadership opportunities, industry related conferences, a job board and numerous members-only software, savings and programs.

American Society for Information Science and Technology: Membership in ASIS&T has many benefits, including education and networking opportunities, awards and scholarship programs, discounts for training, access to leadership and education experiences, a mentoring program, professional awards and industry publications.

Financing Your Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Online degree programs tend to be cheaper than on-campus programs, but many online software engineering graduate students still require financial assistance. Online students have many of the same sources of financial aid as traditional students. Begin your search by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to explore grants and loans offered through the federal government. Many educational institutions also use the FAFSA to establish your eligibility for financial aid. Software engineering graduate students may also find numerous private scholarship opportunities. The resources below offer more information about financing your online master’s in software engineering.

Resources

Scholarships