Master of Science Software Engineering

The master's in Software Engineering provides students with skills that are widely applicable, highly in demand, and richly rewarded. Software engineering is a discipline concerned with the processes, methodologies, techniques, and tools of developing high-quality software systems in a cost-effective manner. The Software Engineering program emphasizes the best software engineering practices, current methodologies, emerging technologies, and their applications in various industries. It also emphasizes the development of communication and presentation skills in a team-based software development environment. The curriculum encompasses all important aspects of software engineering, including: requirements engineering, software architecture and design, software construction, software testing and quality assurance, software maintenance, and software project management.

For international students: this is a STEM-designated program, which can qualify you to extend your post-graduation stay in the United States.

Concentrations

AI in Software Engineering

This concentration equips students with vital skills in AI applications, blending practical learning with in-depth knowledge of AI in software engineering. It hones expertise in applying AI for enhanced software development, ensuring proficiency in AI-driven code analysis and system maintenance. Simultaneously, it deepens understanding of software engineering principles to build robust, AI-powered applications, preparing students for leadership in AI innovation and the development of advanced software solutions, and setting them up for pivotal roles in the software industry’s evolving landscape.

Real-Time Software and Game Systems

This concentration addresses the principles and foundations of the complex field of real-time interactive game systems. Students will gain experiences in system and architectural design, computer graphics and animation, game physics, artificial intelligence, networking, tools and game systems engine development. Students will also gain experiences in the optimization of real-time computer systems used for electronic trading, defense work and mobile development technology. Besides the game industry, students can apply these highly specialized and valuable skills in other industries that use interactive simulations such as architecture, medicine, and law.

Software Development & Architecture

This concentration mergest the core elements of software architecture and development to provide a comprehensive learning experience. It emphasizes both the foundational methodologies and tools required for high-quality software development, and the management and design principles essential for large-scale systems. Students will explore the intersection of technical development and architectural decision making, preparing them for leadership roles in the creation and management of complex, large-scale software projects across various domains.

Learning Outcomes

Students will be able to:

Correctly create a model of the structure and behavior of a software system.
Design and implement, in a programming language, an executable solution to a given problem using common software principles and best practices.
Apply appropriate software testing techniques and evaluate the quality of a software product at module, integration, and system granularity levels.
Select and adapt suitable elements from among conventional and evolving software development life-cycle processes and apply the resulting process to a software project.
Collaborate in teams to develop a significantly sized software system from conceptualization to completion.
Communicate effectively design and development decisions through written and graphical demonstration.

Career Outcomes

$95,000median salary reported by program graduates six months after degree completion

Job Opportunities

A master's in Software Engineering opens up a range of job opportunities across various industries. Graduates can expect to find roles in software development, quality assurance and testing, project management, and specialized fields including cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.

Industry Demand

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 22% growth in employment for software developers, QA analysts, and testers from 2020 to 2030, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.

View All Faculty

Vahid Alizadeh
Assistant Professor
Christopher Hield
Professional Lecturer
Zhen Huang
Assistant Professor

Faculty Research

School of Computing faculty, actively engaged in research projects funded by renowned organizations like the National Science Foundation, Siemens, and Microsoft, provide invaluable insights into specialized areas such as safety-critical software development, software architectural design, and model-driven development.

Student Research Opportunities

Students who are looking for hands-on experience and the opportunity to collaborate with faculty in their field of study are encouraged to pursue research and creative projects at CDM. There are several opportunities at our specialized labs and centers, as well as through research assistantship programs.

Team-based Education

Students in the program learn about software engineering the same way the work is done by professionals: in a collaborative environment that includes team members from around the world. In software engineering, skills in communication, project management, quality assurance and customer relationship management also are important, and you’ll gain them here.

Online Learning

This degree can be completed entirely online. One hundred percent of the program’s lectures—from audio and video to whiteboard writing and supplemental materials—are captured and available online.

Application Deadlines

Enrollment Quarter	Domestic Student Deadline	International Student Deadline
Fall	August 1	June 15
Winter	December 1	October 15
Spring	March 1	January 1
Summer	May 1	April 15

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Admission Process

The graduate application process involves completing an online application, sending in your transcripts and submitting any supplemental material (e.g., letters of recommendation, certifications, etc.). To learn more about your program specific requirements, visit our Graduate Admission page.

Admission Requirements

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Kehinde Abioye

MS in Software Engineering