Degree Overview: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Software Engineering
Majors Overview February 26, 2015Get information about a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree program in Software Engineering and its education requirements, coursework, career choices, and continuing education choices.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in Software Engineering
Students enrolled in inter-disciplinary Bachelor of Science (B.S.) programs in Software Engineering complete coursework that covers topic areas in computer science, engineering, and mathematics. Students learn how to design, develop, test, and implement different types of operating systems and software.
Many programs also discuss manufacturing and marketing skills germane to the creation of software. Students usually complete hands-on engineering projects to augment classroom education.
Education Requirements
Exceptionally strong skills in science and mathematics, especially in calculus, algebra, and physics, are needed by incoming students to Software Engineering B.S. programs. Excellence in all available high school computer science courses is also expected.
Coursework
Coursework in Software Engineering B.S. programs is devised to impart the theoretical and practical skills necessary for completing the software creation process. Students are also imparted the problem solving and analytical thinking skills necessary for ensuring that end users’ needs are met by the proposed software and that it is compatible with the software and hardware currently used by the end users. Core coursework may include subject areas such as the following:
•Software architecture design
•Computer operating systems
•Software design methodology
•Systems analysis
•Computer operating systems
•Software development theory
•Discrete mathematics in software engineering
•Software evolution
•Project management in software design
•User interface design
Career Choices
Graduates from a bachelor’s degree program in software engineering can choose from numerous entry-level careers. They can choose to work independently or for government agencies, video game design companies, or software design firms. Many information technology (IT) companies hire Software Engineering B.S. program graduates. They can pursue various career options, such as:
•Systems administrator
•IT manager
•Software developer
Continuing Education Choices
Employers for many advanced positions in software engineering prefer holders of a master’s degree in the field. Students enrolled in Master of Science (M.S.) degree programs in Software Engineering complete advanced coursework devised to teach them how to design, implement, and test software. These programs often involve completion of extensive coursework in research methodology, performance metrics, and statistics.