The software engineering industry is rapidly growing in the information technology sector, and having a bachelor's degree is highly sought-after in many profitable fields.
Several accredited institutions across the nation extend reputable programs to earn an affordable software engineering degree online, and the top ten are listed below.
The Top Affordable Software Engineering Degrees Online
The following describes nationwide programs where students can earn an affordable software engineering degree online.
1. Southern New Hampshire University
At Southern New Hampshire University, students can earn an online Bachelor of Science degree in computer science with a concentration in software engineering at a low cost of $330 per credit.
It teaches foundational software engineering concepts and techniques, where students study innovative system technologies and architecture to become software developers, engineers, and designers.
This bachelor's program requires 120 total credits to graduate and allows up to 90 transferable credits.
2. Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw State University in Georgia offers a Bachelor of Science degree in software engineering through distance education that costs just $185 per credit plus student and applicable fees.
Coursework in the major covers topics like operating systems and data structures, preparing individuals for prosperous careers as database administrators and game developers.
It is accredited by the Accreditation Board of Engineers and Technology (ABET) and requires 120 credits.
3. Middle Georgia State University
Middle Georgia State University extends an affordable software engineering degree online, with tuition costing just $150 per credit hour plus additional fees for its undergraduate programs through distance learning.
It offers a Bachelor of Science degree in information technology with a concentration in software engineering and coursework focusing on computer architecture and C++ programming skills.
This program is ABET-accredited, and students need to finish 120 total credit hours.
4. St. Cloud State University
Earning an affordable software engineering degree online is possible at St. Cloud State University in Minnesota, where tuition costs $341.22 per credit plus fees for residents and those in reciprocity states.
Its Bachelor of Science degree in software engineering is delivered through flexible asynchronous learning and requires 122 credits to graduate.
Students gain a well-rounded education in computing skills and engineering principles for earning high-paying jobs as software architects and system analysts.
5. Western Governors University
Western Governors University charges per term for its online bachelor's degree in software engineering program, providing an affordable and flexible way for students to advance their careers in technology.
The cost for a six-month period is $3,985. Individuals can take unlimited courses and accelerate through familiar material to expedite their degree.
Students choose from a Java or C# track and acquire strong knowledge in areas such as mobile application development and software quality assurance.
6. Dakota State University
Dakota State University in South Dakota provides a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science with a software engineering specialization at a reasonable cost.
The tuition is $354.75 per credit for residents and $464.90 for non-residents. Military members receive a reduced per-credit cost of $250. Additional charges, such as proctoring fees, may apply for online learners.
Core coursework explores topics like web development environments and scripting for network administration.
7. Saint Leo University
The cost of tuition for online bachelor's degrees at Saint Leo University in Florida is $410 per credit plus other charges such as book and course materials fees. Active-duty military members pay $250 per credit.
Their Bachelor of Science degree in software engineering provides a solid background in fundamental concepts and theories and requires 120 credits.
It prepares students for lucrative jobs as computer programmers and information research scientists and typically takes four years to complete.
8. South College
An affordable software engineering degree online program is available at South College, where tuition is charged quarterly according to credit load, plus applicable technology and services fees.
Students can earn a bachelor's degree in computer science with a software engineering concentration through distance education for $2,100 when enrolling in one to five and a half credits.
It is $3,200 for six to nine and a half credits and $3,975 for 10 to 20 credits.
9. University of Minnesota
The University of Minnesota has an online Bachelor of Science degree in software engineering for $441.50 per credit plus applicable fees.
Students can choose an emphasis on network-centric systems or financial and e-commerce systems. A focus on gaming, 3D modeling, and simulation is also available.
Classes cover subjects such as data warehouse and mining or website development. It requires the completion of 120 total credits to graduate.
10. Colorado Technical University
Colorado Technical University offers an online Bachelor of Science degree in computer science with a concentration in software engineering at an affordable rate for working professionals.
The cost per credit hour is $340 plus additional technology and other fees and requires 183 total credits to graduate.
It provides student-centered education around designing and developing various levels of computer software. Core coursework provides an introduction to database systems, programming, and the fundamentals of data structures.
Average Cost of an Online Bachelor's Degree in Software Engineering
The cost of obtaining an online bachelor's degree in software engineering varies depending on factors such as the university, the number of credits required, and whether the student is enrolled part-time or full-time.
According to US News and World Report, the total tuition for an online software engineering degree can range from $37,000 to $91,000.
On average, the cost is around $300 per credit, with rates ranging from $150 to just over $400 per credit, as shown on our list above. The software engineering degree program usually requires a minimum of 120 credit hours for graduation.
How To Finance an Online Software Engineering Degree
Financial assistance is available for students pursuing an online software engineering degree. Eligibility is determined through the completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Several scholarship programs, such as the Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship, award students enrolled in software engineering programs. These scholarships help defray college expenses since they do not require repayment.
Other popular methods of financial aid include:
- federal and private loans
- federal or state grants
- work-study programs
- payment installment plans
- tuition reimbursement programs
Benefits of a Software Engineering Degree
The software engineering industry is expanding rapidly, and pursuing a degree in this field can open doors to lucrative job opportunities at some of the most advanced tech companies in the world.
Software engineering is the process of designing, developing, and maintaining software applications that are user-friendly and efficient. It involves creating reliable computer programs that meet the needs of users.
Obtaining a software engineering degree gives students an advantage for better job opportunities. Prospects in this field include working in high-paying and demanding careers as software architects and application developers.
Start Your Software Engineering Degree Online Today
Begin a rewarding journey towards a lucrative career in the fast-growing technology industry today by pursuing an affordable software engineering degree online program available from this list of accredited institutions.
