Today’s Best Software Engineering Master’s Degree Online

A crucial part of being a software engineer is ensuring you’ve produced a high-quality product that runs effectively and efficiently. In this class, you’ll gain comprehensive knowledge and skills in software testing methodologies. You’ll learn how to plan and implement requirements-based and code-based software testing. You’ll also cover validation and verification techniques and tools, creating functional test cases, and performing data flow analysis.

Many software engineering master’s degree online programs include at least one course in project management. These courses cover the process of creating, constructing, and analyzing project plans for developing various types of software products. You’ll learn about project management methodologies and techniques, the process of software development, and how to plan for all stages of the process. You’ll also learn skills for handling essential aspects of software development, like risk management, quality management, and cost control.

In this course, you’ll learn more about designing and creating effective software. Classes cover best practices in the requirements, analysis, and design of large software systems. You’ll also learn about different architecture design styles and how to apply them to the software you create. Coursework also covers the documentation and evaluation of software architecture and comparing different design methods. Usually, you will be assigned case studies and projects to gain practical experience.

Many schools, including the University of Texas Austin, offer a specialization in artificial intelligence. Specialized coursework in this area covers what you’ll need to become a leader in AI development and innovation in various industries. You’ll dive deep into AI algorithms, uses, and ethical concerns, placing you at the forefront of this developing field. Artificial intelligence specialists often work in medicine, finance, and project management.

The best cybersecurity programs combine the foundations of computer engineering principles with additional skills to keep data secure. In this specialization, you’ll learn how to protect computer systems, networks, programs, and data from attacks, unauthorized access, breaches, and theft. You’ll also learn about the latest methods and technology for protecting digital information from hackers and cybercriminals. Brandeis University offers an online master of software engineering with a focus on cybersecurity, which is a blend of computer engineering principles with additional classes to specialize in cybersecurity.

Machine learning programs hone in on certain aspects of artificial intelligence, like the advanced algorithms and computational methods that drive AI and machine learning technology. With a machine learning focus, you can expect to learn about neural networks, natural language processing, computer vision, deep learning, and robotics. In addition to the technology and programming required for the field, you’ll explore ethical issues and societal impacts of these technologies. George Washington University is one school offering a focus on machine learning.

Architectural and engineering managers are responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating activities or research and development in their respective fields. They fulfill senior-level roles within their organization, overseeing the coordination and implementation of project activities. They might review and approve project designs, consult with clients, prepare budgets, or present proposals. This is an ideal career for those with an advanced degree, as the majority of employers prefer candidates with a master’s.

Architectural and Engineering Managers: Career Outlook

Source: O*Net OnLine, 2023

Software developers make up a large share of the growing job market for graduates of online software engineering master’s programs. They’re responsible for researching, designing, and developing computer and network software and specialized programs. They need strong analysis, coding, and problem-solving skills. Software developers may also work alongside computer hardware engineers to integrate hardware and software systems and develop performance requirements. Additionally, software developers often maintain data systems individually or as part of a team.

Software Developers: Career Outlook

Source: O*Net OnLine, 2023

Aerospace engineers are responsible for designing, constructing, and testing aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft. In this position, engineers may conduct research or recommend improvements to equipment testing and techniques. Those with a software engineering master’s degree may formulate mathematical or computer analysis models that help develop, evaluate, or modify designs. They might also be responsible for resolving technical problems with aircraft or aerospace vehicles. Aerospace engineers typically work with significant aerospace manufacturing companies or the government.

Aerospace Engineers: Career Outlook

Source: O*Net OnLine, 2023

Computer systems analysts are top-notch problem solvers who analyze business, engineering, and science data processing problems and devise creative and effective solutions. Some of these problems might be complex application problems, system administration obstacles, or network concerns. Computer systems analysts work to improve and evaluate computer systems and their capabilities and troubleshoot any problems that may arise. They might also use their skills to analyze and solve business problems related to production, inventory, and cost analysis.

Computer Systems Analysts: Career Outlook

Source: O*Net OnLine, 2023

Software quality assurance analysts and testers design and implement software tests to ensure software is working properly and identify problems with the software. They also evaluate software usability and functionality, identifying potential user problems. Software quality assurance analysts and testers create test plans, scenarios, and standard operating procedures for performing the test. They evaluate the results and document issues and may provide feedback or recommend solutions to software or web developers.

Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers: Career Outlook

Source: O*Net OnLine, 2023

Getting into grad school for software engineering may look different at each school. It also often depends on whether the student has a strong background in software engineering before applying to a master’s program. Always check with the individual school to verify that you qualify for the individual program and fulfill any prerequisite requirements. In general, you’ll need to provide the following:

• Proof of an ABET-accredited bachelor’s degree in software engineering or a related field or equivalent professional experience.
• Prerequisite coursework in calculus, statistics, computer architecture, and operating systems.
• Strong math and coding skills.
• Official academic transcripts.
• GRE scores.
• Letters of recommendation.
• Personal statement.
• Completed application and associated fees.

Most programs take two to four years to complete. A full-time course load will get you to graduation day quicker, while part-time study means you’ll be in school longer. Additionally, students without previous education or experience in software engineering can expect to spend extra time earning a degree. That’s because they’ll need to fulfill math and computer engineering prerequisites before diving into core program coursework. In total, expect to earn 30-48 credits to graduate with your online masters in software engineering.

Earning your master’s in software engineering online has many advantages. Overall, earning an online degree is more cost-effective than attending school in person. Plus, you can consider outstanding schools you might not have been able to travel to for on-campus study. For future software engineers, earning a degree online also gives you the advantage of gaining experience working with remote teams, which is common for many jobs in the field.

Coding is a core competency that software engineers use daily and a requirement for enrolling in a software engineering master’s program. If you’re not already able to write code, you’ll need to learn through official courses or on-the-job learning. Some common computer coding languages that software engineers might need to know are C#, C++, Javascript, and Python.

This varies by school and program. Programs for students without a bachelor’s in the field, like the one offered by West Virginia University, admit professionals from other fields as long as they complete prerequisite courses. Other programs will accept proof of work experience as sufficient background in the field. Regardless of admission requirements, all software engineering master’s programs will expect you to have a working knowledge of advanced math and code, so be prepared to take additional courses in those areas as needed.