Master’s in Software Engineering Bridge Program
Transition Into Tech With an Online MS in Software Engineering Bridge
The Master of Science in Software Engineering bridge program at Grand Canyon University is designed for learners who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field and want a streamlined pathway into software engineering. This program builds the essential technical foundation you need to become eligible for the master’s program — without starting over or completing a second undergraduate degree.
With an efficient curriculum and supportive online learning environment, this bridge program helps you shift into the software engineering field and prepare for advanced graduate-level study.
Online: $485 per credit [More Info]
Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
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).
Bridge the Gap to Your Master’s in Software Engineering
Completing your master’s in software engineering bridge program online offers flexibility without sacrificing academic rigor. GCU’s online learning management system provides you with a quality education without taking away from your busy schedule.
This Bridge Is Offered Online
Software Engineering Bridge Program Course Topics
This program is specifically designed to help you transition into the tech field without a bachelor's degree in a directly related field. You will be taught the foundational skills needed to apply to a graduate degree in software engineering, regardless of the undergraduate degree you obtained. Whether you have a background in a related field or possess a passion for problem-solving and creativity, this program offers a path toward pursuing your aspirations in the tech sector.
In addition to the program’s five core courses, you’ll also build hands-on skills in these areas:
Calculus and analytic geometry
Study calculus and its application in practical contexts, including how it is used by software engineers. These high-level advanced math concepts are taught in context.
Computer programming
Explore fundamental concepts of programming languages, focusing on object-oriented programming techniques as well as troubleshooting, problem-solving and basic algorithm knowledge.
Java
Explore the Java programming language in further depth, gaining knowledge and skills in topics including file I/O, generics, collections, multi-threading, networking and unit testing.
Algorithms and data structures
By focusing on your application, you will study how to use algorithms in the software engineering process. Discover basic strategies for employing algorithms to solve real computational problems.
Take Software Engineering Courses From an Accredited University
Since 1968, GCU has maintained continual institutional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission. The College of Engineering and Technology reflects this commitment by adhering to the high standards set by our accrediting bodies.
Master’s in Software Engineering Bridge Program FAQs
To learn more about our software engineering bridge program and see if it’s the right fit for you, explore our answers to these frequently asked questions.
Do you need a bachelor’s in software engineering to get a master’s?
Is software engineering worth it?
How long is a master’s in software engineering bridge program?
Program Curriculum
Core Courses
Use the bridge program to transition into a software engineering master’s program.
- COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective August 2025, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Software Developers, retrieved January 2026.
- The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Software Developers, as of May 2024, retrieved January 2026. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as software developers, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It is very unlikely that a median salary will reflect an entry-level salary. 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. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.