Bachelor of Science (BS) in Software Engineering

Pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering in a rapidly evolving digital world, software engineering stands out as one of the most promising, dynamic, and future-proof careers. With technology deeply ingrained in every facet of our lives, from the smallest apps on our phones to the most complex systems managing global corporations, the demand for skilled software engineers is higher than ever. A Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering (BSSE) serves as the foundation for this fulfilling career, offering an all-encompassing education that sets graduates up for success in the tech industry and beyond.

The Growing Demand for Software Engineers

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of software developers is projected to grow 22 percent from 2020 to 2030, significantly faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is fueled by the continuous demand for computer software, the proliferation of 'smart' devices, and the increasing use of software solutions in healthcare, finance, and many other industries. A Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering prepares you to meet this demand and equips you with the skills to stay relevant in the ever-evolving tech landscape.

Versatility and Flexibility

Software engineering is a versatile field with a plethora of opportunities in various sectors. From established tech giants like Google and Microsoft to disruptive startups, non-profits, and even government organizations, the need for software engineers is ubiquitous. A Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering degree equips you with a versatile skill set that can be applied to any industry, giving you the freedom to choose your career path.

Furthermore, the nature of software engineering allows for a flexible work lifestyle. Many companies offer remote work, flexible hours, and other benefits that promote work-life balance, a factor of increasing importance to the modern workforce.

The Power of Problem-Solving

Software engineering is more than just coding; it's about problem-solving. Engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems that solve real-world problems, from streamlining business operations to creating life-saving medical applications. This constant problem-solving makes software engineering a stimulating and rewarding career.

Pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering degree helps you cultivate strong analytical and problem-solving skills, making you a valuable asset in any industry. Furthermore, the critical thinking and creativity fostered in this field can also be translated to other areas of life, making you a well-rounded individual.

Financial Rewards

Software engineering is one of the most well-paying fields, with salaries significantly higher than the national average. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for software developers was $110,140 in May 2020, and it's expected to rise. With a BSSE, you not only secure a job in a high-demand field but also assure a lucrative career that can provide financial stability.

Continuous Learning and Growth

The field of software engineering is constantly evolving, with new programming languages, tools, and methodologies emerging regularly. This continuous evolution promotes a culture of lifelong learning. A Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering degree instills in you the skills and mindset to adapt to this change and to keep learning, growing, and innovating throughout your career.

The opportunity for advancement in this field is also significant. With experience, you can progress to roles like senior software engineer, software architect, or project manager. There are also numerous opportunities for specialization, whether in areas like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, or data science.

Pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering is an excellent investment in your future. It provides you with the necessary skills to excel in a booming and versatile field, offers the opportunity for a flexible and well-paid career, and nurtures a problem-solving mindset that can be applied to any aspect of life. As we continue to move towards a digital future, software engineers will be at the forefront, driving innovation and making a difference.

Software engineers are in high demand across all industries. The bachelor of science in software engineering provides the essential entry point into such careers as:

• Software engineer – median base pay, $104,000, ranked 10^thbest job in the nation¹
• Senior software engineer – average base pay, $112,550²
• Data engineer – median base pay, $100,000, ranked 8^th best job in the nation¹
• Software engineering manager – median base pay $153,000, ranked 43^rd best job in the nation¹
• Enterprise architect – median base pay, $122,585²

Earn your degree in the heart of one of the world’s most important technology hubs surrounded by world-renowned government agencies, tech company headquarters and key technology users in government, healthcare, defense, space and professional services.

With the university’s strong links with large and small DC-area employers, who have an un-met demand for high technology graduates, we aim to connect our outstanding graduates to these employers and awaiting opportunities.

^{1 Data based upon Glassdoor’s 2019 50 Best Jobs in America
2 Salary based upon 2019 Glassdoor salary data}