An online bachelor’s degree in software engineering may provide students with the skills and training needed to manage and disseminate the flow of computer-based information within a company. In these four-year programs, students may learn how to categorize the basics of computer system security requirements, apply database concepts, and solve complex programming languages. Coursework within these four-year programs may include general education requirements alongside information technology electives as well as major-specific courses, such as programming logic, database systems, and spreadsheet applications.

Software engineering graduates may seek entry-level employment or pursue additional education and enroll in a graduate-level program. Bachelor’s-level graduates may find employment opportunities working with computer systems in industries, such as video gaming, computer systems administration, and Web applications.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Four years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Master’s / Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 30% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum within an online bachelor’s-level program in software engineering may combine general education requirements along with major-specific courses and electives. Students enrolled in these four-year programs may study mechanical and electrical components that interact with computer software as well as support disciplines related to complex software systems. Core online software engineering courses may include the following:

• Database Systems
• Spreadsheet Applications
• Computer Security
• Web Development
• Information Technology Architecture
• Programming Logic
• Systems Analysis

Career Options

Graduates of online bachelor’s degree programs in software engineering may find careers working in video games, Web applications, and computer system administration. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for those pursuing careers as software developers are expected to increase by 30% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Software Developer
• Applications Engineer
• Systems Analyst
• Test Engineer
• Application Developer

Continuing Education

Graduates of online baccalaureate degree programs in software engineering may pursue additional education and enroll in a graduate-level degree program in software engineering or related field. These upper-level programs may provide students with additional skills and training on software engineering topics and may prepare them for careers in aerospace, defense, biomedical, and governmental.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook