MSc Computer Science with Software Engineering: an overview

Considering a rewarding, challenging and lucrative career in software engineering?

It’s a smart choice: there are plenty of reasons to upskill or retrain in this critical field. For starters, the average base salary for a software engineer in the United Kingdom is upwards of £50,000 – and upwards of £60,000 in London – though salaries can far exceed this. Next, take into account that individuals with specialist skills in software systems are required in just about every industry, meaning graduates are likely to be in high demand and able to take their pick of sector and focus. Finally, against the backdrop of our increasingly technologically reliant world – and an industry that’s long suffered from skills shortages – the outlook is bright in terms of job security and longevity.

What is the difference between an MSc Computer Science and an MSc Computer Science with Software Engineering degree?

While there is plenty of crossover between a standalone computer science masters degree and one that enables you to specialise in software engineering, there are key differences to be aware of before deciding which is right for you.

The main difference is that a broader computer science postgraduate education centres on the science that underpins how and why computers work. Of course, as course content spans the fundamentals of computer and information technology systems, it will likely encompass aspects of software engineering along the way. However, it may not explore the discipline in as great depth and detail as you require. A software engineering masters, on the other hand, offers in-depth study of the scientific and mathematical principles that relate to the build, design, and implementation of software and hardware programmes.

The benefit of studying an MSc Computer Science with Software Engineering degree is that you’ll get the best of both worlds: broad-based, technical and practical understanding of everything related to computer operating systems, and specialist skills in software systems – including software design and software development.

What topics are covered on an MSc Computer Science with Software Engineering programme?

MSc Computer Science with Software Engineering programmes equip you with the knowledge, skills, insights and tools to work in the wide-ranging field of computer science. At the same time, you’ll  focus on developing the highly sought-after skills needed for software engineering – including how to design, develop, test, and maintain complex software systems.

In your wider computer science studies, you could expect to explore core modules and topics including:

•         computing and information systems fundamentals
•         data structures and algorithms
•         computer networks
•         emergent technologies
•         artificial intelligence
•         cybersecurity
•         databases
•         web development and application development.

In software engineering, your studies could encompass:

•         concepts, principles and techniques of software engineering – such as object-oriented programming (OOP)
•         software development lifecycle – from requirements gathering to ongoing maintenance
•         software quality, testing, and project management.

You’ll also learn key programming languages that are essential to the world of computer science. Depending on your course, options available could include Java, Python, CSS, SQL, HTML, MATLAB, or R. You may also undertake an independent research project related to a topic of particular interest.

What are the possible career paths with a software engineering masters programme?

Your postgraduate study will ensure you’re well placed to land highly specialised roles in all types of businesses – from start-ups to mid-sized businesses to global corporations. Your combination of theoretical expertise and practical skills will enable you to develop, build, test, and evaluate effective software programmes and web applications for a wide range of purposes.

The British Computer Society (BCS) list some of the most popular software engineering-related job roles and career paths as:

•         DevOps engineer
•         cyber intrusion analyst
•         cybersecurity technician
•         software development technician
•         data technician
•         data analyst
•         artificial intelligence (AI) data specialist
•         IT solutions technician.

Equally, your wider computing expertise and experience will prepare you for a huge range of job roles related to information technology. For example, you could work in web development and design, programming, IT consultancy and project management, machine learning (ML), game design, robotics, cloud computing, network administration, or data science.

Are software engineering and software programming the same?

Software engineering and software programming both sit within the wider field of software development. While both are subsets of the same discipline, they involve different approaches, perspectives, responsibilities and skillsets as part of the software development process.

Software engineering is concerned with the broader approach of building software systems; software programming is concerned with writing code to implement specific software functionalities.

How do I find the right software engineering course for my needs?

There are many factors to consider before deciding whether or not a higher education course is right for you. The most important? Whether your chosen programme will act as an effective stepping-stone to enable you to achieve your future career goals.

If you’re keen to secure a position as a software engineer, there are some amazing courses out there. Here are some factors to consider as part of your decision-making process:

• Accreditation – would you prefer if your course was accredited by recognised professional, industry-standard bodies (such as BCS)?
• Rankings – is it important that your chosen university of training provider is world-leading and performs well in league tables?
• Facilities – Depending on your course and how you will be studying (for example, on-campus or remotely), weighing up whether you’ll have access to state-of-the-art facilities or the latest learning platforms might be useful.
• Opportunities – Does the programme contain visits from industry speakers, or involve networking and industry placements that enable you to gain hands-on experience?
• Course content – Are there a variety of compulsory modules and optional modules that enable you to gain critical knowledge while exploring your own interests? Has the course been designed with the real-world computing industry in mind?
• Study options – would you like to study full-time, part-time, flexibly, or online? Would a one-year, two-year or longer programme suit you? Are there multiple start dates throughout the academic year? Does the degree involve taught modules or self-guided modules, seminars, tutorials, examinations and/or coursework?
• Entry requirements and application process – do you meet the necessary entry criteria (e.g. work experience, honours degree/undergraduate degree, or English language requirements/IELTS requirements for international students)?
• Fees – does the tuition fee represent good value for money and is it likely to provide fair return on investment (ROI)?

Find out if the university or institution offers in-person or virtual Open Days that allow you to get a feel as to whether it’s a good fit for you. These offer great opportunities to chat to current staff and students, find out further information about your software engineering course, and explore the facilities, support services, and student experience as a whole.

Boost your employability and prepare for an exciting career in software engineering

Help businesses to solve real-world IT and computing problems – and gain the specialist skills to work as a software engineer – with Sheffield Hallam University’s online MSc Computer Science with Software Engineering programme.

Whether you have a background in computer systems and information technology or are looking to change career, our 100%-online, highly flexible masters degree will enable you to excel. Over the course of your studies, you’ll learn all you need to work in this ever-evolving, exciting field, covering key topics such as databases, networking, emergent technologies, programming skills, and more. Plus, your software engineering expertise and practical experience will enable you to design, develop, test and maintain software systems – increasing your employability in a critical industry.