Online Computer & Software Engineering Degree Programs

The magic of computer systems lie in their programming. Degrees in computer software engineering can prepare students to write the complex directions that can give stand-alone and networks their complex functionality. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that this is a career with serious potential--in both employment opportunity and annual salary.

Career Options in Computer Software Engineering

As a software engineer, you can help create computer applications such as games and graphic design programs--or you may build and maintain whole systems of programs. This work traditionally requires you to use computer languages creatively. You may work in a team in an office setting. However, working remotely as a freelancer is also possible. Deadlines and inconvenient moments of inspiration can sometimes demand unusual work hours, including long days or nights and weekend work. Your workweek may exceed forty hours.

Consulting opportunities may flourish as businesses, hesitant in bringing permanent workers on staff, prefer to outsource single projects to engineers on a temp basis. In such cases, these projects may pay significantly more than they would if they were assigned to a permanent staffer.

Computer Software Engineering Employment Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of computer software engineers is expected to grow by 38 percent, or 324,000 jobs, through the next eight years--much faster than the nation average for all occupations through 2016. Those professionals with bachelor's degrees in computer engineering or career training in computer science should enjoy the choice positions.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a competitive salary range for computer software engineering graduates across the country. In 2007, computer software engineers working with applications earned a median annual salary of $83,130 and those working with systems software earned $89,070. However, for recent graduates in computer engineering, starting salaries averaged just over $56,000 in 2007, while computer science graduates earned slightly over $53,000.

Prospective Degrees and Coursework in Computer Software Engineering

While many employers prefer industry experience gained through an internship, they may also require a bachelor's degree or even a master's degree. Many online universities offer bachelor's and master's degrees in software engineering as well as in computer science. Courses can include training in computer languages, systems operations, testing, and project management.

While there is no one set route for computer engineers in undergraduate studies, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers recommends this typical curriculum for potential computer engineering candidates:

Physics or chemistry
Math
Computer hardware and microcomputers
Oral and written communications
Lab and design work
Software engineering

Online Career Training Options for Software Engineers

Earning computer software engineering degrees through a distance education program holds a variety of benefits over the traditional campus program. The inherent technological component of the online program can provide you with a competitive edge over campus-based program graduates. Also, the time and cost to complete the program is typically shortened.