Best Colleges Online - Most Affordable Degrees-01In this article, we profile the 30 most affordable master’s in software engineering online programs of 2021.

Software developers or software engineers make good wages and have a favorable job outlook, according to U.S. News and World Report’s Best Job Rankings. In fact, for several years in a row, software engineers have occupied the #1 spot for “best jobs.” But to land a job as a software developer or engineer, you’ll need the proper education. Thankfully, online software engineering programs are available so that you won’t need to give up valuable work experience while going back to school.

30 Affordable Online Master’s Programs in Software Engineering Methodology

We reviewed approximately 60 colleges and universities listed by the Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator and reputable online sources that offered master’s in software engineering online programs or closely related degrees. We narrowed our original pool of schools by applying the following criteria: accreditation (regional and/or national), institution and/or program rankings with at least one major publication, such as U.S. News and World Report, and affordability. We selected schools with a combined graduate tuition cost and fees of less than $23,000 per year. We then listed our top 30 programs according to raw affordability.

Below are the resulting selections for the top 30 most affordable master’s in software engineering online programs of 2021.

#30 – Florida Institute of Technology

Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Melbourne, Florida

Website

Florida Institute of Technology - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
Florida Tech’s online master’s in software engineering emphasizes research for grad students.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $22,588

At Florida Institute of Technology (Florida Tech), qualifying students may enroll in the master’s in software engineering online degree program. The program provides graduates with a strong background in computer organization, computer science, and mathematics. Students take online courses taught by Florida Tech’s esteemed faculty. Since the school focuses on research, students gain access to work collaboratively with faculty on topical research areas. Research opportunities include computer security, process improvement, secure software development, and more. Florida Tech ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 202nd best national university in the country. The program is fully accredited.

#29 – Pennsylvania State University World Campus

Online Master’s in Software Engineering

University Park, Pennsylvania

Website

Pennsylvania State University World Campus - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
Ranked and accredited! Pennsylvania State University’s master’s in software engineering online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $22,186

Pennsylvania State University World Campus offers an online master’s in software engineering for individuals with an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, or information sciences. The program consists of 36 credits and is fully accredited. Each course runs seven weeks in length over the span of two years. Courses cover topics like database design and concepts, pattern-oriented design, software systems architecture, and software system design. Penn State World Campus is nationally recognized by U.S. News and World Report. In addition to school recognition, the online master’s in engineering programs rank #6 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

#28 – Nova Southeastern University

Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Website

Nova Southeastern University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
36 credit hours! Nova Southeastern’s online master’s in software engineering.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $21,206

An affordable option for an online software engineering program is the master’s in software engineering at Nova Southeastern University. This 36-hour degree program focuses on the foundations of software engineering while implementing additional study in design, development, and project management. Courses you will likely see while enrolled in the graduate program include interaction design, object-oriented design, and software testing and verification. In addition to offering affordable tuition, Nova ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, Nova ranks #246 in best national universities and #165 in top performers on social mobility. Nova is also fully accredited.

#27 – Dominican University

Online Master’s in Software Development

River Forest, Illinois

Website

Dominican University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
Offers 4 specializations! Dominican University’s software development degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,884

Those seeking online master’s in software engineering programs should consider Dominican University. The online master’s in software development offered at the school prepares graduates for careers in applications, software development, and software engineering. To help tailor your degree to better align with your career goals, the program offers four specializations. These include database management, mobile applications development, software design, and web development. Dominican ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 11th best regional university in the Midwest and 3rd best value school. The institution and its graduate programs are fully accredited and cost less than $21,000 per year.

#26 – DePaul University

Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Chicago, Illinois

Website

DePaul University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
DePaul University’s affordable master’s in software engineering online degree offers several concentration options.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,974

DePaul University’s College of Computing and Digital Media offers a master’s in software engineering online degree. The program emphasizes best software engineering practices, methodologies, and technologies, staying on top of cutting-edge research. Also, four available concentrations allow students to tailor their degree toward goals and interests. These concentrations include entrepreneurship and technology leadership, real-time game systems, software architecture, and software development. Core and advanced classes you will likely take cover topics like data structures, discrete structures for computer science, and introduction to programming. DePaul ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, recent rankings include #125 in best national universities.

#25 – St. Mary’s University

Online Master’s in Software Engineering

San Antonio, Texas

Website

St. Mary's University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
Thesis or project options! St. Mary’s University’s online master’s in software engineering.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,730

St. Mary’s University offers online software engineering programs designed to train individuals to succeed in design, development, and software maintenance. Courses are delivered entirely online and taught by the same faculty who lead classes on campus. These courses cover topics like software project planning and management, software quality assurance, software security, and user interface design. There are two completion pathways to the master’s in software engineering online degree at St. Mary’s – the thesis option or project option. While the requirements of each pathway vary, both must be presented and defended orally. St. Mary’s ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 10th best regional university in the West and the 2nd best value school.

#24 – Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Blacksburg, Virginia

Website

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
A top-ranked school with affordable online software engineering programs – Virginia Tech!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,972

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (also known as Virginia Tech) offers affordable software engineering degree programs for busy and working students. With a highly favorable job outlook and anticipated employment growth, the demand for skilled software engineers is rising. To stay ahead of demand, Virginia Tech prepares students for careers at all levels of software engineering. Courses cover topics like object-oriented programming with Java, software design and quality, and software engineering. In addition to offering quality software engineering programs, the school ranks with U.S. News and World Report. In fact, Virginia Tech’s rankings include #74 in best national universities and #132 in best value schools.

#23 – Mercer University

Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Macon, Georgia

Website

Mercer University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
Less than $16,000 per year! Mercer’s online master’s in software engineering.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,722

Mercer University’s online master’s in software engineering (MSE) program is designed to prepare students to succeed in software engineering careers. Upon completion of the program, students gain skills and knowledge necessary to communicate technical aspects of solutions to technical audiences. Courses are delivered online, making the program convenient for working and busy students. Course topics include improvement of higher-level designs, performance data science analyses, and software development. Mercer ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, Mercer’s recent rankings include #153 in best national universities and #109 in best colleges for veterans. The graduate tuition is less than $16,000 per year.

#22 – Maryville University

Online Master’s in Software Development

Saint Louis, Missouri

Website

Maryville University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
Earn an online master’s in software development in just 12 months at Maryville University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,646

Maryville University’s master’s in software engineering online program emphasizes software development and functionality. The program is delivered 100% online and offers three start times per year. Also, classes run at a rigorous pace, but this means that students may earn their degree in as little as 12 months. Some of the required courses cover topics like data structures, introduction to programming, object-oriented software architecture, and user interface design. In addition to offering quality, accredited graduate programs, such as the online master’s in software development, Maryville has earned rankings from U.S. News and World Report. In fact, recent rankings include #202 in best national universities.

#21 – Strayer University

Online Master’s in Information Systems – Software Engineering Management

Washington, District of Columbia

Website

Strayer University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
Online 12 courses! Strayer University’s online master’s in software engineering management.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $2,490 per course

Strayer University offers affordable software engineering degree programs designed for working students. To complete the program, students must take 12 courses that each run 11 weeks. These courses cover software engineering topics applicable to the industry. Course topics include advanced software engineering, advanced systems analysis and design, IT project leadership strategies, and strategic planning for database systems. Strayer earns a top spot on our list for affordability.

#20 – Lewis University

Online Master’s in Computer Science – Software Engineering

Romeoville, Illinois

Website

Lewis University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
Ranked and affordable! Lewis University offers an online computer science program with software engineering specialization.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,550

Lewis University’s online software engineering program is designed to prepare students for success as software engineering managers. Students earn a master’s in computer science and concentration in software engineering, which consists of a total of 33 credits. Courses cover topics like data visualization, object-oriented development, software architecture and design, software engineering, and software testing and quality assurance. Near the end of the program, students take three credit hours toward the completion of a master’s thesis. Lewis University is a top-ranked institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school #20 in best regional universities in the Midwest.

#19 – Regis University

Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Denver, Colorado

Website

Regis University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
Ideal for working students! The online master’s in software engineering at Regis University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,441

Regis University’s master’s in software engineering online degree prepares and educates students on the disciplines associated with modern software engineering. A total of 36 credits are required for completion of the master’s degree at Regis. The program’s courses are structured to run eight weeks in length to ensure students earn their degree quickly and efficiently. Courses for the Regis software engineering program cover topics like object-oriented software engineering, software architecture and design, and web mobile frameworks. Regis University is a top-ranked national institution. In fact, Regis ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 202nd best national university in the country.

#18 – Colorado Technical University

Online Master’s in Computer Science – Software Engineering

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Website

Colorado Technical University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
100% online! Colorado Tech’s master’s in software engineering online degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,321

Colorado Technical University’s online master’s in software engineering program is designed to prepare graduates for careers in the field of software development and related industries. CTU’s program is structured as a master’s in computer science with a concentration in software engineering. Graduates are well-versed in complex software systems and prepared to enter various roles in computer science and software engineering. Courses you will likely see at CTU include computer systems architecture, database systems, design and analysis of algorithms, software design, software requirements engineering, and software systems engineering process. CTU is recognized by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Also, both the computer information technology and engineering programs have received top rankings.

#17 – University of Michigan

Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Dearborn, Michigan

Website

University of Michigan - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
University of Michigan’s online master’s in software engineering consists of 30 credits.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,570

University of Michigan’s affordable software engineering degree costs less than $14,000 per year and is comprised as a 30-credit interdisciplinary program. Offered through the Department of Computer and Information Science and the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, the program prepares students to enter careers in various fields of software and computer engineering or pursue doctoral studies. Courses cover a series of topics applicable to the field. These courses include advanced software techniques in engineering applications, data analytics in software engineering, embedded systems, and software engineering. In addition to offering quality online programs, UM Dearborn ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 33rd best regional university in the Midwest.

#16 – Stratford University

Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Fairfax, Virginia

Website

Stratford University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
Finish your online master’s in software engineering at Stratford in just 15 months!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,518

Stratford University’s online software engineering program is designed to provide a foundation in software engineering that prepares students for careers in various industry roles. The program may be completed entirely online or on campus. Courses run five to ten weeks in length and move at a rigorous pace. The pacing allows students to earn their degree in just 15 months, making Stratford’s master’s in software engineering one of the fastest programs on our list. Core classes Stratford students take while enrolled in this program include database systems technology, ethics and professional practice issues in IT, and software engineering for the world wide web. Stratford University is accredited by ACICS to award online master’s degrees and is one of the most affordable schools on our list.

#15 – Washington State University

Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Pullman, Washington

Website

Washington State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
Full-time and part-time study options! WSU’s master’s in software engineering online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,095

Washington State University’s master’s in software engineering online degree program is specifically designed to prepare engineering professionals for career advancement. To enter the program, students must hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field or have ample experience working as a software engineer or computer scientist. Full-time and part-time study options are available and add to the program’s flexibility. With a full-time course load, students typically earn their degree in less than two years. Courses you will likely take while enrolled in WSU’s software engineering online program include software design and architecture, software maintenance, and software testing. WSU ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 166th best national university and 106th best value school.

#14 – Arizona State University

Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Tempe, Arizona

Website

Arizona State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
ASU’s online master’s in software engineering is made up of 10 classes.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,608

Arizona State University’s online master’s in software engineering program consists of 10 classes and 30 total credits. Courses are delivered online and taught by ASU’s esteemed faculty. These courses run 7.5-15 weeks in length. Course topics you will likely encounter while enrolled in the online master’s in software engineering program at ASU include the following: information assurance and security, software engineering principles and concepts, and software verification and validation. The admission process at ASU requires an earned bachelor’s degree in computer engineering or a closely related field and a 3.00 undergraduate GPA. ASU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, recent rankings include #117 in best national universities. Also, the online master’s in engineering programs, including software engineering, rank #13 in the country.

#13 – The University of Texas

Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Austin, Texas

Website

The University of Texas - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
Earn a master’s in software engineering online degree at UT Austin.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,998

The University of Texas Cockrell School of Engineering offers affordable software engineering degree programs, including the master’s in software engineering. This program is tailored for busy and working schedules. In fact, the two-year program provides the opportunity for full-time working students to earn a master’s in software engineering. Courses are delivered online and taught by UT’s esteemed faculty. These courses cover topics like distributed information system security, mobile computing, parallel algorithms, and software architectures. Admission requirements include an earned bachelor’s in electrical or computer engineering and a 3.0 GPA in undergraduate upper-division courses. Also, UT ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top 50 national university.

#12 – Auburn University

Online Master’s in Computer Science and Software Engineering

Auburn, Alabama

Website

Auburn University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
Flexibility! Auburn’s master’s in computer science and software engineering!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,504

Auburn University offers a master’s in software engineering online degree program designed for eligible students who hold a bachelor’s in computer science and software engineering. Courses are delivered online and taught by Auburn’s full-time faculty. Students have the option of choosing a non-thesis or thesis pathway to complete their degree. This completion option adds to the flexibility of the program. Courses you will likely encounter while enrolled in Auburn’s software engineering program include advanced computer architecture, advanced topics in algorithms, and advanced topics in operating systems. Not only is Auburn ranked as a top national institution with U.S. News and World Report, but its engineering programs have received rankings. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks Auburn’s online master’s in engineering programs #23 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#11 – Kansas State University

Online Master of Software Engineering

Manhattan, Kansas

Website

Kansas State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
ABET-accredited! KSU’s online master’s in software engineering.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,277

Kansas State University’s online master’s in software engineering (MSE) degree program consists of 33 credits and can be completed entirely online. The program is fully accredited (ABET) and the same engineering faculty who instruct on campus also deliver online courses. Classes are made up of lectures, discussion boards, readings, and videos. Curriculum covers topics like data mining and information retrieval, distributed systems, intelligent systems, security, and web-based systems. To qualify for admission, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, or a closely related field. KSU is a top-ranked national university. According to U.S. News and World Report, the school ranks #162 in best national institutions. Also, the online master’s in engineering programs rank #38 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#10 – West Virginia University

Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Morgantown, West Virginia

Website

West Virginia University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
Only 11 courses! West Virginia University’s online master’s in software engineering.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,134

West Virginia University’s master’s in software engineering online degree program requires the completion of 11 courses and 33 credit hours. Offered by the Lane Department of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering, the software engineering program is designed to provide students with the expertise to better understand the design and development of software applications and systems. Online courses cover topics like agile software development, cloud computing for the internet of things, enterprise architecture framework, and software engineering of mobile applications. WVU is a fully accredited, public institution that has received rankings from U.S. News and World Report. In fact, rankings include #228 in best national universities and #109 in top public schools.

#9 – University of Houston

Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Houston, Texas

Website

University of Houston - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
Finish in 15 months! University of Houston – master’s in software engineering online degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,334

University of Houston’s online software engineering programs include the master’s in software engineering. This affordable online master’s degree is designed to prepare students for careers in a variety of industries that implement software engineering practices. These industries include finance, government and defense, healthcare, high-tech, research and development, and retail. The program is tailored for students with a background in computer science. Also, the program can be completed in less than two years by taking three courses each semester over the fall, spring, and summer terms. In fact, by adhering to this completion pathway, students earn their online master’s in software engineering in just 15 months. In addition to offering quality online graduate degrees, University of Houston ranks nationally with U.S. News and World Report. Also, the online master’s in engineering programs rank #60 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#8 – The University of West Florida

Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Pensacola, Florida

Website

The University of West Florida - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
100% online master’s in software engineering! UWF!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,062

The University of West Florida’s online master’s in software engineering program merges the study of computer sciences with software engineering. This 100% online program is identical to the one earned on campus. Online students take the same core classes required of resident students. These courses cover foundational topics like data storage and retrieval, software design and architecture, software engineering practice, and software programming. In addition to completing the required courses, students must meet project and thesis obligations. University of West Florida ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 34th best regional university in the South and 52nd best value school.

#7 – University of Maryland Global Campus

Online Master’s in Information Technology – Software Engineering

Adelphi, Maryland

Website

University of Maryland Global Campus - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
Study IT and software engineering at University of Maryland Global Campus.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,910

The University of Maryland Global Campus offers a uniquely designed master’s in software engineering online degree program designed to equip graduates for careers in IT and software engineering. While the program focuses on IT, students also earn a specialization in software engineering. Online courses cover topics like computer systems architecture, information technology project management, modern software methodologies, relational database systems, and software verification and validation. Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher at all times and degree requirements must be met within five consecutive years. UMGC is a regionally ranked public institution. In fact, the school ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 20th most innovative institution.

#6 – Saint Cloud State University

Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Saint Cloud, Minnesota

Website

Saint Cloud State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
Ranked by U.S. News! Saint Cloud State’s master’s in software engineering online degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,572

Saint Cloud State University offers affordable software engineering degree programs, such as the online master’s in software engineering. Tailored to meet the needs of working adults and professionals, the program is delivered entirely online and integrates MBA courses alongside software engineering classes. Not only do students gain a greater understanding of software engineering practices, but become equipped with leadership and management skills. Admission to the program requires a minimum of two years’ work experience in a computing field after completing an undergraduate degree. Applicants without the required work history must complete a full-time internship during the program. Saint Cloud State ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 105th best regional university in the Midwest and 30th top public school. Also, the online master’s in engineering programs rank #74-#94.

#5 – Liberty University

Online Master’s in Information Technology – Software Design Management

Lynchburg, Virginia

Website

Liberty University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
Accepts 50% transfer credits! Liberty University – online master’s in IT and software design management.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,400

Liberty University’s online software engineering programs include the master’s in information technology with software design management specialization. This 36-credit hour degree program offers eight-week online courses and accepts up to 50% in transfer credits. Typically, the program takes 1.5 years to complete, though students may work at their own pace. Some of the courses offered at Liberty include secure software engineering, software design, and software development management. To be admitted to the IT and software design master’s program, a regionally or nationally accredited bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA is required. Liberty ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 293rd-381st best national university. Also, additional rankings include #143 in top engineering programs.

#4 – Texas Tech University

Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Lubbock, Texas

Website

Texas Tech University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
Affordable online software engineering programs! Texas Tech University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,181

Texas Tech University offers one of the most affordable software engineering degree programs on our list. Intended to provide graduate students with a firm foundation in the development and maintenance of complex software systems using engineering methods, the software engineering program is ideal for those looking to advance their career trajectories. Courses cover software engineering topics like distributed systems, fault tolerant computer systems, software modeling and architecture, software project management, and software verification and validation. In addition to offering a quality software engineering program, Texas Tech ranks with U.S. News and World Report. In fact, Texas Tech ranks #218 in best national universities.

#3 – East Carolina University

Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Greenville, North Carolina

Website

East Carolina University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
ECU’s master’s in software engineering online program ranks with U.S. News!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,535

East Carolina University’s online software engineering programs include the online master’s in software engineering. This flexibly designed online program offers an innovative approach to learning software engineering techniques and practices that benefit one of the fastest-growing careers. Students must meet the minimum requirements of the school for admission, including an earned bachelor’s degree and satisfactory performance on either the Miller Analogies Test (MAT) or Graduate Record Examination (GRE). The MSSE program debuted in 2008 and has continuously trained students for technical careers in a booming technical job market. ECU also ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, ECU ranks #228 in best national universities and #109 in top public schools.

#2 – Kennesaw State University

Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Kennesaw, Georgia

Website

Kennesaw State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
Highly affordable online software engineering program! Kennesaw State University!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,334

Kennesaw State University’s affordable software engineering degree programs include the online master’s in software engineering. The MSSWE consists of seven required courses, three to four electives, and one capstone experience. During the capstone, students choose between a project or thesis option to satisfy degree requirements. Both options allow students to delve into areas of interest that will also meet career goals. Some of the required courses you will likely take while enrolled in the degree program at Kennesaw include requirements engineering, software architecture, and software project planning and management. Kennesaw State ranks with U.S. News and World Report as a top national university and most innovative school.

#1 – Saint Leo University

Online Master’s in Software Engineering

Saint Leo, Florida

Website

Saint Leo University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Software Engineering Online Programs 2020
#1 affordable master’s in software engineering online program! Saint Leo University!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,296

Saint Leo University is our #1 most affordable school for an online master’s in software engineering. The program’s curriculum addresses the industry needs by teaching theoretical concepts and fundamental principles. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), Saint Leo has also earned a designation as an NSA/DHS National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education. While enrolled in the software engineering program, students take classes that cover topics like cybersecurity risk management, database security, secure software design, and software reliability and testing. In addition to being the most affordable school on our list, Saint Leo ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 25th best regional university in the South and 5th best value school.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can you do with a master’s in software engineering online degree?

Software engineers are responsible for developing systems and software for businesses. They are the creative minds behind software programs, applications, and computer systems. In fact, they often create the systems that allow computers to function properly.

With a master’s in software engineering online degree, you are likely qualified to work as a software engineer in various industries, from tech to healthcare. Due to the demand in software needs, a surge of software engineering careers has emerged. Below are a few different types of career paths one might take with an online software engineering degree.

Applications Software Developer

An applications software developer creates applications and programming for the application. Experience with a range of programming languages, such as Java and C++, are necessary to work as a skilled application software engineer.

Software Developer

Software developers have strong programming skills that enable them to debug programs, conduct quality assurance tests, and analyze business requirements for certain software. Depending on the software, these specialized developers can work in various fields.

Web Developer
With experience in web-based applications, coding, and other technologies, web developers are responsible for writing and creating code for websites. They also provide technical support.

As the industry evolves and changes, new careers in software engineering emerge. Software engineers might pursue careers in cloud computing, green energy, health informatics, mobile applications, robotics, or the Internet of Things.

What is the job outlook for individuals with a master’s in software engineering online degree?

According to the job outlook of software developers published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for this occupation is expected to grow 21 percent through 2028. The projected growth is much faster than the average for all occupations. As the demand for computer software rises, software engineers and developers will be needed to respond to the increase.

There is an even faster employment growth anticipated for applications developers. Software engineers working with applications should see an overall job outlook and increase of 26 percent through 2028. The primary reason for such a dramatic growth is the demand for computer software and applications.

As the need for new applications and software on smart phones, tablets, and computers increases, the demand for qualified software engineers and developers will also rise. Certain industries project large and rapid growth. For example, health and medical insurance carries will implement innovative software to digitally manage enrollments and policies. As people move to digital platforms, the demand for software engineers will grow.

Another field that will likely see substantial growth over the next several years is computer security. Concerns over threats to computer infrastructure and security may result in an increased demand for qualified engineers. As a result, job prospects will be favorable for applicants with up-to-date skills and proficiency in current software and programming.

How much money can I make with a master’s in software engineering online degree?

According to the U.S. News and World Report rankings for Best Jobs, software developers and engineers rank #1 in three categories. #1 in 100 Best Jobs, #1 in Best STEM Jobs, and #1 in Best Technology Jobs. One of the reasons software engineers earn the coveted #1 spot is salary. So, how much money will you make with a master’s in software engineering online degree? The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shares relevant data.

According to BLS, software developers and software engineers working with applications earn a median annual wage of $103,620 as of May 2018. The median annual wage for software engineers working with systems software is $110,000. The lowest ten percent earned between $61,660 and $66,740 while the highest ten percent earned between $161,290 and $166,960.

In 2018, BLS looked at the top five paying industries for software engineers and developers. For applications software engineers, the top paying industries were software publishers ($114,320), manufacturing ($110,290), finance and insurance ($107,960), management of companies and enterprises ($104,420), and computer systems design and related services ($100,080).

For systems software developers and engineers, the top five paying industries were manufacturing ($118,900), engineering services ($113,250), finance and insurance ($111,380), software publishers ($110,920), and computer systems design and related services ($108,790).

What are the admission requirements for master’s in software engineering online programs?

Once you’ve decided to pursue a career in software engineering, it’s time to receive the proper education. Earning a bachelor’s and master’s in software engineering will help you qualify for a long-term and successful career. But graduate programs, including the online master’s in software engineering programs on our list, have certain admission requirements.

Graduate programs require an earned bachelor’s degree in software engineering, computer engineering, computer science, or a closely related field. A bachelor’s in computer science is the most common undergraduate degree obtained for admission to a master’s in software engineering online program. But beyond the bachelor’s degree, students should focus on classes that better prepare them for work in software engineering. In fact, some programs have prerequisite courses that must be taken before starting a graduate program in software engineering.

Other admission requirements for master’s in software engineering online programs include letters of recommendation, a statement of goals or purpose, and satisfactory GRE or MAT scores. Also important is your undergraduate GPA. Top-tier and top-ranked programs require at a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0. Competitive programs may require an even higher GPA, such as a 3.3 or 3.5. And in some cases, the graduate exams, such as the GRE, may be waived for applicants with stellar undergraduate GPAs.

How long does it take to earn a master’s in software engineering online degree?

The time it takes to earn a master’s in software engineering online depends on various factors. First, completion time varies by program and school. However, the average completion time for the programs on our list is 20 to 24 months. While some programs require less time, others take about two years to complete.

Completion time is directly related to enrollment status. Part-time and full-time enrollment impact the time it takes to earn a degree. While part-time study is generally more flexible, full-time course loads allow students to earn their degree at a quicker pace.

Full-time enrollment means students take a heavier load of courses. Some of the programs on our list allow students to take one or two classes each eight-week term and earn a master’s in software engineering online degree in just 18 months. While full-time programs take less time to complete, part-time enrollment also offers plentiful benefits.

Students enrolled part-time enjoy flexibility and a lighter course load. Part-time enrollment is ideal for working students who require time to balance their education and job obligations. Part-time students typically take less classes at a time or classes are stretched out over a longer period of time than classes in full-time programs. The only downside to part-time programs is that it typically takes longer to earn a degree than if enrolled in a full-time program.

BCO Staff
July 2020

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This concludes our list of the 30 most affordable master’s in software engineering online programs of 2021.