Software engineering focuses on specialized skills for designing, building, testing, and refining computer programs. Online software engineering degrees can offer a budget-friendly and convenient way to build these valuable, in-demand proficiencies.
As computer technology evolves, software will do the same, putting engineering specialists in continued high demand. In February 2024, CompTIA published a list of 24 high-demand information technology skills. Four of the top 10 skills directly cited software engineering or development proficiencies.
Now is an excellent time to study software engineering, and online learning formats provide added flexibility. This guide offers insight into the top programs, which you can use to launch your search for the right school.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Bachelor's in Software Engineering Degrees
How We Rank Colleges and Bootcamps
ComputerScience.org uses trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) to rank computer science degree programs. To help you find the best possible fit for your education, we focus on factors like return on investment, academic quality, and affordability. Our research also considers metrics such as graduation rate, student debt, and potential earnings.
This ranking is from 2024. Explore our rankings methodology page to learn more about how we rank programs.
What to Expect From the Best Online Degrees in Software Engineering
Graduates of online software engineering programs can pursue careers in software engineering and development. Coursework typically covers computer programming languages, software design, security, and computer networks. Students learn to assess usability and apply engineering principles to software development.
Most online software engineering degrees take four years of full-time study to complete and comprise 120 credits. Common courses in these programs include introduction to coding languages, methods of software engineering, user experience design, and software development lifecycle.
Common Courses for Online Software Engineering Degrees
Most online bachelor's in software engineering programs require core, elective/concentration, and general education classes. Many also require capstone projects or courses. Core coursework explores computer programming languages, discrete mathematics, software security, and the software development lifecycle.
Classes vary by program but can include project management, programming principles, operating systems, and database management.
The following list details additional courses commonly found in online software engineering bachelor's programs.
UI/UX Design and Development: Students explore user experience and user interface design concepts and techniques. The class emphasizes user-centric designs, user testing, and visual prototypes. Learners design and develop user interfaces for cloud-based, mobile, and embedded systems.
Software Reverse Engineering: This course explores ways to make new software products, recreate code for applications, and improve software component efficiency.
Secure Coding: Enrollees explore common vulnerabilities in software development. Coursework covers best practices for developing secure code and mitigate risks for software users.
Discrete Structures and Algorithms: Students explore logic and proofs alongside structures like graphs and trees to understand the parts of discrete structures. Topics include dynamic programming, binary search trees, priority queues, and hash tables.
Software Engineering Project: This course allows learners to put theory into practice. Depending on the program, they may complete individual or group projects. Some schools connect learners with local companies to create projects relevant to real-world issues.
How Is an Online Degree Different From a Campus Program?
In computer-related majors, on-campus degrees translate well to online programs. Unlike other STEM subjects, you don't need access to an on-campus lab to complete practical assignments.
The online learning environment offers benefits and drawbacks for software engineering majors. Online students often complete their coursework on their own schedules and in locations of their choice.
Distance learners can avoid relocation and traveling to school, but they may still commute if their home internet is not reliable. On-campus students can benefit from face-to-face instruction and in-person relationships with peers and professors.
| Factor | Online Program | On-Campus Program |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Around $300-$675 | Around $515-$900 |
| Course Load | 12-18 credits per semester | 12-18 credits per semester |
| Accreditation | Institutional; ABET | Institutional; ABET |
| Program Length | 4 years | 4 years |
| Scheduling | Blocks or Semesters | Usually Semesters |
| Admissions Requirements | High school diploma or equivalent; may require minimum GPA and/or ACT or SAT scores | High school diploma or equivalent; may require minimum GPA and/or ACT or SAT scores |
Sources: Various programs
The chart above shows that on-campus and online programs are typically similar in time, cost, and accreditation. When deciding between an online or on-campus program, find the model that works for you. Ask yourself:
Do I need a flexible schedule, or do I work better with more structure?
Do I prefer mastering new concepts independently, or do I enjoy the benefits of having an in-person instructor?
Can I locate the tools, technologies, and resources I need? Or do I need in-person access to laboratories, professors, librarians, and other campus-based staff members?
How Is an Undergraduate Degree Different From a Bootcamp?
Bootcamps offer intensive, career-focused training in tech subjects like software engineering. A college or university, on the other hand, confers four-year degrees with courses in general education, computer science theory, and mathematics.
Bootcamp graduates can compete for tech roles after graduation. They may, however, be limited in their career trajectories.
College graduates may find that their skills and knowledge can lead to leadership, research, and teaching opportunities. Bootcamps and colleges offer networking opportunities and career guidance resources, but colleges typically offer more options to connect with peers and instructors.
Typical Costs for Online Software Engineering Degrees
NCES data indicates that computer science programs at schools offering fully online instruction charged about $7,093 in tuition and required fees in 2020. You can use this as a general guide while remembering that many factors can influence program costs.
Major examples include:
School type (public vs. private)
Whether you study as an in-state or out-of-state student at a public college
The school's reputation
Despite variations, studying online still offers significant savings potential. General NCES data from 2020-2021 shows an overall average of $21,337 in tuition and fees — about triple the average cost of schools that offer fully online programs.
Beyond tuition, you may also need to account for other costs if you study online. These could include:
Online learning fees
Computer equipment
Software licenses or subscriptions
Data and telecommunications services
To help cover your expenses, look into computer science scholarships and grant programs before considering federal or private loans.
Why Get a Bachelor's in Software Engineering Degree Online?
An online degree in software engineering can open the door to in-demand tech career opportunities with higher-than-average salaries, including software engineer and software developer roles.
Other career options in software engineering include web developer, computer and information systems manager, and computer and information research scientist. Some of these positions may require additional education.
A bachelor's degree is typically the minimum education requirement for most software engineer positions. Some software engineers pursue master's degrees — online or in person — to increase their career opportunities and earning potential. However, employers may also hire candidates who complete programs like software engineering bootcamps.
Bootcamps provide practical training to prepare participants for entry-level tech jobs. A bachelor's in software engineering degree takes longer and is usually more expensive than a bootcamp but offers a more comprehensive curriculum and a broader educational experience.
Benefits of completing a bachelor's degree in software engineering online include the following:
Higher-Than-Average Salaries: May 2024 Payscale data indicates that software engineers earn an average of about $93,430 per year. With bonuses and other financial benefits, that figure can increase to $144,000 per year and beyond.
Specialized Jobs: Specialization offers a useful way for tech professionals to insulate themselves from job market saturation. Software engineering is a valuable and useful specialization, given that society has become increasingly dependent on complex computer systems and applications.
Strong Employment Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects faster than average growth in software engineer employment across the U.S. in 2023-2033, amounting to nearly 140,100 job openings per year.
In-Demand Skills: The U.S. Department of Labor's O*NET Online profiles software developers and computer systems engineers, which reflect the software engineering path. Each job title carried "much faster than average" growth projections, with the BLS predicting 17% job growth for software developers from 2023-2033.
Professional Development Flexibility: With a bachelor's degree, you can enter the workforce and continue building skills as you gain experience. To upgrade your credentials, you can pursue professional certifications, advanced degrees, or both.
Choosing the Best Online Software Engineering Program for You
Our ranking of the best online software engineering degree programs is a great place to start your search for the right school. Below, we cover additional factors to consider when researching potential programs of interest.
Accreditation: Schools earn accreditation through a third-party evaluation process that considers academics, faculty qualifications, campus facilities, and student outcomes. Institutional accreditation allows learners to apply for federal financial aid and transfer credits to other accredited institutions. The best online bachelor's in software engineering programs also hold programmatic accreditation from ABET.
Career Services: A university's career services department may offer jobs and internship placement, resume-writing workshops, mock interviews, and access to job databases.
Available Courses: Research course offerings at prospective schools to determine if a program offers classes or concentrations that align with your professional goals.
By using Common App, you can apply to more than 1,000 colleges and universities with a single application. While you do not have to use this platform, the service offers affordability and efficiency in your college search process.
More Options to Learn Software Engineering
Questions About Online Degrees for Software Engineers
Can you work as a software engineer with an online degree?
Yes — online software engineering bachelor's degrees can prepare you to pursue entry-level software engineer employment. Many schools use online delivery for added convenience and flexibility.
What options are available for online software engineering programs?
Online software engineering degrees include 100% online programs and hybrid options that blend face-to-face and distance learning. Your classes could be synchronous (with live lectures) or asynchronous (with pre-recorded content). Prioritize schools that use your preferred format.
How long does it take to get a software engineering degree online?
Typically, enrollees need four years of full-time study to complete an online software engineering degree. Some schools may offer accelerated degrees that allow students to finish in less time.
Are online software engineering bachelor's degrees hard?
As with any course of study, an online software engineering degree poses challenges and requires hard work, time, and practice. The field's technical skills often attract learners who enjoy concepts like mathematics, logic, and programming languages.
The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by ComputerScience.org. Page last reviewed December 4, 2023
