Top Online Master's Degrees in Software Engineering (2024)

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Updated January 30, 2024

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Software engineers, aided by automation and machine learning, have become more efficient and productive in recent years. They spend less time on basic code and more time on complex problem-solving and innovation. This shift has made graduate-level education, such as a master's in software engineering, increasingly important.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the number of master's in computer and information science degrees conferred increased by 178% between the 2010-11 and 2020-21 school years. The expansion of online programs has helped propel this growth, making it easier for working professionals to keep their jobs and gain experience while advancing their education.

Discover more details about online programs throughout this page, along with a ranking of the best online master's in software engineering. Explore the details and benefits of online learning to find your ideal educational path.

Popular Online Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Snapshot of Master's in Software Engineering Programs

Jump to a school below using the links in the "School" column.

Rank School In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition Acceptance Rate
#1 California State University-Fullerton
Fullerton, CA
$7,176 $16,680 59%
#2 Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
$46,441 $46,441 14%
#3 Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX
$6,956 $15,136 68%
#4 Stevens Institute of Technology
Hoboken, NJ
$38,076 $38,076 53%
#5 East Carolina University
Greenville, NC
$4,749 $17,898 94%
#6 Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA
$36,234 $36,234 83%
#7 DePaul University
Chicago, IL
$17,951 $17,951 69%
#8 Mercer University
Macon, GA
$15,244 $15,244 75%
#9 West Virginia University
Morgantown, WV
$10,332 $26,676 90%
#10 Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, GA
$5,238 $19,188 82%

Best Online Master's in Software Engineering Degrees

#1 Top Online Master’s Degrees in Software Engineering (2024)

California State University-Fullerton

  • Fullerton, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Founded in 1957, Cal State Fullerton now features a 240-acre campus in Orange County and offers a range of online programs for distance learners. Becoming a Titan offers the opportunity to pursue 55 undergraduate and 55 graduate degrees. 

Master of Science in Software Engineering

Cal State Fullerton's master of science in software engineering, which focuses on process-oriented methodologies, only takes 22 months to complete. Throughout the program, you'll develop skills like teamwork and communication skills while building familiarity with software engineering best practices. 

This fully online degree features courses that explore software maintenance, architecture, process evaluation, and engineering management. The practicum and final project provide hands-on learning opportunities.

Applying to Cal State Fullerton

Candidates working in computer science who hold bachelor's degrees from accredited colleges can apply to Cal State Fullerton's software engineering program. The online application costs $70. 

Program at a Glance

  • School Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
  • Tuition: $2,082 per semester
  • Required Credits: 30
  • Program Length: 22 months
  • Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous) 
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
40,738
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
80% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#2 Top Online Master’s Degrees in Software Engineering (2024)

Carnegie Mellon University

  • Pittsburgh, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

CMU began as a technical school founded by Andrew Carnegie in 1900. Today, this private research university in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, educates more than 14,500 students. The school boasts seven schools and colleges, along with renowned research facilities such as the National Robotics Engineering Center.

Master of Software Engineering

The part-time master of software engineering at CMU uses hybrid and online formats, plus an experimental virtual reality classroom. To fulfill the program's requirements, you will study statistics for decision-making, business and marketing strategy, software architecture, quality management, and software management theory. Writing a thesis is the main task of the final semester.

Qualified students can pursue teaching assistant or research assistant positions. Industry field trips allow for interactions with employers on campus and in corporate settings.

Applying to CMU

You do not need to submit GRE scores, but you must possess an undergraduate degree in computer science and a minimum 2.5 GPA to qualify. Applicants need experience with Java, Python, and C++. Qualified candidates can waive the $100 application fee. 

Program at a Glance

  • School Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
  • Tuition: $756 per unit 
  • Required Credits: 72 
  • Program Length: 24 months
  • Delivery Format: 100% online or hybrid (asynchronous and synchronous)
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$57,560
Out-of-state
$57,560
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$46,441
Out-of-state
$46,441
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
14%
Students Enrolled
15,057
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#3 Top Online Master’s Degrees in Software Engineering (2024)

Texas Tech University

  • Lubbock, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

TTU, with a 1,900-acre campus in Lubbock, Texas, enrolls more than 40,000 students. This large public research university, founded in 1923, houses a law school and a medical school, along with undergraduate and graduate departments. Students at TTU can pursue more than 150 degrees. 

Master of Science in Software and Security Engineering

At TTU, the master of science in software and security engineering centers around systems engineering and systems requirements. The curriculum includes courses in software modeling, architecture, and computer security.

You'll also take software engineering and security electives such as software project management, network security and cryptography, and digital forensics. In the program, you have the choice of a thesis or non-thesis option, both of which involve a project and three electives.

Applying to TTU

Admission requires a computer science degree and a background in statistics and probability. Additionally, programming experience and a bachelor's in engineering qualify for admittance. You'll pay $60 to apply.

Program at a Glance

  • School Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • Tuition and Fees: $9,804 (in state, bordering New Mexico and Oklahoma counties);  $17,512 (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 30
  • Program Length: 24 months
  • Delivery Format: 100% online
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,935
Out-of-state
$21,204
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,956
Out-of-state
$15,136
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
40,542
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
68% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Top Online Master’s Degrees in Software Engineering (2024)

Stevens Institute of Technology

  • Hoboken, NJ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Established in 1870, Stevens now educates over 7,283 students across undergraduate and graduate programs. With 58 master's degree programs and more than 20 Ph.D. programs, the college features a wide range of academic offerings. Computer science, systems engineering, and information systems rank as the most popular graduate degrees. 

Master's in Software Engineering

The online master's in software engineering degree at Stevens features engineering management, systems engineering, and computer science concentrations. The seven core courses cover topics such as complex software design processes, systematic testing, systems engineering, and the software lifecycle. You'll also take three elective courses in your specialty.

The School of Systems and Enterprises houses the U.S. Department of Defense's Systems Engineering Research Center, which offers research opportunities with 22 partner colleges. 

Applying to Stevens 

Stevens charges $60 to submit an online application. Early applicants can qualify for an application fee waiver. You'll need GRE test scores, college transcripts, and two letters of recommendation to apply for the software engineering program.

Program at a Glance

  • School Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
  • Tuition: $19,704 per semester
  • Required Credits: 30 
  • Program Length: 24 months
  • Delivery Format: 100% online
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,780
Out-of-state
$54,780
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$38,076
Out-of-state
$38,076
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
53%
Students Enrolled
8,287
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
37% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#5 Top Online Master’s Degrees in Software Engineering (2024)

East Carolina University

  • Greenville, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

ECU, one of the most academically diverse four-year colleges in North Carolina, offers 68 master's and 19 doctoral and professional programs. With a campus in Greenville, North Carolina, ECU enrolls nearly 27,000 students. Roughly 43% of learners study STEM and healthcare fields. 

Master of Science in Software Engineering

Customize your education with ECU's MS in software engineering, offered by the Department of Computer Science. Before choosing electives, you must complete three core courses: project management, software testing, and software engineering. Electives include software systems modeling and analysis, cloud computing, and process management and lifecycle modeling. 

This master's software engineering program ends with either an individual project or a thesis. Studying online gives you the same access to high-performance computing and software used by on-campus enrollees. 

Applying to ECU

For admission, you need a minimum 3.0 GPA and a 30th percentile GRE score. ECU offers a "traditional" admission policy for applicants with bachelor's degrees in computer science or related fields. Candidates with bachelor's degrees in mathematics or other similar fields must complete prerequisites.

Program at a Glance

  • School Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • Tuition: $5,213 per year (in state); $18,361 per year (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 30-38
  • Program Length: 24 months
  • Delivery Format: 100% online or hybrid 
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,452
Out-of-state
$20,729
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,749
Out-of-state
$17,898
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
28,021
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
74% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Top Online Master’s Degrees in Software Engineering (2024)

Drexel University

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Drexel, a renowned R1 university in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was founded in 1891 and is known for its commitment to cooperative learning. More than 7,000 online learners study at Drexel, and roughly 13,000 students take at least one virtual course during their academic journey. 

Online Master of Science in Software Engineering

At Drexel, the MS in software engineering prepares tech professionals to pursue technical and managerial careers in 2-4 years through part time or full time studies. Offered through the College of Computing and Informatics, this degree features big data analytics, applied artificial intelligence and machine learning, computer security and privacy, and healthcare informatics electives. 

Take courses one at a time, or complete the modular certificate. If you study full time, you can join the Graduate Co-Op to access the Steinbright Career Development Center for paid positions.

Applying to Drexel

Drexel offers winter and fall start dates. The program suits candidates with undergraduate degrees in computer science, software engineering, or other similar majors. Drexel accepts applicants without technical backgrounds, but completion of the graduate certificate in computer science foundations is mandatory. Each applicant needs a minimum of a 3.0 GPA, prerequisites, and GRE scores. 

Program at a Glance

  • School Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
  • Tuition: $1,396 per credit
  • Required Credits: 30
  • Program Length: 24 months
  • Delivery Format: 100% online with asynchronous coursework 
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,766
Out-of-state
$54,766
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$36,234
Out-of-state
$36,234
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
23,216
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#7 Top Online Master’s Degrees in Software Engineering (2024)

DePaul University

  • Chicago, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

DePaul offers more than 300 total undergraduate and graduate degree programs from 10 colleges and schools from its Illinois-based campuses in Chicago and Lincoln Park. This private university enrolls roughly 7,000 graduate students. 

Master's in Software Engineering

In DePaul's master's in software engineering, you have the chance to select from four concentrations. Concentrate your degree in entrepreneurship and technology leadership, real-time game systems, software architecture, or software development.

You'll study online through lectures and whiteboarding assignments. The materials prioritize new technologies, current methodologies, and the development of collaboration skills. The Jarvis College of Computing and Digital Media allows you to participate in research or obtain assistantships at specialized on-campus labs.

Applying to DePaul

To enter this program, you need a bachelor's degree from an accredited college with a minimum GPA of 2.5. The online application includes a $25 fee. You'll also need to submit official transcripts. 

Program at a Glance

  • School Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
  • Tuition: $758 per credit 
  • Required Credits: 48
  • Program Length: 24 months
  • Delivery Format: 100% online or on campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$41,361
Out-of-state
$41,361
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,951
Out-of-state
$17,951
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
21,670
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 Top Online Master’s Degrees in Software Engineering (2024)

Mercer University

  • Macon, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Established in 1933, Mercer features campuses in Maco, Atlanta, Savannah, Columbus, and regional academic centers throughout Georgia. Mercer allows you to choose from 130 programs offered through 12 schools. Mercer enrolls about 4,000 graduate and professional students. 

Master of Science in Software Engineering

At Mercer, the master of science in software engineering can build your proficiency in security, testing, and software architecture in less than two years. The 18 core courses cover software processes, analysis, and construction using C++, Java, and C#. You'll also take 12 elective courses across all other graduate departments.

Delivered through the School of Engineering, this degree offers either a minor or the option to complete a thesis. You also must complete a research project. 

Applying to Mercer

For admission into the School of Engineering, you need at least a 3.0 GPA and a bachelor's degree from an ABET-accredited program. Applications must also include 2-3 letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and a $75 fee. Mercer recommends submitting GRE scores. 

Program at a Glance

  • School Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • Tuition: $999 per credit
  • Required Credits: 30
  • Program Length: 18-24 months
  • Delivery Format: 100% Online 
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$29,024
Out-of-state
$29,024
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,244
Out-of-state
$15,244
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
9,009
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
34% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Top Online Master’s Degrees in Software Engineering (2024)

West Virginia University

  • Morgantown, WV
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The WVU system includes three colleges: Potomac State College, WVU Tech, and WVU in Morgantown. As an R1 Carnegie research institute, this public four-year college offers 208 graduate and professional programs. 

Software Engineering Master's Degree

Students from all undergraduate backgrounds can enroll in WVU's master's in software engineering program, offered in collaboration with Coursera. The Lane Department of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering provides this program, which takes two years and includes 10 courses. With an emphasis on faculty engagement, you can access instructors virtually by email and discussion boards. 

You'll learn a foundation in software project management, analysis and design, object-oriented design, and software verification and validation before tackling advanced courses in database design and architecture framework.

Applying to WVU

Start the admission process by submitting a general application with a 750-1,000 word personal statement and letters of recommendation. 

WVU offers two admissions pathways: If you hold a bachelor's degree in computer science or software engineering with a 3.0 GPA, you can apply through the academic background option. Applicants without a computer science background must submit a resume showing software development life cycle experience. 

Program at a Glance

  • School Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
  • Tuition: $715 per credit
  • Required Credits: 30
  • Program Length: 24 months
  • Delivery Format: 100% Online (synchronous and asynchronous)
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,144
Out-of-state
$25,824
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,332
Out-of-state
$26,676
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
25,474
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Top Online Master’s Degrees in Software Engineering (2024)

Kennesaw State University

  • Kennesaw, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Kennesaw State, which began in 1963 as a junior college, features an academic catalog of more than 180 undergraduate and graduate degrees. At this R2-designated research university, roughly 45,000 students pursue undergraduate and graduate studies. 

Master of Science in Software Engineering

Kennesaw State's master of software engineering degree opens admission to individuals from any undergraduate field. The core lessons cover software project planning, architecture, and testing. Electives allow you to pursue studies in game design, cloud computing, and human factors, along with a graduate internship. You can close out the program with a capstone or thesis project.

The Department of Software Engineering and Game Development offers graduate and research assistantships. Without an undergraduate degree in computer science, you must complete a software engineering foundations certificate.

Applying to Kennesaw State

Kennesaw State requires each graduate applicant to submit an online application with a $60 fee, a statement of purpose, official transcripts, a resume, and two letters of recommendation. 

Program at a Glance

  • School Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • Tuition: $383 per credit
  • Required Credits: 30
  • Program Length: 24 months
  • Delivery Format: 100% online or hybrid
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,450
Out-of-state
$15,704
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,238
Out-of-state
$19,188
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
42,899
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

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ComputerScience.org ranks computer science degree programs at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. We also rank bootcamps and certificate programs. Our top priority is making sure you find the best possible fit for your education. We use up-to-date national statistics and focus on factors like return on investment, academic quality, and affordability.

Take a closer look at our rankings on our rankings methodology page.

What Should You Expect From Master's in Software Engineering Programs?

Master's degrees in software engineering programs provide a comprehensive focus on computer-based engineering, programming, and software design. Graduate students build upon their existing technical knowledge to learn to design, develop, and evaluate software.

Master of science degrees in software engineering take a theoretical approach to software design, while master of engineering degrees focus on a practical application of software creation. Both degrees allow graduates to pursue jobs in software engineering.

Schools have various curriculums, courses, and specializations, but the typical software engineering program consists of 30-36 credits and takes two years to complete. Applicants without relevant undergraduate coursework may need to complete additional prerequisite courses or demonstrate relevant work history.

How an Online Master's in Software Engineering Differs From an On-Campus Program

On-campus and online master's in software engineering programs typically have the same material and outcomes, but the student experience can differ significantly. For example, while synchronous online classes simulate on-campus lectures and real-time student engagement, asynchronous distance learning applies independent learning environments.

Most internships have in-person requirements, though online learners can usually choose locations near them. The table below showcases the differences in other major categories.

Online vs. On-Campus Master's in Software Engineering Degrees
Online Program On-Campus Program
Costs Some schools offer in-state rates for out-of-state online students, which may help reduce costs Total costs for in-state students include tuition plus travel or room and board
Course Load Often one or two classes for 7-15 weeks Full-time or part-time schedules available — usually 1-5 classes per semester
Scheduling Asynchronous classes anytime or scheduled synchronous classes during the day, afternoon, evening, or weekends Classes run during the day, afternoon, evening, or weekends
Program Length Typically two years, though heavy course loads and transfer credits can decrease study times Typically two years, but accelerated programs and transfer credits can decrease study times
Delivery Format Asynchronous delivery with anytime access to learning materials or synchronous delivery for a more interactive experience In-class sessions offering direct interaction with peers and instructors
Sources: NCES

Prospective students should evaluate their personal needs and priorities. They can then compare online and on-campus offerings to identify the method that best aligns with their learning styles.

Delivery Formats for Online Software Engineering Master's Degrees

Online programs offer several delivery formats to accommodate various student schedules and learning styles. Online software engineering master's degrees can run entirely online or through hybrid delivery, which includes some on-campus requirements. With limited travel needed, fully online programs offer greater accessibility to distance students.

Online programs may run asynchronously or synchronously. Students who need the flexibility to study on their own schedule will likely prefer asynchronous delivery, while learners seeking real-time interactions with peers and instructors may benefit from synchronous classes.

Accreditation for Online Graduate Software Engineering Programs

Schools can receive institutional accreditation from specialized accreditation agencies. Accredited schools demonstrate that the institution meets standards for curricular offerings, instructors, and student outcomes.

Enrollees should attend accredited institutions, as financial aid agencies and prospective employers often require the status for eligibility. Employers want to ensure that graduates have developed the necessary skills for the workforce, and accreditation indicates that the student has received adequate preparation.

Programs and departments within schools may receive further accreditation through programmatic accreditation. Master's in software engineering programs may be accredited by ABET, a non-profit accreditation agency that focuses on STEM programs.

Cost of an Online Master's in Software Engineering

Master's in software engineering programs can range from about $20,000-$100,000 or more. Tuition can depend upon factors like school prestige, program length, student-to-professor ratio, and more. Online degrees can be less expensive than in-person programs. According to the NCES, the average annual cost of an online master's in software engineering was significantly lower than in-person programs.

Students should consider other costs aside from tuition, including course materials, transportation, and the cost of living. Software engineering course materials may include computer programs, hardware, and books. Cost of living refers to prices for necessities like housing and food as compared to the national average. This figure varies by location, so make sure to research the cost of living in the place you intend to live.

Average Annual Cost of a Master's in Software Engineering Degree

Online

$10,877

In-Person

$16,750

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

Why Get Your Master's in Software Engineering Degree Online?

Individuals interested in software, logic, and technology may find a degree in software engineering worth pursuing. Software engineering programs may be well-suited to online learning, allowing enrollees to learn concepts and test them simultaneously on computers.

Master's programs may appeal to working professionals, students in rural areas, and recent bachelor's graduates. As online programs can offer flexible hours, remote locations, and fulfilling curriculums, it may benefit multiple types of students.

Attendees who are partial to working at home, having flexible schedules, and extending their search to schools across the U.S. may prefer online degrees. However, enrollees who prefer structure, meeting other students, and attending professor office hours may benefit from in-person programs.

Benefits of Earning an Online Master's in Software Engineering

  • Software engineers can work in nearly every industry, causing these careers to grow in demand. Many industries pay software engineers strong salaries, as well.
  • Professional software engineers can work with just a computer and the internet. Employees may be allowed flexibility in terms of location and working hours.
  • Technology experts continuously have growth opportunities because of career variety, changing technologies, and corporate competition. Individuals can leverage these opportunities to advance one's career or learn new skills.

Challenges of Earning a Master's in Software Engineering Online

  • Software engineering requires time to plan, develop, and test. Engineers may work long hours to meet tight deadlines.
  • Technology continuously changes and advances, which requires engineers to spend time staying up-to-date on the latest software, trends, and languages.
  • Professionals in software engineering may need to work with technical teams, designers, and non-tech individuals. Engineers may be required to create multiple program iterations to meet the demands of different team members.
Possible Careers for Software Engineering Graduates
Career Wage
Software Developer $124,200
Computer and Information Systems Managers $164,070
Database Administrator $112,120
Web Developer $78,580
Computer Systems Analysts $102,240
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2022

Selecting Your Online Software Engineering Program

Prospective students should consider some or all of the following factors when researching online master's in software engineering programs:

  • Institutional and programmatic accreditation
  • Online learning support, technologies, and resources
  • Delivery method and residency requirements
  • Program curriculum and specialization opportunities
  • School facilities and accessibility for online learners
  • Program cost and financial aid
  • In-state or out-of-state tuition rates
  • School location and travel requirements
  • Admission requirements and competitiveness
  • Graduation requirements, including thesis and capstone components
  • Department faculty and student-to-teacher ratio
  • Extracurriculars and networking opportunities
  • Industry partnerships and connections available
  • School and program prestige and reputation

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Questions About Graduate Software Engineering Programs

How long does it take to get a master's degree in software engineering online?

Online master's in software engineering programs typically comprise 30-36 credits and take two years to complete. However, program length varies depending on learners' enrollment status.

Is software engineering hard?

Software engineering explores challenging topics, including advanced mathematics, coding, and complex computer architecture. Students may find the research and practical lab work in a master's program difficult.

How much is an online master's program in software engineering?

The cost of an online master's degree in software engineering varies by school and program. According to the NCES, the average annual tuition was $12,596 in public schools and $28,017 in private schools in the 2021-22 academic year.

Is an online master's in software engineering worth it?

It can be. A tech professional with a master's degree in software engineering can pursue lucrative careers and may receive promotions and leadership opportunities over bachelor's-level professionals.

Page last reviewed December 7, 2023.

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