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Online master’s degrees in Software Engineering are for working professionals who want to advance their careers into leadership positions. Similar to traditional on-campus programs, this STEM graduate program features intellectual rigor and advanced analytical thinking.
Competent software professionals with software management and engineering management skills are also expected to have a mastery of essential computer programming principles.
The Labor Statistics Bureau shows that software developers have a mean annual wage of $138,110.
Additional Resources:
- Best Grad Schools with Online Master’s in Computer Engineering
- Most Affordable Master’s In Engineering (MEng, M.E., M. Eng.) Grad Degree Programs
- Best Online MS in Engineering Graduate Schools
Overview
The increasing importance of software systems in society requires competent Software Engineering professionals in various careers. Some software engineering programs require students to complete a project or thesis option. The former includes real client class projects. If you are one of the experienced software engineers who have an aptitude for reflective practice, then this software engineering program is for you.
Methodology
Access to the best graduate-level education equips students with advanced skills relevant to software development and industry leadership. We chose each of the Best Online Master’s in Software Engineering programs on our list based on these factors:
- Offers 100% or mostly online courses for flexibility and convenience,
- Features rigorous curriculum focusing on core software development skills, management and leadership skills, and anticipating emerging trends and technologies in the field,
- Prepares students for Doctorate in Software Engineering programs and higher-level or executive-level careers,
- Taught by faculty with professional industry expertise and experience,
- Features competitive tuition rates with various financial aid opportunities,
- Holds the relevant accreditation to prove that they meet academic standard requirements.
Visit our Methodology page for information.
Best Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs
Texas Tech University
Broadway Lubbock, TX
Master of Science in Software and Security Engineering
TTU’s MS in Software and Security Engineering is designed for students who want to expand their horizons toward cyber/network security positions. With a focus on security and Software Engineering concepts, students will dive into topics in system requirements, system engineering, teamwork, and engineering ethics.
Students can choose between a thesis (for prospective doctoral students) and a non-thesis track. Students who opt for the thesis track should find a thesis advisor in an area of research that is compatible with their interests.
West Virginia University
Morgantown, WV
Master of Science in Software Engineering
The MS in Software Engineering at WVU is among the best and most affordable online programs. Students will study various topics in software applications and systems, including its holistic design, development, and management process.
Students will master the application of Software Engineering practices involved in the analysis and assessment of needs and the implementation of improvements. Some of the core courses in the comprehensive curriculum include Software Project Management, Software Analysis and Design, Software Verification and Validation, and Software Evolution.
California State University, Fullerton
Fullerton, CA
Master of Science in Software Engineering
CSU Fullerton offers an MS in Software Engineering with a rigorous curriculum exploring various topics. This includes software architectural design, software process assessment, software process methods, software project management, and Software Engineering ethics, among many others.
In addition to its regular courses, CSU Fullerton also offers free summer coding Bootcamps for beginners and graduate students. Activities in the Bootcamp enhance students’ coding skills and prepare them for job interviews in the evolving tech industry.
University of Maryland
Adelphi, MD
Master of Science – Information Technology: Software Engineering
Students who want to gain a broader learning experience can pursue UMD’s hybrid MSIT with a Software Engineering focus program. This MS program features a comprehensive curriculum designed by industry leaders, preparing students for in-demand careers in information technology.
Students in the Software Engineering concentration can expect to cover topics such as advanced software implementation and modern software methodologies. Students can also participate in UMGC’s Computing Club for network and career development opportunities.
Boston University
Boston, MA
Master of Science in Software Development
Boston’s MS in Software Development is a very popular program known for its comprehensive curriculum covering advanced knowledge of computer language theory, databases, networks, security, and software design. Students can complete the program in as few as 16 months if they enroll full-time, with a $31,899 per semester tuition cost.
Online students at Boston University can take advantage of the Student & Faculty Support within the Distance Education office. This ensures they can receive prompt and attentive assistance throughout their whole online learning experience.
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ
Master of Science (MS) in Engineering Science – Software Engineering
ASU’s MS in Engineering Science offers a Software Engineering pathway focusing on important elements in the field, like software development methodologies, processes, and techniques. Some of the courses included are Software Verification, Validation, and Testing, Software Engineering Principles and Techniques, Artificial Neural Computation, and Coding and Applications, among others.
Washington State University
Pullman, WA
Master of Science in Software Engineering
The MS in Software Engineering at WSU is designed to help Software Engineering professionals advance their careers in the field. The curriculum helps students acquire highly-competitive knowledge and skills like software design and development, software validation, and management.
The online Master’s in Software Engineering program is designed and created with insights from an industry advisory board. This includes representatives from pioneering companies such as Boeing, Amazon, Microsoft, Hewlett-Packard, Ivycorp, and EMC Isilon.
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Master of Software Engineering
CMU’s MSE program is aimed at the career advancement of actively practicing professionals. As such, students must have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or an engineering-related discipline, as well as experience in full-time software development positions.
Students have access to various career services and crucially, the extensive network of alumni that continually work with the university as collaborators and partners. Students also have the chance to participate in industry field trips, as well as relevant conferences and workshops.
University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley, California
Master of Molecular Science and Software Engineering (MSSE)
UC Berkeley’s Master of Molecular Science and Software Engineering is a unique program focusing on two fields. It involves applying computation and machine learning concepts to problems in the field of molecular sciences and beyond.
The program’s courses are offered online, except for two on-campus boot camps. It also covers computational molecular science and focuses on Software Engineering, advanced machine learning, complex mathematical modeling and simulations, and high-performance computing.
Drexel University
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Master of Science in Software Engineering
The MS in Software Engineering program at Drexel features an interdisciplinary design that can be applied to a wide range of careers in the industry. While it’s recommended for professionals working in the Software Engineering field, it is still open to those coming from outside this.
Core courses cover software testing and reliability, software architecture, software design, as well as software project management. The program also features a comprehensive design leading to careers that highlight the technical, behavioral and managerial aspects of engineering as a discipline.
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, California
Master of Science – Computer Science (Software Engineering)
USC’s MS in Computer Science offers a Software Engineering program integrating several emerging technologies & trends. Topics include software-intensive systems, COTS integration, high assurance, rapid software development, agile methods, and mobile and distributed network-centric architectures. This program also features real client class projects.
USC also offers a pure Master of Science in Computer Science, as well as MS in Computer Science degrees that are concentrated on Data Science Computer Security, and a program tailored for Scientists and Engineers who have a limited background in computer science.
Pennsylvania State University
University Park, Pennsylvania
Master of Software Engineering
Penn State’s Master of Software Engineering is designed with a comprehensive coverage of modern software concepts and techniques and includes the areas of software analysis, design and architecture, data storage and retrieval, and software verification.
It features a cohort-based learning format to provide students with a unique collaborative learning environment that mimics the modern remote-based work environment.
East Carolina University
Greenville, North Carolina
Master of Science in Software Engineering
The MS in Software Engineering at ECU is for students who want to have the convenience of online learning and the valuable interaction and networking opportunities provided by in-person classes. This hybrid program offers several electives like machine learning, database management, network security, and more.
ECU’s MS in Software Engineering program offers a nontraditional entry pathway for those with backgrounds in engineering, mathematics, physics, chemistry, or similar disciplines.
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, Georgia
Master of Science in Software Engineering
KSU’s MS in Software Engineering allows students to complete the program in a fully online or hybrid learning format, depending on their preferences and schedule. The program’s courses include software project planning & management, software architecture, and software testing & verification. Students can choose to complete the master’s program with a capstone project or a thesis option.
KSU provides entry into the MS program for non-computing and non-software Engineering undergraduates through foundation courses, while Software Engineering graduates may receive exemptions for certain courses.
Pace University
New York, New York
Master of Science in Software Development and Engineering
The MS in Software Development and Engineering at Pace offers a curriculum that balances the theoretical and practical aspects of the discipline, incorporating science, technology, mathematics, and engineering. It is centered on the following themes: System & Software Design, Software Management & Evolution, and Managing Team Resources.
Pace University designed this program to be anchored on the Software Engineering Body of Knowledge (SWEBOK). This STEM-designated degree program also serves as a preparation for students to sit in the IEEE Certification Exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to complete an online master’s in Software Engineering program?
Usually, online programs in Software Engineering require the completion of 30 credit hours or more. This can take students 24 months to complete.
What are the common admission requirements to earn a Master’s in Software Engineering degree?
Most universities require students to hold a bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or related fields. They may also be required to submit their updated resume, official transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
Online learners who do not have sufficient background in the discipline may need to complete additional prerequisite courses.
Key Takeaways
- The continued rise in the prevalence of software and software-based technologies means that there is an expected demand for competent professionals skilled in key software engineering skills.
- Master’s in Software Engineering programs are focused on the design, development, implementation, and testing aspects of software systems, and are anchored on the engineering design process.
- Master’s in Software Engineering programs offer technical, management, and leadership skills, and admission requires an undergraduate degree in Software Engineering, with some programs welcoming diverse backgrounds.
