Overview

The MSSE program is designed for software engineering professionals who are seeking to increase their potential and relevance in the marketplace. The program's curriculum is tailored to challenge ways of thinking and foster personal and professional growth. STEM Approved Program.

This professional degree program has been built for the needs of busy working adults. The schedule, curriculum content and structure of the program allow for students who have competing priorities to focus on their studies while maintaining a manageable work/life balance. The program is taught by supportive faculty with real world experience. 

Schedule

The MSSE schedule has been created to make efficient use of students’ time, requiring one all-day visit to campus per week, rotating between Fridays and Saturdays. This schedule allows for minimal time away from work without utilizing every weekend. Each fall semester, four class sessions are dedicated to a Professional Seminar Series where subject matter experts share research findings, insights and expertise on current topics in the field. The final semester of study features electives on topics that are timely and relevant in the field, taught by seasoned scholar/practitioners. Electives options are voted on by the cohort.

Classes begin at 8:00am and end between 4:00pm - 5:00pm, with a one hour break for lunch. 

Curriculum

The program’s curriculum is designed to give students a solid foundation in software engineering theory and best practice, coupled with a thorough understanding of today’s technologies, systems and analytics. Created by both faculty from the Computer Science and Engineering Department and by industry experts, the MSSE course content provides a solid grounding in theoretical methods, principles, and tools, and an examination of fundamental software development issues and processes.

Teaching delivery methods are designed to sharpen students’ critical thinking, leadership and interpersonal skills, giving them the tools they need to better manage and lead software projects. Concepts are explored using realistic and relevant case examples and projects to ensure that the theory works in practice. The cohort model of learning -- learning with the same small group of students throughout the program -- emphasizes team work and collaboration, giving students the opportunity to strengthen leadership and communications skills. Group projects as well as interactive, robust and intellectual classroom discussions, allow students to learn from faculty as well as from each other.

Admissions

Admissions for the MSSE program is selective and requires applicants to have professional work experience to be considered for the program. Applicants should have at least one year of work experience in the field of software, should have a BS or BA in Computer Science or related field, and have a minimum GPA of 3.0. It is desired that students are currently working in the field. Other educational backgrounds are considered if professional experience in the field is substantial. The application requirements (including requirements for international applicants) are described in more detail on the Entrance Requirements page.  Early application deadline March 1st. The final application deadline for the Fall 2025 cohort is July 1st, 2023.