Pursing a degree in Software Engineering is a very smart choice if you’d like a stable job that pays well.
However, this is not an easy journey – it requires a lot of dedication.
Luckily, there are many educational facilities that offer online education, making it very suitable for individuals who have to balance work and education.
Moreover, distance learning formats are usually less expensive, which is an added benefit for everyone who doesn’t want to spend a lot of money on quality education.
These are the top thirty universities that offer online degree options in the field of software engineering:
Bellevue University
Bellevue University is a well-known name in the online education industry.
It offers some of the best online degree programs in the country, and it’s been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
They also have a notable online degree program in the field of Software development that aims to prepare students for a prosperous career in the IT industry.
What’s great about this program is that it was designed with the help of leading industry professionals and employers, so students are guaranteed to receive a well-rounded education and gain sought-after skills.
The course has 127 credit hours, and it teaches students how to create, build, and maintain enterprise software.
- Students will learn about the following:
- Relational Database Process Management
- Software Programming and Designing
- Computer Application and Software Upgrading
- Computer Application and Software Maintenance
Students will also have to take the following core courses:
- Business System Programming
- Information Technology Project Management
- Business Telecommunications
- Intermediate Java Programming
- Structured System Analysis and Design
The school’s Information Technology Project Management class is designed with CompTIA Project + certification in mind.
Official WebsiteLiberty University
Liberty University is situated in Virginia, and it has a stellar online degree program in the field of Information Technology that’s been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
By attending this program, students will get an opportunity to learn about the ever-evolving world of IT and gain the skills needed to handle various situations in the real-world.
The course has 120 credit hours, and it consists of core programs and different specializations.
Students will be able to choose between the following:
- Gaming Design
- Application and Database Development
- Web and Mobile Programming
- Data Networking and Security
All the specializations listed above consist of thorough training and offer well-rounded lessons for aspiring IT professionals.
This university has state-of-the-art equipment, teaches the latest techniques, and follows all the latest industry standards.
Besides the core courses and specializations, students will have to take mandatory 12 credit hours in the Old & New Testament and Christian Life & Biblical Worldview, as they are a religious educational facility.
Official WebsiteUniversity of Maryland - University College
University of Maryland – University College has been accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
This is an outstanding academic institution that offers a reputable online degree program in the field of Software Development and Security.
Students will get an opportunity to improve and gain new skills by operating different programming languages and databases following the latest government and industry standards.
This degree option has 120 credit hours, and it aims to give students all the necessary tools to thrive in the IT industry.
The curriculum has a strong focus on crucial aspects of software security, such as evaluating and resolving potential threats and vulnerabilities in network systems.
Students will have to take the following core courses:
- Database Security
- Building Secure Web Applications
- Software Security Testing
- Detecting Software Vulnerabilities
- Relational Database Concepts and Applications
Saint Leo University
Saint Leo University offers a stellar online degree program in Computer science and has been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
By attending this degree program, students will gain a unique insight into this rapidly-growing industry and will be ready to take on real-world challenges.
Students will learn about the following:
- Design
- Software Development
- Software Maintenance
- Support of software
- Hardware Support
- System integration services
- Multimedia
This school takes pride in following all the latest industry standards and having modern, up-to-date tools and equipment.
These are some of the core courses students will have to take:
- Network Defense and Security
- Computer Systems
- Computer Forensics
- Programming Logic and Design
- Database Concepts and Programming
This university is very student-oriented, and it offers various professional development opportunities such as internships and job placement assistance.
Official WebsiteSouthern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University is a renowned name in the online education industry.
This school has been accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, and it offers a great online degree program in Computer Science – Software Engineering.
Students will enhance their problem-solving skills by using different engineering processes, techniques, and methods.
This degree program has a strong focus on teaching students all the necessary practical skills to succeed in this rapidly-evolving industry.
Students will learn about the following program languages and applications:
- Python
- Java
- C++
- NetBeans
- OpenGL
- Eclipse
- Linux
- Max
- Windows
- Android
- iOS
Students will also be able to obtain math credits through the school’s Pathway to Math Success Program.
- These are some of the core courses:
- Foundation in Application Development
- Computer Science’s Role in Industry
- Principles of Physics
- Computer Platform Technologies
Brandman University
Brandman University has a popular online degree option in the field of Business Administration – Information Systems Management that helps students obtain the necessary skills and knowledge to maintain companies’ computer systems, networks, and processes.
They will use their knowledge of technology to manage websites, networks, computer systems, and utilize the latest technological developments.
Students will gain both practical and theoretical knowledge, making them fully ready to become a part of the workforce.
Prospective graduates will learn about the following:
- Principles and theories of computer systems and programming7
- Data communications
- Quality assurance
- Network implementation
- Security
- Project management
The course has 120 credit hours, and it is comprised of the following core subjects:
- General Education Requirements
- Program-specific Requirements
- Introduction to Computers and Data Processing
- Principles of Management
- Database Management
- Project Management for Information Systems
- Network Implementation
This university has been accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.
Official WebsitePennsylvania State University - Penn State World Campus
Pennsylvania State University has one of the best online degree programs in the field of Software Engineering.
This degree option has 126 credit hours, and the degree is offered in unison with the Penn State Behrend School of Engineering.
It has been accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
Pennsylvania State University has also received accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
By attending this degree program, students will become capable analysts, software engineers, project managers, and software testing professionals.
They will also receive a solid foundation in this area od expertise, which is necessary to succeed in this industry.
This course combines the basic engineering principles with software designing, computing skills, and project management, which will prepare students for the future in this business.
These are some of the core courses students will have to take:
- Operating Systems
- Digital Design Theory
- Digital Design Practice
- Database Management Systems
- Programming Language Concepts
- Data Structures and Algorithms
Park University
Park University has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and it offers a notable online degree program in Information and Computer Science.
By choosing this degree program, students will get an opportunity to gain extensive knowledge needed to seek valuable opportunities and seek lucrative employment.
This school offers five different specializations, including:
- Cybersecurity and Data Management
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Networking and Security
- Software Development
Students must complete 21 credit hours of core classes and 40 credit hours of general education courses to obtain a diploma.
They will have the opportunity to take the following majors:
- Programming Concepts
- Computer Network Security
- Data Structures
- Programming Fundamentals
- Computer Operating Systems
Park University actively encourages its students to further develop their skills by seeking internships.
Official WebsiteWestern Governors University
Western Governors University is situated in Salt Lake City, Utah, and has been accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
They offer an accessible online degree program in the field of Software Development, which has two main concentrations to choose from:
- C#
- Java
Upon completion, students will become highly-skilled software developers who will have sought-after skills and knowledge.
The curriculum is regularly updated to follow the latest industry standards, and the faculty is in constant contact with industry experts to make sure that their course is modern and fulfills all the requirements of this rapidly-evolving industry.
Students will learn about the following:
- Services and systems
- Programming and scripting
- IT Business
- Networking and security and data management
These are the mandatory core classes:
- Web Development Foundations
- Network and Security- Foundations
- IT Foundations
- The business of IT – Project Management
- Integrated Physical Sciences
The coursework includes the following certifications without any additional costs:
- CompTIA A+
- CIW Site Development Associate
- CIW Advanced HTML5
- CSS Specialist
- CompTIA Project+
- CIW User Interface Designer
National University
The National University has been accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities, and it has a fantastic online degree program in the field of Computer Science, which has also received accreditation from ABET.
Students will receive strong technical foundations that will prepare them for a successful career in this rapidly-evolving industry.
The course has 180 credit hours, and it follows a very unique, demanding model that is guaranteed to yield outstanding results.
These are some of the major classes students will have to take:
- Discrete Structures and Logic
- Digital Logic Design
- Database Design
- Computer Communications Network
- Computer Architecture
The National University also offers a fast-tracked option where students will obtain a diploma faster.
Official WebsiteArizona State University
Arizona State University offers a notable degree option in the field of software engineering that’s been accreddited by the Higher Learning Commission.
This degree program has 120 credit hours and it operates via the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.
Students praise the school’s flexible program that is a mix of theory, engineering, software construction, and many other important aspects.
Not only will students receive relevant software engineering knowledge, but they will also gain important skills in leadership, teamwork, and critical thinking.
These are some of the courses:
- Principles of Programming
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Design and Analysis of Data Structures and Algorithms
- Operating Systems and Networks
- Applied Linear Algebra
Upon completion, prospective software engineering professionals will be able to work in administration, app development, software development, as well as data and network security.
In order to graduate, students have to fulfill dedicated capstone requirements.
Official WebsiteDavenport University
Davenport University is situated in Michigan, and it offers a great 120-credit-hour bachelor’s degree program in computer science.
This university has received accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission, while the degree program itself has been accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
Their computer science program offers the following specializations:
- Computer Architecture and Algorithms
- Artificial Intelligence
- Gaming and Simulation
By attending this course, students will get an opportunity to learn about emerging technologies and use that knowledge to become successful computer science specialists.
The program can be completed in up to four years, and it includes the following core courses:
- Concepts of Programming Language
- Database Design
- Computer Vision
- Data Communications and Network
- Security Foundations
The tuition costs are different for in-state students who have to pay $495 per credit hour, while out-of-state students have to pay $741.
Official WebsiteBrigham Young University - Idaho
Brigham Young University – Idaho has been accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, and it offers an online degree program in Software engineering that has 120 credit hours.
By attending this course, students will get an opportunity to learn by following the latest industry standards on the design and application of computer programming and processes.
This university has a unique learning model that has a strong focus on providing a stable online learning environment for its students.
Students also love the fact that they have frequent interaction with their teachers, which allows for better and more accessible learning.
These are some of the courses students will be able to attend:
- Data Structures
- Introduction to Software Development
- Fundamentals of Digital Systems
- Object-Oriented Software Development
To graduate, students will have to complete a capstone project, as well as an internship, which will just further their knowledge and experience in this area of expertise.
Official WebsiteUniversity of Wisconsin - Stout
The University of Wisconsin – Stout has a popular online degree program in the field of science information and communication technologies.
This educational facility has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Students will have a lot of flexibility with the program, allowing them to tailor the classes to their own needs.
Namely, they will be able to take part-time classes and adjust their schedules, making it perfect for individuals who have to balance work and education.
These are the major courses that are included in the program:
- Introduction to Information and Communications Technology
- Project Management
- Systems Analysis and Design
- International Business
- Basic Data Concepts
This online degree program has 120 credit hours.
Official WebsiteDePaul University
DePaul University has yet another outstanding online degree program in the field of computer science and software development.
This academic institution has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Upon completion, students will be fully ready to apply obtained skills and knowledge with ease and eventually become seasoned industry professionals.
The course has 198 credit hours, which includes liberal studies courses that are combined with major classes, elective classes, and general education.
One thing to note is that students won’t have the ability to opt for a double-major in math and computer science, information technology, and game programming.
These are some of the core courses students will be able to take:
- Design and Analysis of Algorithms
- Data Structures I and II
- Database Systems
- Object-Oriented Software Development
- Agile Software Development
Another great thing about DePaul University is the fact that students will get an opportunity to collaborate on projects that are relevant to the course, thanks to the school’s Computer Science Society.
Besides the Computer Science Society, this university also has a Studio X center that supports various research projects.
Official WebsiteColorado Christian University
Colorado Christian University has an excellent online degree option in the field of Computer Information Technology, and it has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Here, students will gain relevant technical skills and learn about the Information Technology business in general.
Colorado Christian University offers four different specializations that will aid in obtaining the necessary knowledge to excel in the IT industry.
These specializations include:
- System Analyst
- Database Management
- Networking
- Data Engineering
This university will also teach students about the importance of Christian values, besides the obvious technical courses.
Namely, all students are required to take nine credit hours of Biblical Studies in combination with general education, elective courses, and other requirements.
The whole degree program has 120 credit hours, and these are the core courses that students will have an opportunity to learn about:
- Marketing Fundamentals
- Financial Accounting Fundamentals
- College Algebra
- Organizational Behavior
Hodges University
Hodges University is situated in Florida, and it has a great online bachelor’s degree program in Software Development.
This degree course is offered through the Fisher School of Technology, and the university has also been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Students will get an opportunity to obtain relevant knowledge in the field of computer information systems, programming, software design, software development, and system maintenance.
This degree program has 120 credit hours, and it combines the crucial theoretical knowledge with practical skills, which is the perfect recipe to succeed in this rapidly-evolving business.
The coursework has two main focuses.
The first focal point is general education – writing, social sciences, and math, while the second part includes software development, business processes, and information systems.
These are some of the core courses students will have to take:
- Mobile Applications Development
- Advanced Computer Applications
- Software Engineering
- Advanced Database Management
- Internet Application Programming and Databases
Oregon State University
Oregon State University offers a bachelor’s degree program in the field of Computer Science, and it has been accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
This course is perfect for students who’d like to earn an extra bachelor’s degree because it’s a post-baccalaureate program.
Having prior experience in computer science is not necessary, so this program is perfect for both novices and advanced students.
The program is challenging, and it consists of 60 quarter credit hours needed to obtain a diploma.
Prospective students will get an opportunity to finish this course somewhat quickly because the curriculum only focuses on computer science courses.
This school is also known for its flexible coursework, allowing students to choose the number of courses per term to suit their own needs.
These are some of the topics this degree program covers:
- Software engineering
- Programming fundamentals
- Computer systems and networking
- Mobile and web development
- Database management
Upper Iowa University
Upper Iowa University has a great online degree program in Software Engineering, and it’s been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
This degree option has 120 credit hours, 80 of which are mandatory credits in relation to software design, development, maintenance, and operation.
By attending this program, students will learn how to accurately assess the customer’s needs and design and implement various software solutions for individual clients, companies, or organizations.
The program has a strong focus on visualization, informatics, and graphics.
The major courses include the following:
- Operating Systems
- Big Data Processing
- Foundations of Information Systems
- Informatics and Knowledge Engineering
- Game Development and Programming
To obtain a diploma, students will have to submit a capstone project which aims to show off students’ knowledge and expertise acquired by attending this course.
Official WebsiteOld Dominion University
Old Dominion University is located in Virginia, and it’s a great option for students who’d like to obtain a diploma in Computer Science.
This university has been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The goal of this degree program is to teach students about the many aspects that are a part of the software engineering industry.
Students will learn about different engineering concepts, experimental methodologies, and techniques.
What’s great about this university is the fact that is has a strong focus on preparing students to be successful computer science specialists in the real world.
This is a perfect program for individuals who prefer hands-on learning and practical experiments.
The coursework has mandatory 120 credit hours, and it includes the following core courses:
- Software Engineering
- Object-Oriented Programming and Design
- Computational Methods & Software
- Introduction to Discrete Structures
- Professional Workforce Development I and II
Champlain College
Champlain College is located in Vermont, and it has a long tradition of producing amazing industry professionals thanks to their extensive courses and degree options.
Among the most notable is their Software Development degree, which is perfect for individuals who’d like to obtain relevant technical skills through specialized learning.
Champlain College has been accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
By attending this course, students will learn about the following:
- Programming languages
- Mobile application development
- Cybersecurity
- Business
- System analysis
- Interpersonal skills
The coursework has a strong focus on experiential learning through hands-on teaching.
Students will become fully equipped to use cloud-based platforms for development, design, deployment, testing, and maintaining apps for mobile and web-based devices.
This is a perfect option for students who prefer the accelerated learning format since they will be able to obtain a diploma very quickly.
These are the core courses students will have to take:
- Enterprise Database Management
- Foundations of Cybersecurity
- Networking Fundamentals
- Linux/Unix Programming
- Cloud Computing Security
Granite State College
Granite State College is a great educational institution that has received accreditation by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
This school offers a comprehensive online degree option in the field of Information Technology that will teach students how to operate and analyze various software tools and network systems, as well as programming.
Granite University accepts transfer credits, making it even more accessible for students who’d like to accelerate their educational journey.
Not only will students learn about the technical aspects of the IT industry, but they will also learn about the business side of this field.
These are some of the core courses students will have to take:
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Advanced Software Tools
- Database Management Systems
- Visual Programming I and II
- Systems Analysis and Design
To obtain a diploma, prospective graduates will have to complete 120 credit hours and prove their expertise in software engineering, network systems, databases, applications, and programming languages.
Official WebsiteMercy College
Mercy College is situated in Dobbs Ferry, New York, and it has been accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
This college has a stellar online degree program in the field of Computer Information Systems which aims to prepare students for working in the following professions:
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Security
- Information Assurance
By obtaining this diploma, students will be fully ready to develop, implement, and design various system solutions by using sophisticated techniques.
Mercy College’s Computer Information course has 120 credit hours, 60 of which are reserved for general education classes.
These are some of the major courses students will get a chance to attend:
- Operating Systems
- Computer Network II
- Information Systems Development
- Database Management System
- Website Administration
St. Cloud State University
St. Cloud State University is another fantastic educational institution that has an online degree program in the field of Software Engineering.
This university has a very flexible curriculum, making it perfect for individuals who are employed and don’t have enough time for full-time studies.
Also, St. Cloud State University has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
When it comes to requirements, students have to complete projects that will help them with improving their communication skills, critical thinking and teach them about the industry.
By attending this course, students will get an opportunity to learn about project management, software development, and engineering principles.
Another amazing thing about this course is the fact that the curriculum had been developed alongside successful industry professionals in order to ensure maximum quality and to meet all the latest industry standards.
These are some of the core courses that students will get an opportunity to take:
- Operating Systems and Applications
- Introduction to Operating Systems
- Database Theory and Design
- Ethics and the Engineering Profession
- Introduction to Computer Networking
University of Maine at Augusta
The University of Maine – Augusta has an online degree program in Computer Information Systems, and it has been accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
This course has a strong focus on hands-on, experiential learning, and it allows students to garner knowledge in the field of hardware and operating systems, networking, security, web design, systems analysis, app development, and databases.
The university offers more than twenty course-related electives that have been carefully crafted to prepare students for a lucrative future in this industry.
These are some of the required core courses:
- Web Applications
- Computers and Cultures
- Introduction to Computer Science
- Networking Concepts
- Programming Fundamentals
- Systems Analysis
The university also collaborated with local businesses, as well as Project>Login, which helps students in obtaining internships, information, and prospective job opportunities.
Official WebsiteRogers State University
Rogers State University has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and it has a great Bachelor’s degree program in Business Information Technology.
The goal of this course is to carefully prepare students for various business opportunities in the IT industry and meet the ever-growing demand for seasoned IT professionals.
This online degree program offers three main specializations, including:
- Computer Network Administration
- Software Development and Multimedia
- Game Development
The Software Development and Multimedia specialization teach students object-oriented programming, web development, software engineering, and emerging technologies.
These are the core requirements and other courses:
- Computer Architecture
- Data Modeling
- Network Operating Systems I
- Human-Computer Interface Development
- Systems Analysis
- Application Development
- Advanced Web System Development
- Data Structures
- Software Engineering
Middle Georgia State University
Middle Georgia State University is a well-known game in the online education industry, and it has been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
They offer a comprehensive online degree program in Information Technology, which has also obtained accreditation by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
This degree option offers seven main specializations, including:
- Critical Infrastructure Management
- Cyber Forensics
- Cyber Security
- Integrated Digital Media and Gaming Design
- Network Technology and Administration
- Web Application Development
- Software Engineering
In order to graduate, students must complete 120 credit hours, 42 of which are dedicated to general education courses.
General Education courses include:
- English
- Humanities
- Mathematics
- Science and Technology
- Social Science
On the other hand, these are the major courses:
- Database Principles
- Project Management
- Information Security
- Systems Analysis and Design
Moreover, students will have to complete 30 credit hours of coursework in the field of Data Communications, Software Testing, and Quality Assurance, and Robot Programming.
Official WebsiteThe College of St. Scholastica
The College of St. Scholastica is situated in Duluth, Minnesota, and it has a well-rounded Bachelor of Arts online degree program in the field of Computer Information Systems.
This school has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and it provides students will all the necessary tools to succeed in this rapidly-evolving industry.
The Computer Information Systems degree option has four different concentrations, including:
- Software Development
- Business Analysis
- Health Informatics
- Cybersecurity
Students are required to complete 128 credit hours which can be adjusted to individual students’ needs, making it very convenient for individuals who have to balance work with education
Students will also be able to obtain a diploma in up to three years, or less, depending on the study model of their choice.
These are the main courses offered at the College of St. Scholastica:
- Systems Development Internship
- Capstone Project
- Project Management
Washington State University
Washington State University offers a great online degree program in the field of Software Engineering, and it has been accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
The goal of this course is to adequately prepare students for a successful career in the IT industry.
Upon completion, students will be ready to apply the knowledge they received, and they will be able to create and maintain complex computer applications and software.
These are some of the courses students will get an opportunity to take:
- Design and Architecture
- Software Engineering Principles
- Construction and System Support
- Web Application Development
- Mobile Application Development
- Software Requirements
Students can graduate in approximately two and a half years.
Official WebsiteFort Hays State University
Forth Hays State University has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and it offers an online degree program in the field of Information Networking and Telecommunications.
This degree option has a primary concentration in Web and Mobile App Development, which will help students with obtaining relevant knowledge in designing, coding, and animation for mobile devices.
Among other things, they will also learn about the following:
- Workflow
- Web-Based Database Development
- E-Commerce
By attending this course, students will learn about the most important aspects of this industry, which will be of great help when seeking job opportunities.
This university prepares students for the Oracle Certified Associate and Certified Web Designer Apprentice certification.
Students will have to complete 124 credit hours to graduate, almost half of which is dedicated to general education courses.
Official WebsiteFrequently Asked Questions
Q. Which accreditation bodies are relevant when it comes to choosing a suitable degree program in software engineering?
First and foremost, students have to create an education plan before embarking on the journey of obtaining a diploma.
Even though there is an abundance of educational facilities that offer this type of degree, it is essential to check whether those institutions have received accreditations.
Attending an accredited program is crucial because accreditations ensure that the university in question has met all the quality standards in delivering the highest quality education.
Also, the federal government doesn’t offer financial aid to students who attend non-accredited universities and colleges.
Attending an accredited program is also of significant value when it comes to seeking job opportunities.
Employers always prefer diplomas from academic institutions that we’re able to obtain accreditation.
Accreditation is separated into two main categories – school accreditation and program accreditation.
School accreditations are usually facilitated by the Higher Learning Commission or CHEA.
If a school has obtained accreditation from CHEA, that means that the school’s values are aligned with the academic standards that CHEA has set in place.
These are the six central accrediting bodies:
Higher Learning Commission
Higher Learning Commission is responsible for academic institutions in Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, West Virginia, Wyoming, Oklahoma, Ohio or other sovereign nations.
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Middle States Commission on Higher Education is an accrediting body that has one or more post-secondary educational degree options, including programs that follow an online education model. It is responsible for educational institutions in New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, District of Columbia, New York, the Virgin Islands, and Pennsylvania.
New England Commission of Higher Education
New England Commission of Higher Education is an accrediting body that is responsible for educational institutions that offer bachelor’s, masters, and doctoral degrees. These educational facilities have to have a minimum of one program in liberal studies and have to be located in either Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Vermont, or Maine.
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities is an accrediting body that is responsible for universities situated in Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Washington, and Nevada. It is also responsible for many online degree options.
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges is in charge of academic institutions in Alabama, Florida, Latin America, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, Kentucky, South Carolina, Louisiana, and Virginia.
WASC Senior College and University Commission
WASC Senior College and University Commission is responsible for giving accreditations to schools and universities in Hawaii, California, and the rest of the Pacific Basin. It can also give accreditations to universities from outside the US.
Besides school accreditations, there are also program-specific accreditations that prove the quality and credibility of a particular online degree option.
This includes the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology and the Computing Accreditation Commission, which is an organization within ABET.
Q. Which topics will I learn about in an online degree program in software engineering?
Although the subjects may vary depending on the chosen university, these are the most common topics that provide students with a strong foundation in software engineering:
- Programming
- Database Fundamentals
- Networking Systems
- Mathematics
- Data Storage
- Software Applications
- Project Management
Most of the programs aim to train students to work on complex projects effectively and efficiently.
When it comes to specializations, the most promising one is Artificial Intelligence.
Today, many corporations and governments use artificial intelligence to operate complex processes, so this can be a very lucrative career.
Most of the degree options from the list require capstone projects or internships before graduation.
The goal of these requirements is to test the student’s skills and knowledge through specialized programs and practical work.
It is essential to do proper research before selecting an educational institution to make sure that it is aligned with your personal and professional goals and aspirations.
These are the most common subjects:
Computer Programming
Computer programming teaches students about different computing principles, programming languages, and theories.
Students will learn about data types, variables, activation records, function calls, and other relevant terminologies.
This course aims to develop the student’s ability to write and execute complex code fragments in different programming languages.
Data Structures
Data Structures aims to teach students about data organization, data storage, and data management, as well as various techniques, strategies, and methodologies needed to use and configure them.
Students will get an opportunity to perform practical exercises by running programs and testing code fragments.
Among others, students will learn about the following topics:
- Stacks
- Queues
- Linked Allocation
- Binary Trees
- Searching
- Sorting
Database Management Systems
Database Management System courses are designed to teach students how to resolve different system issues by using their database design and development skills.
Some of the strategies they will learn about include commercial query languages, scripting, database tables, etc.
Software Specification and Design
Software Specification and Design goes deeper into covering different strategies and techniques used to create requirement specifications for apps.
This is a component that has to be included to help with highlighting critical elements of the programs.
That is crucial when it comes to preventing project failures, as well as the software design process itself.
Students will also learn prototyping and user interview methodologies.
Systems Architecture
Systems Architecture defined the relationship between computer systems and their main components.
This is an essential course because it teaches students about the interaction between different system structures in every computing system.
These are the common topics covered in this class:
- Machine language
- Central processor organization
- Assembly language
- Input-output architectures
- Instructional sets
Software Project Management
Lastly, Software Project Management aims to show students how to be prepared and ready to manage teams and create a thriving working environment.
Students will learn about important project management principles that will help them with planning, managing, and organizing complex projects.
Q. Which careers can I pursue with a bachelor's degree in software engineering?
Individuals who decide to pursue careers in software engineering will have an opportunity to work in a wide variety of professional settings.
They will be ready to design and develop different computer apps, develop websites, and maintain computer networks and systems, which is something that is needed in every single organization or business.
Nowadays, all organizations have to have sophisticated software, hence the need for developers is at its highest.
By working as a software engineer, individuals will be responsible for deploying, maintaining, troubleshooting, designing, testing, and implementing sophisticated software and applications.
Many of the job opportunities listed below are very lucrative and will enable individuals to advance quickly in their careers.
Computer Network Architects are in charge of designing and developing communications systems. That includes software upgrading and maintenance, as well as information security.
They will work with large network systems, intranets, and local area networks within a business or an organization.
Computer Programmers are in charge of helping developers with implementation and development.
They have a crucial role in creating algorithms and codes for various designs and prototypes.
Computer Systems Analysts are responsible for evaluating computer systems and processes, as well as the development of new procedures.
The goal of this job is to improve a company’s operational efficiency.
Computer and Information Research Scientists will work on solving different complex computing issues every organization faces from time to time.
They will invent appropriate strategies and tools that will make the whole organization run more smoothly.
Computer and Information Systems Managers are in charge of managing computer systems and computer infrastructures.
They make decisions about hardware and software and maintain current systems, networks, and operations.
Information Security Analysts are in charge of evaluating and implementing different security measures within a company’s systems.
They have to make sure that the whole infrastructure is maintained and well-secured, to prevent and solve cyber-attacks.
Software Developers will design and implement different applications based on the company’s needs.
They are in charge of writing code, maintaining software, and testing.
They also build, implement, and maintain programs and operating systems within an organization.
If you’re someone who’d like to obtain credentials besides the bachelor’s degree, here’s what you can choose from:
AWS Certified Developer – AWS Certified Developer proves an engineer’s ability to create and implement apps on the Amazon Web Services Platform.
All applicants must have at least one year of professional experience working with different Amazon Web Services Applications.
They also must know at least one high-level programming language.
Microsoft Certified Professional – Having a Microsoft Certified Professional certification proves an engineer’s expertise and knowledge in different Microsoft products.
If they pass the initial Microsoft Certified Professional exam, they will be able to earn valuable advanced credentials afterward.
Professional Software Engineering Master Certification – Professional Software Engineering Master Certification is provided by the IEEE Computer Society.
This credential is aimed towards entry-level software engineers who need to pass two online exams in order to get certified.
Final Thoughts
Working as a software engineer is highly beneficial, and it’s almost guaranteed to yield outstanding results.
There are so many different job opportunities because, nowadays, every organization needs someone to manage the IT aspects of their business.
Also, having a bachelor’s degree in software engineering is great for career advancement, because it opens even more opportunities with obtaining additional credentials such as Amazon and Microsoft certifications.
It does require a lot of effort and dedication, though – learning how to write and execute programs is a tedious task.
However, your hard work is bound to pay off in the long run.