Software Engineering

Software engineering: More than just programming

The Bachelor of Science in software engineering at Trine University will teach you to apply scientific principles to develop software. The degree includes computer programming, but also is concerned with methodologies, techniques, and tools to manage the lifecycle of software.

The degree: From circuits to integrated systems

The Bachelor of Science in software engineering curriculum will provide you a solid background in the theory and practice of all phases in the software engineering process. Courses cover programming, algorithms, digital electronics, systems programming, and include an advanced elective area and a capstone design project.

The experience: Explore all aspects of software

The working environment of software engineers is team-based. You will gain experience through interactive experiences in and out of the classroom. You will explore:

• Cost effectiveness
• Usability
• Modeling and analysis
• Design
• Reliability
• Quality
• Requirements and testing
• Teamwork
• Project management

You will develop skills employers are looking for, including analytical skills, communication skills, computer skills, creativity, interpersonal skills, problem-solving skills and an eye for detail. The format of laboratories and design projects is such that you will experience working as an individual, working with a same-discipline partner or small team, and finally working as part of a multi-disciplinary team.

The result: Careers that are in demand

Software engineering prepares students for careers in software development at small and large organizations worldwide.

Other job opportunities include careers as computer and information research scientists, software development engineer, computer and information systems managers, data engineer, project manager, computer network architects, information security analysts and web developers.

Computer engineering or software engineering?

Trine University offers majors in both software engineering and computer engineering. If you're not sure which one is right for you, consider the following:

Computer engineering is focused on designing, developing and operating computer systems. The major concentrates on digital hardware devices and computers, and the software that controls them.

Software engineering is centered on building and maintaining software systems. It’s a more software-oriented program and has a greater emphasis on large software applications. The major also highlights the entire software development process, from idea to final product, as well as applying an orderly approach to help ensure products are safe and reliable.

Additional Information

Internships

Below are some job/internship opportunities you can explore while attending Trine:

• Wright-Patterson Airforce Base–Summer research.
• Cooper Tire–Computer-controlled manufacturing.
• DLZ–Multi-disciplinary architecture and planning firm.
• BAE Engineering–Aircraft engine controls
• Delphi–Integrated circuit fabrication.
• ITT–Military radio design

Cooperative employment is formalized in a full-time Trine University course: CO 050 - Co-Op Employment. Students must pre-register for this course before each semester's work assignment.  A co-op experience may also be used for program credits through the course: CO 453 Co-Op Work Experience.  This is a 3-credit course that students may register for in their senior year if they have completed three co-op assignments (including summer) the last term of co-op being within a calendar of graduation. The 3-credit course may be counted in the degree credit hour requirement (132 hours).  Senior students in the 3-credit course are expected to submit a formal report detailing technical aspects of their employment.

For additional information on cooperative education or internships, contact the Career Services office by calling 260.665.4124, careerservices@trine.edu, or visit the Career Services website.

Careers

Trine University has offered a minor in software engineering to students interested in learning more about that area for many years. While not a Bachelor degree program until Fall 2016, students have already found careers in the field:

• Orchard Software Corp., Indiana
• Ontario Systems, Indiana
• Epic Systems, Wisconsin
• Infor Global Solutions, New York

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts job growth of 12-19% for similar professions between 2014 and 2022. The field is diverse and students have many choices when exploring career opportunities.

Enrollment and Graduation Data

Software Engineering enrollment and graduation data

Cost and Investment

Information about tuition can be found at Cost and Investment.