Master’s Degree Programs in Software Testing Overview
Majors Overview September 11, 2015This article talks about master’s degree programs in software testing and their education requirements, coursework, job and wage outlook, and continuing education choices.
Master’s Programs in Software Testing
Students enrolled in master’s degree programs in software engineering can expect to become adept in designing, testing and analyzing computer software. Practical training is imparted to give students experience with various programming languages, such as C++ and Java. Expertise is built by enrollees in team management and cost analysis, among other basic business skills. Schools may require completion of a capstone project.
Students with experience in the field complete some programs within about 16 months; those without such experience complete it in about two years. Schools offer the programs in online and on-campus formats, often aiming the program at working professionals seeking to enhance their career prospects through advanced education. Many professional software organizations offer professional certifications that may be available to program graduates.
Education Requirements
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a bachelor’s degree preferably in a related field, such as information systems or computer science. Some schools analyze an applicant’s relevant work experience in order to determine his or her potential. Few schools, if any, insist on specific work requirements.
Coursework
Coursework in interdisciplinary master’s degree programs in software engineering includes subjects such as information systems, computer science, and management courses. Core coursework may cover topic areas such as:
•Software testing
•Software design team management
•Software project management
•Software design theory and techniques
•User interface development
Job and Wage Outlook
In 2012, 1,018,000 individuals were employed as software developers in the United States(U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Over the 2012 – 2022 decade, these professionals are expected to see a 22% job growth. In May 2012, systems software developers and software applications developers brought in respective average annual wages of $99,000 and $90,060 (BLS).
Continuing Education Choices
Software testing certification is available through many organizations, and program graduates who obtain such certification can enhance their career opportunities. The most common ones include the Certified Software Tester (CSTE) certification that is available through a combination of formal training and work experience. Students can find the training in a master’s or bachelor’s degree program.
