Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering

Start your GCU journey today.

Step 1: Educational Interests

This helps us connect you with the right enrollment counselor to help you through the process.

Degree Level

Bachelor's

Class Setting

Campus

Area of Study

Technology

Program

BS in Software Engineering

Current Education Level

Make a selection

High School Graduation Year

Make a selection

High School Name

Country

United States

Find Your Purpose

Start your GCU journey today.

Request Info

Overview

Empower Innovation With a BS in Software Engineering

The Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering degree from Grand Canyon University teaches students how to use specialized engineering, business and computer science practices and technologies to find solutions for complex software issues. This interdisciplinary program is ideal for aspiring software engineers, project managers or entrepreneurs.

The BS in Software Engineering strives to equip graduates with a deep understanding of business principles and computer science fundamentals that focus on analyzing complex problems, identifying software requirements and designing innovative solutions that align with organizational goals. Our professional faculty teach a comprehensive curriculum that covers programming, data analysis, software development methodologies, strategic planning and business analysis.

Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering

Offered By

College of Engineering and Technology

Class Settings

Campus

Tuition Rate

Campus: $8,250 per semester [More Info]

Cost of Attendance

Course Information

Credits: 128

Campus: 15 weeks

[]

Transfer Credits

Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division

Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)

16+ years old
High School Graduate
3.0+ Unweighted GPA

OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and

ACT: 19
SAT: 1000*

Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).

Study Core Software Engineering Skills

Studying core software engineering skills can provide a strong foundation for aspiring professionals in the field. The software engineering courses delve into fundamental principles, methodologies and best practices essential for planning, developing and maintaining software systems.

Software engineers concentrate on how a software project is performing by:

Being knowledgeable of every phase in the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)

Understanding how to engineer a software solution to complex problems

Obtaining knowledge of how software can integrate with and make hardware come to life

Differentiating software development processes

Utilizing estimation techniques and measurement

Exercising strong communication skills across disciplinary lines

Performing risk management assessments

Develop Technological Knowledge With a BS in Software Engineering

Software engineers are typically expected to have technical knowledge and understanding, verifiable personal accomplishments, and experience with utilizing embedded systems, as well as individual and team-based projects. Students in the software engineer program are taught to look after complicated systems and contribute to the analysis, design and program development of those systems. Additionally, software engineering majors will explore testing tools and methodologies, design patterns, Cloud and IoT integration, MLOps and fault-tolerant systems.

Nurturing vital technical skills is just the beginning of this program's emphasis. It places a strong focus on providing a comprehensive understanding of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC), enabling graduates to explore avenues that promote successful teamwork across all SDLC stages.

Coursework

Essential Software Engineering Courses

Software engineering majors focus on using critical thinking skills to produce and maintain IT design, large scale data stores and cloud-based systems. Courses are taught by professionals in their respective fields who share extensive engineering and software knowledge. To complete the software engineering degree, students are also required to submit a capstone project applying their knowledge and skills learned throughout the hands-on curriculum.

This 128-credit software engineering program will cover topics including:

Eliciting project requirements

Writing algorithms

Embedded systems

FPGA design and development

Software development and deployment

System verification

Design and architecture

Software validation

Software analysis and the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)

$109,020

Median annual wage for software developers as of May 2021^{(See disclaimer 1)}

26%

Estimated job growth for software developers as of 2021 to 2031^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Careers

Career Paths for Software Engineering Majors

Students in this BS in Software Engineering program will have the opportunity to apply and showcase their understanding of the software engineering body of knowledge, as well as various technical practices and technologies. Through the program, you will be taught the skills to tackle the design, development, validation and implementation of intricate software systems.

Graduates may move on to pursue coveted roles within an organization, at any stage of the software development life cycle, including:

Software engineer
Software developer
Architectural and engineering manager
Database architect
Software quality assurance analyst and tester

Graduates of GCU’s software engineering program may also be prepared to work in a variety of settings including embedded applications development, social media companies, healthcare providers, large corporations, financial institutions and more.

FAQ

Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering FAQs

If you’re considering a bachelor’s degree in software engineering, we’ve gathered a few frequently asked questions that may be essential in helping you make an informed decision about your educational and professional goals.

What degree do you need for software engineering?

To pursue a career in software engineering, a common degree choice is a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering or a related field such as computer science or computer engineering. These degrees provide a solid foundation in programming languages, algorithms, data structures, software development methodologies and computer systems. While a bachelor's degree is typically the minimum educational requirement, some positions in software engineering may require or prefer candidates with a master's degree or higher, such as the Master’s of Science in Software Engineering.

Is a software engineering degree worth it?

The current digital age is resulting in a strong job market for software engineers, which is a type of software developer, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).^{(See disclaimer 3)} The BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook estimates job growth for software developers to increase by about 26% from 2021 to 2031, faster than average.^{(See disclaimer 2)} Additionally, the skills taught in the software engineering courses are typically highly transferable, which may prepare you to pursue a solid foundation for a career not only in software engineering but also in related fields such as data science, artificial intelligence, software development and cybersecurity.

Are software engineers highly sought after?

Yes. Software engineering stands as a highly sought-after profession.^{(See disclaimer 4)}

The BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook estimates an estimated increase of 1,796,500 jobs in the field.^{(See disclaimer 2 )}The growing need for software developers, software quality assurance analysts and testers may arise from the ongoing expansion of software development in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), robotics and other automation applications.^{(See disclaimer 5)}

As the realm of software engineering and technology continues to advance, an escalating call for more managerial roles in specialized fields is inevitable.^{(See disclaimer 6)} This brings about numerous chances to expand your toolkit with specific skills and credentials and stay updated with new trends, ensuring your competitive edge remains intact.^{(See disclaimer 6)}

What is the difference between a software engineer and a software developer?

A software engineer receives comprehensive training to design, develop and test the overall software development life cycle (SDLC), encompassing each phase of the cycle. Software engineers often require problem-solving skills with a focus on mathematics, chemistry and physics.^{(See disclaimer 7)} On the other hand, software development may fall under the umbrella of software engineering.^{(See disclaimer 3)} Software developers concentrate primarily on the development phase within the SDLC designing specific computer systems and application software.^{(See disclaimer )}Their focus is placed on writing software codes and likely do not need chemistry, physics or heavy math courses.^{(See disclaimer 7)}

Depending on the company's structure, a computer science or software development major may often carry the job title of a software engineer. This adaptation can result from the tasks assigned, which may align with the traditional responsibilities of a software engineer.^{(See disclaimer 3)}

Courses

Program Curriculum

Credit Summary

General Education Requirements34-40 credits

Major88 credits

Open Elective Credits0-6 credits

Degree Requirements128 credits

General Education Requirements

General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.

Competency

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.

Competency

9-12 Total Credits

Competency

4 Total Credits

Competency

11-12 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.

Competency

6-8 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.

Required General Education Courses

CHM-113

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This is the first course of a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. The course assumes no prior knowledge of chemistry and begins with basic concepts. Topics include an introduction to the scientific method, dimensional analysis, atomic structure, nomenclature, stoichiometry and chemical reactions, the gas laws, thermodynamics, chemical bonding, and properties of solutions. Co-Requisite: CHM-113L.

CHM-113L

1 Total Credits

CHM-115

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This is the second course in a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. Upon successful completion of this course, students are able to demonstrate knowledge and/or skill in solving problems involving the principles of chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, and thermodynamics; understanding chemical reactions using kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamics; comparing and contrasting the principal theories of acids and bases; solving equilibrium involving acids, bases, and buffers; describing solubility equilibrium; describing terms associated with electrochemistry and solving problems associated with electrochemistry; and describing the fundamentals of nuclear chemistry. Prerequisites: CHM-113 and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115L.

CHM-115L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

The laboratory section of CHM-115 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Experiments include determination of rate law, examples of Le Châtelier’s principle, the use of pH indicators, buffer preparation, experimental determination of thermodynamic quantities, the use of electrochemical cells, and qualitative and quantitative analysis. Prerequisites: CHM-113L and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115.

MAT-262

4 Total Credits

CST-320

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course reviews the basic principles, tools, and techniques used in computer applications that enable communication, visualization, access to information, learning and entertainment. Students learn the methods of designing, implementing and evaluating techniques for effective communication in a technical, business, education or entertainment context. The laboratory reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture. Hands-on activities focus on experiencing and implementing concepts discussed in the lecture. Students create applications that communicate ideas efficiently and are easy to use. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisites: CST-201, MAT-262, and (CST-217 or CST-341).

CYB-420

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course covers an analysis of Cyber warfare in the 21st Century and beyond. Cyberspace is a complex environment that controls every aspect of a country’s Economy, Communication, and Infrastructure. This course will examine cyber warfare from a case-study perspective, applying the battlespace doctrine developed by military cyber operations teams. At the conclusion of this course students will have a fundamental understanding of the cyberspace threatscape, ethical challenges, and be able to strategize and implement cyber warfare operations. Prerequisite: ITT-340 or SWE-310.

STG-390

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This writing intensive course provides an insight into professional communications and conduct associated with careers in science, engineering and technology. Students learn about the changing modes of communication in these disciplines recognizing the advances in digital communications. They gain practical experience developing and supporting a thesis or position through written, oral, and visual presentations prepared and delivered individually and in groups. Students will explore concepts and issues in professional ethics and conduct such as privacy, discrimination, workplace etiquette, cyber-ethics, network and data security, identity theft, ownership rights and intellectual property.

Core Courses

CST-105

4 Total Credits

CST-135

4 Total Credits

CST-210

4 Total Credits

CST-201

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course covers classical algorithms and data structures, with an emphasis on implementation and application in solving real-world computational problems. The course focuses on algorithms for sorting, searching, string processing, and graphs. Students learn basic strategies to evaluate divide-and-conquer, recursive backtracking, and algorithm efficiency. Hands-on activities focus on writing code that implements concepts and algorithm implementation techniques. Prerequisite: CST-210 or CST-239 or CST-135 or CST-250 or CST-227.

MAT-264

4 Total Credits

PHY-121

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is a calculus-based study of basic concepts of physics, including motion; forces; energy; the properties of solids, liquids, and gases; and heat and thermodynamics. The mathematics used includes algebra, trigonometry, and vector analysis. A primary course goal is to build a functional knowledge that allows students to more fully understand the physical world and to apply that understanding to other areas of the natural and mathematical sciences. Conceptual, visual, graphical, and mathematical models of physical phenomena are stressed. Students build critical thinking skills by engaging in individual and group problem-solving sessions. Prerequisite: MAT-262 or higher. Co-Requisite: PHY-121L.

PHY-121L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

This calculus-based course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-121 lecture course. Students are able to perform the proper analysis and calculations to arrive at the correct quantifiable result when confronted with equations involving gravity, sound, energy, and motion. Prerequisite: MAT-262 or higher. Co-Requisite: PHY-121.

CST-341

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course covers the concepts, tools, and frameworks of Open Source software development. Using open source operating systems like Linux, students develop an acquaintance with compilers, scripting languages, frameworks, build tools, APIs, version control software, and their licensing constraints. Students also learn how to participate in and contribute to open-source projects. Prerequisite: CST-135 or CST-235.

PHY-122

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This calculus-based course is the second in a 1-year introductory physics sequence. In this course, the basics of three areas in physics are covered, including electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics. The sequence of topics includes an introduction to electric and magnetic fields. This is followed by the nature of light as an electromagnetic wave and topics associated with geometric optics. The final topic discussed in the course is quantum mechanics. Prerequisites: PHY-121 and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122L.

PHY-122L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

This course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-122 lecture course. Some of the topics students understand and analyze involve the relationship between electric charges and insulators/conductors, magnetism in physics, energy transformations in electric circuits, the relationship between magnetism and electricity, and how they relate to the medical industry. Prerequisites: PHY-121 and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122.

MAT-374

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course covers the role of statistics in engineering, probability, discrete random variables and probability distributions, continuous random variables and probability distributions, joint probability distributions, random sampling and data description, point estimation of parameters, statistical intervals for a single sample, and tests of hypotheses for a single sample. Prerequisite: MAT-253 or MAT-264.

CST-215

4 Total Credits

MAT-345

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is intended primarily for mathematics, science, and engineering students. The goal of the course is to impart the concepts and techniques of modern linear algebra (over the real scalar field) with a significant level of rigor. Students write clearly about the concepts of linear algebra (definitions, counterexamples, simple proofs), and apply theory to examples. The course emphasizes the practical nature of solutions to linear algebra problems. Students implement some of these solutions, where appropriate, as computer programs. Prerequisite: MAT-264 or MAT-253

SWE-310

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Overview of ethical values for engineering requirements analysis and design of large multifaceted software systems. Introductory discussions on software process models, approaches of project planning, documentation, tracing, quality assurance, and communication. A focused emphasis on project initiation and requirements analysis is taken. Group projects, technical oral and written presentations will be completed throughout the duration of this course. Prerequisite: CST-201.

SWE-350

4 Total Credits

Course Description

An introduction to embedded systems, including fundamentals of embedded system hardware and firmware design will be explored. Students will also be introduced to the C programming language in the context of embedded systems software development. A popular microcontroller will be leveraged in the course. The course will culminate with a significant final project which will extend a base microcontroller board that provides a complete practical hardware and software based embedded system. Prerequisite: CST-307.

SWE-410

4 Total Credits

SWE-450

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is a continuation of embedded system hardware and firmware design. A popular microcontroller is leveraged in the course. Students are also introduced to an assembly language in the context of embedded systems software development. Peripherals, I/O, real time processing, and real-time operating systems are discussed. The architecture and instruction set of the microcontroller are also discussed. This course culminates in a significant final project that extends a base microcontroller board, providing a complete practical hardware- and software-based embedded system. Prerequisite: SWE-350.

CST-315

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course explains the concepts, structure, and mechanisms of modern operating systems. The course covers computational resources, such as memory, processors, networks, security, and how the programming languages, architectures, and operating systems interact. The laboratory reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture. Hands-on activities focus on writing a shell that implements process management, file management, and I/O management. Prerequisite: CST-307 or SWE-350.

CST-307

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course introduces current trends in computer architecture with a focus on performance measurement, instruction sets, computer arithmetic, design and control of a data path, pipelining, memory hierarchies, input and output, and a brief introduction to multiprocessors. The laboratory reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Hands-on activities focus on writing assembly language code that implements concepts discussed in the lecture course, focusing on registers, processes, threads, and I/O management. Prerequisites: (CST-210 and CST-215), or EEE-315.

STG-451

2 Total Credits

Course Description

The first capstone course provides students the opportunity to work in teams to tackle real world applied research and design projects in their chosen area of interest. Students develop a project proposal, conduct a feasibility study, learn to protect intellectual property, develop teamwork skills, budgets, and a schedule for completing the project. Students conduct extensive research, integrate information from multiple sources, and work with a mentor through multiple cycles of feedback and revisions. Students use this course to further develop technical writing and business presentation skills. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisites: CST-307, CST-315 and department approval.

SWE-451

2 Total Credits

Course Description

An introduction to the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC), including the various tools, artifacts, and delivery practices will be explored. An overview of team process infrastructure and resource estimation to support appropriate levels of quality is discussed. Traditional system and software delivery methodologies as well as agile and lean delivery methodologies will be discoursed. This course will be comprised of several individual, in-class, and group projects that implement the practices reviewed. Prerequisite: SWE-310.

SYM-400

4 Total Credits

CST-310

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course covers 2D and 3D concepts, algorithms, and implementation methods using shader-based programming. Main topics covered include coordinate systems, transformations, material simulation, and animation. The laboratory reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture. Hands-on activities focus on writing vertex shaders and fragment shaders to implement light equations for coloring effects, textures, materials, and animation. Prerequisites: CST-201, MAT-262, and MAT-345.

SWE-452

2 Total Credits

Course Description

Continuation of the SDLC process and delivery methodologies, including the various tools, artifacts, and delivery methodologies is explored. Traditional system and software delivery methodologies as well as agile and lean delivery methodologies will be discussed. An understanding of selecting the correct development life cycle (methodology), creating realistic plans, and managing a project team through each project phase is examined. Students must complete a programming project of mid-level complexity and delivery of a sizeable software product by a student team. Prerequisites: SWE-451, SWE-410, CST-307, and CST-315.

STG-452

2 Total Credits

Course Description

The second capstone course provides students the opportunity to implement and present the applied research project designed, planned, and started in the first capstone course. The capstone project is a culmination of the learning experiences while a student in the Computer Science program. Students conduct extensive research, integrate information from multiple sources, and work with a mentor through multiple cycles of feedback and revision. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisite: Successful completion of STG-451 with a grade of C or better.

SYM-408

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course covers the characteristics of object-relational and NoSQL databases and their application in business. The course also focuses on the main principles of object-oriented, object-relational, and NoSQL databases, and their relative advantages. Students gain working knowledge of object-relational features as implemented in standard SQL database management systems. Students also learn to manage unstructured and semi-structured data with XML. Prerequisite: SYM-400.

GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change

More Resources

Learning Goals

Financial

Calculate My Costs

Tuition & Financing

Scholarships & Grants

Information

Admission

Start Your Journey Today

Gain the sought-after skills, knowledge and practical experience needed to pursue opportunities in the dynamic field of software engineering.

Apply Now

The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers as of May 2021, retrieved on July 11, 2023. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 and 2021 may be atypical compared to prior years. The pandemic may also impact the predicted future workforce outcomes indicated by the BLS. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers from across the country with varying levels of education and experience and does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as engineers. It does not reflect earnings of workers in one city or region of the country. It also does not reflect a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. You may also wish to compare median salaries if you are considering more than one career path. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, and accept employment from, determines salary not only based on education, but also individual characteristics and skills and fit to that organization (among other categories) against a pool of candidates.
COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 and 2021 may be atypical compared to prior years. The pandemic may impact the predicted future workforce outcomes indicated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as well. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2022, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers, retrieved on July 11, 2023.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023, Feb. 6). What Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers Do. Retrieved on July 11, 2023.
Coursera (2023, Aug. 16). Software Engineer Resume: Examples, Tips, and More. Retrieved on Aug. 18, 2023.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023, Feb. 6). Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers: Job Outlook. Retrieved on Aug. 18, 2023.
Bhatnagar, Sachin (2023, Aug. 15). What is the Future of Software Engineering [2023 and Beyond]. Knowledgehut. Retrieved on Aug. 18, 2023.
Coursera (2023, June 15). Software Developer vs. Software Engineer: What Are the Differences in These Roles. Retrieved on Aug. 18, 2023.

Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering

Empower Innovation With a BS in Software Engineering

Foster Growth and Leadership in Software Engineering

Study Core Software Engineering Skills

Develop Technological Knowledge With a BS in Software Engineering

Essential Software Engineering Courses

Career Paths for Software Engineering Majors

Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering FAQs

Program Curriculum

General Education Requirements

Required General Education Courses

Core Courses