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What Can I Do With a Major in Software Engineering?
Computer software plays an important role in our daily lives: Our mobile phones, laptop computers, online banking, Internet applications such as YouTube, video games and movies, cars, and almost all aspects of daily life are touched by software. The software engineering major at Miami differs from computer science in that it emphasizes topics such as software design, software quality assurance, software requirements analysis, software project management, software maintenance, and formal methods for software development. The curriculum integrates course work in computer science, software engineering, mathematics, oral and written communication, the liberal arts and science. Throughout the program students learn in a team environment and thus gain skills in effective communication. Students also choose a specialization area (four courses) in a particular application area from diverse areas such as bioinformatics, scientific systems, computer security, e-business systems, and other areas.
The program leads to a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering degree.
Interests
This is an excellent major for students interested in problem solving, computer science, mathematics, and working and communicating with others, or for students who are interested in applying computer systems to solve problems for businesses or other organizations.
Competencies
- Problem Solving
- Problem formulation
Structuring an unstructured problem
Placing problems in context
Analyzing need
Analyzing risks and benefits
Precise analytical reasoning
Algorithm development
Problem solving using math skills - Communication
- Informing and explaining clearly both orally and in writing
Explaining technical concepts in easy to understand language both orally and in writing
Communicating technical details precisely and unambiguously Influencing and persuading
Using computerized tools for communication - Interpersonal Skills
- Working as part of a team
Developing common goals
Understanding client needs, business objectives, concerns, fears and constraints
Project management - Ability to Think Critically
- Thinking logically
Adapting ideas
Seeing connections
Weighing values
Adjusting to and promoting change
Learning of new technologies
Learning new areas to which systems are applied - Technical
- Ability to master concepts of computer science and mathematics
Opportunities - Careers
- Software Engineer
Operations research analyst
Management science analyst
Programmer/analyst
Entrepreneur
Systems Analyst
Consultant
Database developer and administrator
Interactive media or web development
Opportunities - Graduate/Professional School
Students may continue their education by receiving advanced degrees in: software engineering, computer science, computer information systems, management science, or business.
Opportunities - Experiential
On and off campus opportunities are available for students to gain practical and professional experience. BITS (Benton Information Technology Services) is a student-run technology consulting business providing computer solutions to on and off campus clients. From the CEO through software engineers, students experience the reality of running their own technology business. Other on-campus options include working with a faculty member on research and jobs in our computer labs. Miami's Career Services Office assists in placing many students in summer internship employment. Students have the opportunity to become involved in student professional organizations such as the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), the Association for Computing Machinery/Women, and the Student Advisory Council. These groups organize social and professional events from picnics to job fairs.
Sources of Additional Information
- Computer Science & Software Engineering Department (205 Benton Hall, 529-0340)
- * Curriculum Requirements
* Career Opportunities
* Career Decision Making - Career Services (200 Hoyt Hall, 529-3831)
- * Career Resource Center
* Career Counseling
* Career Assistance Center
* Computerized Career Development Program
* Dictionary of Occupational Titles
* Occupational Outlook Handbook - School of Engineering & Applied Science (106 Benton Hall, 529-0700)
- * Miami Plan Requirements
- * Course Selection
* Career Decision Making
Developed by the School of Engineering and Applied Science and the academic departmental offices with adaptations from Liberal Arts and Sciences - Skills - Career Opportunities, Career Planning and Placement Office, University of Michigan.