Looking to pursue a career in software engineering? Explore the top online software engineering degrees of 2024.
Our comprehensive guide provides insights into the best programs, helping you decide about your education and future career.
Whether you’re a working professional or a full-time student, these programs offer flexibility and quality education to suit your needs.
Stay ahead in the dynamic field of software engineering with the best online degrees of 2024.
Best Software Engineering Degrees Rankings Summary
| RANK | SCHOOL | IN-STATE TUITION | OUT-OF-STATE TUITION | ACCEPTANCE RATE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Arizona State University Digital Immersion Scottsdale, AZ | $10,710 | $10,820 | 73% |
| #2 | Pennsylvania State University-World Campus University Park, PA | Not provided | Not provided | Not provided |
| #3 | University of Arizona Tucson, AZ | $10,990 | $33,273 | 85% |
Best Online Bachelor’s in Software Engineering Programs 2024
Arizona State University Digital Immersion
- Cost per Credit: $563
- Credits to Graduate: 120
- Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $10,710, Out-of-state: $10,820
- Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $6,516, Out-of-state: $6,516
The web-based BS in Software Engineering starts with foundational math and computer systems courses. Students also learn fundamental abilities in programming before moving on to the software enterprise classes. Five classes will look at the development process that takes students from conception to the beginning.
While only one class focuses on managing processes, the complete degree program is designed to prepare students for real-world applications, collaboration, and leadership. The core classes include a variety of teams and individual engineering software projects that lead to the two-course capstone project.
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
- Cost per Credit: $626-678
- Credits to Graduate: 126
- Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: NA , Out-of-state: NA
- Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: NA, Out-of-state: NA
Regarding learning on or off campuses, Penn State includes two admissions procedures: General and Programmatic. After being accepted to Penn State, students must complete the prerequisites for entrance to a major in chemistry, math and physics before officially launching the software engineering program.
Based on the course load, students can finish their online bachelor’s degree in software engineering on Penn State’s World Campus in two to five years. No matter their course load, all students studying software engineering collaborate with real-world businesses and other students to complete the capstone design project.
University of Arizona
- Cost per Credit: $600
- Credits to Graduate: 120
- Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $10,990, Out-of-state: $33,273
- Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $11,938, Out-of-state: $32,065
The UofA’s web-based Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering incorporates basic programming concepts, theoretical applications and large-scale system design to prepare students for the most sought-after jobs in the field of software development. Students explore software design through a team environment, gaining fundamental skills such as quality assurance and requirement analysis.
Students will gain hands-on experience throughout their program, particularly with the interdisciplinary capstone project. Students collaborate in teams to tackle actual industry issues. UofA software engineering graduates are typically employed by companies such as Microsoft, Google, and Wells Fargo.
How Much Money Can I Make With an Online Software Engineering Degree?
According to Payscale, the average salary for someone with a bachelor’s degree in software engineering was $88,000 in October 2023.
This is almost twice the median annual salary of all occupations, $46,310. The BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) reports that the median yearly wage for a software developer was $127,000 in 2022 – significantly higher than the median for all computer occupations, $100,530.
You can potentially increase your salary by obtaining a master’s degree or by working as a software developer at a manufacturing, insurance, or finance company.
What Jobs Can I Get With an Online Software Engineering Degree?
A degree in software engineering can provide you with a broad range of technical skills that can lead to various career opportunities.
You can specialise in database management, network systems, cybersecurity, web development, or video game design. These professions require a deep understanding of computer science theory and software design and application proficiency.
If you aspire to work in a management role, you must be able to lead a team of technology experts and your technical skills.
Obtaining professional certifications or a master’s degree in a related field can significantly enhance your career prospects as a software engineer.
Software Engineering Career Paths:
- Full-Stack Developer
- Secure Software Developer
- UI/UX Designer
- Software Engineer
- Systems Architecture Designer
- Multimedia Programmer
- Application Analyst
- Game Developer
FAQs
What classes will I take in a bachelor’s in software engineering program?
Every school has the autonomy to decide on its specific curriculum. However, irrespective of where you choose to enroll, you should anticipate taking courses in programming languages, data systems, computer science, and data management. Besides, you will also be required to fulfill a general education requirement and choose some electives. Standard software engineering courses typically include:
- Software Reverse Engineering
- Mobile Architecture and Programming
- User Interface Design
- Data Structures and Algorithms
- Full Stack Development
Can you get a legit software engineering degree online?
It is possible to obtain a legitimate software engineering degree through online education. Distance education has been around for centuries, and online learning has been popular for decades, but it has become much more common due to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to AACSB International’s 2022 survey, 83% of business leaders consider an online degree equal to a traditional one if it is from a reputable school. Therefore, choosing an accredited school to receive career support is crucial.
What are the best-paying jobs I can get with a bachelor’s in software engineering?
As a graduate in software engineering, you have several job opportunities to choose from such as full-stack developer, secure software developer, UI/UX designer, systems architecture designer, or software engineer. These jobs offer significantly higher salaries than the national median. For instance, in 2022, the BLS discovered that the median annual salary for software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers was $124,200.
Do I need a degree to be a software engineer?
It is possible to secure a software engineering job with a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, or engineering. However, certain positions may require a master’s degree in a related field. Additionally, gaining experience through internships or entry-level employment can increase your chances of success in the job market.
Is software engineering hard?
You can be hired for an engineering software job by obtaining a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, or engineering. For certain jobs, employers might require a master’s degree in the same field. Experience gained through internships or entry-level jobs could provide you with a boost when you are looking for a job.
