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Become Team Updated November 10, 2021 Table of Contents:
Software engineering is a field that is vitally important to computer technology as a whole. Without the software to run the computer hardware, that hardware is simply a clump of plastic, silicon and metal – perhaps useful as an overpriced paperweight. In the strictest sense, software engineering is the application of engineering principles to the design, development and implementation of software. Because software engineering is such as a unique, scientific and technically-driven field, special training and formal degrees are required. By getting a degree in software engineering, graduates can work in any number of fields creating video games, developing internet applications, running computer networks or implementing computer security measures for an organization. Find out more about software engineering degrees and careers, and learn about salaries and employment projections for this specialized field. What Does a Software Engineer Do?Software Engineering Basics Combining business sense with programming know-how, software engineers devise software application solutions for business problems. Software engineers work with different platforms, such as the Internet, mobile devices, and desktop computers. Software Engineer SalariesThe market demand for qualified software engineers has created an arms race for the top talent. Salary research from ComputerWorld, the Bureau of Labor Statistics and Robert Half International all reveal the same thing: Companies are willing to pay a premium to acquire top talent, with some annual salaries pushing northward of six figures. ComputerWorld's 2015 IT salary survey reported average salaries of nearly $109,000 for software engineers, while Robert Half reported earnings that range from $96,000 to $147,000. The financial climate is good for individuals considering a career in the field — Robert Half projects salaries will climb by 6.6 percent in 2016.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational and Wage Estimates, 2014 Steps to Becoming a Software EngineerSoftware engineering is an ever-changing profession, one that adapts as new technologies are developed. Because of its shifting nature, there are multiple entry points into the profession. Although no single path to becoming a software engineer exists, the steps below outline the general path to employment. Completing a formal education is the first step toward becoming a software engineer. Prospective students can select from both traditional and nontraditional training programs to gain the education necessary to pursue entry-level positions. Some options include: Associate Degree (Two Years): Although employers typically prefer candidates with a four-year degree, an associate degree can open the door to entry-level jobs in the field. Students may choose to pursue majors in several related areas, such as software engineering technology or software systems engineering. Curriculum focuses on the core principles of software engineering, programming languages, and modern approaches to software development. Bachelor's Degree (Four Years): A bachelor's degree in computer science, or a related field, is the traditional minimum degree preferred by employers. Bachelor's degree programs expose students to a broader curriculum, one that provides a foundation in mathematics and computer science. Students develop a comprehensive understanding of programming, software architecture, and software testing. They may also take specialized courses in application areas, such as networking or embedded systems. Coding Bootcamp (8 to 12 Weeks): Coding bootcamps are a relatively new educational path for aspiring software engineers or developers. These programs typically last between eight and 12 weeks and place students into a hands-on, immersive learning environment. Upon graduation, students should be ready for entry-level careers as software engineers or developers. Completing an internship provides students with real world experience. Technology companies may offer internships for students with a bachelor's or master's degree who are seeking to expand their skills in specific areas, such as Java, XML or SQL. Internships typically last between three and six months and allow students to work on specific projects or products related to their skills. Step 3 Pursue a Specialization Generally speaking, there are two specializations within software engineering: applications and software/systems development. However, distinct areas of practice exist within each of these areas. Software engineers may choose to become experts in a single programming language or type of development. Below is a list of example specialty areas to consider:
Step 4 Pursue Entry-Level Career Opportunities After earning a computer science or related degree or completing a bootcamp program, the next step is to seek out entry-level employment. Because of the demand, software engineering has been rated one of the best entry-level careers available, according to Forbes. Although the dream job may be at Google, prospective software engineers can start with a small, local job hunt because, in the profession, experience is a critical commodity for career advancement. Although some certifications have lost their luster, they remain an integral part of the tech industry. Software engineering is precise and technical, and gaining certification verifies an applicant's knowledge and abilities. Along with experience, certification can improve a person's marketability in technology vendors (e.g., Microsoft, Cisco and Oracle) as well as professional organizations (e.g., IEEE) and are tailored to specific areas of practice Step 6 Attend Conferences Innovation drives change. That means software engineers need to stay abreast of the latest developments in both the general profession and their specialty. Attending conferences is a great way to network with other engineers and learn about new products, business practices, and technologies. Popular conferences for software engineers include the International Conference on Software Engineering and the International Conference on Automated Software Engineering. Step 7 Earn a Graduate Degree A graduate degree offers the opportunity to qualify for management and leadership positions in the industry. In addition, there is more to engineering than just programming. Software engineering calls upon interdisciplinary skills such as critical thinking, cost analysis and project management — skills that can be enhanced in a master's program in computer science, computer engineering, information science or software engineering. Software Engineering Degrees & ConcentrationsMatching Goals to Software Engineering Degrees
Software Engineering Degree LevelsFor those interested in a software engineering degree, there are many options to choose from on both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Depending on prior work and educational background, as well as professional aspirations, one degree will probably make more sense than the other. Let's take a look at the software engineering degrees available. Software Engineering Associate DegreesAn associate degree in software engineering takes about two years to complete. The associate degree can be a useful way for students who want a degree to take on an entry level software engineering position without spending the time and money getting a four-year degree. As an added bonus, some associate degrees can serve as stepping stones to getting a bachelor's degree later on. Classes typically found in software engineering associate degree programs include: Database management systemsThis course covers how database management systems work, as well as how to design, create and implement systems within an organization to meet their specific needs. Skills Gained
Web application developmentThe architectural design of web applications, as well as programming languages and technologies to help build web applications, are reviewed in this class. Skills Gained
Operating systemsFoundational concepts, as well as fundamental principles of operating system design and operation, are examined in this class. Skills Gained
NetworkingTeaches students the basic principles of networks, and the role software plays in their functionality and application. Skills Gained
Software Engineering Bachelor's DegreesFor students fresh out of high school (or shifting over from another career) who want to maximize their professional potential in software engineering and give themselves the best chance of finding ideal post-graduate employment, the bachelor's in software engineering is worth pursuing. In fact, most entry-level software engineering positions will require this four-year degree. Some more advanced positions may require a master's degree in software engineering. In that case, a bachelor's degree could be a prerequisite to admission. Four of the typical classes that can be found at most software engineering bachelor's degree programs are described below: Object-oriented software developmentStudents will take an advanced programming language in order to solve common computer problems and tasks. Skills Gained
Computer securityStudents receive an overview of computer security. Ethical, legal and practical considerations will also be discussed. Skills Gained
Project managementTechniques and methods for designing and developing software projects on schedule and on budget should be covered in this class. Skills Gained
User interfaceBy applying the concepts of human communication methods, students should learn how to create user-friendly software that can communicate with people. Skills Gained
Software Engineering Master's DegreeDepending on the program, a master's degree in software engineering takes about two years to complete. Many programs are designed for students who are working full-time. The master's degree not only provides additional knowledge of the software engineering field, but also offers education in management and leadership, so that graduates can take on more complex projects, be able to successfully coordinate those projects and work well with a team. Students who enter a master's degree program in software engineering can expect to cover classes such as these: Mathematical modelingMathematical modeling Students are introduced to mathematical models, which have applications in understanding and predicting natural phenomenon and human nature. Skills Gained
Software designSoftware design Students should expect to examine different programming languages and learn how their particular characteristics can be applied to software creation. Skills Gained
Software testingTools and techniques for practical testing of software, as well as analyzing theoretical testing models, are the focus of this class. Skills Gained
Software system architectureCovers the fundamentals of software architecture paradigm and their application to the software development process. Skills Gained
Software Engineering PhD DegreeWhile PhD programs in software engineering do exist, they are far less common than the bachelor's or master's degree. Usually taking at least four years to complete, PhD software engineering degrees are often research-oriented, culminating with a dissertation. In addition, students will take focused classes on very specific areas of software engineering, such as robotics, distributed systems, software security and quantitative research methods. A PhD is usually necessary for those who desire a career in research or academia, such as teaching at a college or university. By enrolling in a PhD software engineering program, students can tailor a curriculum that's unique to them. As such, there are very few similar class schedules among students in the same program. However, the following courses would likely be helpful in the PhD course list: Software modeling and designPrinciples for developing large scale software systems. Skills Gained
Economics of software engineeringStudents will be taught how to take profitability and economic considerations into account when designing and managing software Skills Gained
Software engineering for the internetPrinciples on how to create useful and effective web-based software and applications are taught in this class Skills Gained
Experimentation in software engineeringThis course covers how the scientific process can be applied to software engineering Skills Gained
Components of a Successful Software Engineering Career: Skills, Tools and TechnologySkillsSoftware engineers are expected to have a broad knowledge base and skill set in multiple proficiencies, including both nontechnical and technical areas. Nontechnical SkillsBecause software engineers work non-engineers such as with vendors, customers, and other team members, employers value individuals who possess nontechnical skills. A good software engineer should be a:
Industry-Specific Skills.Software engineering requires a comprehensive technical skill set and knowledge base that ranges from understanding business requirements to testing products. Below is a list of the core software engineering competencies from the National Workforce Center for Emerging Technologies.
According to Robert Half Technology, computer software engineers who possess valuable technical skills in the following programming, database, and Web areas may see a related increase in earning potential.
Professional certifications in software engineering establish an individual's qualifications within the field. Certifications demonstrate a conceptual understanding and technical expertise in specific areas of the profession. Software engineers can select from a variety of credentialing programs based on their career needs and professional goals. Below is a snapshot of potential certifications.
Career Trends in Software EngineeringThe demand for software engineers is driven by the emergence of the information economy and the need for technological solutions for both consumer- and enterprise-based markets. For example, Robert Half Technology reports that healthcare organizations are seeking new software solutions to improve patient care, while financial service organizations are looking for ways to provide more effective technology-driven services to customers. Coupled with these traditional industries, emerging markets — such as big data, mobile computing, and security — are creating new opportunities for software engineers. Finally, because the complex skills of a software engineer translate across any industry, it is a must-have position in nearly every business sector. Related CareersBelow is a list of related career opportunities that are projected to experience double-digit employment growth between 2012 and 2022, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Combining business knowledge with computing expertise, business information analysts help companies translate business needs into technical solutions. In their role, business information analysts draw upon an analytical skill set to research, plan and manage how information systems and software can be used to solve business problems. Job Growth: 19% Web developers have a strong command of Internet conventions and Web applications. Using Web technologies and programming languages, such as JavaScript, HTML or AJAX, Web developers write code for websites, integrate backend systems (such as databases with websites) and develop new website features and applications. Job Growth: 20% Help desk support specialists have a comprehensive understanding of software, hardware and networking systems. They provide a variety of technical support to companies and their employees, from resolving hardware problems to managing software program installation to troubleshooting networking issues. Job Growth: 20% Computer systems analysts use an in-depth knowledge of hardware and software systems to determine how an organization can best utilize those resources to operate effectively. They assist companies in identifying technical infrastructure needs, research the design and installation of computing packages, and prepare cost-benefit analyses for information systems. Job Growth: 25% Information security analysts are at the forefront of computer and network security, such as encryption technologies and firewall protection. They perform security audits, conduct risk assessments and make recommendations to improve the security of a company's data systems. By identifying weaknesses, information security analysts develop appropriate security policies that keep data safe. Job Growth: 37% Database administrators have a technical foundation in database structure, installation and maintenance. With specific knowledge of relational database languages (e.g., Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server), they manage company databases, maintain database stability, perform database backups and modify the structure of databases in accordance with the company's data needs. Job Growth: 15% Spotlight CareersThe hottest, most in-demand software engineering skill is currently mobile application development because of exploding growth in mobile networks, phones, and commerce. By 2017, the global mobile app market will be worth $77 billion, according to the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and the mobile Web market will be worth $850 billion by 2018 says mobile industry consulting firm Digi-Capital. As a result, mobile application developers possess skills that companies want. Below is a list of three spotlight careers in the software engineering field and their corresponding salary figures according to a Robert Half Technology survey. Median salary: $134,500 Mobile application developers employ languages and platforms such as JavaScript, .NET and Objective-C to build applications and websites for mobile devices (e.g., iPhone, iPad, Samsung Galaxy). Working with mobile operating systems such as iOS and Android, developers design, code, test, debug and document the mobile application development process. A degree in computer science or computer engineering is recommended. In today's mobile-first world, the increasing demand for personal and enterprise mobile apps has led to a crushing need for developers. Gartner Inc. projects that by the end of 2017 the market demand will outpace available talent for enterprise mobile app developers by at least five to one. Median salary: $76,000 (QA Engineer – Manual); $89,000 (QA Engineer – Automated) Quality assurance engineers devise and execute testing and quality review plans to identify issues during the software development process. With an understanding of the software development lifecycle and quality assurance principles, QA Engineers define the scope of testing, conduct manual and automated testing plans, and work closely with developers to identify areas of improvement. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has labeled the career field as an emerging and high-growth field, and it is expected to create 100,000 new jobs nationally between 2012 and 2022. Median salary: $126,625 Applications architects combine a knowledge of development tools and system architecture with business savvy and team leadership skills to coordinate the creation of enterprise-level applications. An important position, an applications architect serves as the team liaison that brings together user experience and front-end developers, programmers and quality assurance specialists on each project. A bachelor's degree in computer science or information systems is traditionally required, and it is one of the best paying occupations in the information technology field. Software Engineer Job Growth, Prospects, and OutlookToday, software accounts for 19 percent of the IT market in the United States, according to research from CompTIA. A convergence of several factors are contributing to the age of the software engineer: the shift to cloud-based infrastructure, the rise of mobile devices and computing, the explosion of big data analytics, the yet-to-be-tapped potential of social media, and the need for companies to provide managed services. What Do Related Occupations Make?Whether in online technology services, data storage, network management or security, technological innovation is driven by a central need: more effective and powerful computing solutions. Because programming languages and frameworks (e.g., HTML, SQL, Java, C++) cut across industry channels, individuals with both education and experience can stand out in today's crowded and competitive IT marketplace. In turn, other tech roles are growing alongside software engineering, with salaries that can exceed $100,000 for experienced professionals. '\"Subject\";\"10th Percentile\";\"Median Salary\";\"90th Percentile\"\n\"Computer Hardware Engineer\";56000;71100;110000\n\"Computer Programmer\";46000;58436;88000\n\"Web Developer\";44000;55500;83000' Related Occupations: What You Need to KnowThe need for high-skilled informational technology talent stretches across specializations, from information systems to networking, databases to business intelligence. An education in computer science and software development can lead to a variety of related career opportunities throughout the technology industry. Below is a list of example occupational avenues: 18.6% Salary $90,860 Education and Training: Bachelor's degree 11.7% Salary $79,770 Education and Training: Bachelor's degree 15.1% Salary $82,280 Education and Training: Bachelor's degree 20.2% Salary $51,500 Education and Training: Some college, no degree 15.3% Salary $136,280 Education and Training: Bachelor's degree 6.9% Salary $66,140 Education and Training: Associate degree 24.5% Salary $87,320 Education and Training: Bachelor's degree 14.8% Salary $71,950 Education and Training: Bachelor's degree Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational and Employment Wages, 2014 Related Careers at a GlanceSoftware Engineering Degree & Career ResourcesABETABET is a leading organization for accrediting undergraduate and graduate programs in science, technology and engineering fields. Association for Computing MachineryThe ACM is the world's largest computer society with the mission of promoting computer science and related fields in the educational and professional realms. CompTIACompTIA promotes the interests of information technology professionals by advocating on their behalf and providing professional certifications and educational opportunities for those working in information technology. IEEEIEEE is a leading professional organization with the goal of helping humanity through the support of advanced technology. Institute for the Certification of Computing Professionals (ICCP)The ICCP is a non-profit organization that offers many internationally-recognized computer certifications. Software Engineering RadioThis excellent podcast updates every two weeks or so with compelling expert guests and insider information on the world of software engineering, past, present and future. Try Engineering: Computer Software EngineerThis site offers insight into a variety of engineering careers, including software engineer. This is a great basic description of what software engineers do. Latest PostsLearnHowToBecome.com 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. View the most relevant programs for your interests and compare them by tuition, acceptance rate, and other factors important to you. Which degree is best for software engineer?Computer science is the most common degree that software developers choose when starting their career.. Technical computer operations,. Computer mathematics,. Computational logic, and.. A strong understanding of modern code.. What do I need to become a software engineer?Most employers expect entry-level software engineers to hold a bachelor's computer science degree, a software engineering degree, or a degree in a closely related field. A bachelor's degree typically takes four years. ABET accredits software engineering programs. Or, you can take a coding bootcamp.
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