OVERVIEW
What Is a Software Engineer?
Ìý
Software engineers stimulate technologicalÌýÌýand create scalable software solutions. The application of computerÌýscienceÌý and engineering principles toÌýthe design, development, andÌýmaintenance of reliable, efficient andÌýuser-friendly software. ​They may ensure applications and programs are running smoothly and effectively while also driving digital improvements. They create, test, and maintain networking control systems, computer programs, and business-wideÌý.Ìý
In 2019, there wereÌýÌýsoftware engineer jobs, and demand is expected to continue increasing. Software engineer roles are highly valued and generally well-paying; aÌýlucrative career optionÌýfor those who enjoy solving problems and using technology to drive innovation.
RESPONSIBILITIES
What Does a Software Engineer Do?
With a blend of creative and technical skills, software engineers develop and maintain computer programs, applications, and systems. From cloud engineering to app development, software engineers are adept problem-solvers with a deep level of technical expertise. Launching and collaborating on new projects, assessing system problems, and making informed suggestions are just a few of the responsibilities of aÌý.Ìý
If you enjoy the technical side of things and are comfortable working both on a team and individually, consider software engineering. Here’s what software engineers are typically responsible for:ÌýÌý
- Assess software needs.ÌýSoftware engineers must understand the needs of an organization and help provide software solutions.Ìý
- Design and build new systems.ÌýWith a focus on cybersecurity and efficiency, software engineers design and develop systems to meet organization needs. In collaboration with other engineers and developers, you’ll create, upgrade, or fix software systems.Ìý
- Lead web development.ÌýSome software engineers are focused on front-end and back-end web development. Whether upgrading a small section of the website or doing a complete website overhaul, software engineers work with other developers and designers to make adjustments and meet an organization’s goals.Ìý
- Iterate and test new systems and applications.ÌýSoftware engineers need to be able to troubleshoot, test, and debug software. Your organization counts on you to keep systems running smoothly and efficiently.ÌýÌý
- Provide documentation for future software engineers. Software engineers are sure to create and maintain accurate records and documents to pass down and sustain software maintenance among future software engineers.Ìý
- Separation of concerns:ÌýThis principle states that software should be designed in such a way that each component has a single, well-defined responsibility. This makes the software easier to understand, maintain, and extend.
- Modularity:ÌýThis principle states that software should be designed in such a way that it can be easily decomposed into smaller modules. This makes the software easier to develop, test, and debug.
- Abstraction:ÌýThis principle states that software should be designed in such a way that it hides the details of implementation and exposes only the essential information that is needed by the user. This makes the software easier to use and understand.
- Anticipation of change:ÌýThis principle states that software should be designed in such a way that it is easy to change. This is important because software requirements often change over time.
- Generality:ÌýThis principle states that software should be designed in such a way that it can be used in a variety of contexts. This makes the software more reusable and adaptable.
EDUCATION & BEST DEGREES
How Do I Become a Software Engineer?
Employers need software engineers who have a working knowledge of and experience with relevant technologies. While some software engineers are self-taught, most gain their core IT skills by pursuing an education.ÌýÌý
Step 1: Earn your bachelor’s degreeÌý
Combining technical skills and practical knowledge, earning a bachelor’s degree is an ideal first step for your software engineering career. A bachelor’s degree inÌýinformation technologyÌýor in software engineering will help you understand data structures and artificial intelligence while gaining skills in logic and computer theory.
Step 2: Boost your résumé with industry certifications
Industry certifications not only prepare you with the skills you need for the field, but they also give you extra credentials to stand out to employers. TwoÌýcommon certificationsÌýare the ITIL® Foundation Certification and CompTIA Project certifications.Ìý
Step 3: Practice coding and create your portfolio
Through an internship, full-time job, or on your own, practice coding and create your portfolio of work. One option is to build your own website to showcase your past projects and abilities. Or, list these experiences to build yourÌýrésumé and boost your career outlook.Ìý
Step 4: Consider specializing
There are many different specializations to choose from as a software engineer. For example, web developers are software engineers focused only on the web and apps. Front-endÌýÌýwork with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, while back-end developers work with programming languages like Java, Ruby, and Python. Or, you could do front and back end development as aÌý.
What Degrees are Best for a Software Engineer?
Technology
AI Engineering - B.S.
Earn your bachelor’s degree in AI engineering and learn to build the...
Earn your bachelor’s degree in AI engineering and learn to build the skills needed to design, deploy, and operate AI systems in production, combining software engineering, machine learning, and cloud infrastructure.
- Time:ÌýApproximately 4 years
- Tuition:Ìý$4200Ìýper 6-month term.
- Courses: 40 total courses in this program.
Certifications included in this program at no additional cost:
- Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Fundamentals
Skills for your résumé you will learn in this program include:
- AI deployment and Integration
- AI workflow automation
- AI security and risk management
- AI application development
- Programming (Python, C#, SQL)
Technology
Information Technology – B.S.
Award-winning coursework and value-add certifications make this online...
Award-winning coursework and value-add certifications make this online program a top choice.
- Time:Ìý61% of graduates finish within 39 months.
- Tuition:Ìý$3925 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 35 total courses in this program.
Stackable CompTIA certifications that you can earn in this program:
- IT Operations Specialist (earned with A+ and Network+)
- Cloud Administration Professional (earned with Network+ and Cloud+)
- Secure Infrastructure Specialist (earned with A+, Network+, and Security+)
- Secure Cloud Professional (earned with Security+ and Cloud+)
Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:
- Scripting and programming
- Networking and security
- Systems and services
- Data management
- Business of IT
Technology
Software Engineering – B.S.
Build the software behind the next generation of AI....
Build the software behind the next generation of AI.
- Time:Ìý60% of graduates finish similar programs withinÌý35 months.
- Tuition:Ìý$4,125 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 39 total courses in this program.
Certifications included in this program at no additional cost are:
- AWS Certified Developer – AssociateÌý
- ITIL®4 Foundation Certification
- Â鶹Դ´ Front End Developer
- Â鶹Դ´ Back End Developer
- Â鶹Դ´ Full Stack Developer
You can also accelerate your program and complete both a B.S. in Software Engineering and an M.S. in Software Engineering together, requiring less courses overall and saving you time and money.ÌýLearn more about this option.
Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:
- Scripting and programming
- Web development
- Cloud Deployment Security, Databases, Integration
- User experience design
- Software quality assurance
Technology
Applied AI Certificate
Strengthen foundational AI knowledge and learn to use AI tools effectively...
Strengthen foundational AI knowledge and learn to use AI tools effectively across roles and industries.
- Time:Ìý3 months from start to finish.
- Cost:Ìý$599 for the certificate.
- Courses:Ìý2 courses total in this program.
This certificate program is tailored for professionals in various industries who want to harness AI to enhance efficiency, generate data-driven insights, and foster innovation within their organizations. This certificate will prepare you for the next step in your career.
This certificate can helpÌýbuild fundamental skillsÌýinÌýAI prompting and data analysis. It can also help those with no technical background begin toÌýbuild vocational identityÌýfor a long-term career in their industry.
Technology
Accelerated IT Bachelor's and Master's Degree
Earn both your bachelor’s in IT and master’s in Information Technology at...
Earn both your bachelor’s in IT and master’s in Information Technology at a faster pace with fewer courses.
- Time: Approximately 5 years.
- Tuition: $4175 per 6-month term for the bachelor's degree; $4425 per term for the master's portion.
- Courses: 42-43 total courses in this program.
Stackable CompTIA certifications that you can earn in this program:
- IT Operations Specialist (earned with A+ and Network+)
- Cloud Administration Professional (earned with Network+ and Cloud+)
- Secure Infrastructure Specialist (earned with A+, Network+, and Security+)
- Secure Cloud Professional (earned with Security+ and Cloud+)
Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:
- Automation with Python
- Cloud and networking security
- IT service management
- Data and AI fluency and integration
- Agile project and product management
- Microsoft IT strategy in cloud, data, AI, and security
This program allows students to earn their bachelor's degree in IT and move directly into a master's degree in IT management, cutting down on the total number of courses to complete.
Technology
Software Engineering – M.S.
Lead the next generation of AI innovation with advanced skills in AI...
Lead the next generation of AI innovation with advanced skills in AI Engineering, DevOps, and Domain-Driven Design.
- Time:Ìý61% of graduates finish similar programs within 20 months.
- Tuition:Ìý$4,385 per 6-month term.
- Courses:Ìý10 total courses in this program.
This program features three specializations that help you focus your studies and boost your résumé with specific skills and experience. The specialization areas are AI Engineering, DevOps Engineering, and Domain Driven Design.
Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program include:
- Software design
- Architecture
- Project management
- Testing
- System integration
How Much Does a Software Engineer Make?
$124,257
According to (as of 2025), the average annual salary for a Software Engineer in the U.S. is $124,257. Salaries typically range from $103,873 to $143,111.
What Is the Projected Job Growth?
17%
According to the , employment for Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers—which includes Software Engineers—is projected to grow by approximately 17% between 2023 and 2033. This growth is much faster than average and is expected to result in around 140,100 annual job openings.
SKILLS
What Skills Does a Software Engineer Need?
Software engineers can analyze, design, andÌý. More often than not, software engineers collaborate in a team of other developers and technology specialists. Because you’ll often work across departments, it’s important to be a strong communicator.Ìý
Each role will require a different set ofÌý, such as programming languages or specific software. Here are some of the software engineering skills you’ll need:Ìý
- The skill to provide technological support and maintenance across systems.Ìý
- Strong analytical skills and an affinity for solving problems.Ìý
- The ability to collaborate across teams and functions, including project managers, designers, and data scientists.ÌýÌý
- A knowledge of agile working environments and a willingness to solve complex problems.
- A deep understanding of coding and program languages like Java, SQL, and Python.ÌýÌý
- Strong communication skills to coordinate with team members and supervisors.
- The ability to switch between tasks and prioritize deadlines.Ìý
- The ability to interpret key elements from technical specifications and documents.
Our Online University Degree Programs Start on the First of Every Month, All Year Long
No need to wait for spring or fall semester. It's back-to-school time at Â鶹Դ´ year-round. Get started by talking to an Enrollment Counselor today, and you'll be on your way to realizing your dream of a bachelor's or master's degree—sooner than you might think!
Next Start Date
{{startdate}}
Interested in Becoming a Software Engineer?
Learn more about degree programs that can prepare you for this meaningful career.
