With the global shift into a technological society, the best software engineering schools have never been more important. Software engineering is one of the few specialties that branches across nearly every industry. You can create algorithms, design computer interfaces, and study software architecture with this degree in hand.
For this guide, we’ve compiled a list of five software engineering programs for you to consider. Each of these schools meets the following criteria:
- An average annual cost of no more than $30,000
- A median starting salary up to $250,000 after graduation
- Accredited programs by recognized bodies
Accredited Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.Best Software Engineering Schools
1. CUNY LaGuardia Community College
2 to 4 Year; Long Island City, NY
Average Annual Cost: $6,766
Acquiring a software engineering degree at CUNY LaGuardia Community College makes you a part of the Programming & Software Development program. You’ll receive in-depth experience working with Unix or Web Programming, depending on your desired specialty. All students also get introduced to the basics of software, database, and game development.
There’s no doubt this learning pathway is designed to help students acquire their dream jobs as game developers, web developers, software developers, and more. It’s one of the many courses to consider if you want a futureproof career that will always be in high demand. Many graduates also consider moving on to become software QA engineers and software testers.
CUNY LaGuardia Community College has a competitive program, as 63% of students return after their second year. 32% of the student body graduates annually, making between $15,552 and $72,796 annually in their respective fields.
2. SUNY College at Oswego
4 Year; Oswego, NY
Average Annual Cost: $15,665
With the help of SUNY College at Oswego, students can graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering. With a commitment to a stellar undergraduate education, students can enter the workforce with fundamental and specialty skills in software engineering. It’s one of the best programs to help give you real-world experience working for real clients.
As a student, you’ll work through a diverse curriculum that focuses on software testing, maintenance, design, construction, configuration, and more. You’ll also experience the engineering process from start to finish, including quality assurance and testing as well as engineering management. For even further experience, students can become a part of the Computer Science Association.
At SUNY College at Oswego, the Computer Science Organization exposes students to programming contests, guest speaking events, tutoring, and mentoring. It’s a fabulous opportunity to meet clients that offer prospective employment after graduation as well as internships during your studies. Those who become a part of the CSO often work in government, manufacturing, defense, and finance post-graduation.
Compared to other software engineering programs, SUNY College at Oswego is highly versatile. 77% of their students return after their first year and 66% graduate with their desired degree. Upon graduation, you could earn anywhere from $19,045 to $67,324 with your degree.
3. The College of Westchester
4 Year; White Plains, NY
Average Annual Cost: $17,552
The College of Westchester has diverse offerings if you’re looking for a career in information technology. In the School of Information Technology, students can acquire a Bachelor of Science in IT. During your studies, you’ll expand your knowledge about the world of programming and big data, systems architecture, cybersecurity, and information infrastructure.
Every graduate will acquire a strong foundation of IT skills paired with advanced critical thinking and design skills. In your classes, you’ll explore the various ways to implement effective IT solutions to answer some of the most challenging strategic problems. It’s a fantastic opportunity for someone looking for a corporate-based career in managing information systems.
During the program, students will work with networked environments while investigating and analyzing security vulnerabilities. You’ll also learn how to manage, install, and configure said settings. With the help of intuitive IT tools, you can design and implement solutions to solve networking problems.
If you have a passion for information technology, you’ll be glad to hear The College of Westchester has a 47% graduation rate. Also, 61% of their student body returns after their first year, speaking to the quality of their instructions. With your specialty degree, it’s possible to earn between $14,935 and $42,682 annually.
4. SUNY College of Agriculture and Technology at Cobleskill
4 Year; Cobleskill, NY
Average Annual Cost: $16,647
The SUNY College of Agriculture and Technology at Cobleskill has multiple computer-based degrees for prospective students. Instead of offering a standard software engineering degree, they offer a multitude of specialties for students’ consideration. You can opt for a degree in Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or Computer Information Systems.
Each program has its own benefits. Let’s explore the most notable tenets of each learning pathway.
- Information Technology – Bachelor of Technology
With the Information Technology program, students will learn how to adapt tech-savvy solutions to an ever-changing environment. You’ll receive a blend of technological skills paired with fundamental business principles for corporate environments. With your classes, you’ll be prepared for PC construction and repair as well as network management, maintenance, and information security.
- Computer Information Systems – Associate in Applied Science
If network and programming support is where your passion lies, an AAS in Computer Information Systems is ideal. This pathway helps students work with web development, network support, end-user support, and programming. Upon graduation, you’re most likely to find a career as a website support tech, software support specialist, or help desk technician.
- Cybersecurity – Bachelor of Technology
The final option for prospective software engineers at SUNY College of Agriculture and Technology at Cobleskill is a Bachelor of Technology in Cybersecurity. With this program, you’ll gather in-depth knowledge about computer networking, information security, computer programming, and more. There’s also a strong emphasis on database development, mobile forensics, and web development.
5. Morrisville State College
4 Year; Morrisville, NY
Average Annual Cost: $19,350
Morrisville State College features a Bachelor of Technology degree in Information Technology to fuel your future career. Students will begin their studies by learning how to write programs using different software languages. You’ll then specialize in database design and development while also focusing on networking and communication techniques.
You’ll have access to many programs as a developer in this program, such as Microsoft Project, Visio, and Microsoft Azure Dev Tools for Teaching. Students will also use VMware, an essential for working with virtual operating systems on their individual machines. One of the more unique features of this program is that it offers a more hands-on approach to mastering software engineering.
Upon graduation, you’ll also receive an opportunity to participate in a sponsored internship, helping you find gainful employment. There is a multitude of jobs you can consider with a Bachelor of Technology from Morrisville State College. Some of the most common titles include:
- Web Designer
- App Developer
- Game Developer
