Whether you’re aiming to sharpen your coding skills or step into a leadership role managing teams and projects, an online master’s in software engineering can help you stand out in a competitive and high-paying field. This guide covers everything you need to know, from the best online programs and admissions requirements to the top careers you can pursue after graduation.
Author: Shannon Daigle
Expertise: Online LearningStudent SuccessGraduate Ed.Editor: Kristin Marino
- Best Programs
Diving Into Three Online Software Engineering Programs
Read more - What Classes Will I Take?
What Classes Will I Take in an Online Software Engineering Master's Program?
Read more - Specializations
What are Some Specializations in Software Engineering?
Read more - Costs
How Much Does an Online Software Engineering Master's Cost?
Read more - Salary/Pay
Salary Outlook with a Master's in Software Engineering
Read more - FAQs
Software Engineering Master's Degree FAQs
Read more - Top Schools
Best Online Master’s in Software Engineering Programs
Read more
Diving Into Three Online Software Engineering Programs
With so many schools offering a software engineering master’s degree online, knowing which one to choose can be challenging. To help you get started in your search, we’ve chosen three outstanding schools where you can earn an online masters in software engineering. Each school offers online students a flexible, affordable, and comprehensive online degree in the field. We’ve included details on what you can expect to learn and pay at these top schools.
Eastern Carolina University
Students looking to advance their careers with an online masters in software engineering should consider Eastern Carolina University’s Master of Science in Software Engineering. This master’s program provides a traditional path of study for students with a background in the field and a nontraditional option for students who are new to the field.
Nontraditional students will take two preparatory courses, one in programming and data structures and one in discrete structures and algorithmic functions. All students take the same three core courses to build a strong foundation in software engineering, project management, and testing.
For the remaining degree credits, students can choose from electives in the software engineering and computer science departments. At the end of the program, students can choose between a traditional thesis and a final project.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
- Credits:30-38
- Length: Varies
- Mode: Fully online
- Resident Cost/Credit: $289.55
Grand Canyon University
The online masters in software engineering at Grand Canyon University offers a comprehensive curriculum. Students in the program take courses that cover the fundamentals of software architecture, design methodologies, software testing, and project management. As a result, they build essential job-ready skills in modern software techniques, financial and legal issues, technical concepts, security, software design, and project management.
Students can choose to specialize in a specific area of study, like data analytics, mobile application development, or artificial intelligence. Classes are available entirely online for student convenience, and most take place in an accelerated, eight-week format.
Students considering this program should have a strong background in programming, math, and algorithmic skills.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: HLC
- Credits: 38
- Length: Flexible
- Mode: Fully online
- Cost/Credit: $600
West Virginia University
At West Virginia University, students seeking an online masters in software engineering can earn a degree in just two years. This 30-credit program provides graduates with essential design, development, and management skills they’ll need to advance in in-demand careers in the field.
Students begin their time in the program by completing five core program courses and choosing five electives that suit their interests and career goals. For maximum convenience, the classes in this 100%-online program are available both synchronously and asynchronously.
Graduates of the program can expect careers in diverse industries as software developers, quality assurance analysts and testers, computer systems engineers and architects, and more.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: HLC
- Credits: 30
- Length: 24 months
- Mode: Fully online
- Cost/Credit: $785
What Classes Will I Take in an Online Software Engineering Master’s Program?
Each school has formulated a unique curriculum for online masters in software engineering students. Most schools require students to take a common core of courses in software engineering techniques and project management before moving on to electives, where they can specialize in specific skill areas. Below, we’ve listed three common core courses.
Software Testing
A crucial part of being a software engineer is ensuring you’ve produced a high-quality product that runs effectively and efficiently. In this class, you’ll gain comprehensive knowledge and skills in software testing methodologies.
You’ll learn how to plan and implement requirements- and code-based software testing. You’ll also cover validation and verification techniques and tools, creating functional test cases, and performing data flow analysis.
Software Project Management
Many software engineering master’s degree online programs include at least one course in project management. These courses cover the process of creating, constructing, and analyzing project plans for developing various types of software products.
You’ll learn about project management methodologies and techniques, the process of software development, and how to plan for all stages of the process. You’ll also learn skills for handling essential aspects of software development, like risk management, quality management, and cost control.
Software Design and Architecture
In this course, you’ll learn more about designing and creating effective software. Classes cover best practices in the requirements, analysis, and design of large software systems.
You’ll also learn about different architecture design styles and how to apply them to the software you create. Coursework also covers the documentation and evaluation of software architecture and comparing different design methods. Usually, you will be assigned case studies and projects to gain practical experience.
What are Some Specializations in Software Engineering?
Though a general software engineering master’s degree online will take you far, you can also choose a specialization in a particular area of study. This will help you gain advanced knowledge and skills in a particular area of interest, which can give you a head start on your dream career.
Artificial Intelligence
Many schools, including the University of Texas Austin, offer a specialization in artificial intelligence. Specialized coursework in this area covers what you’ll need to become a leader in AI development and innovation in various industries.
You’ll dive deep into AI algorithms, uses, and ethical concerns, placing you at the forefront of this developing field. Artificial intelligence specialists often work in medicine, finance, and project management.
Cybersecurity
The best cybersecurity programs combine the foundations of computer engineering principles with additional skills to keep data secure. In this specialization, you’ll learn how to protect computer systems, networks, programs, and data from attacks, unauthorized access, breaches, and theft.
You’ll also learn about the latest methods and technology for protecting digital information from hackers and cybercriminals. Brandeis University offers an online master of software engineering with a focus on cybersecurity, which is a blend of computer engineering principles with additional classes to specialize in cybersecurity.
Machine Learning
Machine learning programs hone in on certain aspects of artificial intelligence, like the advanced algorithms and computational methods that drive AI and machine learning technology. With a machine learning focus, you can expect to learn about neural networks, natural language processing, computer vision, deep learning, and robotics.
In addition to the technology and programming required for the field, you’ll explore ethical issues and societal impacts of these technologies. George Washington University is one school offering a focus on machine learning.
How Much Does an Online Software Engineering Master’s Cost?
One of the most crucial factors to consider when getting any master’s degree is what you’ll pay to earn it. To help you understand the costs, we’ve put together the table below. Keep in mind that tuition rates are just a starting point, and you may be able to line up financial aid to offset the cost.
| School | Program | No. of Credits | Est. Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drexel University | MS in Software Engineering | 45 | $66,645 |
| Penn State World Campus | Master of Software Engineering | 36 | $37,728 |
| The University of Houston Clear Lake | MS in Software Engineering | 30-36 | $14,210 – $30,230 |
Tuition and Financial Aid for Software Engineering Students
Financial aid and resources for computer science and engineering students can take many forms. For example, many national organizations and schools award scholarships and fellowships. Graduate students may also be eligible for work study or tuition assistance from their current employers.
Salary Outlook with a Master’s in Software Engineering
A master’s in software engineering builds on foundational programming skills to prepare you for complex systems design, software architecture, and technical leadership. Graduates work as senior software engineers, software architects, engineering leads, and principal engineers — often commanding higher compensation than those entering with a bachelor’s degree. The credential is valued at large tech companies, financial services firms, and organizations building complex enterprise software.
Software developers are among the highest-compensated professionals in any sector, with advanced degrees often accelerating the path to senior and principal roles. Major tech hubs offer the strongest packages, though strong salaries exist nationwide.
Explore the salary table below to see what software developers earn across states, and see where your degree could take you financially.
Software Developers
| Area | Median | 75th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $135,980 | $171,980 | $214,670 |
| Alabama | $122,540 | $154,290 | $175,330 |
| Arizona | $129,690 | $159,680 | $178,500 |
| Arkansas | $104,490 | $127,740 | $162,380 |
| California | $174,410 | $216,670 | $272,670 |
| Colorado | $138,390 | $173,000 | $213,010 |
| Connecticut | $134,120 | $166,440 | $205,160 |
| Delaware | $133,020 | $164,640 | $174,390 |
| District of Columbia | $136,880 | $169,580 | $197,000 |
| Florida | $130,980 | $164,800 | $204,400 |
| Georgia | $131,010 | $162,240 | $176,000 |
| Hawaii | $124,040 | $170,970 | $238,930 |
| Idaho | $131,590 | $160,570 | $178,980 |
| Illinois | $132,110 | $166,420 | $194,740 |
| Indiana | $105,920 | $135,630 | $164,650 |
| Iowa | $114,890 | $137,090 | $165,880 |
| Kansas | $113,420 | $136,510 | $165,740 |
| Kentucky | $109,010 | $136,090 | $168,110 |
| Louisiana | $102,800 | $122,740 | $151,780 |
| Maine | $123,120 | $163,150 | $179,990 |
| Maryland | $138,680 | $178,000 | $222,610 |
| Massachusetts | $165,210 | $190,280 | $213,970 |
| Michigan | $125,570 | $140,100 | $166,510 |
| Minnesota | $130,050 | $156,750 | $169,810 |
| Mississippi | $95,330 | $127,570 | $158,300 |
| Missouri | $126,120 | $155,010 | $169,340 |
| Montana | $121,990 | $169,180 | $221,400 |
| Nebraska | $110,900 | $135,600 | $158,720 |
| Nevada | $128,810 | $167,820 | $194,470 |
| New Hampshire | $139,720 | $167,880 | $205,370 |
| New Jersey | $135,940 | $170,130 | $207,200 |
| New Mexico | $124,520 | $158,390 | $184,710 |
| New York | $166,180 | $205,540 | $224,590 |
| North Carolina | $134,710 | $164,750 | $179,310 |
| North Dakota | $105,600 | $126,510 | $158,060 |
| Ohio | $114,090 | $135,490 | $168,400 |
| Oklahoma | $118,100 | $138,940 | $169,700 |
| Oregon | $142,720 | $170,600 | $213,540 |
| Pennsylvania | $126,550 | $158,390 | $178,080 |
| Rhode Island | $130,590 | $154,040 | $168,630 |
| South Carolina | $129,450 | $167,750 | $212,460 |
| South Dakota | $96,310 | $121,190 | $160,380 |
| Tennessee | $122,430 | $138,890 | $166,380 |
| Texas | $132,150 | $162,530 | $183,680 |
| Utah | $128,810 | $160,570 | $177,970 |
| Vermont | $125,280 | $166,610 | $209,420 |
| Virginia | $136,460 | $171,090 | $211,930 |
| Washington | $166,540 | $211,860 | $255,350 |
| West Virginia | $121,000 | $142,610 | $168,620 |
| Wisconsin | $122,660 | $138,590 | $168,630 |
| Wyoming | $115,170 | $153,090 | $156,620 |
Source: BLS, OEWS, May 2025
Showing 1 – 10 of 51 entries | Data reflects national numbers, not school-specific information.
Software Engineering Master’s Degree FAQs
Software Engineering Master’s Degree FAQs
Getting into grad school for software engineering may look different at each school. It also often depends on whether the student has a strong background in software engineering before applying to a master’s program.
Always check with the individual school to verify that you qualify for the individual program and fulfill any prerequisite requirements. In general, you’ll need to provide the following:
- Proof of an ABET-accredited bachelor’s degree in software engineering or a related field or equivalent professional experience
- Prerequisite coursework in calculus, statistics, computer architecture, and operating systems
- Strong math and coding skills
- Official academic transcripts
- GRE scores
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Completed application and associated fees
How long does it take to earn an online master’s degree in software engineering?
Most programs take two to four years to complete. A full-time course load will get you to graduation day quicker, while part-time study means you’ll be in school longer.
Additionally, students without previous education or experience in software engineering can expect to spend extra time earning a degree. That’s because they’ll need to fulfill math and computer engineering prerequisites before diving into core program coursework. In total, expect to earn 30-48 credits to graduate with your online masters in software engineering.
Is there a benefit to earning a master’s degree in software engineering online instead of in person?
Overall, earning an online degree is more cost-effective than attending school in person. Plus, you can consider outstanding schools you might not have been able to travel to for on-campus study. For future software engineers, earning a degree online also gives you the advantage of gaining experience working with remote teams, which is common for many jobs in the field.
Do I need to learn coding or computer programming to study software engineering?
Yes, coding is a core competency that software engineers use daily and a requirement for enrolling in a software engineering master’s program. If you’re not already able to write code, you’ll need to learn through official courses or on-the-job learning. Some common computer coding languages that software engineers might need to know are C#, C++, Javascript, and Python.
Will I be accepted into a software engineering master’s program without a computer science (CS) or related undergrad?
Possibly, but it varies by school and program. Programs for students without a bachelor’s in the field, like the one offered by West Virginia University, admit professionals from other fields as long as they complete prerequisite courses. Other programs will accept proof of work experience as sufficient background in the field.
Regardless of admission requirements, all software engineering master’s programs will expect you to have a working knowledge of advanced math and code, so be prepared to take additional courses in those areas as needed.