Software engineering does not have the well-defined area of practice as other professions, depending on educational background. Even so, having a master's degree can help you stand out when applying to companies like Google. For some top roles, a master's degree is preferred. But in the latter situation, a master's degree is a plus; several years of productive job experience is necessary.
Today, more and more students are pursuing masters in software engineering in USA, which is considered the ideal destination to pursue the course and make a career. MS in software engineering in USA is a game changer for many students. So, if you're planning to do software engineering MS in US, we have stated below all the required details about the course.
Why Study Masters In Software Engineering In USA?
The master's program in software engineering in USA is intended to equip students for professional activity as well as for future research and academic study in the area. The program offers a 30-credit hour curriculum made up of necessary core courses and technical electives that give students the chance to design and implement embedded systems and large-scale software systems.
Students who carry strong backgrounds in computer programming, computer system analysis, and hardware fundamentals are attractive and prefer Masters in Software Engineering in the USA, if they want to expand their knowledge of numerous engineering and software development fields. Graduates of the USA's Software Engineering Master’s program either intend to continue their education or work for an organization offering a good package. Additionally, software developers solve current computer issues.
Related Read: Guide to masters in computer science in US
Top Universities in USA For MS In Software Engineering
There are many top universities offering software engineering MS in US. Each of these universities offers quality education for international students. Some of these are:
- Cleveland State University
- Saint Louis University
- California State University
- New Jersey Institute of Technology
- University of Wisconsin
Let us discuss each in brief:
1. Cleveland State University
Cleveland State University is one of the leading public research universities in US with an emphasis on students. The MSc in software engineering course introduces students to cutting-edge methods for developing software systems. Its focus on the architecture, design, quality, management, and economics components of software engineering is one of its distinctive characteristics. Students work on a project from beginning to end while studying the development life cycle and the specifications for particular deliverables.
Type |
Public |
QS World University Ranking 2023 |
1201- 1400 |
QS Subject Ranking 2023 |
NA |
Program Offered |
Master of Science in Software Engineering |
Program Fees (Annual) |
USD 14,299 (INR 11,28,824) |
2. California State University
California State Institution, Fullerton is a public university established in 1967. Graduates of California State University, Fullerton's Accelerated Master of Software Engineering program are prepared for rewarding jobs as software engineers and managers. Students are exposed to new technology advancements in a subject that is developing as well as how to use their knowledge in the job through this curriculum. Graduates satisfy the needs of business and address software and information technology professionals more generally.
Type |
Public |
QS Ranking 2023 |
1201-1401 |
QS Subject Ranking 2023 |
NA |
Program Offered |
MS in Software Engineering |
Program Fees (Annual) |
USD 8498 (INR 67,41,68) |
3. Saint Louis University
Saint Louis University, one of the oldest and most famous Catholic universities in the country, was founded in 1818. Students enrolled in SLU's graduate program in software engineering develop and create design strategies using hands-on projects and modern software tools to gain knowledge, skills and experience. Students discover critical design strategies that allow for continual innovation throughout their careers.
Type |
Private |
QS Ranking 2023 |
601-650 |
QS Subject Ranking 2023 |
- |
Program Offered |
MS in Software Engineering |
Program Fees (Annual) |
USD 17029 (INR 13, 51,000) |
4. New Jersey Institute of Technology
The New Jersey Institute of Technology or NJIT is the leading public university. NJIT was first known as Newark Technical School and changed its name to that in 1975. Graduates of this curriculum will be well-versed in every phase of software project lifecycle. They will gain theoretical knowledge and practical abilities that enable them to join software corporations or companies that produce their own software with ease.
Type |
Public |
QS Ranking 2023 |
651-700 |
QS Subject Ranking 2023 |
- |
Program Offered |
MS in Software Engineering |
Program Fees (Annual) |
USD 15,778 (INR 12,51,710) |
5. University of Wisconsin-Madison
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an open research institution that was founded in 1848 and is regarded as Wisconsin's oldest and largest university. Students taking up MS in computer science, learn about computer architecture, database systems, nonlinear optimization, and other fields. CS is known for having top-tier, innovative research groups. We are one of three departments of the new School of Computer, Data & Information Sciences, together with the Department of Statistics and the Information School (CDIS).
Type |
Public |
QS Ranking 2023 |
83 |
QS Subject Ranking 2023 |
NA |
Program Offered |
Master’s in Software Engineering |
Program Fees (Annual) |
USD 25,548 (INR 20,26,790) |
Course Curriculum for Masters In Software Engineering In USA
The master's degree in US comprises ten (10) courses (30 credits), including three (3) electives and seven (7) mandatory core courses. An adviser must approve each elective course such as:
- Software engineering (SSW)
- Engineering management (EM)
- Computer science
Admission Requirements for MS in Software Engineering In USA
Students seeking admission need to know the MS in Software Engineering in USA eligibility helping to take the process ahea
- Educational Qualification
- English Language Proficiency Test Scores
- Work Experience
- USA Student Visa
- Additional Requirements
Let us check in detail:
- Educational Qualification
Students must carry a bachelor's degree equivalent to USA degree in software or computer science. Moreover, CGPA of 3.0 and above 4 and minimal history of backlogs.
- English Language Proficiency Test Scores
Students while applying for in best universities for masters in software engineering in USA need to submit the score of English Language Proficiency test. However, the score may differ according to the university.
Work Experience
Not all universities would demand for work experience to pursue master degree in software engineering USA. However, having an experience will certainly work best.
USA Student Visa
To apply for a USA student visa, international students need to have an acceptance letter from the applied university. And also, check before applying for an F-1 student visa which is valid based on the program in which you enroll.
Documents Required For Master Degree in Software Engineering USA
- Academic Transcripts
- Official English Language Proficiency scores
- LOR
- SOP
- Financial Proof
- Educational Documents as per the level of course
- Updated CV
- Valid Passport
- Current Photographs (passport size)
Admission Process for Masters in Software Engineering in USA
Students who wish to pursue higher education in the USA must do so by requesting a US student visa. There is certain process of admission which includes some certain steps such as:
- Examine the admissions requirements of the university.
- Fill out the application form. You can avail for the admission application online on the official website of the university.
- Ensure that all documents are submitted by the application deadline. Check the website to see how far your application has progressed.
- If a student meets the requirement, the university invites the student to take the entrance exam & attend interview rounds
- The cut-off for the entrance exam is determined by the college administration. If an applicant performs well on the entrance exam and meets the cut-off, the next step is processed.
- Once the university accepts documents and scores, you can get an acceptance letter from the applied university
- After accepting an acceptance letter you can proceed to apply for USA student visa.
Cost of Studying Software Engineering MS in US
Living expenses, tuition, visa fees, and other fees all fall under the overall cost of study before heading to the US. These can be broadly classified into three categories: travel, education, and living costs.
Cost of Studying
Public and private institutions in the USA may charge different tuition rates. However, compared to private universities, it is a little lower at public universities. The overall cost of study in US for masters in software engineering is around USD 25,000 (INR 19, 83,631).
Cost of Living
The annual cost of living in the United States is around USD 2813 (INR 22, 29, 05) per year. There are other things to consider as well:
Facilities |
Cost Per Month (Approx) |
Accommodation |
USD 16700 (INR 13,23,328) |
Food |
USD 6000 (INR 47,54,47) |
Study Materials |
USD 700 (INR 55374) |
Scholarship Offered for Masters In Software Engineering In USA
MS in Software Engineering in USA Scholarships assist qualified students by partially or entirely covering their tuition costs. However, the institution evaluates each applicant's profile and does a thorough background check utilizing different documents. Some of the scholarships offered are:
Scholarships |
Amount Granted |
Fulbright Scholarships |
Tuition fee of university, textbooks, airfare |
Humphrey Fellowship Programs |
Full expenses |
Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship |
50% of the total fees |
AAUW International Fellowship |
USD 18,000 (INR 14,27,987) |
Suggested: Best scholarships for international students in US
Job Scope after Masters in Software Engineering in USA
Students have options to choose job roles after completing MSc in software engineering in USA. These jobs typically pay well and have promising futures. After graduating, students have the option of pursuing a Ph.D. at one of the best universities in the world. From software developer to software architect, there are multiple options. An average annual salary of a software engineer is around USD 70,000 (INR 55,54,167).
Job Roles |
Payscale (Annual) |
Software Analyst |
USD 92,000 (INR 72,98,603) |
Software Engineer |
USD 91,000 (INR 72,19,271) |
Systems Architect |
USD 88,000 (INR 69,81,273) |
Systems Analyst |
USD 92,000 (INR 72,98,603) |
For international students, pursuing a Masters in Software Engineering in the USA can be quite fruitful. After completing their master's degree, students can either pursue higher education or take well-paying employment. If you are looking forward to join the course, connect with Yocket professionals for more assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions About MS in Software Engineering in US
Ques. What is the overall cost of the Masters in Software Engineering in USA?
Ans: The overall cost of the masters in software engineering in USA is around USD 25,000 (INR 19,83,316)
Ques. What is the overall duration of the masters in software engineering in USA?
Ans: The overall duration of the masters in software engineering course is 12-24 months.
Ques. Is GRE/GMAT necessary for the masters in software engineering in USA?
Ans: Not all universities would seek the scores of GRE/GMAT for the masters’ course. You need to check which university seeks for the same.
Ques. What job roles students can get after pursuing masters in software engineering in USA?
Ans: There are different roles offered to aspirants. This includes:
- Software architect
- DevOps engineer
- Solutions architect etc.
Ques. Are there enough colleges in USA for masters in Software engineering?
Ans: Yes, almost every other universities and colleges offer masters in software engineering.