Become a Computer Software Engineer
Learn about software engineering careers and education.
Computer Software Engineer Training
A computer software engineer applies the principles and techniques of computer science, engineering and mathematical analysis to the design, development, testing and evaluation of the software and systems that enable computers to perform their many applications.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, software engineering degree graduates are in a good position to become part of one of the fastest growing occupations. Earning a degree in computer software engineering not only makes you a more valuable applicant, but also increases your potential salary. Starting salaries for computer software engineers with a bachelor's degree can be significantly higher than salaries of bachelor's degree graduates in many other fields.
Starting salaries for computer software engineers with a bachelor's degree can be significantly higher than salaries of bachelor's degree graduates in many other fields.
Computer Software Engineer Professional Duties
A computer software engineer may be responsible for the following areas:
- Testing and verifying ongoing designs
- Designing and developing software
- Project management
- Consulting
Degree Training for a Computer Software Engineer
Most employers prefer to hire people who have at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, systems software engineering or computer information systems, in addition to a broad knowledge of, and experience with, a variety of computer systems and technologies. Graduate degrees in computer engineering are preferred for some of the more complex jobs.
As technological advances in the computer field continue, employers demand new skills. Computer software engineers must continually strive to acquire such skills if they wish to remain in this extremely dynamic field. To help them keep up with the changing technology, continuing education and professional development seminars are offered by employers and software vendors, colleges and universities, private training institutions and professional computing societies.
Computer Software Engineer Certification
Professional certification is now offered by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Computer Society. To be classified as a Certified Software Development Professional, individuals need a bachelor's in computer software engineering degree and work experience that demonstrates that they have mastered a relevant body of knowledge. They must also pass a written exam.
Computer Software Engineer Salary
According to the 2009 report by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary of full-time computer applications software engineers is $90,170, while the average annual salary of computer systems software engineers is $96,620.
Computer Software Engineering Career Opportunities
Entry-level computer software engineers are likely to test and verify ongoing designs. As they become more experienced with a computer engineering degree, software engineers may be involved in designing and developing software. Eventually, they may advance to become a project manager, manager of information systems, or chief information officer.
While there were approximately 909,600 computer software engineers in 2008, this number was expected to jump by 32 percent by 2018 to 1,204,800, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Thousands of computer software engineers are self-employed.
Employers will continue to seek computer software engineering degree graduates with strong programming, systems analysis, interpersonal and business skills.
Experienced software engineers have a variety of career options available to them:
- Software consulting
- Software publishing
- Navigational, measuring, electromedical, and control instruments manufacturing
- Computer systems design
- Architectural, engineering and related services
- Technology management
- Telecommunications
- Scientific research and development
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