How to Become a Software Engineer

Opportunities in software engineering are everywhere, thanks to rapidly developing technologies and computing innovations around the globe. With a high demand for tech-savvy professionals who can drive their industries forward, a degree in software engineering is more valuable than ever.

As one of the nation’s top undergraduate engineering schools, Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University offers advanced programs in-person or online. The Daytona Beach, Florida, and Prescott, Arizona, campuses allow for hands-on experience in the classroom, while the Worldwide Campus gives students the flexibility to earn their degree at home (or anywhere with internet access) and on their own time.

“Our program allows participants to tackle practical, real-world problems from day one. They work independently and collaboratively, adhering to industry standards, significantly enhancing their appeal to top-tier employers upon graduation," says Colin Doyle, program coordinator and assistant professor of the Practice in Software Engineering at the Worldwide Campus.

With a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, students are prepared to excel in their careers upon graduation and beyond. Leaning on expertise and a dedication to ensuring student success, we’ve compiled our tips and tricks for finding success as a software engineer.

What is your plan?

Do you have a clear vision for your future? Are you still undecided on which engineering field is right for you? No problem – ask yourself these questions to ensure your plans will take you where you want to go. 

• Which engineering field aligns with my interests and strengths? 
• What are my short-term and long-term career goals? 
• What degree path best matches these goals?

What is software engineering?

Software engineering facilitates and supports the design and implementation of software systems. Software engineering plays a role in nearly every industry, from aviation and aerospace to medicine and more. Software engineering covers the design, implementation and testing of software projects – from concept to completion.

Professor Ed Post, chair of the Computer, Electrical and Software Engineering Department on the Prescott Campus, gave his own thoughts on defining the field of software engineering:

Software engineers are problem solvers, innovators and critical thinkers. They are able to look at software with a systems-level approach – meaning that they can view how the different pieces of a software application work together to form a cohesive and functional whole.

Software engineering students, especially those in Embry-Riddle's B.S. in Software Engineering, learn to work within real-time, safety-critical systems that are crucial to the functions of everyday life. Ensuring high-quality software is essential in industries like transportation and medicine, where people rely on advanced software systems for their safety and success.

What does it take to become a software engineer?

Software engineers are crucial to developing technological advancements and ensuring our current systems operate smoothly. Because of the continuous rise in technological capability and the implementation of software systems in emerging fields, the demand for software expertise is rapidly increasing.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the typical entry-level education for software developers, quality assurance analysts and testers is a bachelor’s degree – meaning that opportunities will be plentiful after graduation.

Embry-Riddle's Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering places career readiness at the forefront of its teachings, aiming to produce students who “hit the ground running” in their careers after graduation. Students learn to:

• Identify, formulate and solve complex engineering problems.
• Apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs.
• Consider public health, safety and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental and economic factors in their work.
• Recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering to make informed judgments.
• Function effectively on a team to provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks and meet objectives.
• Conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions.

Courses within this program include Digital Circuit Design, Computing Theory, Information and Computer Security, Software Construction, Organization of Programming Languages and more, all designed to allow students to grow into expert engineers.

“Current software is very complex and often requires collaborations among individuals with different expertise. Developers frequently work with other engineers, architects and testers to create software that meets customer needs and remains robust and scalable,” says Professor Massood Towhidnejad, chair of the Department of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science on the Daytona Beach Campus. 

“Effective communication and teamwork are crucial for the success of these projects. At Embry-Riddle, students are required to work as part of a team starting in their first semester. This makes our graduates very attractive to top employers.”

Where do Software Engineering graduates work?

Making the decision to attend Embry‑Riddle to become an engineer is a wise choice. Roles in software engineering are vast and exciting – and graduates have found success in organizations such as The Boeing Company, Lockheed Martin, Google, Microsoft, Phillips Medical and more.

Software engineers may find work in roles such as:

• Cloud Solutions Architect: Designs and manages scalable and reliable cloud infrastructure, helping companies leverage cloud computing technologies.
• Embedded Systems Engineer: Designs and implements software for embedded devices, which are computers integrated into other machines and systems.
• IoT Engineer: Develops solutions for the Internet of Things (IoT), integrating various devices and systems to work seamlessly together.
• System Analyst: Bridges the gap between business requirements and technological solutions, ensuring that software systems meet organizational needs.
• Quality Assurance Engineer: Ensure software products are reliable, functional and free of defects by conducting rigorous testing and quality assessments.

Other roles in software engineering include Mobile Application Developer, Data Engineer, Game Developer, IT Project Manager, DevOps Engineer and more.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 25% job growth for software developers, quality assurance analysts and testers through the next decade – a growth rate that is reported as much faster than the average across all occupations. Partnered with this growth, which adds up to about 153,900 new jobs per year, the median annual salary for these roles is reported as $130,160.

The Embry‑Riddle Advantage

Earning a degree in Software Engineering from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University can set you on a path to success and lifelong learning after graduation. 

Renowned for excellence in engineering, Embry‑Riddle offers unmatched resources and opportunities that can provide you with the knowledge, skills and experience necessary for success after graduation. Join a community of innovators and help shape the future of engineering and technology.

For more on engineering programs at Embry‑Riddle's Daytona Beach Campus, visit the College of Engineering’s page here.

To explore similar programs on our Arizona Campus, visit the Prescott College of Engineering page here.

Check out online engineering programs on the Worldwide Campus’ School of Engineering page here.