Online Master's Degree in Software Engineering - Best of 2024

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A software engineer applies the principles of software engineering while testing, developing, designing, maintaining, and evaluating computer software. Software engineers are also sometimes referred to as computer programmers, but engineers have more education and perform more diagnostic tasks than traditional programmers. However, a software engineer’s education can vary. There are bootcamp programs that can have a person working as an engineer in as little as six months to a year, but for engineers who want to move into management or training, a bachelor’s or master’s degree is desired. A doctorate degree in software engineering does exist, but unless a person is seeking to become a subject matter expert or pursue a tenure track position at a major college or university, it’s generally not required.

masters-software-engineering-successful-career

Requirements of a Software Engineering Master’s Degree?

A master’s degree is considered a lower-level terminal degree. It is pursued after a person has a bachelor’s degree. Also referred to as a graduate degree, this degree can take 18 months to three years to complete, depending on the software engineering school and program. Students will continue to learn about programming processes and how to recognize trends and develop software that meets those trends. There is also sometimes training in management, marketing, and other general business concepts since many software engineers that are pursuing graduate degrees want to transition into management positions. The number of credit hours can vary, depending on how many credit hour each class is worth. In general, a program is usually between 36 and 55 hours. Depending on the level of experience of the student, a capstone or master thesis and internship might be required, though students who are currently working as software engineers might be able to get a waiver for a special project.

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Top 25 Best Online Masters in Software Engineering Programs

Harvard University

Score: 95.39

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $52,456
- Out-of-State: $52,456
Net Price: $19,491
Acceptance Rate: 3%
Retention Rate: 98%

Graduation Rate: 98%
Total Enrollment: 30,631
Undergrad Students: 9,368
Graduate Students: 21,263
Grads Salary: $96,000
Student-to-faculty: 7:1

University of Southern California

Score: 83.06

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $63,468
- Out-of-State: $63,468
Net Price: $36,808
Acceptance Rate: 12%
Retention Rate: 97%

Graduation Rate: 92%
Total Enrollment: 48,945
Undergrad Students: 20,699
Graduate Students: 28,246
Grads Salary: $89,000
Student-to-faculty: 9:1

Stevens Institute of Technology

Score: 80.02

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $39,408
- Out-of-State: $39,408
Net Price: $41,689
Acceptance Rate: 46%
Retention Rate: 93%

Graduation Rate: 88%
Total Enrollment: 9,314
Undergrad Students: 4,070
Graduate Students: 5,244
Grads Salary: $95,000
Student-to-faculty: 11:1

California State University-Fullerton

Score: 76.62

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,176
- Out-of-State: $16,680
Net Price: $7,925
Acceptance Rate: 67%
Retention Rate: 86%

Graduation Rate: 69%
Total Enrollment: 40,386
Undergrad Students: 35,432
Graduate Students: 4,954
Grads Salary: $77,000
Student-to-faculty: 24:1

Illinois Institute of Technology

Score: 76.54

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $34,101
- Out-of-State: $34,101
Net Price: $28,702
Acceptance Rate: 61%
Retention Rate: 85%

Graduation Rate: 75%
Total Enrollment: 6,943
Undergrad Students: 3,125
Graduate Students: 3,818
Grads Salary: $87,000
Student-to-faculty: 13:1

Auburn University

Score: 74.25

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,386
- Out-of-State: $31,158
Net Price: $25,271
Acceptance Rate: 44%
Retention Rate: 93%

Graduation Rate: 81%
Total Enrollment: 31,764
Undergrad Students: 25,379
Graduate Students: 6,385
Grads Salary: $74,000
Student-to-faculty: 20:1

University of Michigan-Dearborn

Score: 73.85

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,890
- Out-of-State: $26,546
Net Price: $12,444
Acceptance Rate: 54%
Retention Rate: 82%

Graduation Rate: 56%
Total Enrollment: 8,223
Undergrad Students: 6,116
Graduate Students: 2,107
Grads Salary: $78,000
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

Regis University

Score: 73.74

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,261
- Out-of-State: $14,261
Net Price: $26,377
Acceptance Rate: 76%
Retention Rate: 72%

Graduation Rate: 67%
Total Enrollment: 4,668
Undergrad Students: 2,398
Graduate Students: 2,270
Grads Salary: $86,000
Student-to-faculty: 9:1

Mercer University

Score: 72.88

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $15,531
- Out-of-State: $15,531
Net Price: $22,087
Acceptance Rate: 75%
Retention Rate: 86%

Graduation Rate: 74%
Total Enrollment: 8,889
Undergrad Students: 4,859
Graduate Students: 4,030
Grads Salary: $74,000
Student-to-faculty: 13:1

Brandeis University

Score: 72.43

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $55,104
- Out-of-State: $55,104
Net Price: $45,565
Acceptance Rate: 39%
Retention Rate: 92%

Graduation Rate: 87%
Total Enrollment: 5,581
Undergrad Students: 3,687
Graduate Students: 1,894
Grads Salary: $80,000
Student-to-faculty: 10:1

Arizona State University

Score: 72.29

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,014
- Out-of-State: $24,498
Net Price: $14,808
Acceptance Rate: 90%
Retention Rate: 85%

Graduation Rate: 67%
Total Enrollment: 80,065
Undergrad Students: 65,492
Graduate Students: 14,573
Grads Salary: $75,000
Student-to-faculty: 19:1

Washington State University

Score: 71.4

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,366
- Out-of-State: $27,163
Net Price: $17,911
Acceptance Rate: 83%
Retention Rate: 81%

Graduation Rate: 62%
Total Enrollment: 27,539
Undergrad Students: 22,612
Graduate Students: 4,927
Grads Salary: $77,000
Student-to-faculty: 15:1

West Virginia University

Score: 71.13

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,602
- Out-of-State: $27,450
Net Price: $12,202
Acceptance Rate: 88%
Retention Rate: 79%

Graduation Rate: 62%
Total Enrollment: 24,741
Undergrad Students: 19,059
Graduate Students: 5,682
Grads Salary: $73,000
Student-to-faculty: 17:1

Drexel University

Score: 70.23

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $36,234
- Out-of-State: $36,234
Net Price: $39,267
Acceptance Rate: 80%
Retention Rate: 87%

Graduation Rate: 78%
Total Enrollment: 22,344
Undergrad Students: 14,021
Graduate Students: 8,323
Grads Salary: $80,000
Student-to-faculty: 9:1

Kansas State University

Score: 69.99

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,294
- Out-of-State: $23,018
Net Price: $18,855
Acceptance Rate: 95%
Retention Rate: 86%

Graduation Rate: 69%
Total Enrollment: 19,722
Undergrad Students: 15,046
Graduate Students: 4,676
Grads Salary: $72,000
Student-to-faculty: 18:1

Texas Tech University

Score: 69.91

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,956
- Out-of-State: $15,136
Net Price: $17,896
Acceptance Rate: 67%
Retention Rate: 86%

Graduation Rate: 64%
Total Enrollment: 40,378
Undergrad Students: 32,579
Graduate Students: 7,799
Grads Salary: $72,000
Student-to-faculty: 21:1

The University of West Florida

Score: 69.39

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,088
- Out-of-State: $22,166
Net Price: $8,609
Acceptance Rate: 48%
Retention Rate: 85%

Graduation Rate: 53%
Total Enrollment: 13,521
Undergrad Students: 9,291
Graduate Students: 4,230
Grads Salary: $67,000
Student-to-faculty: 22:1

North Dakota State University

Score: 68.64

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,585
- Out-of-State: $11,377
Net Price: $15,962
Acceptance Rate: 96%
Retention Rate: 75%

Graduation Rate: 63%
Total Enrollment: 12,242
Undergrad Students: 10,096
Graduate Students: 2,146
Grads Salary: $72,000
Student-to-faculty: 17:1

East Carolina University

Score: 68.2

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,749
- Out-of-State: $17,898
Net Price: $14,410
Acceptance Rate: 92%
Retention Rate: 80%

Graduation Rate: 65%
Total Enrollment: 27,151
Undergrad Students: 21,688
Graduate Students: 5,463
Grads Salary: $67,000
Student-to-faculty: 18:1

St. Mary's University

Score: 67.83

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $19,224
- Out-of-State: $19,224
Net Price: $21,379
Acceptance Rate: 86%
Retention Rate: 68%

Graduation Rate: 56%
Total Enrollment: 3,253
Undergrad Students: 2,001
Graduate Students: 1,252
Grads Salary: $77,000
Student-to-faculty: 11:1

University of Houston-Clear Lake

Score: 67.83

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,920
- Out-of-State: $17,316
Net Price: $17,871
Acceptance Rate: 69%
Retention Rate: 67%

Graduation Rate: 54%
Total Enrollment: 8,562
Undergrad Students: 6,352
Graduate Students: 2,210
Grads Salary: $75,000
Student-to-faculty: 15:1

DePaul University

Score: 67.65

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $21,719
- Out-of-State: $21,719
Net Price: $32,151
Acceptance Rate: 70%
Retention Rate: 84%

Graduation Rate: 69%
Total Enrollment: 20,917
Undergrad Students: 14,134
Graduate Students: 6,783
Grads Salary: $76,000
Student-to-faculty: 17:1

St. Cloud State University

Score: 64.62

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,127
- Out-of-State: $13,549
Net Price: $14,065
Acceptance Rate: 95%
Retention Rate: 69%

Graduation Rate: 44%
Total Enrollment: 10,420
Undergrad Students: 8,569
Graduate Students: 1,851
Grads Salary: $73,000
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

Penn State World Campus

Score: 63.76

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $24,164
- Out-of-State: $24,164
Net Price: $19,551
Acceptance Rate: 82%
Retention Rate: 75%

Graduation Rate: 36%
Total Enrollment: 13,979
Undergrad Students: 8,210
Graduate Students: 5,769
Grads Salary: $78,000
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

Champlain College

Score: 63.22

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,310
- Out-of-State: $14,310
Net Price: $35,133
Acceptance Rate: 56%
Retention Rate: 76%

Graduation Rate: 64%
Total Enrollment: 3,543
Undergrad Students: 3,060
Graduate Students: 483
Grads Salary: $70,000
Student-to-faculty: 14:1

Where Do You Earn a Master’s Degree?

Master’s degrees are earned through courses and programs offered from colleges and universities. If you are looking for a graduate program for software engineering, search for colleges and universities that offer graduate programs. Many schools that offer a bachelor’s degree in software engineering often also offer graduate programs. Technical and trade schools will not offer advanced degrees, so look for online or on campus programs at larger colleges and universities. When you are looking for graduate programs in software engineering, make sure the college or university is regionally accredited, as well as the program itself if possible. Getting a degree from an unaccredited school could hurt your career prospects. This is especially important to investigate with strictly online programs and regional accreditation. Programmatic accreditation is not absolutely required, but it doesn’t hurt either.

Online Vs. Traditional Education in Software Engineering

In the old days, getting a degree online was frowned upon because they were considered subpar. Fortunately, things have changed, and now there are plenty of well-known, respected colleges and universities that offer online programs and degrees. However, there are still some differences between online and on-campus programs that don’t involve the quality of the programs or the schools.

First, online programs take several forms. Some programs are discussion board based, with no classroom instruction, while others actually have online classes in virtual classrooms with an instructor. There are also hybrid programs, in which both discussion boards and at least one classroom session are required. Some people prefer the option of not having classroom instruction because it means that the entire program can be completed when it’s most convenient for them, while others appreciate the interaction that occurs in a classroom setting.

Another option are schools that offer virtual versions of their on-campus programs. This is for students who can take classes at traditional class times but prefer to not visit campus to take courses. This program isn’t as flexible timewise as a completely online program, but still removes the need to travel to campus.

Find Your Online Software Engineering Program

On-campus programs haven’t changed much past offering virtual versions of their programs. But software engineering lends itself well to online formats. Software can be purchased and placed on computer dedicated for the classroom, and uploading files for assignments is easier thanks to increased speeds of Internet. For those who are looking for online software engineering programs, the only thing to consider is which type of program you want to pursue: discussion board, hybrid discussion and classroom, or virtual.

What are the Prerequisites for a Master’s Degree?

Depending on the school, the requirements to enter a master’s degree program can vary. For example, some schools require potential students to take either the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) as part of the admission requirements, but other schools do not require these exams. Work experience is also considered for graduate school candidates.

But there are some requirements that all schools tend to have:

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college in software engineering or a related field
Transcripts from all schools attended - Some just require former colleges, but others will require high school transcripts as well
A completed application
An essay answering a question posed on the application
Resume

Why Earn a Master’s Degree in Software Engineering?

The reason many software engineers pursue master’s degrees in software engineering or a related field is because employers expect it. For most employers, a bachelor’s degree is the minimum degree required to work as a software engineer, so for those who want to progress in their careers or move into management, additional education provides an extra advantage. For those who intend to earn a doctorate degree, a master’s degree is a requirement for that program unless you join a combination degree program. Certification organizations generally do not require a graduate degree in order to apply for certifications, but the additional education doesn’t hurt. Also, some certification organizations offer special certifications for students who have a graduate degree, and that could lead to additional career opportunities and additional financial opportunities.

Why a Degree in Software Engineering?

The first logical reason for getting a degree in software engineering is that someone wants to be a software engineer. They want to design computer programs and get paid well for it. Although it is possible to make a living as a software engineer without a formal education, most employers require at least a bachelor’s degree to work for their organizations. It is a profession that is most likely going to increase in demand, so there is also a sense of job security in the field. And, as software needs evolve, along with the need for increased security measures, there are several avenues a software engineer can take in the profession. But, even with the many options, the promotion process is still very linear. Work experience and additional training leads to new certifications. New certifications lead to promotions at work. Promotions at work lead to additional possibilities for certifications, etc. So, the longer you work, the more certifications you can get, which leads to more work opportunities.

What’s Involved in a Master’s Degree in Software Engineering?

A masters degree program in software engineering generally covers software analysis, development, and security. Most going into this program have at least a base level understanding of software engineering and also some work experience. This program builds on that knowledge and experience and introduces advanced concepts that someone who might want to move into supervisory and management positions might need to know.

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Common Courses

Software Project Management
Software Verification and Validation
Software Analysis and Design
Software Evolution
Object Oriented Design
Developing Portable Software
Business Network Security
Software Reuse

Concentrations

Software Engineering is a concentration in a computer science program

What to Consider When Choosing a Master’s Program in Software Engineering

Accreditation

When choosing a school, accreditation is a vital consideration. Not all programs are accredited, and some are accredited by agencies that aren’t recognized by everyone as credible. You want to look for a school whose program is accredited by an entity approved by the Department of Education, which is mainly regional accreditation. This is another area where you need to take care: there are two types of accreditation, national and regional. Although it would seem like national accreditation would be more prestigious than regional, it’s actually the opposite. You want to choose a school and a program that are regionally accredited. Going to an unaccredited school or completing an unaccredited program will do nothing to further your career. Employers tend to hire those with degrees from accredited schools, and agencies that grant certification once you are working often require that candidates have graduated from accredited schools.

Further Software Engineering Education

MBA

An MBA combined with a software engineering program is a good idea for someone who wants to enter management within the realms of computer science. Having advanced knowledge in business, combined with the expertise and experience in software engineering, makes for an excellent candidate in several industries. Most companies require some sort of database security and administration to protect their information, so a person who can run a business as well as understand system security is an asset.

Doctorate or PhD

Unless you intend to become a subject matter expert or pursue teaching at a college, a PhD in software engineering isn’t usually necessary.

Certification

Certifications are the main way software engineers and others working in computer sciences display their expertise. There are many different certifications a software engineer can pursue, but we’ve listed some common certifications below.

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Springboard Software Engineering Career Track:
A certification that covers front-end and back-end web development. Must have a basic understanding of JavaScript, HTML and CSS.
Certified Software Development Professional:
This certification comes from the IEEE and gives students a thorough understanding software engineering process: requirements, design, construction, and testing.
CIW Web Development Professional:
Requires two courses: CIW JavaScript Specialist and CIW Database Design Specialist. Between the two, you will have a solid understanding of JavaScript, MySQL, MS SQL, and Oracle databases.
Oracle Certified Master:
One of most advanced certifications for database administrators or software engineers. It includes a rather demanding exam, spanning the course of two days. To qualify, a candidate must have completed the Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional, two additional specialty courses, and have basic knowledge of Linux command line.
Salesforce Administrator:
This was created so those who are already familiar with how Salesforce works can demonstrate their knowledge.
Microsoft Certified Azure Solutions Architect:
This certification allows a person to showcase their ability to build cloud and hybrid applications using Azure.
Project Management Professional:
This is one of the most important certifications for a project manager working in the software industry.

Each of these certifications have their own requirements, so you should research carefully so you’ll know which certifications you qualify for. And, just to be clear, when you are choosing your school to attend to get your master’s degree in software engineering, make sure you choose a school that is regionally accredited. Otherwise, you might not be able to attain your certifications because the certification agency will not recognize your degree as legitimate and therefor you won’t meet the qualification requirements.

Potential Careers for Software Engineering Masters Graduates

There are many different careers a person with a master’s degree in software engineering can pursue.

Below is a small sample of careers:

Web Designer & Developer
Some might not consider web design a part of computer science, but there is a definite level of skill and expertise required to design websites. Designers must learn programming languages as well as understanding how computer operating and networking systems work to properly design sites that display information. They are also experienced at working with graphics and numerous types of codes.
Security Consultant (Cyber Security)
With the increase of using computers to do everything from reminding us to pick up the dry cleaning to depositing checks, it’s important that the applications and programs we use allow us to do these things safely. However, when there is a breach, it’s good to know that there are a group of people who are trained to stop the breach and track down those responsible. This is what cyber security professionals do. Not only do they stop attacks and find the offenders, but they also help developers create programs that are safer, so attacks won’t happen again.
Data Analyst
Data analysts review data stored in databases and look for errors or breaches in the database programming. They are trying to ensure that all data is accurate and that bad actors cannot manipulate the information and render the database useless.
Application Developer
An application developer, more commonly known as an app developer, will develop apps for a variety of uses. Most people think of mobile devices when it comes to apps, but household appliances as well as automobiles and other devices run on apps as well. An app development analyzes the device’s needs and creates the apps that fit those needs.
Software Tester
Software testers receive software that has been coded and test it for design and security flaws. They use it as a regular user would, but with a critical eye so that problems can be caught and corrected before the software is made available to its target audience.
Systems Analyst
A system analyst evaluates computer and networking systems to ensure that they run correctly. Important factors such as proper integration with existing systems and software, proper security features, and ease of use features are in place and working properly and are examined and feedback presented to developers.
Technical Support Specialist / IT Support Specialist
IT specialists are the front line for a company’s computer system and network. They troubleshoot connectivity and performance issues, correct those issues, and install equipment so an office can operate properly.

Salary Expectations

Software engineers on average make starting salaries between $105,000 and $142,000 per year, depending on experience. A software engineer with a master’s degree and some work experience will be on the higher end of that pay range and could be making approaching $200,000 a year by mid-career. Salaries will vary depending on geographic location and the organization. Larger organizations tend to pay their engineers more than smaller companies, but the wages are still competitive. Obviously, a person going into the field with a master’s degree is going to earn more than someone starting with a bachelor’s degree, and the potential for higher wages increases with experience and certifications. Also, this is a base salary; benefit packages, bonuses, and other financial incentives are not included in the base salary pay.

Outlook

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are almost 200,000 job openings in the software engineering and development industries. And the need is expected to increase at a faster-than-average rate over the next 10 years. Many of these opening will be created due to attrition and others changing careers or moving into parallel positions. Another driving factor is the increase in the need for applications for mobile devices.

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But software engineers can also make the leap into more business-related fields, as well, especially those who have master’s degrees in business administration or management. This advanced degree makes a candidate even more attractive to potential employers because they not only understand the concepts needed to manage a business, they understand how information technology, computer science, and security are also vital parts of managing a successful business. So, the combination of software engineering and business administration and/or management could lead to a financial boon for those who choose to take that path.

Best Online Masters in Software Engineering Degrees for 2024

Get Matched With Software Engineering Programs

Requirements of a Software Engineering Master’s Degree?

Compare Popular Online Software Engineering Programs

Search Programs

Top 25 Best Online Masters in Software Engineering Programs

Harvard University

University of Southern California

Stevens Institute of Technology

California State University-Fullerton

Illinois Institute of Technology

Auburn University

University of Michigan-Dearborn

Regis University

Mercer University

Brandeis University

Arizona State University

Washington State University

West Virginia University

Drexel University

Kansas State University

Texas Tech University

The University of West Florida

North Dakota State University

East Carolina University

St. Mary's University

University of Houston-Clear Lake

DePaul University

St. Cloud State University

Penn State World Campus

Champlain College

Where Do You Earn a Master’s Degree?

Online Vs. Traditional Education in Software Engineering

Find Your Online Software Engineering Program

What are the Prerequisites for a Master’s Degree?

Why Earn a Master’s Degree in Software Engineering?

Why a Degree in Software Engineering?

What’s Involved in a Master’s Degree in Software Engineering?

Find Online Software Engineering Schools

What to Consider When Choosing a Master’s Program in Software Engineering

Accreditation

Further Software Engineering Education

MBA

Doctorate or PhD

Certification

Search Programs Offering Software Engineering Majors

Potential Careers for Software Engineering Masters Graduates

Salary Expectations

Outlook

Find Your Online Software Engineering Program

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