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Engineering & Technology

Software Engineering

Top Salary
$133,080
Job Growth
+7%
Total Employed
1,895,500
Career Paths
2

Overview

The Software Engineering major equips students with the essential skills and knowledge required to design, develop, and maintain software systems. Students delve into various key study areas, including programming languages, software development methodologies, algorithms, data structures, and software testing and quality assurance. Through hands-on projects and collaborative teamwork, students learn to apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to real-world challenges in software design and implementation. In addition to technical skills, students also gain proficiency in communication, both written and verbal, which is crucial for collaborating with team members and stakeholders. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of understanding user needs and incorporating customer feedback into the software development process. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers as Software Developers, with an average annual salary of $133,080 and a projected job growth rate of 7%. They may also pursue roles as Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers, earning around $102,610 per year, also with a 7% growth outlook. The demand for skilled software engineers continues to rise, making this major a relevant and promising choice for students interested in technology and innovation.

Source: O*NET Database — U.S. Department of Labor

Career Paths & Salaries

Software Developers
1,693,800 employed+7% growth
$133,080
/year
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
201,700 employed+7% growth
$102,610
/year

Salary data from Bureau of Labor Statistics (last updated: February 2026)

Top Required Skills

Programming80%
Reading Comprehension80%
Critical Thinking78%
Active Listening78%
Speaking78%
Writing75%
Judgment and Decision Making72%
Monitoring72%

Core Knowledge Areas

Computers and Electronics95%
English Language76%
Mathematics71%
Customer and Personal Service71%
Engineering and Technology65%
Design60%
Education and Training58%
Telecommunications52%

Frequently Asked Questions

What job opportunities are available for Software Engineering graduates?

Software Engineering graduates can work as Software Developers or Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers. The average salary for Software Developers is $133,080 per year with an expected growth rate of 7%. Meanwhile, the average salary for Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers is $102,610 per year with the same growth rate.

What skills will I need to study Software Engineering?

You will need skills in programming, reading comprehension, critical thinking, active listening, speaking, writing, judgment and decision making, and monitoring.

What are the job prospects after graduating from Software Engineering?

Job prospects for Software Engineering graduates are strong, with demand for Software Developers and Software Quality Assurance Analysts expected to grow by 7% in the coming years.

Are there opportunities for advancement in Software Engineering?

Yes, there are many opportunities for advancement in Software Engineering, as engineers can move into leadership or specialized roles in specific areas.

What challenges might I face while studying Software Engineering?

You may face challenges related to understanding complex concepts in programming and technology, as well as the need to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Education Level

Bachelor's Degree85%
Associate's Degree26%
Post-Secondary Certificate9%
Some College, No Degree9%
Master's Degree5%
High School Diploma3%
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate1%

Data Source

Data from O*NET 30.2 Database (U.S. Dept. of Labor, February 2026) and Bureau of Labor Statistics salary data.