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The Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering (BSSE) at Drexel University is an ABET-accredited program offered by the College of Computing & Informatics. The program blends computer science, engineering principles, and human-centered design to prepare students for the design, development, testing, and maintenance of complex software systems across various industries. Students develop key professional skills in project management, ethics, communication, and teamwork while gaining hands-on experience through Drexel’s renowned co-op program.
Students can pursue the five-year, three co-op option (most popular) or the four-year, one co-op option. Both pathways offer significant real-world work experience prior to graduation.
Course Overview:
Year 1: Computing and Informatics Design I, Computing and Informatics Design II, Computing and Informatics Design III, The Drexel Experience, Introduction to Computer Science, Computer Programming I or Advanced Computer Programming I, Computer Programming II, Composition and Rhetoric I or English Composition I, Composition and Rhetoric II or English Composition II, Composition and Rhetoric III or English Composition III, Calculus I, Calculus II, Calculus III, Arts/Humanities Elective, Science Lab (multiple terms), Introduction to Civic Engagement, Career Management and Professional Development
Year 2: Techniques of Speaking, Advanced Programming Tools and Techniques, Data Structures, Mathematical Foundations of Computer Science, Database Management Systems, Discrete Mathematics, Introduction to Software Engineering and Development, Software Specification and Design I, Software Specification and Design II, Science Elective(s), Introduction to Business Statistics, Science Lab, Free Elective
Year 3: Technical Communication, Systems Architecture, Systems Programming, Software Architecture I, Software Architecture II, General Psychology I, Business Statistics II, Science Elective(s), Free Elective, Computing & Informatics Elective(s), COOP Experience (co-op terms)
Year 4: Software Project Management, Human-Centered Design Process & Methods, Critical Reasoning, Ethics and Information Technology, Software Verification and Validation, Software Evolution, Computing & Informatics Elective(s), Free Elective(s), COOP Experience (co-op terms)
Year 5 (3 term co-op): Accounting or Economics options, Senior Project I, Senior Project II, Senior Project III, Computer Networks: Theory, Applications and Programming, Cognitive Psychology, Computing & Informatics Elective(s), Science Elective(s), Free Elective(s)
Co-op Program: Up to 18 months of full-time, paid work experience through Drexel’s signature co-op program, integrated into the curriculum.
Senior Project: Three-term capstone project where students design, develop, and deliver a substantial software system, often for real clients.
Laboratory & Team Projects: Courses feature hands-on labs, collaborative assignments, and real-world problem-solving experiences throughout the program.
Graduates frequently receive full-time job offers from co-op employers prior to graduation.
Students develop a strong foundation in both software development and project management, preparing them for a wide range of technology roles.
Graduates are well-prepared for advanced study (MS or PhD) in software engineering, computer science, or related fields.
The program emphasizes professional skills in leadership, communication, ethics, teamwork, and adaptability to new technologies.
CO-OP details: At Drexel, cooperative education—or co-op—gives students a unique chance to alternate between classroom learning and full-time, real-world work experience with university-approved employers. Typically, co-op terms last six months, followed by six months of academic study, allowing students to apply what they learn in real time. Drexel offers two co-op pathways: A five-year program with three co-op experiences, A four-year program with one co-op experience Most majors give students the flexibility to choose between the four-year or five-year option, depending on their career goals and interests. Link: https://drexel.edu/scdc/co-op/undergraduateFinancial Aid details: To be considered for financial aid at Drexel, students must submit both the CSS Profile and FAFSA. However, international applicants only need to complete the CSS Profile for need-based aid. Key Deadlines: Early Action / Early Decision: CSS Profile by Nov 15, 2024 | FAFSA by Feb 15, 2025 Regular Decision: Both CSS Profile & FAFSA by Feb 15, 2025 Winter (January) Entry: Both forms due by Oct 8, 2024 For full details, visit: drexel.edu/admissions/financial-aid-affordability/undergradSAT/ACT Update: Drexel is continuing its Test-Optional policy for first-year applicants, giving students the flexibility to decide whether or not to submit standardized test scores. Key Highlights: Choosing not to submit scores will not affect admission chances. Students can indicate their test preference on the Common App or Coalition App. You can change your choice later via the Discover Drexel portal or by contacting your admissions rep. Applying test-optional won’t affect eligibility for merit scholarships or financial aid. If you choose to submit scores, Drexel also follows a Test-Flexible policy—check their website for accepted exams.English Language Proficiency: If English isn’t your first language and you haven’t completed at least 3 full years of instruction in English, you’ll need to submit scores from an approved English proficiency test. This may also apply to permanent residents whose first language isn’t English. Accepted Tests: TOEFL iBT / TOEFL Essentials (Drexel code: 2194) IELTS Duolingo English Test (DET) Pearson PTE Cambridge C1 Advanced / C2 Proficiency. Exemptions apply if: English is your first language You’ve studied in English for 3+ years You scored 600+ on SAT ERW or 27+ on ACT English Drexel reviews your best section scores across all test dates (including TOEFL MyBest™ Scores). If you believe you’re exempt, email: [email protected]School Report, Counselor Recommendation, Final Report & 1 Teacher Evaluation RequiredCommon App personal essay requiredApplicants who select certain first choice majors in the Academics section will be required to complete an additional writing question using the prompt below: "Reflect on your experiences, personal characteristics, and unique traits that have prepared you for the challenges and opportunities associated with your chosen major. How have these things shaped your goals, aspirations, and potential contributions to your field of study?"ABET-accreditedApplication to be done through University's portal or Common AppSoftware EngineerSoftware ArchitectSoftware System Project ManagerSoftware Project Team Leader
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