myCSUSM
Launch Into a Cutting-Edge Tech Career.
Build a solid foundation in software engineering with our face-to-face degree-completion program at the CSUSM Temecula campus. Gain the essential skills and insights needed to excel in the rapidly evolving software field. Engage with cutting-edge technologies and learn the best practices that will position you at the forefront of software development.
During your final two semesters in this software engineering degree program, you will put your skills to practical use by working on software projects for real-world clients, gaining invaluable workplace experience.
Step into a rapidly growing industry primed for new graduates. The demand for software engineers is expected to surge, with job opportunities in the U.S. projected to grow by 25% through 2032—vastly exceeding the national average growth rate of 3% for all jobs.
Face-to-Face in Temecula
Complete in Just 4 Semesters
Work with Real Clients
Application Deadlines
Applications to the software engineering program are reviewed on a rolling basis; apply at any time! However, priority is given to applications that are received by these deadlines:
- Fall 2024: July 24, 2024
Quick facts
Fast-Track Degree Completion: The BS in Software Engineering is specifically designed for students who have already
earned at least 60 college credits and are looking to complete a bachelor’s degree
while juggling personal and professional obligations.
Real-World Collaboration: Engage directly with industry leaders on actual software engineering projects. Gain practical workplace experience and forge valuable professional connections that are crucial for success in the dynamic field of software engineering.
Attend an Information Session
Join a 30-Minute Online Information Session
Learn more about the BS in Software Engineering program through a brief, informal
webinar and Q&A session:
Please revist later for updates on upcoming information sessions.
Admission and Costs
Admission
This is a degree-completion program. Students must complete required prerequisite courses and 60 transferable units (or 90 quarter units). Additionally, applicants are required to meet the CSU general education transfer requirements. View all admission requirements.
Costs and Financial Aid
- $530 per unit
- Discounts available for active-duty military
- Eligible for financial aid
Offered in Temecula
Convenient Location: You’ll meet in person at our Temecula Valley campus (usually two days per week), putting
you in proximity to dynamic industries in both San Diego and Riverside counties.
Cohort-Based: Complete the program with the same group of students you start it with. New cohorts begin each spring and fall.
Cohort-Based: Complete the program with the same group of students you start it with. New cohorts begin each spring and fall.
Who Is This Software Engineering Degree For?
Does this sound like you?
- Tech professionals seeking to elevate their career by acquiring the necessary knowledge and credentials to advance in the software industry.
- Career changers looking to jump-start a new phase in their professional life by entering the ever-evolving field of software engineering.
- Members of the armed forces and veterans aiming to leverage their unique background and experiences into a fulfilling career in software development.
- Tech professionals aspiring to reach leadership and management roles within the competitive software industry by mastering advanced skills and strategic insights.
Curriculum Highlights
The BS in Software Engineering curriculum equips you with the skills to apply engineering principles effectively in the creation, development, testing and maintenance of software systems.
Data Structures and Algorithms
Explore advanced data structures and algorithms, focusing on implementing abstract data types such as dictionaries, priority queues and balanced trees. Learn about the fundamentals of recursive algorithms, complexity analysis and time efficiency. The course also covers sorting and searching, alongside key computing concepts like computability and heuristic problem-solving strategies. Gain the skills needed to effectively solve complex computing problems.Cloud Computing
Dive into the fundamental technologies that enable cloud computing, including software-defined architectures, virtualization and containers. Learn about web middleware technologies and the different levels of cloud services. Engage in projects to develop and deploy cloud services using public cloud infrastructures, enhancing your practical experience with real-world applications.Software Requirements and Design
Learn essential techniques in software requirements engineering, focusing on requirements elicitation, specification and validation. Understand functional and nonfunctional requirements, risk management and prototyping. Participate in projects to develop initial system designs and create key documents like requirements specifications.Careers and Job Outlooks
Position Yourself for Professional Growth
The software sector in the U.S. is experiencing robust job and salary growth.
Industry Openings Each Year
Projected Job Growth through 2032
Median Salary for Software Engineering Roles
Potential Career Paths
The Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering offers versatility, preparing you for diverse roles in software development, IT and product leadership across various industries. Explore a wide array of career opportunities, including:
- Computer Systems Analyst
- Software Engineer
- User Interface Designer
- Software Testing Engineer
- Video Game Designer
- Computer Systems Administrator
- Project/Product Manager
- Sales Engineer
This degree equips you with the skills necessary to adapt and thrive in numerous professional settings.
What Do Our Faculty Have to Say?
We train software engineering students to be effective collaborators, and we dare our students to practice creativity in developing quality software to help people get their jobs done better and faster.
Dr. Simon Fan
Professor, Software Engineering
Our Software Engineering program equips students with both technical and soft skills necessary to build tomorrow's innovative software for humanity.
Kenny Ballou
Companies, such as Google, Apple, Qualcomm and Northrop Grumman are a few of many employers who speak highly about students who graduated from our program.
Dr. Yongjie Zheng
Associate Professor, Software Engineering
FAQ
- What is a degree-completion program?Degree-completion programs at CSUSM cater to individuals who have initiated, yet not completed, their four-year undergraduate degrees. If you have earned at least 60 transferable units, you are eligible for this sought-after bachelor’s degree in software engineering from Cal State San Marcos.
- What is a cohort?A cohort is a group of students who work through a curriculum together to achieve the same academic degree. Because they are accepted into the same program, take their classes together and graduate together, students in cohorts form strong bonds, creating a support system and professional network that proves beneficial during and after the program.
- What services do you offer to active military, veterans and dependents?
- What is the difference between this program and the software engineering program offered
in San Marcos?
What is the difference between this program and the software engineering program offered in San Marcos?
The key difference in these two programs is location. This program is offered in person in Temecula. Both programs offer the same courses and benefit from the same faculty members, and both programs culminate with a bachelor’s degree from CSUSM.
- Why should I pursue a BS degree in software engineering instead of attending a coding
bootcamp?Choosing a bachelor's degree in software engineering over a coding bootcamp provides a more comprehensive and well-rounded educational experience. While bootcamps focus on immediate technical skills, a BS degree lays a solid foundation in computer science, programming, mathematics and project leadership. This broader educational base is crucial for a deep understanding of the software engineering field and enhances your career advancement opportunities, preparing you for a wide range of challenges and roles in the industry.
- What is the pathway program with MVUSD and MSJC?This pathway program allows students to begin their journey toward the CSUSM software engineering degree-completion program as early as 11th grade. By taking designated courses through Moreno Valley Unified School District (MVUSD) and continuing with selected courses at Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC), students can fulfill all prerequisites necessary for a smooth transition into this bachelor’s degree program at CSUSM.
- What kinds of careers will I be prepared for after completing this program?
Upon graduating from this program, you will be well-equipped to apply your knowledge, techniques and skills to develop high-quality software and offer innovative solutions across various sectors. You can expect to find opportunities in both industry and government roles. Potential career paths include:
- Computer systems analyst
- Software engineer
- User interface designer
- Software testing engineer
- Video game designer
- Computer systems administrator
- Project/product manager
- Sales engineer
- How often do I need to come to campus for classes?Students in the BS in Software Engineering program are typically asked to come to the CSUSM at Temecula campus two or three days per week for classes.
Secure Your Future in Software Engineering Today.
Sources
Salary and job growth: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm
288 Campus Way San Marcos, CA 92078