A software engineer develops various applications that enable users to accomplish tasks on their personal computers and electronic devices. Often, software engineers are employed by software publishers or computer systems design firms. Generally, software engineers attain a bachelor’s degree in computer science. However, individuals who wish to become software engineers may also be able to attain jobs after earning degrees in information technology or similar fields.

 

Software engineering is a field that is vitally important to computer technology as a whole. Without the software to run the computer hardware, that hardware is simply a clump of plastic, silicon and metal – perhaps useful as an overpriced paperweight.

 

In the strictest sense, software engineering is the application of engineering principles to the design, development and implementation of software. Because software engineering is such as a unique, scientific and technically-driven field, special training and formal degrees are required. By getting a degree in software engineering, graduates can work in any number of fields creating video games, developing internet applications, running computer networks or implementing computer security measures for an organization. Find out more about software engineering degrees and careers, and learn about salaries and employment projections for this specialized field.