Undergraduate and graduate certificates in software engineering can prepare graduates for higher degrees in the field and entry-level jobs as computer programmers, web designers, and network administrators.
Software engineering certificates typically appeal to high school or college graduates interested in careers in information technology, software engineering, or computer science. Seasoned professionals looking to advance professionally can also benefit from certificates. Software engineering students tend to possess strengths in logical reasoning, troubleshooting, and divergent thinking.
In today's exponential age of tech innovations, the demand for individuals with proficiencies in software programming, analysis, and testing continues to rapidly increase. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 22% employment growth rate for software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers from 2019-2029 — far exceeding the 4% average for all employers.
This guide reviews software engineering certificate requirements, prerequisites, cost expectations, and potential careers.
Best Software Engineering Certificate Programs
#1 Best Certificates in Software Engineering
Blue Ridge Community and Technical College
- Martinsburg, WV
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Blue Ridge CTC, headquartered in Martinsburg, West Virginia, was originally founded in 1972 within Shepherd College. The school has since grown into a career-centric institution with certificates and associate degrees.
Software Development Engineering Certificate
With Blue Ridge CTC's software development and engineering certificate, students can engage with practical assignments to complete the program in one year of full-time enrollment. Experienced faculty use coursework with real-world scenarios to prepare enrollees for entry-level roles in tech.
The curriculum provides a foundation for programming in various languages, including Python, Java, and C#. Ultimately, enrollees will be able to follow each step of the software development cycle to plan and see projects through to completion. Learners can complete this program through 100% delivery, on-campus attendance, or a combination of the two methods.
Applying to Blue Ridge CTC
Each candidate must provide a $25 application fee, along with high school transcripts or a GED certificate. Blue Ridge CTC requires candidates to provide SAT or ACT scores — if they did not take these exams, the school requires them to complete placement tests.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $181 per credit (in state); $327 per credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 30
- Program Length: 1 year
- Delivery Format: On campus, hybrid, 100% online
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
37%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Best Certificates in Software Engineering
California State University, Sacramento
- Sacramento, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Since its inception in 1947, CSUS has grown from 235 students to a diverse base of more than 30,000 enrollees. The university offers degrees at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels, along with certificates.
Certificate in Software Engineering
The certificate in software engineering at CSUS prepares enrollees to plan, create, and oversee large-scale applications. Students begin with required courses covering software specifications, project management, and quality assurance before selecting from one of four electives. These options explore more specialized areas of software engineering, such as database architecture, data analytics, and countermeasures for computer system attacks.
This program is delivered on campus as an individual sequence or within a bachelor of science in computer science program. CSUS' certificate prepares graduates to pursue entry-level software engineering roles and graduate studies in the field.
Applying to CSUS
Along with transcripts from any previous education demonstrating a 3.0 GPA, an applicant must provide a $70 application fee. Students with GPAs lower than 3.0 may receive conditional admission.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
- Tuition: $1,764 for up to 6 credits, $3,042 for 6.1 or more credits
- Required Credits: 12
- Program Length: N/A
- Delivery Format: On campus
Percent Online Enrollment
94%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#3 Best Certificates in Software Engineering
Framingham State University
- Framingham, MA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Dating back to 1839, Massachusetts' FSU has followed its mission statement to "live to the truth." Initially operating as a teachers' college, the university now offers 39 majors across undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs.
Undergraduate Certificate in Software Engineering
FSU offers an undergraduate certificate in software engineering to provide a strong foundation in various areas of computing. The program requires prerequisites in information technology, Java, and computer programming. Students must complete six courses to receive this certificate. The sequence begins by exploring UNIX, data structures, and software engineering.
Enrollees can then select three electives, allowing them to tailor the program to their personal and professional needs. Available electives include human-computer interaction, operating systems internals, and object-oriented programming. Certificate-holders can pursue entry-level software roles or apply their credits toward bachelor's programs.
Applying to FSU
Along with a $50 application fee, each candidate must provide high school transcripts or evidence of a GED certificate. FSU is test-optional and takes a holistic approach to admissions.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Tuition: $1,260 per course
- Required Credits: 30
- Program Length: N/A
- Delivery Format: On campus
Percent Online Enrollment
65%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#4 Best Certificates in Software Engineering
Illinois Institute of Technology
- Chicago, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois Tech launched in 1940 following the merger of the Lewis and Armour Institutes. With nearly 80,000 living alumni, the school has delivered undergraduate and graduate degrees, along with certificates, across more than 60 disciplines.
Software Engineering Certificate
With Illinois Tech's graduate-level software engineering certificate, enrollees can hone advanced skills in software development and design. Graduates can apply their credits toward master's degrees in computer science, and working professionals can pursue career changes or promotions within their current companies.
The program requires each student to complete three classes to earn a certificate, but they can select these nine credits from seven courses. Available options include software systems architectures, object-oriented analysis, software project management, and the science of programming. Learners can choose on-campus or online delivery for this graduate software engineering certificate.
Applying to Illinois Tech
For admission, each candidate must provide a $100 application fee and transcripts demonstrating a minimum 2.5 GPA in undergraduate coursework. Illinois Tech does not require GRE scores.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $1,712 per credit
- Required Credits: 9 credits
- Program Length: N/A
- Delivery Format: 100% online, on campus
Percent Online Enrollment
41%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Best Certificates in Software Engineering
Pace University
- New York, NY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Pace maintains two campuses in New York and offers distance learning programs across the country. Originally founded in 1906, the university has since grown to a current enrollment of nearly 14,000 students.
Online Advanced Certificate In Software Development And Engineering
Pace's online advanced certificate in software development and engineering, a graduate-level program, explores fundamentals of the field and specialized topics. Each enrollee completes required courses in engineering, software reliability, and software design methodologies, along with two elective classes. The elective courses cover more in-depth subjects of development, such as software validation and human-computer interactions.
Pace allows students to earn this certificate through fully online delivery or at its New York City campus. The program suggests that students possess degrees or experience in computing—without these requirements, they will need to take placement tests.
Applying to Pace
Along with a $70 application fee, each candidate must provide transcripts of their undergraduate education. Applicants with non-computing degrees must have professional experience to qualify. Pace gives preference to candidates with GPAs of 3.0 or higher.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Tuition: $1,050 per credit
- Required Credits: 16
- Program Length: N/A
- Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous), on campus
Percent Online Enrollment
58%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#6 Best Certificates in Software Engineering
University of California, Santa Cruz
- Santa Cruz, CA
- 4 years
- Campus
UC Santa Cruz, a Hispanic-serving institution, counts over 140,000 alumni since its inception in 1960. Known for its unique mascot Sammy the Banana Slug, the university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates across many subjects.
Software Engineering and Quality Certificate
UC Santa Cruz features a software engineering and quality certificate that students can complete through online delivery, in-person attendance, or a combination of the two methods. Along with building and testing software, this program focuses on the user experience by emphasizing interface design.
Enrollees must complete three classes in software project management, object-oriented analysis, and quality assurance testing. Each student can also tailor their program with three electives from three domains: user experience design, quality and testing, and software engineering. The flexible schedule allows learners to complete courses in any sequence, so long as they have completed prerequisites.
Applying to UC Santa Cruz
For admission, an applicant must provide transcripts of any past education, along with an $80 fee. The program requires each candidate to have professional experience or a degree in computer science or engineering.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
- Tuition: $4,625 per program
- Required Credits: 14 quarter units
- Program Length: 9-12 months
- Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous), on campus, or hybrid
Percent Online Enrollment
86%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#7 Best Certificates in Software Engineering
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
- Colorado Springs, CO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
UCCS initially operated as a commuter college with a small footprint but has since grown to educate more than 11,000 current students. The university touts its diverse student base and inclusive courses, offering degrees and certificates at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Certificate in Software Engineering
The certificate in software engineering at UCCS, ideal for current professionals and master's degree enrollees, uses a five-course sequence to cover software subjects like advanced engineering, requirements, design, and project management. Students can apply these credits to their master's degrees or use their certificates to demonstrate mastery to prospective employers.
To remain enrolled, each learner must earn a minimum of a B in each course. The program also stipulates that students need to possess knowledge of modern computing languages, along with coursework in discrete mathematics, data structures, and algorithms.
Applying to UCCS
UCCS requires a $50 application, along with a 3.0 undergraduate GPA from an accredited institution.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $1,135 per credit (in state); $1,853 per credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 15 credits
- Program Length: N/A
- Delivery Format: On campus
Percent Online Enrollment
51%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Best Certificates in Software Engineering
University of Cincinnati
- Cincinnati, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
UC dates back to 1819 with the founding of the Medical College of Ohio and Cincinnati College. About 50 years later, the Ohio city established UC and merged these institutions. The university now ranks among the largest schools in the country.
Software Engineering Certificate
UC's software engineering certificate, delivered on campus, offers flexible pathways with a customizable curriculum. Students can choose their prerequisite courses before selecting from three tracks: advanced software engineering, intelligent software development, and embedded and systems engineering.
Each enrollee must also complete required courses in programming languages, operating systems, and software engineering. Certificate-holders can apply their credits toward formal degrees or pursue professional roles such as software publishing assistant and IT manager. The university accepts applications on a rolling basis to review candidates year-round.
Applying to UC
Along with a $50 application fee, each candidate must submit transcripts demonstrating a 3.0 in past coursework.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: Unclear
- Required Credits: 16-18
- Program Length: 1 year
- Delivery Format: On campus
Percent Online Enrollment
66%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Best Certificates in Software Engineering
University of New Orleans
- New Orleans, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Following a movement to establish public higher education in New Orleans, UNO was founded in 1956 and opened its doors as a four-year college in 1961. Since then, UNO has delivered more than 70,000 degrees across a diverse slate of subjects.
Software Engineering Undergraduate Certificate
At UNO, the software engineering undergraduate certificate covers five core classes and two electives. The required classes lay a foundation for further study in the field or entry-level roles in the workforce. These courses include data structures, software design, and data models. Students can customize their programs by selecting from electives in mobile application development, advanced web applications, and special topics in computer science.
Enrollees can also opt to complete a computer science internship by partnering with a local IT company. This hands-on course allows students to develop real-world experience while earning a certificate.
Applying to UNO
Applying to UNO is free. The university maintains a test-optional policy for admission but emphasizes GPA for applicants who do not provide test scores.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Required Credits: 19 credits
- Program Length: N/A
- Delivery Format: On campus
Percent Online Enrollment
73%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
How We Rank Colleges And Bootcamps
ComputerScience.org ranks computer science degree programs at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. We also rank bootcamps and certificate programs. Our top priority is making sure you find the best possible fit for your education. We use up-to-date national statistics and focus on factors like return on investment, academic quality, and affordability.
Take a closer look at our rankings on our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect From a Software Engineering Certificate Program
Software engineering certificates teach students to design, test, and write code for modern software products, such as internet browsers, operating systems, and smartphone apps.
A typical software engineering certificate curriculum comprises core requirements, concentration courses, and electives. Core coursework typically seeks to familiarize students with software engineering fundamentals like programming languages, software systems architecture, and software design. Electives and concentration courses, by contrast, tend to focus on cultivating the core competencies needed for entry-level software engineering jobs.
Software engineering certificates teach students to design, test, and write code for modern software products.
Learners can pursue software engineering certificates at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Both certificate levels tend to require 15-20 credits and usually take around 6-12 months of full-time study to complete.
Individuals looking to pursue more advanced education after graduating can apply their certificate credits toward higher degrees. To facilitate cross-institutional credit transfer, prospective students should prioritize certificate schools that boast accreditation from one of the six recognized regional accreditors.
How Is an Online Certificate in Software Engineering Different From an On-Campus Program?
Each school handles online learning differently. Still, one main difference between on-campus and online certificate programs lies in how much guided hands-on experience they provide.
Online programs may best suit self-motivated individuals. While remote learners can program and create software from their computer, they may not work in a lab alongside classmates and instructors. Distance learners may need to take more initiative in seeking out academic support, peer connections, and networking opportunities.
Remote programs also usually allow more scheduling flexibility. While on-campus classes follow a set schedule, some online courses let students work at their own pace. This environment can allow learners to complete an online certificate in software engineering more quickly than an on-campus program. Students who need more time may prefer an online course, as some programs allow up to five years for completion.
Online and on-campus programs may also differ in cost. Some institutions charge lower rates for online programs. Many state schools extend in-state tuition rates to online enrollees regardless of residency. Distance learners can also save on expenses such as transportation and housing.
Students considering a software engineering online certificate should consider how these differences may impact their learning experience. Still, online and on-campus programs typically share the same curriculum, especially programs geared toward master’s degree transfer.
Top Online Programs
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Delivery Formats for Software Engineering Certificates
Just as online learning differs from on-campus studies, available online software engineering certificate programs vary. The primary online course delivery formats include 100% online models and hybrid models.
Classes offered 100% online require no on-campus participation. All resources, class discussions, and communication occur in a digital format. Depending on the program, students may take classes synchronously or asynchronously. Synchronous classes require live participation at set times. Asynchronous classes allow students to access course materials on their own schedule as long as they meet assignment deadlines.
To facilitate a completely digital learning environment, schools implement learning management systems. These platforms allow students to access grades, homework, lectures, and reading materials. Schools may design their own digital platforms or use applications such as Blackboard, Moodle, or Canvas.
Even on-campus programs use digital platforms to provide access to syllabi, homework assignments, and grades. Taking classes 100% online means that the learning platform hosts all the course's academic information. Digital learning platforms often include forums to facilitate peer-to-peer and instructor communication.
Hybrid classes combine the flexibility of online courses with the hands-on experience of an on-campus environment. Many hybrid courses require minimal on-campus participation, usually only for labs or group projects. Most lectures and classes still occur online.
Some software engineering certificate candidates may prefer a hybrid delivery format to experience a hands-on learning environment. When on campus, students can ask questions, work with classmates, and even network for future jobs. However, learners who excel in independent study, work long hours, or live far away may find a fully online format more advantageous.
Accreditation and State Authorization for Software Engineering Certificates
When choosing an institution — even for a short certificate program — ensure it holds appropriate accreditation. Both regional and national accrediting bodies hold institutions to high academic standards. These organizations report to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Each of the United States' seven regional accrediting bodies governs a specific geographical region. Nonprofit, academically-oriented schools usually earn regional accreditation. Students wishing to transfer online certificate credits towards a master’s degree should note that regionally accredited institutions usually only accept transfer credits from other regionally accredited schools.
National accreditation emphasizes career preparedness. Many vocational programs hold national accreditation. While regional accreditation carries more prestige, students preparing for specific jobs may also consider nationally accredited schools.
For institutions that primarily offer courses online, check for accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission. Likewise, various third-party agencies provide accreditation for particular programs. For software engineering programs, look for approval from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
To ensure online education meets the same standards as on-campus programs, many states require online schools to hold authorization. Each state maintains its own regulations. For example, Texas requires governing board approval for any electronically delivered program, including online certificates.
Established in 2013, the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA) consolidate state authorization regulations to make online education more accessible across state lines. SARA covers any postsecondary distance education, including certificates.
Currently, 49 U.S. states, plus the District of Columbia and U.S. territories, hold SARA membership. Higher education institutions that participate in SARA can accept out-of-state students without further authorization.
Admissions Process
Software engineering certificate programs normally require each applicant to submit an online application, a CV, school transcripts, recommendation letters, and a nonrefundable application fee.
Admission to an undergraduate certificate program typically requires a high school degree or GED certificate. An applicant to a graduate certificate program must generally hold a bachelor's degree. Neither type of certificate program normally requires prior software engineering experience. However, training in IT or programming can boost admission chances.
The best software engineering schools may also require SAT or ACT scores for prospective undergraduates, along with GRE or GMAT scores for graduate students.
GPA entry requirements vary substantially across different software engineering certificate programs. Undergraduate and graduate programs typically require a minimum 2.75-3.0 GPA for admission.
Different Certificate Types
A software engineering certificate differs from certification in software engineering. A certificate in software engineering delivers academic credentials in software design, programming, and testing, whereas certification in the field offers postgraduate confirmation that a job-seeker possesses the core competencies needed for a specific occupation.
Students can pursue software engineering certificates online, on-campus, and through hybrid delivery. Programs may offer distance learning courses in synchronous or asynchronous formats. Synchronous courses mirror the on-campus experience, with regular live virtual lectures and discussions. An asynchronous format, by contrast, enables participants to access pre-recorded lecture and course materials at their own pace.
Many certificate programs allow enrollees to concentrate in specific software engineering areas.
Students with demanding work or family obligations may prefer asynchronous courses' added flexibility. On-campus and synchronous programs may hold greater appeal for learners seeking more personal faculty guidance.
Many certificate programs allow enrollees to concentrate in specific software engineering areas. Popular concentrations include software architecture, user interface design, and blockchain technology. Before choosing a concentration, students should carefully weigh their career goals and academic interests.
Popular Software Engineering Certificate Courses
Core courses typically focus on programming languages, high-level programming, software metrics, and software testing and analysis. Electives and concentration courses may cover software architecture, the software development cycle, user interface design, and blockchain applications.
Common courses in software engineering certificate programs include:
- Introduction to Programming Languages: This core course introduces students to the design and implementation of programming languages throughout history, with a special emphasis on functional (e.g., ML and Scheme), imperative (e.g., Java and C++), scripting (e.g., Python and Ruby), and logic-based languages (e.g., Datalog and ASP). Learners also gain insight into formal semantics, high-level versus low-level languages, and high-level language classifications.
- C++ Programming: This core class teaches learners to design general algorithms for applications and code them in C++ — an imperative, object-oriented programming language. Lectures and course assignments cultivate strong troubleshooting skills for testing applications and addressing coding issues.
- User Interface Design: This concentration course introduces students to the latest techniques and strategies for designing compelling user interfaces for websites, desktops, and mobile devices. Topics covered include design typology, templating, formatting, color schemes, and wireframes. Enrollees learn to use interface design strategies and usability testing procedures to devise and assess novel user interfaces.
- The Software Development Lifecycle: This elective course often includes several field trips to tech companies at the forefront of software design and development. During these visits, students gain practical experience with key aspects of the software development lifecycle.
- Blockchain Applications: In this concentration course, students leverage their knowledge of algorithms, networks, and protocols to develop proficiency in designing applications for blockchains — the decentralized, distributed ledgers that support cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Cardano. This class often requires programming proficiency in a modern high-level language, such as Java or C++.
How Much Do Certificates in Software Engineering Cost?
The cost of a software engineering certificate program varies with school type and prestige, student residency, and delivery format. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the cost of tuition and fees at four-year undergraduate institutions averaged $23,490 for the 2018-19 school year.
However, in-state public schools typically charge less than private and out-of-state public institutions. For the 2018-19 academic year, NCES reported an average cost of $9,212 for in-state public tuition and fees. Private and out-of-state public tuition and fees averaged $31,875 and $26,382, respectively, for the same school year.
Distance learners may enjoy more favorable tuition rates, as many colleges and universities offer remote courses at a discount. Pursuing a software engineering certificate online or in a hybrid structure can also deliver savings on educational expenses like room and board, on-campus amenities, parking, and commuting.
To further offset the costs of earning a certificate in software engineering, prospective students can explore financing opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and grants.
Why Get a Certificate in Software Engineering?
Pursuing a certificate in software engineering can help satisfy prerequisites for more advanced software engineering or computer science degrees. Certificate-holders may also qualify for entry-level positions in the field. Even without a college degree, a certificate in software engineering may suffice for securing employment in web development, computer programming, and network administration.
Software engineering certificates generally take less time and provide greater affordability than software engineering degrees such as bachelor's and master's degrees. Accordingly, certificate students planning to enter the workforce after graduating could potentially see a faster return on investment than learners who choose to pursue a software engineering degree.
Earning a certificate in software engineering provides sought-after competencies that readily apply across most sectors, making a certificate in the field a highly versatile credential.
Software engineering certificate-holders may qualify for roles as:
Read more:
Should You Get a Certificate or an Associate Degree?
Prospective software engineering students may wonder whether to pursue certificates or associate degrees in the field. While the two tracks provide similar qualifications and cover comparable course material, they differ in length, credit load, and costs.
Aspiring software engineers looking to enter the workforce as quickly as possible may prefer certificates, which cost less and take less time than associate degrees. Conversely, because an associate degree provides additional credits and more exposure to the academic environment, this option may appeal to learners looking to use their earned credits toward higher degrees.
The following information explores how software engineering certificate programs and software engineering degree programs typically compare.
Comparing Certificate and Associate Programs
|
Software Engineering Certificate |
Software Engineering Associate Degree |
| Length |
6-12 months full time |
Two years full time |
| Credit Load |
15-20 credits |
60 credits |
| Average Cost of Tuition and Fees at Four-Year Institutions |
$11,245-$23,490 |
$44,980 |
| Typical Courses |
Introduction to programming, software systems architecture, user interface design, blockchain technology |
Programming languages, calculus, artificial intelligence, software systems architecture, blockchain technology |
| Goal |
Prepare students for more advanced education or entry-level jobs in the field |
Prepare learners for higher degrees or entry-level positions in the field |
| Examples of Careers Available After Graduation |
Web developer, computer programmer, web designer, health information technician |
Database administrator, computer programmer, network administrator, health information technician |
Software Engineering Certificates Versus Bootcamps
Coding bootcamps provide coding proficiency within a short period — typically a few weeks or months. Bootcamps differ from software engineering certificates in admission requirements, student demographic, costs, and breadth.
Coding bootcamps usually attract working professionals looking to change careers or pursue more advanced roles. Certificates hold greater appeal for students who plan to pursue more advanced education in the field or enter the workforce immediately after graduating.
Below, we explore some key differences between software engineering certificate programs and bootcamps:
Comparing Certificate Programs and Bootcamps
|
Software Engineering Certificate |
Software Engineering Bootcamp |
| Length |
6-12 months full time |
A few weeks to a few months |
| Credit Load |
15-20 credits |
Not usually applicable |
| Cost Estimate |
$11,245-$22,490 |
Varies with bootcamp length but typically costs a fraction of the average annual tuition and fees for four-year schools |
| Student Demographic |
Students hoping to secure an entry-level job or pursue a higher degree in the field, seasoned professionals seeking to advance in their current roles |
Working professionals looking to change careers or climb the career ladder to a higher role. |
| Proficiencies |
Proficiencies in designing, assessing, and writing code for software |
Coding proficiencies |
| Admission Requirements |
A high school diploma or GED certificate |
Often no prerequisites |
Top Online Programs
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Selecting the Right Software Engineering Certificate Program
School rankings can provide a strong starting point on your quest for the right software engineering certificate program. Before settling on a program, you should also weigh factors like accreditation, state authorization, and career services availability:
- Accreditation: Confirm that your prospective schools hold regional accreditation from one of the six official institutional accreditors. This type of institutional endorsement helps ensure access to federal funding for eligible students, credit transfer across institutions, and employer recognition of certificate credentials. The best software engineering certificate programs also hold field-specific accreditation from ABET.
- State Authorization: If you plan to take online courses in a different state from where you reside, confirm that the school in question participates in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA). NC-SARA participation ensures that the remote courses satisfy the educational criteria for software engineering certificates.
- Career Services: The best software engineering certificate programs offer robust resources, such as job fairs, resume workshops, and mock interviews. Career services can also help you find internships, locate further education opportunities, and identify employers who hire software engineering certificate-holders.
Explore Related Programs
Learn More About Software Engineering
How to Become a Software Engineer
This overview explains the steps involved in becoming a software engineer, including how to obtain a software engineering certificate or degree and pursue postgraduate opportunities.
Salary and Career Outlook for Software Engineers
This guide offers information about the salary expectations, best industries, and optimal job locations for software engineers.
Day in the Life of a Software Engineer
This page reviews typical careers, job responsibilities, and work environments for software engineers. We include an interview with a professional software engineer.
Software Engineering Degree Programs
This guide provides an overview of what to expect from software engineering degree programs, including typical coursework, specialization opportunities, and the application process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Software Engineering Certificates
How long does it take to get a certificate in software engineering?
How long it takes to get a software engineering certificate depends on your prior qualifications, chosen specializations, and course load. Most students complete certificates in 6-12 months of full-time study.
How can I become a software engineer without a degree?
To become a software engineer without a degree, you can pursue a software engineering certificate, attend bootcamp, or earn credentials on your own by accessing free online content. With some work experience, these options may suffice for entry-level software engineering jobs.
Is it hard to become a software engineer?
Difficulty in becoming a software engineer depends on your academic strengths and chosen educational pathway. If you are strong in math, logic, and statistics, you may not find it hard to become a software engineer. Even if you possess strengths in these areas, you may still find advanced degrees like a Ph.D. in software engineering difficult and strenuous.
Should I get a certificate in software engineering?
It depends. If you want to enter the workforce as quickly as possible, you may benefit from earning a software engineering certificate. If you aim to change careers, pursue higher degrees, or advance in your current industry, you may benefit more from pursuing a degree in software engineering.
