Why this programme expand_more
Software engineering was established as a subject area in order to apply sound engineering principles to software development, ensuring a rigorous approach and high-quality software products. The software engineering methods and development principles have proven so successful that they are now being adopted by other engineering disciplines.
Upon completing our Master's program in Software Engineering, you'll emerge with comprehensive expertise in the complete software development lifecycle. This encompasses essential skills like requirements engineering, software processes, software modeling and analysis, software design, and ensuring software quality through verification and validation processes.
The program goes a step further, equipping you with a deep understanding of important knowledge of algorithms, how to handle complexity, human-computer interaction (HCI), and artificial intelligence (AI). With these advanced insights, you'll be well-prepared to excel in a rapidly evolving tech landscape, capable of creating software that's not just efficient and reliable but also user-friendly and capable of harnessing the power of AI for intelligent applications.
You will have acquired the skills needed to become a master software engineer.
International focus
Students from around the globe come together in your program to create a unique and international environment. The program is fully taught in English, and you will study together with students from Sweden as well as international students from countries in Asia, Europe, Africa, and North and South America.
Most of your instructors also have international experience in both research and education. This will enhance your cultural experience and English-language proficiency.
Work-Integrated Learning
University West is Sweden’s leading university when it comes to work-integrated learning (WIL). The university was tasked with the development of WIL by the Swedish government 15+ years ago and continues to lead the field today. WIL allows you to focus on problem-based learning for industry, with real projects from partner companies.
The master program in Software Engineering has been built in close collaboration with software companies and industry experts and is founded on the pressing needs for skilled software engineering professionals with a comprehensive understanding of modern software engineering and industry best practice.
Professors and instructors have a wealth of research and industry experience and will introduce you to both frontline research and industry best practices within the software engineering area. Through guest lectures, company visits, and company-proposed topics for degree projects, you’ll gain hands-on experience in all aspects of software engineering and development. There are also real-life case studies where you can discuss your understanding, raise questions and propose ideas to experts in the field – and to potential employers.
A strong job market
The software engineering field is experiencing unprecedented demand, with statistics reflecting the robust job market:
- The demand for software developers is projected to grow by 21% from 2020 to 2030, (US Bureau of Labor Statistics).
- Over 50% of CIOs in the last five years have reported that lack of software engineers is making it hard for their companies to keep up with the latest technologies and is halting innovation (KPMG).
- There are almost 1 million open positions for software engineering jobs in the US alone, and it is rising. (Analyzing the Software Engineering Shortage in Forbes).
- Software engineer is one of the top four in-demand professions over the next 10-years, and the number of unfilled jobs will expand by 25% to 2031 (US Labor Department).
Further education
This program helps you build a strong foundation in Software Engineering and develop the qualifications you need to pursue your Ph.D. In Software Engineering as well as the broader field of computer science. After graduation, you will be eligible to continue studying as a Ph.D. Student at University West and other universities in Sweden and abroad.
Specialised and personal
University West offers an intimate campus environment without the usual barriers between academic staff and students. Here, your professors are easily accessible to answer questions, hold discussions and provide individual feedback. The teacher-to-student ratio is higher than at most comparable programmes at other universities.
While large universities have many focus areas, University West’s small size and high quality allow us to focus on and dedicate resources to a few prioritized/selected areas. This ensures a high-quality programme as well as a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Rewarding career in software engineering
A career in software engineering is not just a job; it's a journey into a world of endless possibilities and intellectual challenges. It is a field that rewards innovation, problem-solving, and creativity, making it an incredibly fulfilling choice for those with a passion for technology and programming.
In the realm of software engineering, you have the power to shape the digital future, develop new applications, and solve complex problems. The satisfaction of seeing a product come to life in the form of user-friendly software or cutting-edge systems is unparalleled.
Moreover, the software engineering field offers a broad spectrum of opportunities. Whether you're interested in web development, mobile apps, artificial intelligence, industrial systems or distributed computing, there are opportunities to explore and excel in. As a software engineer, you become part of a global community of innovators, collaborating on exciting projects and pushing the boundaries of what's possible.