Online Bachelor's Degree in CS - Software Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Software Engineering
Software is the building block for games you play on your phone, anti-virus protection on your computer, and e-books you read on your computer. Software engineers are needed to create and refine these programs, and you can prepare to develop an understanding of this industry with a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science with a Software Engineering concentration from CTU. In this program, you could study how to build computer software solutions through programming with algorithmic techniques while exploring a broad range of theoretical and practical knowledge, methods, processes, and skills.
Software development jobs are projected to grow 17 percent from 2023 - 20331, due to people’s increasing reliance on apps and systems to simplify their lives. Explore the skills needed for this growing industry.
CTU's BSCS in Software Engineering is ranked among the Best Online Bachelor’s Programs by U.S. News & World Report for the 10th year in a row*
1http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm (visited 11/5/24)
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS) program with a concentration in Software Engineering is a 183-credit program offered online. The program consists of 51 credit hours of general education, 88 credit hours devoted to the computer science core, an 44 credit hours for the software engineering concentration.
This degree program is designed for students who are interested in pursuing a career centered on building computer software solutions through programming with algorithmic techniques. Students will explore a broad range of theoretical and practical knowledge, methods, processes, techniques and skills to effectively design and develop the computer software according to domain-specific requirements. This program has a General Track and three concentrations: Cybersecurity Engineering, Software Engineering, and Data Science.
The curriculum of BSCS offers broad and detailed knowledge on how a computer’s software works, and how to design and develop different levels and types of computer software. This is different from the curriculum of the Computer Engineering program which is focused on how to design and develop computer hardware. It is also different from the curriculum of the Information Technology program, which is focused on how to apply both computer hardware and software to design, develop and support high level end-user-oriented business systems, services or applications.
This program does not lead to additional licensure or certification. As such, CTU has made no determination regarding prerequisites for licensure or certification in any state or jurisdiction.
Through innovative industry-current curricula and technology-enabled student-centered teaching, the College of Computer Science, Engineering and Technology empowers students to become motivated, creative, ethical, and skillful professionals who can resolve challenges in Computer Science, Computer/Electrical Engineering, and Information Technology in order to meet the needs of the digital economy.Estimate your costs, potential savings and graduation date
Courses
Courses: General Education | Credits | |
---|---|---|
COMS105 | Interpersonal Communications | 4.5 |
This course explores the importance of effective interpersonal communication. This course covers: how interpersonal communication impacts an individual, how to recognize the different methods of communication and establishing and maintaining personal and professional relationships through effective communication.
| ||
or | ||
COMS203 | Speech Communications | 4.5 |
ENGL104 | Introductory Written Communication | 4.5 |
ENGL105 | Professional Written Communications | 4.5 |
HIST120 | Intro to American History: 1950 to the Present | 4.5 |
MATH111 | College Algebra for Technical Programs | 4.5 |
PHIL101 | Introduction to Ethics | 4.5 |
PSYC102 | Introductory Psychology | 4.5 |
SCI101 | Introduction to the Sciences | 4.5 |
SCI103 | Science and Technology- Laboratory Course | 1.5 |
SCI201 | Environmental Science and Sustainability | 4.5 |
SOCL102 | Introductory Sociology | 4.5 |
UNIV104 | Academic and Career Success | 4.5 |
Total Credit Hours: | 51 |
Total Credit Hours: 183
Learning Outcomes
BSCS Program Learning Outcomes:
- Analyze a complex computing problem and to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
- Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.
- Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.
- Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
- Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.
- Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions.
Concentration Learning Outcomes:
Software Engineering:
- Acquire knowledge of new models, methods, technologies, professional standards, and the context-specific best practices of software engineering as they emerge.
- Choose and apply appropriate theories, models, techniques, processes and tools that provide a basis for problem identification, software requirement analysis, software design, software implementation and testing, as well as software development project management.
Faculty
![Dr. Yanzhen Qu](/Media/Default/CTU/images/faculty/small/ProfileSML-Yanzhen-Qu.jpg)
Dr. Yanzhen Qu
University DeanDr. Yanzhen Qu is the University Dean and Professor at the College of Computer Science, Engineering and Technology at Colorado Technical University (CTU). During his tenure at CTU, Dr. Qu has taken a leadership role in modernizing the curricula of CTU’s CS, IT and Cybersecurity degree programs, ranging from Associate to Doctoral levels.
![Dr. Richard Cai](/Media/Default/CTU/images/faculty/small/ProfileSML-Richard-Cai.jpg)
Dr. Richard Cai
Executive Program DirectorDr. Richard Cai is CTU’s Executive Program Director for the College of Computer Science, Engineering & Technology. In this role, Dr. Cai supervises curriculum design, development and revision for the degree programs offered in the college. He also plays a key role in the program assessment and accreditation.
For more faculty profiles please visit our Leadership and Faculty page.
For more information visit the College of Engineering & Computer Science.
Accreditations and Alignments
Outcomes for this program align with the educational standards of ABET.
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Compare up to three additional degrees
FAQs
CTU’s Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS) with a concentration in Software Engineering Degree Program is designed to provide knowledge, skills, and abilities relevant for pursuing potential opportunities in the workforce. This concentration of BSCS degree program is designed through a curriculum where students may learn how to build computer software solutions through programming with algorithmic and programming techniques, while exploring a broad range of theoretical and practical software design and development knowledge, methods, processes, and skills.
As you work to complete your BSCS with a concentration in software engineering, in addition to the core courses of BSCS program such as computer algorithm, programming, and operating system, you will be immersed in courses where you will study these topics and much more: Linux programming; principles of user interface design; software requirements; software design; and software service construction.
Courses for the BSCS with a concentration in software engineering start online approximately every five weeks. Completion of the CTU admissions process will depend on how quickly you complete the steps in the CTU online application process. You may complete the application process over the phone with an advisor or you may go online. Once you’ve completed the online application, you may hear from an advisor within the following 24 hours to discuss the next steps toward starting your degree program.
The BSCS with a concentration in software engineering degree program consists of 183 credits. You may be eligible for transfer credit, which is evaluated on an individual basis. Not all credits are eligible to transfer. CTU Fast Track™ exams offer the opportunity to earn college credit for what you already know—allowing you to complete your degree up to 30% faster.*
* The ability to reduce time in school and/or reduce tuition towards the full cost of a degree program depends on the number of CTU Fast Track™ exams successfully passed. Fast Track program credits are non-transferable. Not all programs are eligible for possible 30% reduction in time and money. Courses eligible are subject to change. Students should not rely on potential Fast Track savings or eligibility when making an enrollment decision.
Through innovative industry-relevant curricula and technology-enabled student-centered teaching, you will study through classroom learning and hands-on experience that aligns to industry standards and helps you work to develop skills that are applicable to the needs of the digital economy.
The BSCS is not programmatically accredited; however, outcomes for the BSCS with a concentration in software engineering degree program at CTU are in alignment with the educational standards of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc. (ABET).
What Students Are Saying About Their CTU Experience
Thanks to obtaining my bachelor's degree, I have already obtained a new position within my company.
Michael T. 2023 Graduate, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
CTU curriculum is set up in a way that makes everything easy to manage.
Robert M. 2023 Graduate, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
CTU was a great choice for me, who was looking for career-focused education that is flexible and tailored to my needs.
Caleb N. 2023 Graduate, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Ways To Save
Cost of this degree may be reduced based on one or more of the following:
Active duty military status
Number of credits transferred and accepted from other institutions
Tuition Reimbursement (talk to your HR Manager)
Number of CTU Fast Track™ courses successfully passed
Eligibility for a Corporate Alliances Grant (check with your CTU Admissions Advisor)
Grants or scholarships at CTU
Students in CTU bachelor's degree programs may bring a wealth of knowledge to the classroom. CTU Fast Track™ lets students earn college credit for what they already know. As a result, students can complete their degree up to 30% faster.* Just as important, by passing multiple Fast Track exams, students can save up to 30% on time and money towards the full cost of a degree program with CTU Fast Track™. * There’s no additional cost for the exams and no penalty if a student fails to pass.
Take a look at the list of current Fast Track courses and see how many courses you may be able to earn credit for.
*The ability to reduce time in school and/or reduce tuition towards the full cost of a degree program depends on the number of CTU Fast Track™ exams successfully passed. Fast Track program credits are non-transferable. Not all programs are eligible for possible 30% reduction in time and money. Courses eligible are subject to change. Students should not rely on potential Fast Track savings or eligibility when making an enrollment decision.