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What is Software Engineering?
Numerous academic institutions in Oklahoma provide degree programs in software engineering and related fields. This major is especially attractive to students intrigued by application, system, and software development. Acquiring knowledge and competencies in this area can significantly benefit individuals seeking diverse job prospects in the information technology (IT) industry. Qualified IT professionals are in demand across various sectors, with particularly engaging opportunities available in telecommunications, healthcare, finance, and insurance industries.
Software engineering degree programs can be found across the United States, with both traditional in-person and online learning options available. While remote enrollment offers greater flexibility, the location of a chosen academic institution can be important. For those aspiring to work in Oklahoma, local colleges and universities often offer the most pertinent and geographically relevant curricula. Selecting one of these schools ensures graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills most sought by employers in the state.
Students interested in completing a bachelor's degree or other options in software or computer engineering can choose from colleges and universities across the state. Options might include Oklahoma State University, the University of Central Oklahoma, and others in IT, computer science, computer engineering, etc.
Software engineers design, develop, and maintain computer programs and applications to meet specific user needs. They often begin by analyzing software requirements, collaborating with end-users or clients to better understand project objectives. This initial phase involves identifying the software's purpose, functionality, and user interface.
Once the requirements are clear, software engineers create detailed plans outlining the software's structure and functionality. They select appropriate programming languages and tools, then write and test the code to ensure it functions correctly. Debugging and troubleshooting are essential tasks used to identify and fix any errors or issues in the software.
Notably, software engineers often work in collaborative teams, coordinating efforts with other professionals. Common examples include software developers, designers, and project managers. As a result, effective communication and teamwork are vital aspects of this occupation.
Online Software Engineering Education in Oklahoma
These professionals may also specialize in various areas of the field such as application development, systems software, or web development. Each area requires specific skills and expertise. Maintaining familiarity with the latest technological trends is also crucial, as software engineers must adapt to new technologies and programming languages to remain relevant and competitive. Overall, software engineers play a pivotal role in the software development lifecycle, from conceptualization to implementation, ensuring that software applications are functional, efficient, and user-friendly.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers is projected to grow 25% from 2022 to 2032. This is much faster than the average for all occupations and will result in an increase of about 153,900 job openings each year. Even though information is not recognized as one of the top industries in Oklahoma, software and computer engineering graduates may be able to use their knowledge and skills to gain employment in other sectors. Companies and organizations of every kind often have use for experts in this field.
Based on data provided by the BLS, Oklahoma employed 7,740 software developers in May 2022. Overall, however, the state maintained 35,500 computer and mathematical occupations. The annual mean wage for these professionals ranged between $84,130 and $106,540. Notably, both are significantly above the state’s reported annual mean wage of $50,940 for all occupations.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), bachelor’s degrees in computer and information technology or related majors are the academic standard for software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers across the nation. Learners can also choose to pursue these subjects at the associate, master’s, and doctoral levels. Undergraduate and graduate certificates may be available, as well.
Notably, education criteria for information technology (IT) roles can vary significantly. Opportunities exist even for those lacking higher education, with employers often prioritizing skills over academic background. This means that high school diploma or GED holders can sometimes qualify for entry-level roles if they demonstrate the knowledge and skills required.
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Online Associate Degree in Software Engineering (AS)
Associate degrees in software or computer engineering generally consist of 60 credit hours of coursework that take full-time students approximately two years to complete. Undergraduate programs typically include both general liberal arts and specialized programmatic courses. Curriculum structures differ, but you can expect to engage with a range of standard subjects such as communication, mathematics, and social science, alongside various major-related classes. Those studying software engineering are likely to receive instruction on programming, web design, database management, business, and management. At this stage, those enrolled can expect to receive a wide-ranging introduction into the field, as well as gaining fundamental knowledge and skills essential for subsequent learning.
It’s worth noting that associate degree recipients are unlikely to meet the qualifications for software engineer roles. Instead, those who finish these programs should be ready to seek entry-level positions as computer programmers and web developers. Often, additional education is required to secure higher-level positions in the field.
Significantly, associate degree recipients may be nearer to attaining standard four-year degrees than they recognize. Undergraduate credit hours can be transferred to other colleges and universities, with most establishments accommodating up to 60 or 90 credits from appropriately accredited institutions. Upon reception and evaluation of previous transcripts, credits from previously completed courses can be allocated toward current academic expectations.
Online Bachelor's Degree in Software Engineering (BS)
A bachelor’s degree in software engineering generally consists of 120 credit hours of coursework that take full-time learners approximately four years to complete. Some students may achieve graduation earlier, however. Pre-existing undergraduate credits earned through advanced placement (AP) course examinations and/or prior degrees could assist in fulfilling academic requirements in shorter timeframes.
Undergraduate programs typically include both general liberal arts and specialized programmatic courses. Curriculum structures differ, but learners can expect to engage with a range of standard subjects such as communication, mathematics, and social science alongside various major-related classes. Those studying software and computer engineering are likely to receive instruction on mobile software development, cross-platform engineering, programming methodologies, software design, and information technology security. They may also gain skills in leadership and business.
Beyond the regular program syllabus, some educational institutions enable software engineering majors to choose concentrations, which signify specialized study domains. This affords students the chance to partake in classes that emphasize content within pertinent sub-disciplines. Those with intentions of pursuing specialized careers in the field are likely to find this particularly helpful.
These degrees typically result in entry-level positions such as software engineers, software developers, information systems managers, computer systems analysts, information security analysts, and network systems administrators. Graduates might also secure employment in other various sectors as companies and organizations across most industries seek to hired information technology (IT) professionals.
Although generally not required for most software or computer engineering positions, additional education in computer science can enhance employment prospects. Specifically, individuals aspiring to supervisory roles, research opportunities, and increased compensation are advised to consider enrollment in master’s degree programs. Prospective graduate students must be ready to meet the minimum grade point average (GPA) and Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) score prerequisites established by their chosen institutions.
National Online Rankings - Best BS in Software EngineeringOnline Master's Degree in Software Engineering (MS)
Master’s degrees in software engineering generally range from 30 to 45 credit hours of coursework that take full-time students approximately two to three years to complete. At the graduate level, coursework typically excludes undergraduate or general liberal arts classes. Nevertheless, students often need to demonstrate their proficiency in advanced subject matter within the field. To this end, many educational institutions mandate submission of previous transcripts to validate the completion of specific lower-level prerequisite courses.
Program details vary by institution, but students can typically anticipate taking classes designed to examine various ideas and concepts related to the software development cycle, management, innovation, information trends, and the most recent advancements in technology. There may also be opportunities for those enrolled to engage in residencies or internships, which can be instrumental in preparing students for professional employment after graduation. Additionally, many educational institutions necessitate the completion of capstone projects as a prerequisite for graduation.
Master's degree graduates in software engineering typically exhibit advanced expertise and competencies within the field. Consequently, they often receive priority in hiring processes and enjoy higher financial earnings. Common career opportunities encompass roles such as software engineer, software developer manager, computer network architect, senior software engineer, and solutions architect.
National Online Rankings - Best MS in Software EngineeringOnline PhD Degree in Software Engineering (PhD)
A PhD or doctorate in software engineering typically ranges between 60 and 120 credit hours that can take full-time students up to seven years to complete. These are terminal degrees, representing the highest level of education available in the field. As such, they tend to be much more academically intensive than previous programs. Curriculum specifics vary by institution, but students can generally anticipate receiving extensive instruction in the research and the development of software systems. Those enrolled are also likely to study the various techniques and tools used during advanced design and prototyping. Other subjects commonly covered include economic trends, privacy laws, maintenance, and security strategies.
During their initial years of enrollment, students usually engage in conventional classroom instruction and coursework. However, this gradually shifts as students transition toward greater independence in terms of study, research, and writing. The completion of these degrees typically involves the delivery and defense of dissertations before graduation.
Since this level of education is seldom obligatory for field employment, graduates typically qualify for comparable roles as master's degree holders. The differentiation arises when pursuing higher-tier managerial positions, which are often accompanied by elevated salaries. Individuals with doctoral degrees are often regarded as superior candidates for such roles and frequently gain priority in the hiring process. Additionally, graduates are eligible for positions as research scientists and post-secondary educators.
Check out the hardest college majors Learn more about computer science resources and scholarshipsBecome a Software Engineer in Oklahoma
Pursuing a career as a software engineer in Oklahoma starts with acknowledging your passion for the profession. Numerous distinct job opportunities exist for individuals with knowledge and skills in this field, each with unique hiring criteria and qualifications. Conducting thorough research into these diverse employment options and their associated prerequisites is often essential for establishing relevant and actionable career goals. This ensures that you acquire the necessary education, training, and practical experience needed to fulfill job application requirements.
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Typically, individuals in the software engineering field hold either undergraduate or graduate degrees. Nevertheless, majoring in software engineering is not necessarily an absolute necessity. Depending on your ultimate career aspirations, you might find more value in studying computer science, computer information technology, or cyber security. Therefore, it's crucial to thoughtfully assess the educational prerequisites for your desired profession before committing to a specific degree program.
Another factor to consider is professional experience. It’s not uncommon for employers to favor candidates who possess more practical field experiences. As a college student, the most effective method to fulfill this expectation is by participating in internships. Many colleges and universities make obtaining this type of paid or unpaid work easier by offering career services initiatives that facilitate connections with relevant companies and organizations. After graduation, however, the best way of accruing professional experience is by obtaining entry-level employment.
Additionally, gaining one or more relevant certifications can often be advantageous when seeking software engineering positions in Oklahoma. These certifications not only demonstrate your commitment to the field but also showcase your specialized knowledge and skills in particular areas. This can help distinguish you from other applicants during the job application process.
It's important to note that certification is typically not a mandatory requirement for starting positions in this field. Many employers do, however, prefer to hire candidates with appropriate certifications. In fact, some businesses and organizations even offer higher compensation to professionals who hold certifications in specific designated areas.
Software engineering professionals have a wide array of certifications to choose from. In Oklahoma, there are no stipulated requirements for which certifications are mandatory or ideal. As a result, you are generally free to select any options you believe will bolster your credentials and marketability. Certain certifications hold greater prestige than others, however, and it’s generally advisable to pursue credentials offered by reputable and trusted organizations. One such example is the Institute of Certification of Computer Professionals (ICCP), a widely recognized certifying entity in the industry.
Some of the most popular certification options available to software engineering professionals include:
- Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP)
- Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP)
- Certified Software Engineer (CFE)
- CIW Certified Web Development Professional
- Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Developer
- Oracle Certified Master (OCM)
- Salesforce Administrator
- Microsoft Certified Azure Solutions Architect
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
Many software engineering students and experts also opt to become members of professional associations and groups. These affiliations often offer a multitude of advantages, such as access to valuable resources and diverse career development prospects. Other common benefits include reduced fees for events, free publications, and access to pertinent academic journals. Additionally, membership in these organizations tends to provide opportunities to engage with other like-minded individuals within the field.
Some of the most prominent options available include:
- Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)
- Association of Software Professionals (ASP)
- Association for Women in Computer (AWC)
- Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) Computer Society
- Python Software Foundation (PSF)
Potential Careers for Software Engineering Graduates
- Application Developer
Application developers create software applications tailored to specific user needs. They analyze requirements, design solutions, and write the code for applications used across various platforms including smartphones, computers, tablets, and other electronics. These professionals often collaborate with user experience designers and quality assurance teams to ensure the functionality and usability of the software. Their work is crucial to meeting the demand for innovative and user-friendly software in today's technology-driven world. According to PayScale, application developers make an average base salary of $72,463 per year. - Computer and Information Systems (IS) Manager
IS managers plan, coordinate, and oversee all computer-related activities for companies and organizations. They assess technology needs, recommend upgrades, and ensure that systems align with established goals. These professionals are often responsible for supervising other information technology (IT) staff members, such as computer support specialists and software developers. Their work is often essential to maintaining the efficiency and security of computer systems and networks. According to PayScale, information systems managers make an average base salary of $87,717 per year. - Computer Programmer
Computer programmers write and test code for software applications and computer systems. They often collaborate with software developers and engineers to turn project requirements into functional applications. This typically involves translating design specifications into code, debugging, and ensuring that the software functions as intended. These professionals may work on a variety of projects simultaneously, their work contributing to the creation of software used in diverse industries and applications. According to PayScale, computer programmers make an average base salary of $67,889 per year. - Computer Systems Analyst
Computer systems analysts examine company and organization computer systems and procedures with the aim of improving efficiency and functionality. They assess current technology needs, collaborate with stakeholders, and design solutions that integrate hardware, software, and networks. These professionals bridge the gap between business objectives and technology, ensuring that systems align with organizational goals and remain effective and secure. According to PayScale, computer systems analysts make an average base salary of $73,224 per year. - Cyber Information Analyst
Information analysts gather and assess data to support companies and organizations in making informed decisions. They collect and organize data from various sources, analyze trends, and generate reports to aid in the development of effective business strategies. Information analysts play a vital role in improving efficiency, identifying opportunities, and addressing challenges within an organization by harnessing data-driven insights. Their work spans various industries, contributing to data-driven decision-making processes. According to PayScale, information analysts make an average base salary of $69,335 per year. - Software Developer
Software developers design and create computer programs and applications. They analyze users' needs and develop software solutions to meet those requirements using various computer languages such as C++, Python, and Java. Collaboration with cross-functional teams is also common. These professionals must stay updated with evolving technologies and industry best practices as their contributions drive advancements in areas such as mobile applications, artificial intelligence, and cyber security. According to PayScale, software developers make an average base salary of $75,708 per year. - Systems administrators
System administrators play a vital role in maintaining efficient IT infrastructure for companies and organizations. They are often responsible for maintaining computer systems, overseeing network operations, software maintenance, and ensuring data security. These professionals also troubleshoot technical issues, offer user support, and keep systems updated. According to PayScale, systems administrators make an average base salary of $64,989 per year.