Add more flexibility to your day-to-day life along with more financial stability by earning a degree from one of the 35 Best Colleges for Software Engineering.

Technology is booming—there’s no doubt about it. If you’re interested in a career in some aspect of technology, you might be confused by all the options that seem to be available to you. From computer programmers to software developers, there’s no shortage of options for you to choose from.
Software engineers are responsible for writing the code behind some of the world’s most popular software products, like operating systems, apps, video games, robots, and other computer features. No two careers—and no two days—will be alike. As a software engineer, you could work with code, web design, or user experience. You could also work in a freelance capacity or for a major corporation.
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What do all these careers have in common, though? They’re in exceptionally high demand. With nearly a quarter of a million available jobs in the United States, according to the U.S. News & World Report, you won’t have any trouble finding work after you’ve earned a bachelor’s from one of the best colleges for software engineering.
Related Resource: What is a Bachelor’s Degree?
What Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering?
A bachelor’s degree in software engineering will prepare you with the skills you need to invent and develop technologies that we, as consumers, often take for granted. From the apps that you use every day to the personal calendar that you pull up on your computer, chances are, a software engineer or developer was at least partially responsible.
As a software engineer, you’ll need to have some serious creative and technical chops. The best software engineering programs will teach you how to collaborate with others and communicate with stakeholders (including those without a technical background). You’ll need to become adept at solving problems and you’ll have to have strong analytical skills, too.
While many of your classes will be technical in nature (you’ll have to take classes in things like coding, computer systems design, and other hands-on disciplines), you may also be given the opportunity to specialize your training in another area of expertise. Because many software engineers and developers are employed in fields like finance, business, and healthcare, these topics are often covered as specializations in some software engineering degrees, too.
See Also: Best Undergraduate Economics Schools
Careers for Software Engineering Majors
With a software engineering bachelor’s degree, odds are that you will probably end up working as a software developer. Software developers are one of the best jobs you can pursue, and it’s ranked as the number one best job, best STEM job, and best technology job by U.S. News & World Report.
Of course, earning a bachelor’s degree is the first step to becoming a software developer, but many candidates go on to earn master’s degrees as well.
Naturally, you could also work as a software engineer. Software engineers work to design the most common user interfaces or create automated programs and scripts. Again, a bachelor’s degree is a prerequisite but a graduate degree in software engineering will make you even more competitive.
A final career you might pursue is that of a software architect. You’ll work to make a set of requirements into something that is not only programmable, but also achievable.
See Also: 30 Best Bachelor’s in Web Development
Software Engineering Salary Potential
If you want to earn a high annual salary, there’s no better way to do it than to pursue a bachelor’s degree in software engineering. This degree offers some of the highest potential for consistently high career earnings.
On average, a software developer will earn up to $109,020 per year. With a job growth rate of 25% by 2031 and an average hourly wage of $52.41 per hour, it goes without saying that this is one of the most lucrative fields you can pursue.
You will be able to find work in a variety of industries. The highest 10% of earners, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, earned more than $168,570 in 2021, with the best-paid workers employed by companies like software publishers and insurance carriers. However, you might also find employment in manufacturing, management, or computer systems design.
Other career paths for software engineering majors also have promising salary potential. Software engineers, according to Payscale, can expect to earn an average salary of $86,442 per year, and as a software architect, your earnings will be right around $99,593. Now those are numbers worth aspiring to!
See Related: 35 Best Master’s in Computer Engineering
What Are the Best Software Engineering Colleges?
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San Jose State University

Located in downtown San Jose, San Jose State University is a large public university with more than 145 different bachelor’s and master’s degrees and 108 concentrations. As one of the leading suppliers of alumni to Silicon Valley technology firms, it makes sense that earning a bachelor’s in software engineering from San Jose State University is a smart choice.
This software engineering school is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET and covers all topics of data science, including:
- Data ethics
- Data visualization
- Data security
- Data storage
The bachelor’s degree in software engineering will prepare you to work in a variety of computer science occupations and takes most students just four years to complete. You’ll be able to take a number of relevant technical electives, including:
- Wireless Mobile Software Engineering
- Fundamentals of Data Mining
- Machine Learning for Big Data
- Server Side Web Programming
A total of 120 units are required for graduation.
Iowa State University

Iowa State University is perhaps best known for its prominent athletic teams. Known as the Cyclones, Iowa State athletes compete in Division I of the NCAA and are also part of the Big 12. However, it’s not all fun and games at Iowa State—this public land grant research university is known for its high levels of research activity and offers more than 100 different bachelor’s degrees spread out among eight colleges.
It is in the College of Engineering where the software engineering bachelor’s degree can be found. This program, home to approximately 825 undergraduates, features an impressive job placement rate of 96%. That’s right—96% of this program’s graduates find job placement within just six months of graduation.
Despite only being established in 2007 as a joint program between the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the Department of Computer Science, the degree is one of the most popular in the country. In fact, the software engineering degree repeatedly ranks in the top ten of all programs nationwide by a variety of ranking organizations.
Today, the degree is an interdisciplinary program between the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and the College of Engineering. It includes core classes as well as the choice from a variety of electives like:
- Formal Methods in Software Engineering
- Software System Safety
- Principles and Practice of Compiling
University of Nebraska-Lincoln

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln has a reputation as being one of the most revolutionary and groundbreaking institutions in the country. In fact, it is here that the “Nebraska Method” of ecological study was founded, a method that laid the foundation for theoretical ecology research for many years to come.
But you don’t have to be an ecologist to see the difference that the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is making in the world. This school, which is organized into eight colleges on two campuses, has a dedication to research and development in many other fields, too—including software engineering.
Through this software engineering college, you’ll take classes both in software engineering and computing as well as topics outside these disciplines to fulfill your course requirements here. All software engineering classes are hands-on and highly innovative. In fact, you’ll be able to participate in not just one, but two separate Senior Design capstone courses that will prepare you for professional work with real-world projects that take one year apiece.
With areas of study including data modeling, human factors, technical communication, and more, this bachelor’s degree in software engineering is clearly one of the best of its kind.
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

Combining the arts and humanities with professional and technical curriculums, California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo has a commitment to interdisciplinary education that is hands-on and career-relevant. This public university, founded more than 119 years ago as one of two polytechnics in the California State University system, is one of the best in the country.
The College of Engineering offers a software engineering bachelor’s degree that will prepare you with the in-depth skills in software engineering and computer science that you need to be successful in software design. It features several unique areas of concentration, including:
- Interactive entertainment
- Programming languages
- Operating systems
- Artificial intelligence
Many software engineering majors also choose to complete a computer science or computing for interactive arts minor. There is even a cross-disciplinary minor in data science. All of these minors will enable you to work in a wide variety of relevant fields and to pursue the topics that interest you most.
Not only that, but California Polytechnic also offers a blended software engineering program that allows students to earn their bachelor’s and master’s degrees at the same time. To be eligible, you will need to have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
University of California-Irvine

As one of ten companies in the University of California system, the University of California-Irvine is often referred to simply as UCI. The school offers more than 200 different majors and is classified among R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity by the Carnegie Foundation. It’s home to a variety of teaching and learning institutions, including the UC Irvine Medicine Center.
The Bachelor of Science in software engineering at the University of California-Irvine is perfect for students who like to work in teams and want to be at the cutting edge of software innovation. Through this best software engineering college, you’ll take a variety of core courses that will introduce you to the core fundamentals of software engineering, like requirements analysis, design, and testing. You will also study programming and other relevant computer science concepts. You’ll also be able to take up to two dozen different electives to specialize your studies in an area of interest.
Through this software engineering bachelor’s degree, you’ll gain a wealth of hands-on experience as you complete your courses, learn how to use different programming languages, apply your skills to various domains, and work in teams. You’ll even be able to complete a three-quarter long capstone course that will enable you to work with a team to develop a real system for a client, like a company outside of the university.
Arizona State University-Tempe

With a campus that lies in the heart of Tempe, AZ, Arizona State University-Tempe is also home to a broad online learning community. This public research university, established in 1885, is dedicated both to its traditional style of education as well as to driving innovation in all kinds of disciplines. Arizona State also houses one of the best software engineering schools in the country!
The Bachelor of Science in software engineering at Arizona State University-Tempe combines project leadership, computing, engineering, and software construction to create a truly one-of-a-kind degree. As a student at this software engineering school, you’ll learn how to develop creative software solutions that can be applied to many of today’s problems.
The software engineering curriculum is project-driven and allows you to learn by doing. In fact, you’ll be able to complete projects every semester of the program, helping you to gain skills in:
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Professionalism
- Critical thinking
The software engineering bachelor’s degree features technical electives that span multiple disciplines, including web and mobile applications and embedded systems. The degree is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, a feature that will lend you serious credibility when it comes time to apply for a job.
Kennesaw State University

A public research university, Kennesaw State University has two campuses in Kennesaw and Marietta, GA. Founded in 1963, the school was one of the country’s first space-grant institutions and today is the second-largest university in the state of Georgia.
A fully accredited program, the Bachelor of Science in software engineering at Kennesaw State University is the only one offered at a public university in the state of Georgia. You’ll focus on the engineering of software systems within cost and schedule requirements and take core classes like:
- Data structures
- Computer Organization and Architecture
- Software Project Management
You will also be able to choose from a long list of interdisciplinary and highly technical electives, like:
- Cloud Software Development
- User Interaction Engineering
- Information Security Administration and Privacy
All in all, you’ll complete a total of 120 total credit hours of study.
To apply for this bachelor’s degree in software engineering, you will need to submit an online application along with high school transcripts and letters of recommendation. Several financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available.
Washington State University

Washington State University is a public research university located in Pullman, WA. Founded in 1890, it’s a school of many nicknames, including WSU and the alumni favorite—Wazzu. WSU houses one of the best software engineering schools in the United States, but that’s not all. It is also one of the oldest land-grant universities in the West but offers many forward-thinking majors.
The Bachelor of Science in software engineering will prepare you to develop and to maintain large and complex software engineering programs by treating you to courses in topics like:
- Testing and validation
- Software development
- Integration
- Management
You can pursue courses both at the main campus in Pullman as well as in Everett, WA.
Whichever option you choose, you’ll be able to gain hands-on experience in creating a large variety of software systems that use all kinds of programming languages. You will also receive assistance with pursuing your career goals from the engineering school’s internship and career contacts as well as its exclusive industrial advisory board.
One more unique feature of this software engineering degree program is the fact that it allows software engineering majors to join a math, science, and engineering community residence hall. Join, and you’ll be able to share classes with your neighbors, study together, and even get free tutoring.
Michigan Technological University

Founded in 1885 as the first university in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Michigan Technological University—or Michigan Tech—was first created to train mining engineers to operate local copper mines. Since then, the school has added a number of business, forestry, science, and technology-focused majors, including the Bachelor of Science in software engineering.
This software engineering program will help you to secure your position in a well-regarded profession. You’ll be able to work with teams in your classes as well as labs and in the Senior Enterprise or Design programs. The Enterprise Program is a unique opportunity that brings together students of all majors to work on real projects with real clients in a business-like environment. You’ll receive guidance and coaching from faculty mentors throughout every step of your journey here.
In addition to the stand-alone bachelor’s degree, Michigan Technological University also offers a 4+1 bachelor’s and master’s degree that will allow you to earn both degrees at once. It will only take one year of accelerated study beyond the bachelor’s. Michigan Technological University offers one of the best software engineering schools in the country–check it out!
Auburn University

A public research and land-grant university, Auburn University is home to more than 30,000 students spread out among dozens of majors. It’s ranked as a Best Value School by U.S. News & World Report, a designation that makes sense given the high quality of this school’s programs. Auburn is also home to one of the best software engineering colleges in the country.
The bachelor’s degree in software engineering at Auburn prepares learners for professional careers as software engineers well as graduate study. The program combines a unique and personally-tailored blend of computer science theory and software engineering methodology.
You’ll take core software engineering classes like:
- Introduction to Operating Systems
- Computer Ethics
- Software Quality Assurance
You’ll also be able to choose from a variety of electives and complete a senior design project, too.
To apply, you will need to submit a high school transcript along with one supplemental document. The supplemental document can be a graded writing assignment, an AP or IB score report, an ACT or SAT score report, or an expanded resume. You will also need to submit a short answer essay.
East Carolina University

Originally established as a teacher training school, it makes sense that East Carolina University would remain dedicated to providing some of the best instruction to its more than 25,000 students. Founded in 1907, East Carolina is the fourth-largest university in the state of North Carolina. East Carolina is home to one of the best software engineering schools in the United States.
The software engineering program here prepares students to keep up with rapid advances in digital media, search technologies, mobile computing, and other technologies. The program will prepare you to become a leader and innovator who can help drive change in the software industry.
One hundred twenty total semester hours are required. You will take 42 semester hours of core courses like:
- Technical Writing
- Software Verification and Validation
- Software Architecture and Design
To be eligible for admission, you will need to have an unweighted high school GPA of 3.0. You will also need to submit SAT or ACT test scores.
Montana Technological University

Originally known as the Montana State School of Mines, Montana Technological University is a public school located in Butte, MT. It was founded in 1900 and has gone through multiple name changes, including that from Montana Tech of the University of Montana. The school has an emphasis on engineering, applied, and health science.
An ABET-accredited program, the Bachelor of Science in software engineering program will prepare you to work with cutting-edge careers in computing and technology by helping you gain experience in testing, designing, maintaining, and building new software systems. As you move through your courses, you’ll be able to interact with world-renowned faculty who bring a wealth of industry experience to the classroom.
You will also enjoy access to state-of-the-art equipment and computers along with a developed suite of servers for research and project work. This top school for software engineering is one of the few to have the heterogeneous computing platform Hydra, too.
As an upperclassman, you’ll be able to gain real-world experience through all kinds of software engineering internships, with students working for organizations like Google, the City of Butte, and Dish Network.
The University of Texas at Dallas

The second-largest public university in the Dallas area, the University of Texas at Dallas has grown rapidly in regards to its research output. The school is home to more than 140 academic programs and has more than 50 research centers and institutes.
Despite being a relatively young major, the software engineering degree at the University of Texas at Dallas is one of the best. You’ll work with internationally-recognized faculty in a 150,000 square foot building with all the modern accoutrements, including cutting-edge laboratories and classrooms.
The curriculum for this program is built on a mathematical foundation and a solid computer science core.
You’ll take classes in subjects like linear algebra, calculus, and discrete mathematics before moving on to classes in areas like:
- Advanced data structure
- Programming languages
- Software architecture
The software engineering bachelor’s degree even features multiple application areas, including computer imaging, digital systems design, and machine learning. No matter what kinds of courses you choose to take, you’ll have access to one of the largest internship and cooperative education programs of its kind. The program averages more than 1,200 placements each year, with students working at high-profile companies like Intel, IBM, and Texas Instruments.
Pennsylvania State University

Originally founded as the Farmers’ High School of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania State University has made major leaps since its inception in 1855. This school is a designated space-, sun-, and sea-grant university, one of only four universities in the United States to hold this unique distinction.
In the software engineering program, you’ll gain the skills necessary to work directly in industry or to pursue further study in graduate school.
You’ll complete a broad-based science core in subjects like physics, chemistry, and mathematics before pursuing your interests in software engineering subjects like:
- Object-oriented design
- Information systems
- Data communications
All software engineering majors are also required to complete a final capstone that will require you to work with a team to plan and manage a software design project.
This software engineering degree program is offered at all of Penn State’s campuses, including online. To apply, you will need to have at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA. While enrolled, you will take a minimum of 126 credits of study.
University of Michigan-Dearborn

A public university in Dearborn, MI, the University of Michigan-Dearborn is home to more than 100 different majors and minors along with multiple specialist and doctoral programs. The school is known for its commitment to the local community as well as to the continued quality of education for its students.
The software engineering program at the University of Michigan-Dearborn is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of Abet and includes courses in everything from the design and optimization of software systems to their implementation and management. You’ll also gain the technical skills necessary to modify software solutions later on.
Through this software engineering college, you’ll gain real-world experience through a host of research, internship, and study abroad opportunities. As a result of these experiences and the hands-on education you’ll receive in your class on campus, you’ll be poised to pursue work for a variety of organizations, including Google, Ford Motor Company, and SOAR Tech, just to name a few.
University of Central Oklahoma

A public university in Edmond, OK, the University of Central Oklahoma was founded in 1890 and is one of the oldest universities in the southwestern United States. This school offers one of the best bachelor’s in software engineering via its computer science department.
The software engineering bachelor’s degree offers a curriculum that provides students with a comprehensive overview of the practices, principles, and tools required for the development, design, and maintenance of software.
It includes core classes like:
- Ethics in Computing
- Computer and Network Security
- Applications of Database Management Systems
You’ll also be able to choose from electives in one of two different application areas: Application Development and System Development.
While enrolled, you’ll have access to a number of opportunities meant to enhance your experience and boost your resume. For example, the school offers students internship opportunities with Chesapeake Energy along with a number of scholarships within the General Academic Scholarship Program and the College of Mathematics and Science.
University of Illinois at Chicago

Although the University of Illinois at Chicago was originally established as a conglomeration of several of the region’s top private health colleges, including the Chicago College of Pharmacy and the Columbian College of Dentistry, the school is today known as one of the region’s premier research universities.
The Bachelor of Science in computer science at the University of Illinois at Chicago has a concentration in software engineering that is perfect for aspiring leaders.
In this program, you’ll take core classes like:
- Data Structures
- Software Design
- Machine Organization
You’ll also be able to choose from a wide array of technical electives like:
- Programming Language Design
- Database Systems
- Codes and Cryptography
The software engineering degree is offered by the College of Engineering and is just one of the many exemplary hands-on programs offered by the University of Illinois at Chicago. The software engineering school is ranked within the top ten for value by Wall Street Journal and is also ranked as Chicago’s largest and most diverse university by U.S. News & World Report.
Utah Valley University

Despite the fact that Utah Valley University only attained university status in July 2008, Utah Valley University remains one of the most prestigious and forward-thinking institutions in the Western United States. Here, you’ll find one of the best bachelor’s in software engineering.
Utah Valley offers a Bachelor of Science in software engineering that consists of 120 total program credits. In this software engineering program, you’ll learn how to work with users and customers to understand and best serve their needs.
You’ll develop and employ major and innovative software development approaches to manage software development projects, too, taking core classes like:
- Fundamentals of Programming
- Computer Organization and Architecture
- Global, Social, and Ethical Issues in Computing
The average class size is 23 students, meaning you’ll be able to interact safely with your instructors and fellow classmates.
Ready to apply? Utah Valley University is an open-admission institution. To apply, you’ll need to submit an online application and your transcripts. This software engineering program is also highly affordable, with more than 250 scholarship opportunities and 52% of students receiving financial aid assistance.
Florida Gulf Coast University

Florida Gulf Coast University has academics that are divided into five colleges. A nationally-ranked school, students are encouraged to remember their roots and to give back to the local community via the required service-learning component prior to graduation. As a whole, students have contributed more than 2.2 million volunteer hours since 1997.
The software engineering program at Florida Gulf Coast is offered by the U.A. Whitaker College of Engineering. You’ll take traditional computer science courses like object-oriented programming and operating systems along with software engineering courses like software architecture and design and team-oriented senior software engineering projects.
In addition to being career-relevant, this software engineering college is also highly affordable. In fact, the school has not increased its tuition in seven years and awards more than $116 million in financial aid and scholarship annually. Fifty-two percent of students graduate with zero debt. You can’t beat the return on investment you’ll get from studying here!
Mississippi State University

Although Mississippi State University’s full name is technically the Mississippi State University for Agriculture and Applied Sciences, this land-grant research university is often known simply as MSU. It was chartered as an agricultural and mechanical college and today offers some of the most technologically-sophisticated software engineering programs in the country.
While the requirements for the Bachelor of Science in software engineering at Mississippi State University change slightly every year, you can’t argue with the fact that the curriculum of this program prepares learners for career success.
You will take a variety of departmental requirements like:
- Computer Organization
- Operating Systems
- Data Structures and Algorithms
A number of minors are available to help you further hone your studies, too. The software engineering department offers minors in computer science and software engineering but you might pursue one outside of the department in an area like business to help you further enhance your career prospects.
Brigham Young University-Idaho

Brigham Young University-Idaho is best known for its programs in liberal arts, including the performing arts, sciences, agriculture, and engineering, but it also is home to a number of technologically-oriented degrees, too. Choose to attend BYU-Idaho and you’ll be joining a prestigious community of fellow learners, all of whom are required to follow an honor code during their attendance.
The Bachelor of Science in software engineering at Brigham Young University-Idaho is offered by the Department of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering. Through this software engineering degree you will learn the strategies and technical applications of industry-standard software systems design and development. You’ll also gain the soft skills necessary to communicate with other practitioners and stakeholders.
The software engineering degree offers a perfect background for learners who want to major in software development and minor in one or two other subjects. The department offers related majors in fields like computer science, electrical engineering, and electrical and computer engineering as well.
Saint Cloud State University

Originally known as the Third State Normal School, Saint Cloud State University first opened its doors in 1869. Today one of the largest schools in the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system, Saint Cloud State has more than 110,000 alumni around the world. It is one of the best software engineering schools in the U.S.
Designed in collaboration with industry partners, the software engineering bachelor’s degree will help you learn via a project-driven curriculum. You’ll take courses that span the methodologies, patterns, paradigms, and technologies of software engineering, with courses offered face-to-face as well as online. You don’t have to compromise on quality if you choose to study online, either—the instructors who teach on-campus are the same ones who teach distance learners.
The only program in software engineering in the entire Minnesota State system, this degree is taught by faculty who have terminal degrees and intensive professional experience in software engineering.
As a student in this software engineering program, you’ll be able to gain hands-on experience by joining student organizations like:
- The Video Game Development Club
- The Computer Science Club
- The Student Organization for Software Engineering
Oregon Institute of Technology

A public polytechnic university in Oregon, Oregon Institute of Technology has more than 32 degree programs in fields like management, health technologies applied sciences, and of course, software engineering.
The software engineering school from Oregon Tech is one of the best in the country. Through the bachelor’s in software engineering technology, you will take classes in major specialties like:
- Software Quality Assurance
- Project Management
- Software Testing
The degree is accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET and will prepare you for entry into major computer professions.
You will develop solid skills in software engineering beginning in your very first quarter of study—no waiting until junior year to take a class in your area of interest. You can choose to participate in co-op programs in internships, too. The program is a member of MECOP, in which students can complete two six-month paid internships with companies like Disney, HP, Garmin, Boeing, and more.
If you can’t decide whether you want to specialize in the hardware or software aspects of computers, don’t worry—Oregon Tech offers just the program for you. You can earn an embedded systems degree that includes both or you can choose to earn degrees in software engineering technology and computer engineering technology at exactly the same time. The choice is yours!
Miami University-Hamilton

A public regional campus of Miami University, Miami University-Hamilton is located, as you might expect from the name alone, in Hamilton, OH. The school offers bachelor’s, associate, and certificate programs in a variety of fields to non-residential students.
The software engineering major at Miami University-Hamilton is the perfect option for students who want to build their understanding of the tools, techniques, and methodologies necessary to develop complex and multidisciplinary software systems. If you’re looking for a software engineering program that will take you beyond traditional computer science, this is the one. You’ll also learn things like software design and maintenance along with formal methods for software development.
The software engineering program offers both depth and breadth, enabling you to take core classes like:
- Game Theory and Related Topics
- Game Design and Implementation
- Object-Oriented Programming
- Technology, Ethics, and Global Society
All in all, you’ll take 99 to 105 total credit hours of study, many of which will take place in mathematics, statistics, and natural sciences.
Oswego State University College of New York

With more than 80,000 living alumni, Oswego State University provides learners with a truly one-of-a-kind educational experience. Founded as a teaching school, Oswego State University now has more than 100 different academic programs leading to bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Among these is the top-ranked bachelor’s in software engineering.
At Oswego State, you will find a strong and robust software engineering program that’s taught by highly-credentialed faculty who are committed to student success. The software engineering curriculum is project-based and will enable you to actively work to solve real-world problems.
While many of these project-based learning opportunities will take place within the classroom, many occur outside of it as well. In fact, you’ll be able to build your creativity and teamwork skills while working in laboratory and instructional facilities. You will also participate in a year-long capstone experience that will allow you to develop software for a real client.
You can join multiple student organizations while you’re enrolled here too. The Tech Computer Science Association regularly sponsors guest speakers and conducts programming contests, company tours, and other experiences for students. You can also pursue internships or co-op opportunities to help you gain (often paid) software development experience, too.
Snow College

Snow College is a public community college located in Ephraim, UT. With certificates and associate degrees in a number of areas, Snow College is also one of the few community colleges in the United States to offer bachelor’s degrees as well. In addition to the school’s highly-ranked bachelor’s in software engineering, it also offers bachelor’s in music and nursing.
The Bachelor of Science in software engineering at Snow is relatively new, chartered only in 2017. The degree includes three in-demand areas of emphasis, allowing you to choose between:
- Digital Media Design
- Web Development
- Entrepreneurship
You’ll gain extensive knowledge of the skills you need to develop relevant software. Upon graduation, you can enter directly into the workforce or pursue research in the development of new computer technology.
While elective courses will vary, you’ll be able to take core courses like:
- Back-End Web Development
- Graphical User Interfaces
- Management of Software Project
- Database Systems
You can also participate in two separate practicum experiences with real-life industry partners.
Miami University-Oxford

Another regional branch of Miami University, Miami University-Oxford is located in Oxford, OH. Founded in 1809, this school is classified among R2: Doctoral Universities-High Research Activity. Enroll in this best software engineering college, and you’re sure to enjoy hands-on, highly technical training in the discipline.
The software engineering program at Miami University-Oxford is offered by the College of Engineering and Computing. In this degree, you’ll learn core topics like:
- Software quality assurance
- Software design
- Formal methods for software development
It’s one of the few software engineering programs of its kind in the state of Ohio and will enable you to choose from a long list of in-demand specialization areas.
The bachelor’s degree is one of the few degrees, in fact, that will allow you to do this. You can choose from options like:
- E-business systems
- Computer security
- Scientific systems
- Bioinformatics
Regardless of the option you choose, you’ll learn in a team-based environment to help you build skills in collaboration. You’ll gain professional and practical experience via on- and off-campus opportunities for work, too.
For example, you can pursue an internship or co-op job (which you can earn with assistance from the Miami University Career Services Office), or you can work in top-notch facilities in Benton Hall. Here, you’ll find all kinds of spaces for students and faculty alike, including 24/7 lab areas and the HIVE (a huge immersive virtual environment).
University of Central Missouri

A public university located in Warrensburg, MO, the University of Central Missouri was originally founded as a normal school. Today, the university offers a variety of programs, including a highly-ranked bachelor’s degree in software engineering.
The University of Central Missouri offers the first and only undergraduate software engineering program in the state of Missouri.
After completing this program, graduates go on to pursue careers as:
- Project managers
- Software engineers
- Consultants
- Software architects
Through this software engineering degree, you’ll learn this skill you need to build, test, analyze, and maintain complex software systems, with a balanced blend of computer science and engineering topics.
You’ll be taught by faculty members how to have terminal degrees in software engineering, computer science, and related areas. You will have access to all kinds of computing facilities, including state-of-the-art computing labs that will support research needs as well as instruction.
This software engineering program is highly affordable, with low tuition rates and scholarships specifically for computer science and software engineering majors, like the Software Engineering Achievement Award and the Harmon Scholarship.
Drexel University

A private research university located in Philadelphia, PA, Drexel University was originally founded as the Drexel Institute of Art, Science, and Industry. With more than 24,000 students enrolled in 70 undergraduate programs, this school is best known for its intensive cooperative education program.
Drexel’s College of Computing and Informatics’ Bachelor of Science in software engineering prepares students to both build and design novel software systems. You’ll take core classes in software engineering and architecture as well as those in informatics and computer science.
Though not required, you can choose to expand your studies by choosing a minor like:
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Information Systems and Security Technology
- Computing Technology
Of course, you’ll also have access to Drexels’ aforementioned and famed cooperative education program. Through this best software engineering school, you’ll be able to choose from more than 1,700 employers in 35 states and 45 different international locations. You can participate in a four-year or five-year co-op program, depending on your goals.
Robert Morris University

Robert Morris University, located in Moon Township, PA, was originally established as the Pittsburgh School of Accountancy. Because of this, it makes sense that the programs here would make good economic sense. Enroll in the bachelor’s in software engineering, and you’ll have access to a program that’s not only enjoyable, but also financially lucrative, too.
The Bachelor of Science in software engineering at Robert Morris University is offered by the School of Engineering, Mathematics, and Science. It will teach you how to create and develop quality software systems that can be used in commerce, industry, research, government, and more. It’s available as a stand-alone degree as well as a 4+1 integrated software engineering degree program that will enable you to earn a master’s degree with just one more year of study.
Accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, this software engineering program is of the utmost academic quality and taught by some of the field’s leading minds. It consists of 73 major credits in fields like engineering, math, and physics, along with 41 core credits in things like humanities, economics, and the sciences. You’ll also be able to choose from a long list of electives as you complete 12 hours of elective credit.
As you learn, you’ll have plenty of one-on-one time with your instructors. You’ll also be privy to some of the best and most hands-on learning opportunities with industry partners like Alcoa, Deloitte, and ATI.
Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania

As the first teacher’s college in Pennsylvania, Shippensburg University is located in Shippensburg, PA and is part of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. Despite being founded as a normal school, Shippensburg offers one of the best Bachelor of Science in software engineering programs. In fact, it’s the only university in Penn State’s system of higher education to offer this degree.
In this software engineering program, you’ll take courses that emphasize your ability to work with a team to build large software systems. You’ll learn how to use state-of-the-art software engineering tools as you work to build and design systems in your classes.
To be eligible for admission, you will need to have taken four years of math in high school and have some experience with computers. However, no programming experience is necessary.
Software engineering graduates go on to work for organizations in all kinds of industries, including business, finance, computer science, and more. You’ll enjoy small class sizes and accessible, experienced faculty. You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to get involved and build your resume, from clubs to crews, internships to research. Shippensburg offers activities that are enriched by the unique BROADSIDE Center, which makes it possible for teams of students and faculty to come together to work on industry-funded projects.
Stevens Institute of Technology

The name alone says it all—at Stevens Institute of Technology, you’ll find a school that is dedicated at its core to providing high-quality programs in technology. Stevens is home to two national Centers of Excellence as designated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Defense.
The software engineering program at Stevens is offered by the School of Systems and Enterprises along with the School of Engineering and Science. It’s the first program in the country that meets both the standards for undergraduate education in software engineering as well as those by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
A highly interdisciplinary program, it can be pursued on its own or as a 4+1 accelerated program that will enable you to earn a master’s degree at the same time. The degree consists of 141 credit hours and will provide you with a rigorous enteral engineering undergraduate education along with the software and systems engineering training you crave for career success.
You’ll be encouraged to participate in research, internships, and cooperative opportunities.
Not only that, but this unique program includes optional concentrations in:
- Sustainable energy
- Healthcare systems
- Financial systems
- Cybersecurity
Florida Institute of Technology

A private research university located in Melbourne, FL, Florida Institute of Technology is home to four academic colleges—engineering and science, psychology and liberal arts, business, and aeronautics. Although nearly half of the student’s 6,402 students are enrolled in the College of Engineering, this university has software engineering programs to interest just about any technologically-minded student.
The software engineering degree at Florida Institute of Technology offers learners a disciplined and systematic approach to both building and maintaining software programs. You’ll begin your studies in this program with core computer science and mathematics courses before going on to learn how to manage and implement the maintenance, evolution, and development of software products.
At this private research university, you’ll gain extensive hands-on experience as you learn how to program everything from tablets to computers to ATMs. You will work at state-of-the-art computing laboratories and have access to a full suite of software development tools as you do so.
Not only that, but you will be able to participate in research projects, internships, and other opportunities. The software engineering school is even home to a student programming team that regularly competes at the ACM Intercollegiate Programming Competition. Before you graduate, you’ll also be able to complete a senior design project in collaboration with your peers. This project will be presented to industry leaders and employers—with many students receiving a pre-graduation job offer as a result.
University of Minnesota-Crookston

With students hailing from 20 different countries and 40 states, the University of Minnesota-Crookston has one of the most diverse student bodies despite being located in the center of a large agricultural region. In fact, the university uses the slogan “Small Campus, Big Degree” to advertise its many programs—a testament to its exceptional commitment to a globally relevant education.
The Bachelor of Science in software engineering at the University of Minnesota-Crookston is perfect for students interested in virtual reality, game design, software applications, and all other aspects of software engineering—you name it! You’ll be able to work with some of the most advanced computer graphics and visualization technologies available.
In addition, the software engineering university has connections to some of the world’s top tech companies. You’ll graduate with the skills necessary to pursue one of the world’s fastest-growing career fields, having taken classes in emphasis areas like:
- Gaming
- 3D Modeling
- Simulation and Network-centric Systems
Milwaukee School of Engineering

A private research university in Milwaukee, WI, the Milwaukee School of Engineering has small classes with an average student-to-faculty ratio of just 15:1. That’s not something you’ll find just anywhere. In fact, this school offers a limited number of bachelor’s degrees (just 16, with 10 in engineering!) to help faculty members focus more on what matters the most—their students.
The software engineering degree program at Milwaukee School of Engineering blends core engineering techniques, concepts, and methods to the creation of new software systems.
Accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, the software engineering program includes core classes like:
- Software Engineering Tools and Practices
- Web Application Development
- Software Component Design
Many software engineering courses include required lab time, helping you gain extensive hands-on experience. You will work alongside an esteemed body of faculty and peers to help you build your professional network as you study, too.
The best software engineer college offers a superb return on investment, with 97% of 2021-2022 graduates either employed, enrolled in graduate school, or enlisted in the military upon graduation.
If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, then you should check out The 10 Best Careers for the Future and The 20 Best Animation Schools and Degree Programs!
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