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• Software Engineering

The Field

Software engineering is developing video games. And it's also much, much more. The programs developed by software engineers help us stay connected with our loved ones (through cell phones, blackberries, laptops), monitors our health (MRIs, CT-scans), provides instant access to global information (Google), helps fly airplanes and enables electronic banking. Software Engineers improve the quality of our lives by applying engineering concepts to the development of software systems.

Software engineering is one of the fastest growing occupations. In 2006, Money Magazine and Salary.com rated software engineering as the best job in America in terms of growth, pay, stress levels, flexibility in hours and working environment, creativity and how easy it was to enter and advance in the field.

The Program

Although the field of Software Engineering was established more than 30 years ago, bachelor's degree programs in software engineering (SE) in the United States have come into existence only in the last few years. MSOE's program is one of the leaders in the nation, with its first graduates in May 2002! In fact, the SE program was one of the first accredited SE programs in the United States.

At MSOE, you'll study a relevant and innovative curriculum developed in close conjunction with industry professionals. Software engineering's important concepts are relayed to you by competent, committed and experienced faculty.

And, you'll apply those software engineering concepts to real-world projects.  The Software Development Lab at MSOE was created to provide you with "real-world" software development experience. You'll spend a year (three academic quarters) in this laboratory while working as part of a team on large-scale, industry-sponsored projects, just like you will on the job.

In addition to your core classes, you'll also have an opportunity to take a sequence of three related, specialized courses (called application domain electives). Currently, computer gaming, networking and commercial applications are popular choices.

The software engineering program also has an active committee of software engineering professionals, currently working in the industry, who help guide the program.

The MSOE Advantage

The SE program at MSOE offers an engaging environment, where learning happens inside and outside the classroom as you forge friendships with professors and classmates. The emphasis is placed on a well-rounded education. It is not enough to just grow intellectually, growth as an individual also occurs!

While in the classroom, you'll be amazed by the quality of the labs and the equipment and software you use. It will likely be the same technology you use as you start your career after graduation. The program also offers the benefits of longstanding partnerships with business and industry leaders, as well as a comprehensive focus on student support. As a student, you are encouraged to connect across campus and within the community. Enjoy the cultural offerings that surround our campus, volunteer in the community, get a part-time job or internship - or go out for some fun.

One of the cornerstones of a strong program is its faculty. The industry experts you'll be taught by have a passion for teaching.  Their zeal for teaching is obvious in all the activities they're involved in outside the classroom, such as:

• MSOE's mentor program (program with the highest faculty participation)
• Conference on Software Engineering Education and Training (CSEE&T)
• Conference of the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE)
• Software Engineering Program Leaders Association (SEPLA)
• Frontiers in Education (FIE)
• Participation in the BEC (teaching software engineering to corporate clients)

The strengths of the SE program at MSOE can be summarized as:

• One of the first ABET accredited BSSE program in the United States.
• "Real-World" experience in the SDL.
• Close collaboration with the industry through the SE Industry Advisory Committee.
• Committed faculty with relevant experience.
• Strong SE process and practice.
• Early exposure in teamwork and communication (oral and written).
• Metropolitan location with work opportunities for students.
• Reputation within the SE education community.

The Results

The achievements of the SE graduates are impressive. They are either working in exciting positions with some of the most respected companies and organizations across the country, or attending top schools for graduate work. With a 100% placement rate, last year's software engineering graduates enjoyed an average salary of $53,400.