A
qualified computer software engineer is involved with the
development, design, and implementation of various computer
applications and systems based on users' needs. Software
engineering degree programs train students to create and convert
programs, analyze and provide solutions for computer-related
problems, and design efficient software and systems. A computer
software engineer may specialize in a particular field such as
applications software or systems configuration. Courses in
software engineering allow students to gain experience with both
hands-on training and theoretical studies.
What Is Software Engineering?
Software engineering involves the design, analysis, and tailoring of specific
applications for the development of computer software. It may be necessary to
ask 'What is software engineering?' before pursuing a computer science or
related degree program. Software engineers often become specialized within a
particular field and become coders where they build systems and applications.
They may also be involved with the technical aspect where they are responsible
for modifying and designing existing applications. Others may be involved with
maintaining a computer or company's network. Depending on the complexity of the
software involved, each software engineer will require varying levels of
training and certification for different programs.
Software Engineering Job
Description and Responsibilities
A software engineer is
responsible for a variety of tasks and applications in programming, and the
scope of their work will depend on their specialization. The most common
responsibilities of a software engineer include
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Programming and coding
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Compiling code and
implementing it in various programs for testing
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Working with and developing
text editors
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Building new systems and
applications
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Programming networks
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Maintaining a network
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Determining efficient
coding processes and procedures
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Diagnosing bugs and
software problems
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Configuring software to
meet a client or company's needs
A computer software engineer
can pursue a variety of career options and increase credentials with experience.
Certification in a specific area does not limit career opportunities in the
field, and the computer software industry is rapidly advancing.
Common Positions with a
Software Engineer Career
A software engineering degree
program offers many career options within the field. The most common types of
software engineering career options include:
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Computer Applications
Software Engineer
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Computer Systems Software
Engineer
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Computer Software Analyst
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Computer Software Technician
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Support Technician
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Computer Software Designer
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Computer Software Testing
Manager
A computer applications
software engineer is commonly involved with analysis, design, construction, and
maintenance of software and utility programs. They are most often trained in the
leading programming languages such as C and C++. Fortran, COBOL, and Java
certification may also be required further in the career.
Computer systems software
engineers are involved with the organization and maintenance of entire computer
systems. They may work on intranets and on the web to create dynamic software
components for clients. Companies that hire a computer systems software engineer
are often looking for the configuration and implementation of a complete
network. They may also be involved with technical support and helping
troubleshoot various elements of computer software.
Startup companies often hire a
computer software engineer to design, construct, and implement an efficient
system. This makes it easy for a qualified computer software engineer to work on
a freelance basis as an independent contractor, in addition to being hired on a
salary basis by a firm.
Software Engineering Degree
Programs and Training
Many students pursue a bachelor
of science (BS in software engineering) after completing preliminary studies in
a two-year computer science education. A BS in software engineering allows
prospective graduates to learn the principles of software design, as well as the
creative skills to develop and implement new software and networks of their own.
Academic programs in the field of software engineering allows students to work
as software developers, consultants, within government firms, or in the field of
computer science as a researcher.
Systems software engineering
jobs require at least a bachelor's degree in computer science with applicable
training. Certification is often a part of the software engineering degree
program, but students may also choose to pursue other levels of certification on
their own. Independent study guides are available for almost all national
certification programs. The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers
(IEEE) Computer Society offers professional certification in a variety of
programming languages and software applications. After completing the
examination, the individual earns the credential of a Certified Software
Development Professional.
With the rapid technological
advances in the industry, those with a BS in software engineering plus
certification will have the most opportunities for advancement. Private training
institutions also offer opportunities for enhancing any education, and many
employers may also offer training options as part of their benefits package.
A high school background in
mathematics, physics, statistics, and computer science will be most beneficial
for those interested in pursuing a software engineer career. The most common
divisions for software engineer training include:
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Aspects programming
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Agile software development
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Experimental software
engineering
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Model driven software
development
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Software product lines
Future Employment Prospects and Earning Potential for a Software Engineer Career
The
rapid advances in software engineering and development provide attractive
opportunities for a software engineer career. The demand for qualified and
skilled computer software engineers is expected to increase with the rise in
computer networks and expanding Internet technologies. The highest growth areas
in the industry include wireless and mobile technologies, website development,
online software processing, systems software, and customized software solutions
technology. The industry is becoming more competitive because firms are
contracting lower-level tasks abroad; a software engineer needs to grow and
develop their skills and education in order to stay competitive.
The
median salary for a computer software engineer was $70,900 in 2002, with
increasing options for those with certification and experience. Many computer
software engineers are hired on a temporary or contract basis, and often work
independently as a consultant. Related occupations include:
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Computer systems analysts
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Computer engineers
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Statisticians
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Database administrators
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Computer support specialists
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Computer network engineers
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