Computer Engineering Degree: Become a Software Engineer
Computer Engineering Degree Programs
Computer software engineers apply 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, computer software engineers are projected to be one of the fastest growing occupations over the next few years. If you're thinking about pursuing a computer engineering career, this might be good incentive to start an accredited information technology degree program.
Starting salaries for computer engineers with a bachelor's degree can be significantly higher than salaries of bachelor's degree graduates in many other fields.
Software Engineer Professional Duties May Include:
- Testing and verifying ongoing designs
- Designing and developing software
- Project management
- Consulting
Computer Engineering Training
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 Engineering 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 degree and work experience that demonstrates that they have mastered a relevant body of knowledge. They must also pass a written exam.
Computer Engineering Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary of full-time computer applications software engineers was $82,000 in 2006, while the median annual salary of computer systems software engineers was $87,250.
Computer Engineering Career Opportunities
Entry-level computer software engineers are likely to test and verify ongoing designs. As they become more experienced, computer 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 857,000 computer software engineers in 2006, this number was expected to jump by 31% by 2016 to 1,181,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Thousands of computer software engineers are self-employed.
Employers will continue to seek computer professionals with strong programming, systems analysis, interpersonal, and business skills.
Experienced software engineers have a variety of career options available to them including:
- Software consulting
- Software publishing
- Navigational, measuring, electromedical, and control instruments manufacturing
- Computer systems design
- Architectural, engineering, and related services
- Management of companies and enterprises
- Wired telecommunications
- Scientific research and development