Online software engineering programs may provide students with training on how to design and develop software applications and systems. Individuals who may benefit the most from these types of programs should be technical, creative, detail-oriented, analytical, and have strong communication and interpersonal skills. Software engineering degree programs are available online at the associate, baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral levels, while select schools may offer a certificate option.

Graduates may find employment in several areas, including computer systems design and software publishing. These online software engineering programs may provide students the necessary skills and training to secure a career as a software engineer, web application developer, software programmer, computer systems analyst, or database administrator.

Available Degree Levels

• Certificate: One to two years to complete
• Associate Degree: Two years to complete
• Bachelor’s Degree: Four years to complete
• Master’s Degree: One to two years to complete
• Doctoral Degree: Three to five years to complete

An online certificate program in software engineering may teach students how to develop high-quality software systems while keeping an eye on budget and time restraints. Programs may cover areas such as computer model software requirements, specialty software designs, and the software development process. Courses offered may include mobile applications, computer science, and systems programming.

Individuals interested in online associate-level programs in software engineering typically do not need any computer experience prior to enrollment. These programs may train students on the basics of personal computers, including operating systems, programming languages, and database management. Coursework may include JavaScript, programming with HTML, Visual Basics, and C++ programming. Graduates may seek entry-level employment or continue their education with a baccalaureate program.

Online bachelor’s programs in software engineering may give students a solid foundation in computer programming and software development. Graduates may seek entry-level employment or further their education by enrolling in a graduate-level program in software engineering. In addition to general education requirements, students may complete courses in data warehousing, systems analysis, computer graphics, and digital communications.

Students enrolled in online master’s-level programs in software engineering may learn about software analysis, system verification, and data storage. These programs tend to be research-heavy and may include a capstone requirement. Coursework may cover software system design, database concepts, web security and privacy, and software testing. Graduates may seek managerial-level employment in the computer software industry.

Doctoral-level programs in software engineering may provide in-depth training on information technology and how it relates to computer software programming. Students may study software project management, software modeling, user interface and design, data warehousing, and information systems policy and administration.

Career Options

Graduates of online software engineering programs may gain the skills and training needed to secure employment in a variety of sectors, including telecommunications, aerospace, biomedicine, insurance, and healthcare. Graduates from online software engineering programs, should have the skills to recommend software upgrades to clients, design computer applications, ensure that the software functions properly, and collaborate with others on similar projects.

Possible career fields include:

• Software Engineer
• Web Application Developer
• Software Programmer
• Database Administer
• Computer Systems Analyst