Software Engineering Online Master's Degree

Brandeis Online’s Master of Software Engineering (MSE) degree prepares experienced and aspiring technologists to design, build and maintain complex software systems across a growing field. 

Program Snapshot

Establish yourself as a leader in innovative technology

From mobile applications to advances in artificial intelligence, software-enabled technology shapes nearly every aspect of modern life. Continued growth in artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, and cloud computing is accelerating the demand for software engineers who can design, build and maintain complex systems at scale.

In order to prepare you to work effectively in this environment, our online software engineering degree curriculum emphasizes applied learning grounded in real-world practice. Courses are taught by experienced software experts and technical leaders, and the program is shaped by input from a software industry advisory board. This ensures alignment with how software systems are designed, delivered and maintained today. 

Through this approach, you’ll strengthen your technical foundation and ability to contribute at higher levels within development teams and organizations, while:

  • Expanding your skills in areas such as designing, developing, validating and maintaining software systems.
  • Immersing yourself in best practices, cutting-edge technologies and life-cycle approaches.
  • Developing a strong project portfolio to show current or prospective employers.

Why Study Software Engineering at Brandeis Online?

What distinguishes the online master’s in software engineering degree at Brandeis from other programs is its close connection to industry practice. Courses are led by professionals who design and manage complex systems every day, ensuring your learning stays aligned with current technologies and covers the entire software development life cycle. Through this approach, Brandeis Online provides:

  • A practice-driven curriculum aligned with how modern software systems are developed and maintained across industries.
  • Faculty with deep industry experience designing, implementing and managing large-scale enterprise and digital systems.
  • Project-based assessments that use current technologies, tools and best practices to solve real-world software challenges.
  • Small class sizes and meaningful feedback throughout the learning process.
  • 100% online course delivery and part-time study options for working professionals.
  • A STEM-designated program that reflects the technical depth of the curriculum. 
  • Tuition structured to support working professionals investing in long-term career growth.

What Can You Do With a Master’s Degree in Software Engineering?

Software systems now power nearly every industry, from healthcare and finance to manufacturing and transportation. As organizations scale digital platforms and adopt cloud-based, data-driven and AI-enabled technologies, the complexity of those systems continues to grow. Software engineers are no longer responsible for just writing code — they design resilient architectures and ensure security and performance amid constant change.

A Master’s in Software Engineering positions you to work at this high level. Graduates contribute across the full software development life cycle, making decisions that shape how systems are built, tested, deployed and maintained. For some professionals, this foundation also supports continued academic or technical specialization, including doctoral study or advanced research-oriented roles.

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Program Requirements

At Brandeis Online, the master’s in software engineering degree combines foundational preparation with advanced, practice-oriented coursework. Explore the prerequisites, required courses, electives and concentration options within the program.

Online Master's Certificates in Software Engineering

Brandeis Online offers four online master’s certificates in software engineering. Each option focuses on an essential area of the field. Additionally, credits earned through an online certificate can apply toward the Master of Software Engineering degree.