Trade Schools with Software Engineering Programs
- Upper Iowa University
- Trident at American InterContinental University
- Penn State World Campus
- New England Institute of Technology
- Chapman University College
- California University of Pennsylvania
- California South Bay University
- Boston University
- Colorado Technical University
- Walden University
- Keiser University
- Saint Leo University
Technology is ever-changing, which means the apps on our personal phones, computers, as well as company-specific programs need to stay up-to-date. When things go wrong or change with those applications, corporations turn to software engineers for help.
These employees work to resolve any issues and update new features within the programs we install on our electronic devices. Anyone who wants to learn the ins and outs of the trade can take courses at a software engineering school.
What Is Software Engineering?
Businesses hire software engineers to develop certain applications based on clients’ needs. Workers take an analytical approach when deciding how to design, test, and release the application. Critical thinking skills are key in this career.
Because of their high demand, software engineering jobs often offer opportunities for advancement. Those with a strong attention to detail, creative mind, and problem-solving attitude succeed most in these positions.
Usually, hiring managers look for candidates who have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in subjects like information technology or computer programming. However, interested students can take software engineering classes at local trade schools or community colleges.
What Are Software Engineering Job Duties?
Software engineering duties vary based on where an associate works. Most commonly, individuals test new and upcoming programs to check for consistency and possible bugs in the system. This helps the company avoid any issues as well as keep track of ones that could potentially occur after launching the application.
After verifying that the programs are up to standard, they must continue to monitor the software to make sure it’s running properly. This usually involves analyzing the application’s performance and reporting any new complications to other members of the team.
Some additional responsibilities include:
- Following company policies and technical procedures
- Proposing new, innovative ideas and solutions
- Documenting consumer feedback after launching a new or updated application
- Researching current trends and patterns in software engineering tools
- Discussing changes, successes, and challenges with colleagues
What Types of Skills Should Software Engineers Possess?
Software engineers spend much of the day collaborating on projects with a team of professionals. Because of this, employees need strong leadership skills along with the ability to work well as a group. Those who can both delegate responsibilities and take direction thrive in these positions.
Successful applicants should also have a solid knowledge of computer language. These workers troubleshoot applications when issues arise, and sometimes need to write or modify codes to resolve the problem. Familiarity with the language ensures that the tasks get executed thoroughly and effectively.
How Do Software Engineers Maintain Their Workspace?
Software engineering careers usually require individuals to work at least 40 hours a week in an office or lab with a team of associates. They can keep their desks as comfortable as possible using supportive chairs. In addition to general office supplies, employees use software engineering equipment such as:
- Computers
- Keyboards
- Headphones
- Printers
- Wires
Why Do Software Engineers Need Patience?
From testing programs for efficiency to finding a solution to an issue, software engineers sometimes spend hours or even days focused on a single project. These tasks often become repetitive and require a lot of trial and error. Successful team members should practice patience while training and working.
By being patient, graduates from software engineering trade schools can think more clearly about the problem at hand. This in turn makes it easier for them to analyze the situation and consider the bigger picture. Workers who frustrate easily or who prefer straightforward projects over complex ones may struggle in this position.
How Do Software Engineers Promote Their Work?
Software engineers promote their work through networking. Seminars and conferences allow individuals to meet likeminded associates, heads of corporations, and experts in the field. These events can broaden job seekers’ knowledge of the industry as well as heighten their chances of finding new clients.
What Are Useful Skills for People in This Field?
- Works well as a team or individually
- Able to accept and apply criticism from others
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Critical thinker and problem solver
- Comprehensive knowledge of computer programs
- Desire to learn from others
- Possesses attention to detail
- Fluent in coding languages
Are There Specific Software Engineering Requirements?
Throughout the hiring process, most employers look for applicants who have completed at least a bachelor’s software engineering degree or equivalent. However, job seekers who possess an associate’s or certificate can boost their chances of hire with internships, shadowing, and other hands-on programs.
Some companies, like Microsoft, Oracle, and Red Hat, provide hopefuls the opportunity to complete software engineering certificates. These courses teach interested candidates the ins and outs of each specialty.
Students interested in this industry can major in software engineering, development, or computer science. This involves taking an array of software engineering classes, some of which include:
- Networking
- Fundamentals of Hardware
- Program Design
- Mathematics for Computing
- Coding
What Is the Outlook for
Software Engineering Jobs?
Technology plays such a vital role in our everyday lives, and is ever-changing. Apps and programs require constant upgrades to ensure consumers get the best and latest features available. This puts those with a software engineering education in high demand.
On average, individuals looking for software engineering jobs can expect to earn an about $103k annually. Entry-level positions make about $86k a year. Companies offer those who have more experience on their software engineering resumes upwards of $136k.
Over time, employees can take advantage of a number of employment bonuses. Potential software engineering benefits include:
- Paid time off
- Holiday pay
- Medical insurance
- Dental and vision coverage
- 401(k) plan
- Flexible hours
What Should Workers Expect?
Though they complete most of their duties on a computer, software engineers should prepare themselves for a large amount of paperwork. Supervisors and managers must sign-off on any decisions and designs done to the applications. By having written and electronic documentation, companies can keep an organized record of what’s been done with a specific program.
Where Can Prospects Find Work?
Thanks to their quick thinking and problem-solving skills, qualified candidates can find software engineering work in almost any field. Some locations include:
- Banks
- Medical facilities
- Insurance agencies
- Retailer headquarters
- Security companies
- Amusement parks
- Airports
- Military and government buildings
Can Software Engineers Work Remotely?
Software engineers can essentially work anywhere there is internet. Remote employees check in with their superiors, colleagues, and managers via email, Skype, and conference calls. These virtual meetings help associates stay on task while completing projects and offer an outlet for any questions or concerns that may arise.
Additionally, staff members may attend certain seminars and software engineering training sessions online from the comfort of their own homes.
Do Software Engineers Have Any Other Options?
There are several additional opportunities for job seekers that attended a software engineering school. Due to their vast knowledge of computer programs and coding, prospects can find work as:
- Computer network architects
- Web developers
- Database administrators
- Computer hardware engineers
What Are Alternate Careers for Software Engineers?
Computer programming is another option for individuals with software engineering skills. These associates make sure applications function properly by writing and testing codes. On average, they earn about $84k yearly, while the most experienced full-timers in the field make approximately $135k.