Software engineers, aided by automation and machine learning, have become more efficient and productive in recent years. They spend less time on basic code and more time on complex problem-solving and innovation. This shift has made graduate-level education, such as a master's in software engineering, increasingly important.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the number of master's in computer and information science degrees conferred increased by 178% between the 2010-11 and 2020-21 school years. The expansion of online programs has helped propel this growth, making it easier for working professionals to keep their jobs and gain experience while advancing their education.
Discover more details about online programs throughout this page, along with a ranking of the best online master's in software engineering. Explore the details and benefits of online learning to find your ideal educational path.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Master's in Software Engineering Degrees
How We Rank Colleges And Bootcamps
ComputerScience.org ranks computer science degree programs at the associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. We also rank bootcamps and certificate programs. Our top priority is making sure you find the best possible fit for your education. We use up-to-date national statistics and focus on factors like return on investment, academic quality, and affordability.
Take a closer look at our rankings on our rankings methodology page.
What Should You Expect From Master's in Software Engineering Programs?
Master's degrees in software engineering programs provide a comprehensive focus on computer-based engineering, programming, and software design. Graduate students build upon their existing technical knowledge to learn to design, develop, and evaluate software.
Master of science degrees in software engineering take a theoretical approach to software design, while master of engineering degrees focus on a practical application of software creation. Both degrees allow graduates to pursue jobs in software engineering.
Schools have various curriculums, courses, and specializations, but the typical software engineering program consists of 30-36 credits and takes two years to complete. Applicants without relevant undergraduate coursework may need to complete additional prerequisite courses or demonstrate relevant work history.
How an Online Master's in Software Engineering Differs From an On-Campus Program
On-campus and online master's in software engineering programs typically have the same material and outcomes, but the student experience can differ significantly. For example, while synchronous online classes simulate on-campus lectures and real-time student engagement, asynchronous distance learning applies independent learning environments.
Most internships have in-person requirements, though online learners can usually choose locations near them. The table below showcases the differences in other major categories.
| Online Program | On-Campus Program | |
|---|---|---|
| Costs | Some schools offer in-state rates for out-of-state online students, which may help reduce costs | Total costs for in-state students include tuition plus travel or room and board |
| Course Load | Often one or two classes for 7-15 weeks | Full-time or part-time schedules available — usually 1-5 classes per semester |
| Scheduling | Asynchronous classes anytime or scheduled synchronous classes during the day, afternoon, evening, or weekends | Classes run during the day, afternoon, evening, or weekends |
| Program Length | Typically two years, though heavy course loads and transfer credits can decrease study times | Typically two years, but accelerated programs and transfer credits can decrease study times |
| Delivery Format | Asynchronous delivery with anytime access to learning materials or synchronous delivery for a more interactive experience | In-class sessions offering direct interaction with peers and instructors |
Sources: NCES
Prospective students should evaluate their personal needs and priorities. They can then compare online and on-campus offerings to identify the method that best aligns with their learning styles.
Delivery Formats for Online Software Engineering Master's Degrees
Online programs offer several delivery formats to accommodate various student schedules and learning styles. Online software engineering master's degrees can run entirely online or through hybrid delivery, which includes some on-campus requirements. With limited travel needed, fully online programs offer greater accessibility to distance students.
Online programs may run asynchronously or synchronously. Students who need the flexibility to study on their own schedule will likely prefer asynchronous delivery, while learners seeking real-time interactions with peers and instructors may benefit from synchronous classes.
Accreditation for Online Graduate Software Engineering Programs
Schools can receive institutional accreditation from specialized accreditation agencies. Accredited schools demonstrate that the institution meets standards for curricular offerings, instructors, and student outcomes.
Enrollees should attend accredited institutions, as financial aid agencies and prospective employers often require the status for eligibility. Employers want to ensure that graduates have developed the necessary skills for the workforce, and accreditation indicates that the student has received adequate preparation.
Programs and departments within schools may receive further accreditation through programmatic accreditation. Master's in software engineering programs may be accredited by ABET, a non-profit accreditation agency that focuses on STEM programs.
Cost of an Online Master's in Software Engineering
Master's in software engineering programs can range from about $20,000-$100,000 or more. Tuition can depend upon factors like school prestige, program length, student-to-professor ratio, and more. Online degrees can be less expensive than in-person programs. According to the NCES, the average annual cost of an online master's in software engineering was significantly lower than in-person programs.
Students should consider other costs aside from tuition, including course materials, transportation, and the cost of living. Software engineering course materials may include computer programs, hardware, and books. Cost of living refers to prices for necessities like housing and food as compared to the national average. This figure varies by location, so make sure to research the cost of living in the place you intend to live.
Average Annual Cost of a Master's in Software Engineering Degree
Online
$10,877
In-Person
$16,750
Source: National Center for Education Statistics
Why Get Your Master's in Software Engineering Degree Online?
Individuals interested in software, logic, and technology may find a degree in software engineering worth pursuing. Software engineering programs may be well-suited to online learning, allowing enrollees to learn concepts and test them simultaneously on computers.
Master's programs may appeal to working professionals, students in rural areas, and recent bachelor's graduates. As online programs can offer flexible hours, remote locations, and fulfilling curriculums, it may benefit multiple types of students.
Attendees who are partial to working at home, having flexible schedules, and extending their search to schools across the U.S. may prefer online degrees. However, enrollees who prefer structure, meeting other students, and attending professor office hours may benefit from in-person programs.
Benefits of Earning an Online Master's in Software Engineering
Software engineers can work in nearly every industry, causing these careers to grow in demand. Many industries pay software engineers strong salaries, as well.
Professional softwareengineers can work with just a computer and the internet. Employees may be allowed flexibility in terms of location and working hours.
Technology experts continuously have growth opportunities because of career variety, changing technologies, and corporate competition. Individuals can leverage these opportunities to advance one's career or learn new skills.
Challenges of Earning a Master's in Software Engineering Online
Software engineering requires time to plan, develop, and test. Engineers may work long hours to meet tight deadlines.
Technology continuously changes and advances, which requires engineers to spend time staying up-to-date on the latest software, trends, and languages.
Professionals in software engineering may need to work with technical teams, designers, and non-tech individuals. Engineers may be required to create multiple program iterations to meet the demands of different team members.
| Career | Wage |
|---|---|
| Software Developer | $124,200 |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $164,070 |
| Database Administrator | $112,120 |
| Web Developer | $78,580 |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $102,240 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2022
Selecting Your Online Software Engineering Program
Prospective students should consider some or all of the following factors when researching online master's in software engineering programs:
Institutional and programmatic accreditation
Online learning support, technologies, and resources
Delivery method and residency requirements
Program curriculum and specialization opportunities
School facilities and accessibility for online learners
In-state or out-of-state tuition rates
School location and travel requirements
Admission requirements and competitiveness
Graduation requirements, including thesis and capstone components
Department faculty and student-to-teacher ratio
Extracurriculars and networking opportunities
Industry partnerships and connections available
School and program prestige and reputation
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Questions About Graduate Software Engineering Programs
How long does it take to get a master's degree in software engineering online?
Online master's in software engineering programs typically comprise 30-36 credits and take two years to complete. However, program length varies depending on learners' enrollment status.
Is software engineering hard?
Software engineering explores challenging topics, including advanced mathematics, coding, and complex computer architecture. Students may find the research and practical lab work in a master's program difficult.
How much is an online master's program in software engineering?
The cost of an online master's degree in software engineering varies by school and program. According to the NCES, the average annual tuition was $12,596 in public schools and $28,017 in private schools in the 2021-22 academic year.
Is an online master's in software engineering worth it?
It can be. A tech professional with a master's degree in software engineering can pursue lucrative careers and may receive promotions and leadership opportunities over bachelor's-level professionals.
