Monday, 28 May 2012

Online Software Engineering Degrees by Program Level

Students who want to pursue careers in software development, software engineering or computer programming can facilitate their career goals by pursuing a degree in software engineering. Students can complete programs in software engineering at the undergraduate and graduate degree levels entirely online.

Online Associate's Degree in Software Engineering Program Overview

An associate's degree program in software engineering teaches students the fundamental concepts of computer science and software development. Subject matter covered in this degree includes C++, Java HMTL, C and Visual Basic. Students also learn problem solving skills that help them to work as part of a team as well as individually when creating and testing new hardware and software technologies. This program degree is typically offered as an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) or Associate of Science (A.S.) program.

Program Information and Requirements

The average length of time needed to complete an associate's degree in software engineering ranges from 45-72 credit hours. Course material is often structured in an asynchronous format; however, many courses typically have mandated due dates and exam times.
Students need to have access to a computer with a high-speed Internet connection. Because some course material is delivered via streaming video and downloadable lectures, the computer must have audio and video capabilities. Due to the nature of the program, some additional programs may be required, such as Adobe Flash Player, Microsoft DirectX End and Java.

List of Common Online Associate's Degree in Software Engineering Courses

In addition to core computer science and programming courses, some associate's degree programs also have general education requirements in English, mathematics and the humanities.

Computer Information Applications Course

This course trains students in the application of computer science concepts relevant to business network systems. While utilizing microcomputers, students will become familiar with word processing, spreadsheet software and database systems.

Java Course

Students in this course use the Java programming language to write computer programs. Topics introduced in this course include data abstraction, classes, graphics and applets.

Database Applications Course

This course prepares students to identify, analyze and repair potential issues that arise in a businesses' information retrieval system. Students use programs such as Microsoft Access to write, retrieve, analyze, update and store digital information.

Career Information for Graduates

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), associate's degree holders in software engineering can find employment as a computer support specialist (www.bls.gov). The BLS also reported that in May 2009 that the median annual wages for this occupation were $47,360, with the employment rate expected to rise by 14% between 2008 and 2018.

Online Bachelor's Degree in Software Engineering Program Overview

An online bachelor's degree program in computer science or information technology often allows for students to declare a concentration in software engineering. Students in this program are trained in fundamental computer science concepts, including systems design, program writing, database structure, network design, web technology and systems maintenance. Upon completion of this program, students will be prepared to analyze, create and maintain software and network systems.

Program Information and Requirements

A typical length of a bachelor's degree program in this field can range from 120-140 credit hours. Many institutions offer training seminars and orientation sessions to prepare students for the online learning environment. Program delivery is most commonly administered through the Blackboard program.
Some courses offer live discussion forums where students can communicate with instructors and peers in real time. These courses require for students to have a headset microphone and webcam.

List of Common Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering Courses

This degree program includes general education requirements that students must complete, as well as advanced coursework in software engineering or related areas.

Software Engineering Course

This course is usually delivered over a two-semester period. Students are trained in introductory software engineering concepts which include the planning, designing, creation, documentation and testing of software programs. Students focus on creating software products that are both collaborative and sustainable.

Systems Analysis Course

This two-semester course introduces students to the traditional life cycle of computer systems and the prototype development designed to improve those technology systems. Topics in this course include object-oriented analysis, agile analysis, prototype creation, standards of quality and systems configuration management.

Programming Fundamentals Course

Students in this course use algorithms and logic to write computer programs specifically for business oriented technology systems. Procedural programming techniques taught in this course include data classification, controls, functional decomposition, arrays and files.

Career Information for Graduates

Graduates of a bachelor's degree program with strong coursework in software engineering are qualified to gain employment as a computer software engineer. In May 2009 the BLS reported that the employment rate for this occupation is expected to increase by 21% between 2008 and 2018 (www.bls.gov). This BLS also states that the mean annual wage for this occupation was $96,620 as recently as May 2009.

Online Master of Science in Software Engineering Degree Program Overview

A Master of Science (M.S.) in Software Engineering online program is primarily designed for working professionals in computer science fields who want to extend their educational base to advance their careers. This program emphasizes group collaboration, research, critical thinking, problem solving, software implementation, analysis, communication and legal issues. Students must have a bachelor's degree in a related field prior to enrollment, and in some cases, students must have completed two years of computer-related professional work.

Program Information and Requirements

The M.S. in Software Engineering can be completed in 30-36 credit hours, depending on the student's prior education. This program is widely available to be completed entirely online and can usually be completed in two years. Course material is accessed through websites, downloadable lectures and streaming video. Students can also communicate to instructors and peers via online discussion forums and message boards.
Some courses require for students to have a scanner in order to create digital images of printed material. It is also recommended that students have access to a graphics-capable printer.

List of Common Master of Science in Software Engineering Courses

Due to the technical nature of this degree program, students must complete or test out of some prerequisite courses, depending on the student's undergraduate degree.

Software Verification Course

Students in this course are introduced to evaluation techniques that ensure that a satisfactory product has been developed. These methods include observation, analysis, CleanRoom and functional test cases. Students also use boundary value analysis and equivalence classes to assess the degree of coverage to analyze performance data.

Software Measurement Course

This course introduces students to current methods for measuring software performance. The focus of these measurement practices includes specifications, designs, code, implementation, testing and analysis. This course outlines systematic measurement protocols that students utilize to maximize software efficiency.

Legal Issues in Software Engineering Course

Students in this course are introduced to the professional, ethical and legal parameters that influence software engineers. Topics in this course include industry codes of ethics, computer privacy laws and intellectual property laws.

Career Information for Graduates

Students who complete a master's degree program in this field are prepared to find employment as a software engineer. The average annual salary for this occupation ranged from $59,600 to $139,930 in May 2009 according to the BLS. The highest paying industries for this occupation include computer manufacturing, machinery and equipment wholesalers, magnetic and optical media as well as electronic component manufacturing.

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