MS Software Engineering

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of St Thomas

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Software Engineering at the University of St. Thomas is designed for software professionals and aspiring technology leaders who want to master modern software development practices, system architecture, and engineering management. The program combines advanced technical expertise with practical industry applications, preparing graduates to design, develop, and manage complex software systems in rapidly evolving technology environments.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

Students begin by establishing a strong foundation in software engineering principles and development methodologies. Through courses such as Software Design and Architecture, Requirements Engineering, and Software Development Processes, students learn how to create scalable, maintainable, and reliable software solutions while understanding the complete software development lifecycle.

Students also strengthen their technical skills through coursework in Object-Oriented Design, Database Systems, and Agile Development Methodologies. These subjects help students develop expertise in software construction, system integration, and collaborative development practices used in modern organizations.

Year 2

During the second year, students pursue advanced topics in software engineering and technology leadership. Courses such as Software Testing and Quality Assurance, Cloud Computing, and DevOps Practices provide students with expertise in software reliability, deployment automation, and enterprise-scale development environments.

The program culminates in a Capstone Project that enables students to apply software engineering principles to real-world challenges. Working on industry-relevant projects, students integrate design, development, testing, and project management skills while building a portfolio that demonstrates professional software engineering capabilities.

Focus Areas

Software Engineering; Software Architecture; Agile Development; DevOps; Cloud Computing; Software Testing; Quality Assurance; Database Systems; Requirements Engineering; Enterprise Software Development.

Learning Outcomes

Develop expertise in software design, software architecture, agile methodologies, requirements analysis, quality assurance, cloud technologies, DevOps practices, software project management, system integration, and large-scale software development.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program prepares students for advanced careers in software engineering, application development, technical leadership, systems architecture, software quality engineering, cloud solutions development, and technology management. Students gain practical experience applying engineering methodologies to modern software challenges while developing leadership and collaboration skills.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of St. Thomas School of Engineering is recognized for its industry-focused curriculum, strong employer partnerships, and emphasis on applied learning. Graduates are prepared for roles such as Software Engineer, Software Architect, Technical Lead, DevOps Engineer, Quality Assurance Manager, and Engineering Manager, benefiting from a curriculum aligned with current industry demands and emerging software technologies.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of St. Thomas, the MS in Software Engineering program is designed to provide students with hands-on experience that is essential for success in the tech industry. Through a combination of collaborative projects, access to cutting-edge technology, and real-world applications, students develop practical skills that go beyond traditional classroom learning. The university boasts state-of-the-art facilities and resources that enhance the educational experience, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their careers.

Here are some key aspects of experiential learning in the MS Software Engineering program:

- Collaborative Projects: Engage in team-based projects that simulate real-world software development environments, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge to practical challenges.

- Internship Opportunities: Benefit from partnerships with local tech companies, providing you with valuable internship experiences that can lead to job placements after graduation.

- Access to Advanced Software Tools: Utilize industry-standard software development tools and platforms, including GitHub, JIRA, and various programming languages, to enhance your technical skills.

- Dedicated Labs: Work in specialized labs equipped with the latest technology for software development, testing, and research, fostering an innovative learning atmosphere.

- Field Trips and Industry Visits: Participate in organized visits to tech companies and startups, gaining insights into industry practices and networking opportunities.

- Research Institutes: Collaborate with faculty on cutting-edge research projects in software engineering, contributing to advancements in the field while gaining valuable experience.

- Library Resources: Access extensive digital libraries and databases that provide a wealth of information on software engineering topics, supporting your academic and research needs.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MS in Software Engineering at the University of St. Thomas prepares graduates for a dynamic and rewarding career in technology. With a strong emphasis on practical skills and industry relevance, students can expect to pursue roles such as Software Developer, Systems Analyst, and IT Project Manager. The program equips you with the tools needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market:

- Career Services: The university offers dedicated career counseling, resume workshops, and interview preparation to help you secure your dream job.
- Employment Statistics: Graduates of the program have a high employment rate, with many securing positions within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for graduates is competitive, often exceeding $80,000 annually.
- University–Industry Partnerships: The University of St. Thomas has established partnerships with leading tech companies, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world project experience.
- Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), ensuring that your degree holds long-term value in the job market.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have gone on to work at top firms such as Target, Wells Fargo, and Medtronic, showcasing the program's strong reputation and network.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MS in Software Engineering, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Ph.D. in Computer Science or Software Engineering. This advanced degree can open doors to academic positions, research opportunities, and higher-level roles in industry leadership. Additionally, you could explore specialized certifications in areas like cybersecurity, data science, or cloud computing to enhance your expertise and career prospects.