A Master in Software Engineering offers students with strong fundamental understanding of technology, particularly computer science. The program usually spans two academic years, though some schools offer a shorter program to meet the needs of a tight scheduling budget. It covers a broad range of topics such as programming languages and design; hardware, software, networking, and even how humans can interact with digital systems. Other areas that students can specialize in include artificial intelligence, health care, and environmental science. The focus is on broadening students’ perspective on how technology affects society.
In order to get into a masters in software engineering degree program, students must first complete an associate’s degree, typically at a community college or a junior college. Afterward, they take a series of general education courses, which may include core courses in math and science. They may also participate in one or more specializations, depending on the school. At the end of the second year, they are required to take a final exam, which consists of both a written test and a visual-distance exam.
There are currently two types of master’s program in software engineering available: on-campus and online. An on-campus degree means that the student attends classes on-campus at a physical college or university. An online degree simply allows students to earn their degree from the comfort of their home.
Students have up to four years to complete their graduate program in software engineering, depending on whether they have an undergraduate degree or not. The first two years of the graduate program involve both coursework and foundation courses. All foundation courses, which cover learning about design, research, and programming, must be completed before moving forward.
Most universities that offer engineering programs in software development have an undergraduate program as well. These programs typically last two years, though many students go on to finish a fourth year, as well. Most engineering programs also include an internship, which is a combination of lecture and laboratory experience. Many students choose to continue their studies at a four-year university for their Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a technical field.
At Carnegie Mellon University, students can pursue either a Bachelors degree or a Masters degree. A Bachelors degree is usually sought after to begin a software engineering program. The program covers courses in computer science, math, physics, and chemistry, but not computer engineering. A Masters degree is usually sought by those who are looking to expand their knowledge and be able to enter higher level positions with a software development company or with a corporation. Classes at Carnegie Mellon’s School of Computer Science concentrate on areas such as human-computer interaction, information systems, numerical methods, real-world programming, software testing, and visual communications.
For individuals who wish to be involved with software development but lack a Bachelor’s degree, the fastest way to obtain one is by enrolling in a part-time program through a university that offers engineering classes. Some of these programs even require very little coursework is completed, which saves students a lot of time and money. However, many engineering degrees do require a more substantial amount of coursework completed before graduation. Students can complete this course in a number of ways. A student may elect to take general engineering courses that are not related to software engineering. They may also elect to participate in a summer internship where they will work directly with a current or past client.
After graduation, individuals can expect to be involved in a wide range of professional pursuits. Graduates can find employment in a variety of industries, including software development, data management, networks, manufacturing, finance, architecture, project management, and others. However, new software development companies also need skilled engineers on hand. The masters in software development program enables students to fulfill their ambition of fulfilling a software developer’s dream job by attending a university that offers a rigorous curriculum and specializes in this exciting career field.