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You’ve been scouring the internet for the best software engineering degrees. Let College Choice help you land the perfect program.
Software engineering is a global, rapidly growing field, and an occupation of tremendous future growth. Forget the cliché of the computer geek alone at her desk. It’s a collaborative, creative, and demanding profession.
And if you have a phobia of job-boredom, the constantly shifting world of software engineering will probably appeal to you. New languages, paradigms, ideas, algorithms—there is an almost infinite amount of stuff you can learn. And you will see the outcome of your creativity almost immediately.
Recommended Online Programs
What kind of Software Engineering Degree should you get?
All good software engineering programs are anchored in real-world problems. Keep that in mind as you wade through program info. Software engineers apply professional judgment which you can only acquire through practical experience, so your training must be hands-on, team-centered, and project focused across the curriculum.
And while taking classes in a traditional campus-based program certainly has its benefits, online programs are now an entirely respectable (and convenient) alternative. The same faculty teach online and on-campus courses, and you’ll get exactly the same degree as your campus-based counterparts. If you’re interested, check out College Choice’s ranking of the Best Online Software Engineering Degrees.
How much money do people make with a Software Engineering degree?
Software engineering experts are in demand and will likely continue to be in demand. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), software engineer has been among the nation's fastest-growing IT professions. And as the technology-focused business environment continues to expand, that growth promises to continue.
That’s good news for software engineers. Because of the ubiquitous need for talented developers of new software, software engineers can demand a pretty high salary. According to 2023 BLS data, software developers earn an annual median salary of $132,270, though of course that varies with education and experience.
What can you do with a degree in Software Engineering?
Software engineers are problem solvers who apply new technologies to improve the quality of life. They study the needs of computer users and then design and develop (and continuously modify) software that answer those needs.
From designing security software to gaming systems and educational programs—software engineering is a massive field with almost unlimited potential. No matter what your particular interest, there is probably a niche with your name on it.
What are the requirements for a degree in Software Engineering?
You might expect a background in technology to be a prerequisite for any graduate program in software engineering, but that is not necessarily the case. There are several programs on this ranking that welcome students from all backgrounds. If you don’t have the necessary knowledge, schools provide the foundational courses that will catch you up to speed.
However, all programs on this ranking require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. And some (but not all) programs require that you have good GRE scores.
What are the best Software Engineering degrees?
Considering the time and funds you’re about to invest, you need to make sure you find a program that fits your needs.
In order to come up with our ranking of the 25 Best Software Engineering Degrees, we’ve done the research and data collection for you. We collate and compare numbers on national reputation, tuition rates, student assessments, and projected early career earnings.
The extensive research we do means that the score you see on each ranking reflects both academic excellence and return on investment. Our information comes from publicly available sources like program websites, as well as The National Center for Education Statistics, Payscale.com, and U.S. News and World Report.
We use trusted sources like
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
CollegeChoice.net is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 Best Master Of Software Engineering Degrees
Florida Institute of Technology
Melbourne, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Students interested in career advancement can earn their software engineering master's degree at Florida Institute of Technology. The private institution welcomes degree-seekers with a variety of enrollment options, including online programs created with working professionals in mind. In the master of science in software engineering program, learners strengthen their software engineering knowledge and skills through a rigorous curriculum.
College resources and support services provide guidance to master's candidates throughout their degree. For example, academic advisors recommend course selections and connect students with tutoring services. Master's degree-seekers also attend networking and training events hosted by the university.
Florida Institute of Technology at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 63
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Admission Rate: 66%
Graduation Rate: 59%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $22,338
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,338
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $46,900
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$41,720
Out-of-state
$41,720
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$22,338
Out-of-state
$22,338
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
6,022
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Master Of Software Engineering Degrees
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
4 years
Online + Campus
The master's in software engineering degree at Carnegie Mellon University emphasizes career-focused skills. The private institution, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, offers a variety of enrollment options for degree-seekers, including online programs. During the master of software engineering program, learners take advanced courses in software engineering that build on their prior training.
Master's candidates benefit from the university's support services, which include academic and career services. For example, career counselors host workshops and job fairs while also recommending resume changes. Master's students can also take advantage of writing tutoring and extensive library services.
Carnegie Mellon University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 108
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Admission Rate: 15%
Graduation Rate: 90%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 5-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $45,037
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $45,037
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $84,000
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,816
Out-of-state
$55,816
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$45,037
Out-of-state
$45,037
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
15%
Students Enrolled
14,180
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
6%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#3 Best Master Of Software Engineering Degrees
Auburn University
Auburn, AL
4 years
Online + Campus
The software engineering master's degree from Auburn University helps graduates pursue advanced careers. This Auburn, Alabama-based public school serves degree candidates of all types, with online enrollment options to accommodate working professionals. The master of science in computer science and software engineering builds on undergraduate knowledge, and applicants without a software engineering background may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling.
While pursuing a master's degree, enrollees benefit from college resources and support services. For example, financial aid counselors connect students with grant and scholarship opportunities. Master's degree-seekers can also take advantage of career counseling, writing tutoring, and extensive library services.
Auburn University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 67
Total Online Master's Programs: 20
Admission Rate: 81%
Graduation Rate: 79%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,828
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,484
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $43,100
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,816
Out-of-state
$29,448
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,828
Out-of-state
$29,484
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
30,460
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
27%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Master Of Software Engineering Degrees
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, GA
4 years
Online + Campus
The software engineering master's program at Kennesaw State University appeals to students seeking career advancement. The public university, located in Kennesaw, Georgia, provides several enrollment options for degree-seekers, including online options designed for working professionals. In the master of science in software engineering program, the curriculum covers advanced topics in software engineering.
College resources and support services provide guidance to master's candidates throughout their degree. Academic advisors help with course selections, while financial aid counselors connect learners with ways to pay for their education. Master's degree-seekers also take advantage of networking and training events hosted by the university.
Kennesaw State University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 43
Total Online Master's Programs: 20
Admission Rate: 75%
Graduation Rate: 46%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 21-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,328
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,188
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,450
Out-of-state
$15,704
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,328
Out-of-state
$19,188
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
37,807
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Master Of Software Engineering Degrees
Boston University
Boston, MA
4 years
Online + Campus
Boston University offers several career-focused graduate programs, including a software engineering master's degree. From its Boston campus, the private institution enrolls degree-seekers with a variety of options, including online delivery formats. In the master of science in software development program, learners strengthen their knowledge and skills through a rigorous curriculum.
Master's candidates rely on the school's support services to make progress toward their degree. Academic advisors help with course selections, while career counselors offer workshops, job fairs, and resume reviews. The university provides students with career advising, tutoring, and library services, as well.
Boston University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 170
Total Online Master's Programs: 24
Admission Rate: 19%
Graduation Rate: 88%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 10-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $54,720
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $54,720
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $52,800
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,720
Out-of-state
$54,720
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$54,720
Out-of-state
$54,720
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
19%
Students Enrolled
33,720
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#6 Best Master Of Software Engineering Degrees
Stevens Institute of Technology
Hoboken, NJ
4 years
Online + Campus
The software engineering master's program at Stevens Institute of Technology, one of 44 master's degrees, offers a rigorous education. Learners advance their career opportunities and increase their earning potential with a degree from the master of science in software engineering program. Candidates may be able to choose from campus and online enrollment options, adding flexibility for enrollees who need to work full time while in school.
The program uses a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes theoretical and practical approaches to software engineering. Internships and hands-on learning opportunities strengthen classroom skills and help students expand their professional networks. Participants may also be able to choose a concentration, building specialized skills in a specific area of software engineering.
Stevens Institute of Technology at a Glance:
Location: Hoboken, New Jersey
School Type: Private
Admission Rate: 40%
Graduate Tuition In State: $36,680
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $36,680
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 99%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,134
Out-of-state
$52,134
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$36,680
Out-of-state
$36,680
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
40%
Students Enrolled
7,283
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
27%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#7 Best Master Of Software Engineering Degrees
DePaul University
Chicago, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
DePaul University offers 126 master's degrees, including a software engineering master's program that earns top marks. The master of science in software engineering encourages career growth through its experiential learning components. Flexible enrollment options, including online classes, help busy degree-seekers balance coursework with their other responsibilities.
Learners gain a comprehensive understanding of software engineering through a curriculum that highlights theoretical and practical approaches. Students strengthen their career-readiness through internships and hands-on learning opportunities. Master's candidates may also be able to choose a concentration, building specialized skills in a specific area of software engineering.
DePaul University at a Glance:
Location: Chicago, Illinois
School Type: Private
Admission Rate: 68%
Graduate Tuition In State: $19,584
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,584
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 98%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$40,551
Out-of-state
$40,551
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$19,584
Out-of-state
$19,584
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
22,064
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
30%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Best Master Of Software Engineering Degrees
The University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Southern California prepares graduates for career advancement in its software engineering master's program. The private institution welcomes degree-seekers with a variety of enrollment options, including online programs created with working professionals in mind. During the master of science in software engineering program, learners take graduate-level courses in software engineering to enhance their understanding of the field.
Master's candidates benefit from advising and support services, including career counseling. Academic advisors help with course selections, while financial aid counselors recommend grants and scholarships to pay for a master's degree. The university also hosts networking and training events for master's students.
The University of Southern California at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 199
Total Online Master's Programs: 55
Admission Rate: 11%
Graduation Rate: 92%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 9-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $46,272
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $46,272
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $61,400
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$57,256
Out-of-state
$57,256
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$46,272
Out-of-state
$46,272
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
11%
Students Enrolled
48,321
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
17%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#9 Best Master Of Software Engineering Degrees
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA
4 years
Online + Campus
Learners seeking a graduate degree in software engineering can enroll in the master's program at Drexel University. The master of science in software engineering encourages career growth through its experiential learning components. Working professionals benefit from the school's flexible enrollment options, which make it easier to schedule classes around other responsibilities.
The master's curriculum builds comprehensive knowledge, highlighting theoretical and practical approaches to software engineering. Students prepare for the workforce with internships and other hands-on learning opportunities. Enrollees work with faculty advisors to choose electives or concentrations that customize the program.
Drexel University at a Glance:
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
School Type: Private
Admission Rate: 75%
Graduate Tuition In State: $35,181
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $35,181
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 100%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,146
Out-of-state
$52,146
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$35,181
Out-of-state
$35,181
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
24,205
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#10 Best Master Of Software Engineering Degrees
Arizona State University Tempe
Tempe, AZ
4 years
Online + Campus
Arizona State University Tempe offers a top-ranked program in software engineering as one of its 104 master's degrees. Students advance their training and increase their career opportunities in the master of science in software engineering program. Flexible enrollment options appeal to busy degree-seekers balancing school with work or other responsibilities.
Learners gain a comprehensive understanding of software engineering through a curriculum that highlights theoretical and practical approaches. Students strengthen their career-readiness through internships and hands-on learning opportunities. Enrollees select electives and concentrations to specialize their education in a specific area.
Arizona State University-Tempe at a Glance:
Location: Tempe, Arizona
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 86%
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,720
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $26,160
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 96%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $12,100
Average Price After Aid: $14,081
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,710
Out-of-state
$28,800
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,720
Out-of-state
$26,160
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
53,286
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#11 Best Master Of Software Engineering Degrees
Colorado Technical University Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, CO
4 years
Online
Colorado Technical University Colorado Springs offers 13 master's degrees, including a master's in software engineering that earns top marks. The master of science in computer science with a concentration in software engineering encourages career growth through its experiential learning components. Working professionals benefit from the school's flexible enrollment options, which make it easier to schedule classes around other responsibilities.
The master's curriculum balances theoretical and practical approaches to software engineering, emphasizing a comprehensive understanding of the field. Students complete internships and hands-on learning opportunities to complement their classroom knowledge and expand their professional networks. Enrollees work with faculty advisors to choose electives or concentrations that customize the program.
Colorado Technical University Colorado Springs at a Glance:
Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado
School Type: Private
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,710
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,710
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 92%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,896
Out-of-state
$11,896
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,710
Out-of-state
$13,710
Retention Rate
44%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
27,232
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
99%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#12 Best Master Of Software Engineering Degrees
Mercer University
Macon, GA
4 years
Online + Campus
Mercer University offers a top-ranked program in software engineering as one of its 36 master's degrees. Students can increase their earning potential and advance their careers in the master of science in engineering in software engineering program. Flexible enrollment options appeal to busy learners balancing school with work or other responsibilities.
During the program, participants complete a challenging curriculum that builds comprehensive knowledge of software engineering. Degree-seekers often complete internships and other experiential learning opportunities to build career-ready skills. Enrollees work with faculty advisors to choose electives or concentrations that customize the program.
Mercer University at a Glance:
Location: Macon, Georgia
School Type: Private
Admission Rate: 74%
Graduate Tuition In State: $15,422
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $15,422
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 100%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$25,528
Out-of-state
$25,528
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,422
Out-of-state
$15,422
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
8,740
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
26%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#13 Best Master Of Software Engineering Degrees
The University of Alabama in Huntsville
Huntsville, AL
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Alabama in Huntsville offers a software engineering master's program that helps graduates advance their career. From its Huntsville campus, the public university meets the needs of diverse degree-seekers by offering flexible enrollment options. In the master of science in software engineering program, learners take graduate-level courses to strengthen their understanding of the field.
While earning a master's degree, enrollees rely on college resources and support services for assistance. For example, financial aid counselors recommend scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial assistance. Master's students also take advantage of career advising, tutoring centers, and internship programs.
The University of Alabama in Huntsville at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 27
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Admission Rate: 83%
Graduation Rate: 58%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,632
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,430
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $40,300
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,730
Out-of-state
$22,126
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,632
Out-of-state
$24,430
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
9,988
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
33%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#14 Best Master Of Software Engineering Degrees
The University of California, Irvine
Irvine, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of California, Irvine offers two software engineering master's programs that help graduates advance their career. The public university offers a variety of enrollment options for degree-seekers, including online programs. In both the master of software engineering program and the master of science in software engineering program, learners take graduate-level courses to strengthen their understanding of the field.
College resources and support services help master's candidates make progress toward their degree. For example, financial aid counselors connect students with grant and scholarship opportunities. Enrollees may also take advantage of writing centers, career advising, and library services.
The University of California, Irvine at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 105
Total Online Master's Programs: 1
Admission Rate: 27%
Graduation Rate: 84%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,442
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $26,544
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $44,300
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,442
Out-of-state
$41,196
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,442
Out-of-state
$26,544
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
27%
Students Enrolled
36,908
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
15%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#15 Best Master Of Software Engineering Degrees
Santa Clara University
Santa Clara, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
The software engineering master's degree from Santa Clara University helps graduates pursue advanced careers. From its Santa Clara, California, campus, the private institution offers graduate programs in several enrollment formats, including online options designed for working professionals. The master of science in computer science and engineering builds on undergraduate knowledge, and applicants without a software engineering background may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling.
Master's students benefit from a generous selection of college resources and support services. Financial aid advisors recommend scholarships and grants, while academic advisors help with course selections. Learners can also participate in training events, networking opportunities, and tutoring sessions.
Santa Clara University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 27
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Admission Rate: 49%
Graduation Rate: 91%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 10-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $25,056
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $25,056
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $63,900
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,998
Out-of-state
$52,998
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$25,056
Out-of-state
$25,056
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
8,669
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
2%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
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