Software engineers and developers enjoy a high salary as well as a high job satisfaction rate. According to a recent article by U.S. News and World Report, software developers are ranked #1 in 100 Best Jobs, #1 in Best Stem Jobs as well as #1 in Best Technology Jobs. That’s about as good as it gets! If you’re good at math and enjoy the engineering side of critical thinking and problem solving, a career in software development looks like career heaven.
Software engineers play an essential role in modern society and commerce. They create and develop systems and/or applications that run on computers and computer-related devices. With the explosion of hand held technology that is buzzing with dozens of daily new apps and programs, software developers have a wide range of choice among job opportunities as well as a secure future.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average median pay for software engineers is $105,590 per year. Job growth is predicted at a 21% rate over the next decade which is over 3 times the average job growth rate! Excellent pay and strong job security make software engineering an excellent career choice. This list provides twenty of the top online bachelor’s degree programs that will make you into a successful software engineer!
Methodology:
In the development of this list, the OnlineSchoolsCenter.com researcher/writers utilized the following criteria in their selection process:
- Online bachelor’s degrees in Software Engineering or a closely related field that prepares graduates for a career in software engineering;
- Proper regional accreditation and recognition of the school’s and/or program’s reputation for excellence;
- Satisfaction of students, expressed especially in high graduation numbers;
- Faculty members with strong credentials and field experience in software engineering;
- Strong student support and small class sizes;
- And clear and convenient course delivery and interface system with faculty, staff, and course resources.
For a deeper understanding into our methodology beyond the degree specific criteria listed above, please visit our Methodology Page.
UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
Online BS in Computer Engineering
Program Standouts: Future software engineers can earn an online Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering through the University of Florida’s top online degree program. This outstanding online degree prepares software engineers through providing a thorough grounding in information and computation theory, balanced with an integrated view of the field in terms of the liberal arts. This program can be taken as an accelerated degree if an applicant already has earned undergraduate credits that can be transferred into the program through its generous credit transfer policies. In this diverse online degree for software engineering, graduates are given outstanding technical knowledge that is combined with the best instruction in social sciences, humanities, and ethics. With its outstanding institutional reputation and top computer science faculty, the online Bachelor of Computer Science is a great choice for non-traditional students wanting to embark on a lucrative and exciting career in software engineering.
Campus Location: Gainesville, FL
Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges – 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033
Acceptance Rate: 39%
Graduation Rate: 90%
Course Sample:
- Introduction to Software Engineering
- Engineering Directed Independent Research
- Introduction to Computer Engineering
Degree Outcomes: This degree program prepares future software engineers within a curriculum that can be applied in many different computer science careers. These include Business Intelligence Analysis, Computer Programming, Information Systems Management, Software Development, and many other areas.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
THE COLLEGE OF ST. SCHOLASTICA
Online bs or ba in software engineering
Program Standouts: St. Scholastica’s online software engineering degree program is completely online and can be an accelerated online degree, requiring only 2-3 years. The program’s flexibility allows students to earn either a BA or a BS according to a customized curriculum tailored to the specific needs and goals of software engineering. Students in this 128-credit online degree program learn about system analysis and design, organization and application of tools and technology, teamwork, and ethics. All this is combined with affordable tuition ($395 per credit) to make St. Scholastica’s online BA/BS in Computer Information Systems a top online degree choice for aspiring software engineers.
Campus Location: Duluth, MN
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission – 230 S LaSalle St Suite 7-500, Chicago IL 60604
Acceptance Rate: 66%
Graduation Rate: 69%
Course Sample:
- Software Quality Assurance
- Ethical Hacking & Systems Defense
- Artificial Intelligence with Robots
Degree Outcomes: Graduates from this degree program are prepared for careers in software engineering as well as a host of other IT-related career fields. Graduates go on to work in “a variety of… careers, from web development to systems analysis to software engineering.” As the St. Scholastica website amusingly notes: “In a field as dynamic as Computer Science, your future job may not even exist yet!”
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER INFORMATION SYSTEMS FROM THE COLLEGE OF ST. SCHOLASTICA
CAL STATE-MONTEREY BAY
Online accelerated computer science degree
Program Standouts: Cal State-Monterey Bay offers an accelerated degree completion program in Computer Science. This program offers a blend of computer science theory and hands-on engagement in the many areas of information technology. Flexibility and focus converge in this top accelerated online degree program. Theory and practice are harnessed to a strong software engineering concentration, making this degree program a direct point of entry into the field without locking you into a particular career path.
Campus Location: Marina, CA
Accreditation:
- WASC – 533 Airport Boulevard, Suite 200, Burlingame, CA 94010-2009
Acceptance Rate: 59%
Graduation Rate: 60%
Course Sample:
- Software Engineering
- Design and Analysis of Algorithms
- Software Design
Degree Outcomes: Graduates from this online degree completion program will have a firm grasp of computer mathematics, computer languages, and communications. They will be able to readily apply theory-based knowledge to systems and design towards the purpose of outstanding software engineering.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE FROM CAL STATE-MONTEREY BAY
ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY
bs in software engineering online
Program Standouts: Offered through the top-ranked Ira A. Fulton School of Engineering, ASU Online’s Bachelor of Software Engineering is a highly-focused degree. It aims to give its graduates the knowledge and skills needed to stay in a leading position in the rapidly changing world of software engineering. What sets this top online 120-credit program apart is its accelerated class schedule and project-driven curriculum. Students take a total of 41 classes, which each lasts only 7.5 weeks. Students are required to complete software engineering-related projects each semester.
Campus Location: Tempe, AZ
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission – 230 S LaSalle St Suite 7-500, Chicago IL 60604
Acceptance Rate: 85%
Graduation Rate: 69%
Course Sample:
- Object-Oriented Programming and Data Structures
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Design and Analysis of Data Structures and Algorithms
Degree Outcomes: This online Bachelor in Software Engineering gets its graduates ready for careers in App Development, Web Development, Computer Systems Administration, and Programming. Qualification for these careers is achieved through “engaged learning” and “discovery’based” coursework and projects that gives both know-how and direct experience in software engineering.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN SOFTWARE ENGINEERING FROM ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY
OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY
ECAMPUS postbaccalaureate bs in computer science
Program Standouts: Oregon State University’s online postbaccalaureate BS in Computer Science is of the perfect design for those looking already possessing a Bachelor’s degree to move into software design. Requiring only 60 credits, this accelerated degree can be completed in just a few terms. Affordable tuition and four different start terms per year make this degree highly attractive to the right candidate. This online degree’s coursework is delivered entirely online, and each required course is offered every semester. This removes scheduling worries and possible conflicts, allowing students to take classes according to their personal scheduling needs.
Campus Location: Corvallis, OR
Accreditation:
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities – 8060 165th Ave NE #100, Redmond, WA 98052
Acceptance Rate: 81%
Graduation Rate: 67%
Course Sample:
- Programming Fundamentals
- Mobile and Web Development
- Software Engineering
Degree Outcomes: This online degree program is an excellent option for those pursuing a career in software engineering. Other career paths that one might follow after completing this degree are computer and information systems management, systems analysis, database administration, security, development, and software development.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE FROM OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY
LIMESTONE COLLEGE
online bs in programming
Program Standouts: This online Bachelor of Science in Programming has natural problem solvers in mind. Practically, students in this top online degree program must be flexible, creative, and willing to be a team member. The program requires 120 credits and covers topics including information technology, programming, systems administration, security, and architecture. A specific focus of Limestone’s online degree is computer science and engineering as it affects and can be implemented into business settings.
Campus Location: Gaffney, SC
Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges – 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033
Acceptance Rate: 44%
Graduation Rate: 35%
Course Sample:
- Operating Systems and Network Fundamentals
- Advanced Microcomputer Applications
- Project Management
Degree Outcomes: This degree program is designed to prepare graduates for careers in software programming and engineering. Graduates have also gone on to work as software analysts, project managers, application developers.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE-PROGRAMMING FROM LIMESTONE COLLEGE
UPPER IOWA UNIVERSITY
online bs in software engineering
Program Standouts: The online degree in Software Engineering offered through Upper Iowa University is delivered by the School of Business and Professional Studies. This top online degree features top-level instruction in the context of small class sizes, providing ample opportunity to interact. Comprising 79 major credit hours, this highly focuses online degree program is noted for its clear presentation of how mathematics and engineering are successfully applied to software challenges and applications
Campus Location: Fayette, IA
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission – 230 S LaSalle St Suite 7-500, Chicago IL 60604
Acceptance Rate: 50%
Graduation Rate: 43%
Course Sample:
- IT Infrastructure
- Introduction to Programming
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Informatics and Knowledge Engineering
Degree Outcomes: Graduates from this online degree in software engineering are able to apply engineering and advanced mathematics to software applications in ways that improve, among others, business performance and security. Graduates will also be able to evaluate customer needs in order to design software that best fits their needs.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN SOFTWARE ENGINEERING FROM UPPER IOWA UNIVERSITY
COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY
ONLINE bs in computer science
Program Standouts: CSU’s online degree in computer science is designed to fit a number of student needs and desired career paths, including especially, software engineering. This top online degree offers affordable tuition and a generous transfer program. Students in this degree program learn to juggle data and database management and security problems as well as software and application engineering and development. To this end, this program provides instruction and training algorithms and theoretical computing frameworks.
Campus Location: Fort Collins, CO
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission – 230 S LaSalle St Suite 7-500, Chicago IL 60604
Acceptance Rate: 84%
Graduation Rate: 71%
Course Topics:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Software Engineering and Security
- Machine Learning
Degree Outcomes: Graduates from this program have gained the necessary mathematical, programming, and engineering knowledge and skills to work in a variety of computer science careers. This includes: Web Development, Network and Computer Systems Administration, Computer Systems Analysis, Software Engineering and Development, Network Architecture.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE FROM COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY
SAINT LEO UNIVERSITY
online bachelor of software engineering
Program Standouts: Saint Leo University understands how deeply modern society and technology depend upon innovations based upon software engineering. This insight has led SLU to develop one of the top online Bachelor of Software Engineering available. An excellent financial aid and grant program makes earning an online degree in software engineering attainable to a very wide range of applicants. In this outstanding program students to learn design, development, and support. They have plenty of opportunities to practice with and apply their newly-gained knowledge and skills. Students will learn algorithm design, application design, software architecture, and quality assurance as well as very marketable and lucrative computer programming skills.
Campus Location: Saint Leo, FL
Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges – 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033
Acceptance Rate: 60%
Graduation Rate: 51%
Course Sample:
- Network Theory and Design
- Database Concepts and Programming
- Software Engineering
- Software Requirements Engineering
Degree Outcomes: Graduates from this degree program will have demonstrated knowledge of computing concepts, practices, and tools for the purpose of design, components, and processes. They will be able to apply software engineering theory and mathematics to the design, development, and maintenance of software systems. Graduates will show a strong ethical basis for their professional decisions.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN SOFTWARE ENGINEERING FROM SAINT LEO UNIVERSITY
KENNESAW STATE UNIVERSITY
ONLINE LEARNING BS/applied science in information technology
Program Standouts: Kennesaw State University’s top online Bachelor in Software Engineering wins this list’s prize for flexibility and variety. This program offers three degrees that each will get you into software design, but may be more suitable to specific career goals. Under the heading of Computing and Software Design, KSU offers degrees in applied science, business administration, and science. KSU has very affordable tuition and credit-transfer opportunities.
Campus Location: Kennesaw, GA
Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges -1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033
Acceptance Rate: 58%
Graduation Rate: 43%
Degree Specializations:
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Information Technology
- Bachelor of Business Administration in Information Security & Assurance
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
Degree Outcomes: Through a combination of core courses and major courses KSU’s online Bachelor of Software Engineering is designed to meet a wide range of IT and software engineering needs. Students will have demonstrated knowledge and applied skills to strategy, development and design, computing, and systems management and security.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE AND APPLIED SCIENCE IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY FROM KENNESAW STATE UNIVERSITY
DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY
bs in computer science online
Program Standouts: Dynamic coursework, online delivery, and reasonable tuition characterize the top online degree in Computer Science offered through Dakota State University. This degree comes out of the prestigious Beacom College of Computer and Cyber Sciences and focuses on programming, data structures, and algorithms. In addition to preparing future software engineers, graduates of the program have gone on work as systems administrators, software developers, entrepreneurs, and security testers.
Campus Location: Madison, SD
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission – 230 S LaSalle St Suite 7-500, Chicago IL 60604
Acceptance Rate: 83%
Graduation Rate: 47%
Course Samples:
- Software Engineering
- Programming Languages
- Advanced Data Structures
Degree Outcomes: Graduates from this online degree in software engineering will have mastery of computer science knowledge in algorithms, data structures, programming languages, software engineering and development, and computer hardware and architecture. Graduates will be able to apply this knowledge to solve problems in the computer science field.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE FROM DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY
GRANITE STATE COLLEGE
bs in information technology online
Program Standouts: This affordable online degree in information technology can be used as a springboard into the field of software engineering. It is also a perfect option for transfers, possessing an Associate Degree with courses in statistics and programming fundamentals. This top online degree gives its students a basis in programming, network systems, analysis, and software. This online degree gives special attention to questions relating business and the effective design and development of software technologies.
Campus Location: Concord, NH
Accreditation:
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges – 3 Burlington Woods Drive, Suite 100, Burlington, MA, 01803
Acceptance Rate: Open Admissions
Graduation Rate: 23%
Course Samples:
- Programming Fundamentals
- Systems Analysis and Design
- Best Practices in Information Technology
Degree Outcomes: This degree is designed to give its graduates a proficiency in IT, including programming, software, networks, and databases. Practical skills and theory are instilled in graduates across a wide range of IT sectors.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY FROM THE GRANITE STATE COLLEGE
BAKER COLLEGE
online bachelor’s in computer science: focus in computer programming
Program Standouts: Baker College offers an online bachelor’s degree in computer science with a concentration in computer programming. Baker College has one of the lowest student to faculty ratio at 8:1 along with a fairly low tuition. The computer science program at Baker is designed to keep up with the ever-changing world of computer science with constant updates to their technology. Focuses in the program are: computer programming, database technologies, or mobile application software engineering.
Campus Location: Flint, Michigan
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission – 230 S LaSalle St Suite 7-500, Chicago IL 60604
Acceptance Rate: 53%
Graduation Rate: 19%
Course Sample:
- Principles of Computer Science
- Big Data Analytics
- Net-centric Computing
Degree Outcomes: Computer scientists who have graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Baker College have worked in industries such as finance/banking, manufacturing, government agencies, aerospace and education.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE-COMPUTER PROGRAMMING FROM BAKER COLLEGE
PENN STATE WORLD CAMPUS
online bs in software engineering
Program Standouts: Penn State University’s Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering is one of the best online software engineering degrees. The program is offered through Penn State World Campus and provides a foundation in engineering software with a curriculum that combines classroom study, projects and hands-on experience. The bachelor’s degree blends principles of engineering, leadership, skills and software construction. The curriculum prepares software engineering students with an understanding of the field and for successful entry into the workforce or further studies.
Campus Location: State College, Pennsylvania
Accreditation:
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education, 3624 Market St #2w, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Acceptance Rate: 54%
Graduation Rate: 29%
Course Sample:
- Probability and Statistics
- Software Design
- Computer Networks
- Object-oriented methodology
Degree Outcomes: Obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering degree from Penn State University World Campus positions graduates for software engineering jobs such as:
- Video Game Designer
- Project Manager
- User Interface Designer
- Sales Engineer
- Software Developer
- Computer Systems Administrator
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN SOFTWARE ENGINEERING FROM PENN STATE UNIVERSITY WORLD CAMPUS
SAINT CLOUD STATE UNIVERSITY
software engineering b.s. online
Program Standouts: Saint Cloud State University offers a top Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering which can be completed entirely online. The traditional and online degrees at Saint Cloud are offered with the same coursework, faculty and offer the same transcript and diploma. The delivery of the online degrees at Saint Cloud University is especially flexible through full-time and part-time availability, even allowing students to skip a term if they need to. The degree program also grants students with suitable work experience credit for their experience.
Campus Location: Saint Cloud, Minnesota
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission – 230 S LaSalle St Suite 7-500, Chicago IL 60604
Acceptance Rate: 86%
Graduation Rate: 44%
Course Sample:
- Discrete Mathematics
- Software Design
- Object-Oriented Software Development
Degree Outcomes: The Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering from Saint Cloud University prepares graduates to be successful professionals with a strong fundamental and working knowledge of software engineering. Graduates also are able to show communication and interpersonal skills as well as applying their knowledge to the changing environments of software engineering.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN SOFTWARE ENGINEERING FROM SAINT CLOUD STATE UNIVERSITY
MERCY COLLEGE
online bachelor of computer information systems
Program Standouts: The Bachelor of Computer Information Systems at Mercy College is one of the top online software engineering degree programs. Students in the program learn proficiency in writing functional programs which are user-friendly and acquire the ability to recognized quickly various programming languages and platforms. The curriculum also focuses on database creation and application as well as how to address the business information needs of an organization.
Campus Location: Dobbs Ferry, New York
Accreditation:
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education, 3624 Market St #2w, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Acceptance Rate: 79%
Graduation Rate: 44%
Course Sample:
- Web Site Administration
- Operating Systems
- Artificial Intelligence
Degree Outcomes: The online Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Science from Mercy College prepares graduates for professions in Mathematics, IT, Computer Information Systems, Computer Science, Information Assurance and Security and other industries. The degree options available at Mercy provide students with knowledge and skills to advance in the broad arena of Mathematics and CIS.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE FROM MERCY COLLEGE
TROY UNIVERSITY
Online Applied computer science degree program
Program Standouts: The Applied Computer Science program at Troy University is one of the least expensive software engineering degrees on this list. The faculty at Troy University assist students to solve problems with computer programs, administer databases and networking. One of the special aspects of the program at Troy is the availability of a student tutoring program and an active computer science student organization. The organization helps students to network with potential employers and also organizes academic events and outings. Troy students work on projects such as designing games, cell phone apps, web apps and visualization among others.
Campus Location: Lewis-McChord, Washington
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges – 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033
Acceptance Rate: 88%
Graduation Rate: 43%
Course Sample:
- Software Engineering
- Nature of Programming Language
- Operating Systems
Degree Outcomes: According to the Troy University website, graduates from the Bachelor of Applied Science in Computer Science “will be trained in the skills necessary to engage in this constantly changing and evolving field.” Graduates will also be prepared to join the workforce or continue on to graduate studies.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE BACHELOR OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE FROM TROY UNIVERSITY
SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY
online b.s. in computer science
Program Standouts: The online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree at Southern New Hampshire University is one of the top online degrees in Computer Science. The program offers a concentration in Software Engineering and familiarizes students with the basic concepts and fundamentals of engineering in software development. Complex problem solving and designing software patterns and methodologies are also a focus of the program. Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit university that has a mission to see students succeed and has a high graduation rate of 73%
Campus Location: Manchester, New Hampshire
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges, 3 Burlington Woods Drive, Suite 100, Burlington, MA 01803
Acceptance Rate: 35%
Graduation Rate: 73%
Course Sample:
- Software Security
- Mobile Architecture and Programming
- Programming Languages
Degree Outcomes: Graduates of the Bachelor of Science Degree Program from Southern New Hampshire University are able, among other things, to:
- Use software engineering design methods to create and develop software
- Assess systems, security approaches and software function for use in software development
- Design computing solutions that solve problems using algorithmic principles
- Deliver professional-quality communications appropriate for specific audiences
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN SOFTWARE ENGINEERING FROM SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY
PARK UNIVERSITY
online information and computer science degree
Program Standouts: The Information and Computer Science degree program at Park University is offered 100% online and prepares students for a myriad of opportunities in the field of technology as well as graduate studies. The program offers many specialty areas including Computer Science, Software Development, Networking and Security, Information Technology, Cybersecurity and Data Management. The Information and Computer Science programs at Park University train students to use up to date computer technologies, methods, and language of programming and also how to communicate professionally in networking teams.
Campus Location: Parkville, Missouri
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission – 230 S LaSalle St Suite 7-500, Chicago IL 60604
Acceptance Rate: Open Admission
Graduation Rate: 36%
Course Sample:
- Introduction to Python Programming
- Technology in a Global Society
- Basic Concepts of Statistics
Degree Outcomes: Some of the careers available for graduates of the Computer and Information and Computer Science from Park University are:
- Web Programmer
- Applications Programmer
- Database Analyst
- Software Engineer
- Information Technology Project Manager
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER INFORMATION AND COMPUTER SCIENCE FROM PARK UNIVERSITY
NATIONAL UNIVERSITY
computer science b.s. online
Program Standouts: National University’s online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program offers a strong basis in academics along with hands-on experience in computer programming. The program assists students to gain design and technical skills that will enable them to stay on top of the latest developments in computer science. The online courses include the same courses that are offered at National University’s on-campus program. Students who begin the bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from National University have the option of transitioning into higher education through their BS Computer Science/Master of Science in Computer Science Transition Program.
Campus Location: La Jolla, California
Accreditation:
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges – 533 Airport Boulevard, Suite 200, Burlingame, CA 94010-2009
Acceptance Rate: Open Admissions
Graduation Rate: 36%
Course Sample:
- Object Oriented Design
- Discrete Structures and Logic
- Scientific Problem Solving
Degree Outcomes: Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree program from National University will, among other things, have learned how to:
- Apply mathematical foundations, algorithms and theory to the design of computer-based systems
- Detect problems and design computer-related solutions
- Meet objectives through analyzing computer-based systems and components
- Evaluate the effect of computing on persons, organizations and society
- Design and develop software
- Continue professional development
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE FROM NATIONAL UNIVERSITY
What is Software Engineering?
Software Engineering is a multi-disciplinary field that borrows from principles and, concepts, tools, and techniques from engineering, computer science, and management. Software Engineers develop and apply mathematics-based engineering models to design, test, improve, and develop, software systems and applications that meet the specification of their clients and employers. With such a convergence of a wide range of sciences and disciplines, coupled with the importance of software engineering in every area of society and commerce, software engineers work closely with other engineers, programmers, analysts, managers, and other professionals.
What are the main differences between Software Engineering and Software Development?
It might be said, and this seems to be a common opinion, that the main difference between a software engineer and a software developer is the name. Often enough on the front end of education and the back end of job description and responsibilities, both titles will fit the resume. While the distance between an engineer and a developer may be more like the difference between a leopard and a panther, than, a leopard and a lion, engineers and developers tend to approach software questions and problems a bit differently.
Often the engineer is focused upon the application of scientific and mathematical knowledge and principles to find answers to software engineering and development questions. Developers seem to approach the same questions with an approach that is a bit more loosely tethered to questions of method. In sum, it seems that being a developer or being an engineer is more a question of approach and emphasis. It seems clear that the education of software engineers and software developers is the same. And, many professionals wear both hats, depending upon the job at hand.
What level of education do I need to become a Software Engineer?
Software engineers usually have a bachelor’s degree in software engineering or a closely related field such as software development or computer science. Often software engineers will have a strong coding and mathematics background, along with personal and educational experience in software engineering (such as internships) before graduating with a bachelor’s degree. Although holding a bachelor’s degree is not an absolute necessity for working in the field, it is highly recommended and makes finding a job easier. This is because software engineering and development is so diversified and complex that an adequate self-education is very unlikely. Another reason for earning a bachelor’s degree is that one’s credentials are much more recognizable.