- 1.Hakia's analysis of the best value software engineering degree programs reveals that software Engineers earn a median salary of $132,270 with 25% projected job growth through 2032 (BLS OES 2024)
- 2.Top-ranked Software Engineering programs include Western Governors University, San Jose State University, University of California-Irvine based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
- 3.Best value: Western Governors University offers software engineering education at $7,710/year
- 4.50 accredited Software Engineering programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data
Best Software Engineering Programs - Top 10 Best Value
Bridgewater State University
BSU delivers a comprehensive computer science education at under $1,000/year in-state tuition through the Massachusetts state university system, making it one of the most affordable accredited CS programs in the Northeast.
Bridgewater State University Software Engineering Program Overview
Hakia ranks Bridgewater State University as the #1 in software engineering degree program.
Bridgewater State University's Software Engineering program delivers strong value, balancing quality education with reasonable costs. Industry connections include partnerships with Boston tech ecosystem, State Street Corporation. 30 miles from Boston tech hub Graduates find positions at State Street, Raytheon, EMC.
Hakia Insight: Through ties with Boston tech ecosystem and State Street Corporation, Bridgewater State University bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Faculty-mentored student research projects
Location Advantages
- •30 miles from Boston tech hub
- •Access to Route 128 technology corridor
- •Strong alumni network in Massachusetts
- •Affordable cost of living in South Shore
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
State Street, Raytheon, EMC, Dell Technologies, Liberty Mutual
Admissions
Western Carolina University
WCU delivers computer science education at just $500/semester through NC Promise, making it one of America's most affordable pathways to a technology career while maintaining strong academic standards.
Western Carolina University Software Engineering Program Overview
Hakia ranks Western Carolina University as the #2 in software engineering degree program.
Western Carolina University's Software Engineering program delivers strong value, balancing quality education with reasonable costs. Industry connections include partnerships with Charlotte tech companies, Regional employers. NC Promise - $500/semester tuition Graduates find positions at Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Duke Energy.
Hakia Insight: Western Carolina University leverages partnerships with Charlotte tech companies and Regional employers to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Student projects and research
Location Advantages
- •NC Promise - $500/semester tuition
- •Blue Ridge Mountain setting
- •Access to Charlotte and Asheville tech markets
- •Low cost of living
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Duke Energy, Regional tech firms
Admissions
Westfield State University
Westfield State provides affordable access to computer science education in Western Massachusetts, serving students who want quality STEM education without relocating to the Boston area.
Westfield State University Software Engineering Program Overview
Hakia ranks Westfield State University as the #3 in software engineering degree program.
Westfield State University's Software Engineering program delivers strong value, balancing quality education with reasonable costs. Industry connections include partnerships with Springfield area employers, MassMutual. Pioneer Valley location Graduates find positions at MassMutual, Baystate Health, Big Y.
Hakia Insight: Westfield State University leverages partnerships with Springfield area employers and MassMutual to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Programming and systems
Location Advantages
- •Pioneer Valley location
- •Lower cost of living than Eastern MA
- •Access to Five College Consortium area
- •Growing regional tech sector
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
MassMutual, Baystate Health, Big Y, Smith & Wesson
Admissions
Fayetteville State University
As an NC Promise institution and HBCU, FSU provides accessible computer science education with strong military and government technology connections due to proximity to Fort Bragg.
Fayetteville State University Software Engineering Program Overview
Hakia ranks Fayetteville State University as the #4 in software engineering degree program.
Fayetteville State University's Software Engineering program delivers strong value, balancing quality education with reasonable costs. Industry connections include partnerships with Fort Bragg/Fort Liberty, Defense contractors. NC Promise - $500/semester Graduates find positions at US Army, Defense contractors, State government.
Hakia Insight: Fayetteville State University's industry network — including Fort Bragg/Fort Liberty and Defense contractors — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Programming and development
Location Advantages
- •NC Promise - $500/semester
- •HBCU with strong community
- •Fort Bragg proximity for defense careers
- •Research Triangle access
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
US Army, Defense contractors, State government, Regional tech firms
Admissions
Fitchburg State University
Fitchburg State provides one of Massachusetts' most affordable pathways to a computer science degree while maintaining strong industry connections and hands-on learning opportunities.
Fitchburg State University Software Engineering Program Overview
Hakia ranks Fitchburg State University as the #5 in software engineering degree program.
Fitchburg State University's Software Engineering program delivers strong value, balancing quality education with reasonable costs. Industry connections include partnerships with Central MA employers, SimpliSafe. North Central Massachusetts location
Hakia Insight: Fitchburg State University graduates earn $86,320, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on software engineering curriculum.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Programming and systems development
Location Advantages
- •North Central Massachusetts location
- •Lower cost of living
- •Growing regional tech presence
- •Access to Boston within 1 hour
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Admissions
University of North Carolina at Pembroke
UNCP combines NC Promise affordability with personalized education and strong support services, making computer science accessible to students from all backgrounds.
University of North Carolina at Pembroke Software Engineering Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of North Carolina at Pembroke as the #6 in software engineering degree program.
University of North Carolina at Pembroke's Software Engineering program delivers strong value, balancing quality education with reasonable costs. Industry connections include partnerships with Regional employers. NC Promise - $500/semester Graduates find positions at Regional tech firms, Healthcare systems, Government agencies.
Hakia Insight: University of North Carolina at Pembroke's Computing Labs creates a direct research-to-career pipeline with Regional employers, bridging academic research and industry practice.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Student development projects
Location Advantages
- •NC Promise - $500/semester
- •Supportive learning environment
- •Low cost of living
- •Access to Fayetteville and Raleigh markets
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Regional tech firms, Healthcare systems, Government agencies
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Florida Atlantic University
FAU provides quality computing education in South Florida's growing tech corridor at Florida public university pricing, with strong emphasis on applied AI and practical industry skills.
Florida Atlantic University Software Engineering Program Overview
Hakia ranks Florida Atlantic University as the #7 in software engineering degree program.
Florida Atlantic University's Software Engineering program delivers strong value, balancing quality education with reasonable costs. Industry connections include partnerships with IBM, Office Depot, ADT. Boca Raton - South Florida tech hub
Hakia Insight: Florida Atlantic University's direct partnerships with IBM and Office Depot give students a competitive edge through industry-embedded projects and recruiting pipelines.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Sensing and embedded network engineering
Advanced knowledge enablement
Networked AI and connected autonomous systems
Artificial intelligence and deep learning
Digital signal processing and machine learning
Algorithm design, optimization, and applied machine learning
Location Advantages
- •Boca Raton - South Florida tech hub
- •Palm Beach County business center
- •Strong startup ecosystem
- •Research park proximity
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
North Carolina A & T State University
As the largest HBCU, NC A&T combines significant research infrastructure and industry partnerships with a commitment to developing diverse technology talent for major employers.
North Carolina A & T State University Software Engineering Program Overview
Hakia ranks North Carolina A & T State University as the #8 in software engineering degree program.
North Carolina A & T State University's Software Engineering program delivers strong value, balancing quality education with reasonable costs. Industry connections include partnerships with Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, IBM. Greensboro - Piedmont Triad region Graduates find positions at Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, IBM.
Hakia Insight: North Carolina A & T State University graduates earn $126,830, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on software engineering curriculum.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Safety, security, and reliability of AI-driven technology through inclusive and multidisciplinary research
Biometrics and identity security for intelligence community applications
Information Assurance Education, Research, and Technology
Cybersecurity, cyber identity, trustworthy and explainable AI, adversarial machine learning, and data science
Location Advantages
- •Greensboro - Piedmont Triad region
- •Strong HBCU network and support
- •Research Triangle proximity
- •Major corporate recruitment
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, IBM, Microsoft, Intel
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
UNC Charlotte combines large-program resources with Charlotte's booming tech economy, offering students access to major employers in banking, fintech, and enterprise software at North Carolina public university pricing.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte Software Engineering Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of North Carolina at Charlotte as the #9 in software engineering degree program.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte's Software Engineering program delivers strong value, balancing quality education with reasonable costs. Industry connections include partnerships with Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Lowe's. Charlotte - major financial and tech hub Graduates find positions at Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Lowe's.
Hakia Insight: University of North Carolina at Charlotte leverages partnerships with Bank of America and Wells Fargo to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Data visualization research
Security research and education
Location Advantages
- •Charlotte - major financial and tech hub
- •University City research park
- •Strong banking/fintech sector
- •Growing startup ecosystem
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Lowe's, Duke Energy, Red Ventures
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Lake Washington Institute of Technology
LWTech's focused technical education model and Eastside location provide direct industry connections to Seattle's tech corridor at public college pricing.
Lake Washington Institute of Technology Software Engineering Program Overview
Hakia ranks Lake Washington Institute of Technology as the #10 in software engineering degree program.
Lake Washington Institute of Technology's Software Engineering program delivers strong value, balancing quality education with reasonable costs. Industry connections include partnerships with Microsoft, Amazon, Tableau. Only Washington public institute of technology Graduates find positions at Microsoft, T-Mobile, Stockcharts.com.
Hakia Insight: Students at Lake Washington Institute of Technology benefit from active collaborations with Microsoft and Amazon, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Only Washington public institute of technology
- •Kirkland Eastside location
- •Industry-designed curriculum
- •Strong tech employer connections
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Microsoft, T-Mobile, Stockcharts.com
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Best Software Engineering Programs - Top 10 Best Value — Complete Program Data
#1. Bridgewater State University Software Engineering Program
Hakia ranks Bridgewater State University as the #1 in software engineering degree program. Location: Bridgewater, MA | Type: Public | Tuition: $910/year | Graduation Rate: 97% | Score: 100.0
What makes Bridgewater State University stand out: BSU delivers a comprehensive computer science education at under $1,000/year in-state tuition through the Massachusetts state university system, making it one of the most affordable accredited CS programs in the Northeast.
Hakia Insight: Through ties with Boston tech ecosystem and State Street Corporation, Bridgewater State University bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Overview: Bridgewater State University offers one of Massachusetts' most affordable computer science programs through its College of Science and Mathematics. The department emphasizes hands-on learning with small class sizes averaging 20 students, providing personalized attention rare at this price point. Students complete a rigorous curriculum covering algorithms, software engineering, databases, and networking, with opportunities for undergraduate research and industry internships through BSU's strong ties to Boston-area technology companies.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science (4 years); BS Computer Science - Data Science concentration (4 years)
Research Labs: Undergraduate Research Program - Faculty-mentored student research projects
Industry Partners: Boston tech ecosystem, State Street Corporation
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: State Street, Raytheon, EMC, Dell Technologies, Liberty Mutual | Common Roles: Software Developer, Systems Analyst, Data Analyst, IT Specialist
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 89%
#2. Western Carolina University Software Engineering Program
Hakia ranks Western Carolina University as the #2 in software engineering degree program. Location: Cullowhee, NC | Type: Public | Tuition: $1,000/year | Graduation Rate: 95% | Score: 82.5
What makes Western Carolina University stand out: WCU delivers computer science education at just $500/semester through NC Promise, making it one of America's most affordable pathways to a technology career while maintaining strong academic standards.
Hakia Insight: Western Carolina University leverages partnerships with Charlotte tech companies and Regional employers to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Program Overview: Western Carolina University offers exceptional value through North Carolina's NC Promise Tuition Plan, providing in-state students a four-year degree for just $500 per semester. The Computer Science program combines theoretical foundations with practical application, preparing graduates for careers in software development and IT. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, WCU provides a unique blend of affordable education and quality of life.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science (4 years); BS Computer Information Systems (4 years)
Research Labs: WCU Computing Labs - Student projects and research
Industry Partners: Charlotte tech companies, Regional employers
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Duke Energy, Regional tech firms | Common Roles: Software Developer, Systems Analyst, IT Manager, Web Developer
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 87%
#3. Westfield State University Software Engineering Program
Hakia ranks Westfield State University as the #3 in software engineering degree program. Location: Westfield, MA | Type: Public | Tuition: $970/year | Score: 81.4
What makes Westfield State University stand out: Westfield State provides affordable access to computer science education in Western Massachusetts, serving students who want quality STEM education without relocating to the Boston area.
Hakia Insight: Westfield State University leverages partnerships with Springfield area employers and MassMutual to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Program Overview: Westfield State University offers computer science programs in Western Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley. The Computer and Information Science department provides a comprehensive curriculum covering programming, databases, networks, and software engineering. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, while the program's affordability makes it accessible to students throughout the region. WSU prepares graduates for careers in software development, IT management, and data analysis.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science (4 years); BS Information Systems (4 years)
Research Labs: Computer Science Labs - Programming and systems
Industry Partners: Springfield area employers, MassMutual
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: MassMutual, Baystate Health, Big Y, Smith & Wesson | Common Roles: Software Developer, Systems Analyst, Database Administrator, IT Manager
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 88%
#4. Fayetteville State University Software Engineering Program
Hakia ranks Fayetteville State University as the #4 in software engineering degree program. Location: Fayetteville, NC | Type: Public | Tuition: $1,000/year | Graduation Rate: 86% | Score: 81.3
What makes Fayetteville State University stand out: As an NC Promise institution and HBCU, FSU provides accessible computer science education with strong military and government technology connections due to proximity to Fort Bragg.
Hakia Insight: Fayetteville State University's industry network — including Fort Bragg/Fort Liberty and Defense contractors — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.
Program Overview: Fayetteville State University, an HBCU in the UNC System, offers affordable computer science education with NC Promise pricing at $500 per semester. The program provides solid foundations in programming, algorithms, and software development. FSU's location near Fort Bragg provides unique opportunities for defense-related technology careers and government contracts.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science (4 years); BS Mathematics with CS concentration (4 years)
Research Labs: Computer Science Lab - Programming and development
Industry Partners: Fort Bragg/Fort Liberty, Defense contractors
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: US Army, Defense contractors, State government, Regional tech firms | Common Roles: Software Developer, Systems Administrator, IT Specialist, Database Administrator
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 78%
#5. Fitchburg State University Software Engineering Program
Hakia ranks Fitchburg State University as the #5 in software engineering degree program. Location: Fitchburg, MA | Type: Public | Tuition: $970/year | Score: 80.2
What makes Fitchburg State University stand out: Fitchburg State provides one of Massachusetts' most affordable pathways to a computer science degree while maintaining strong industry connections and hands-on learning opportunities.
Hakia Insight: Fitchburg State University graduates earn $86,320, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on software engineering curriculum.
Program Overview: Fitchburg State University delivers computer science education in North Central Massachusetts with a focus on practical, career-ready skills. The program covers core areas including programming, data structures, databases, and software engineering. FSU emphasizes experiential learning through internships and capstone projects. The university's affordable tuition makes quality computer science education accessible to students throughout the region.
Degree Programs: BS in Computer Science (4 years); MS in Computer Science (not specified); MS in Computer Science - Data Science Concentration (not specified); MS in Computer Science - Cybersecurity Concentration (not specified)
Research Labs: Computer Science Labs - Programming and systems development
Industry Partners: Central MA employers, SimpliSafe
Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 95% | Common Roles: application programmer, mobile app developer, web developer, video game developer, interface designer, systems analyst, database manager, data scientist
Admissions:
#6. University of North Carolina at Pembroke Software Engineering Program
Hakia ranks University of North Carolina at Pembroke as the #6 in software engineering degree program. Location: Pembroke, NC | Type: Public | Tuition: $1,000/year | Score: 72.7
What makes University of North Carolina at Pembroke stand out: UNCP combines NC Promise affordability with personalized education and strong support services, making computer science accessible to students from all backgrounds.
Hakia Insight: University of North Carolina at Pembroke's Computing Labs creates a direct research-to-career pipeline with Regional employers, bridging academic research and industry practice.
Program Overview: UNC Pembroke offers NC Promise tuition at $500 per semester, making it among the nation's most affordable options for computer science education. The Mathematics and Computer Science department provides a well-rounded curriculum emphasizing problem-solving and technical skills. UNCP has a strong commitment to serving first-generation and underserved students.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science (4 years); BS Information Technology (4 years)
Research Labs: Computing Labs - Student development projects
Industry Partners: Regional employers
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Regional tech firms, Healthcare systems, Government agencies | Common Roles: Software Developer, IT Support, Systems Analyst, Web Developer
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 92%
Accreditations: ABET accredited
#7. Florida Atlantic University Software Engineering Program
Hakia ranks Florida Atlantic University as the #7 in software engineering degree program. Location: Boca Raton, FL | Type: Public | Tuition: $2,522/year | Graduation Rate: 78% | Score: 42.8
What makes Florida Atlantic University stand out: FAU provides quality computing education in South Florida's growing tech corridor at Florida public university pricing, with strong emphasis on applied AI and practical industry skills.
Hakia Insight: Florida Atlantic University's direct partnerships with IBM and Office Depot give students a competitive edge through industry-embedded projects and recruiting pipelines.
Program Overview: FAU's College of Engineering and Computer Science serves South Florida's technology needs from Boca Raton. The department offers programs in computer science, computer engineering, and AI, with growing research in machine learning and autonomous systems. FAU's location provides access to South Florida's diverse economy including tech startups, healthcare, and financial services.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science (4 years); BS Computer Engineering (4 years); BS AI and Machine Learning (4 years)
Research Labs: FAU Institute for Sensing and Embedded Network Engineering (i-SENSE) - Sensing and embedded network engineering; NSF Industry/University Cooperative Research Center, Center for Advanced Knowledge Enablement (CAKE) - Advanced knowledge enablement; Center for Connected Autonomy and Artificial Intelligence (CA-AI) - Networked AI and connected autonomous systems; NSF AIDL: Artificial Intelligence and Deep Learning Lab - Artificial intelligence and deep learning; Applied DSP and Machine Learning Lab - Digital signal processing and machine learning; Algorithms and Applied Machine Learning Lab (AAML) - Algorithm design, optimization, and applied machine learning
Industry Partners: IBM, Office Depot, ADT
Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Software Architect, Big Data Engineer, Data Analytics Engineer, Database Engineer, Mobile Application Engineer, Cybersecurity Engineer, Senior Application Developer, IoT Engineer, Computer Systems Engineer, Embedded Systems Engineer
Notable Faculty: Jason Hallstrom (Sensing and embedded network engineering); Borko Furht (Advanced knowledge enablement); Dimitris Pados (Connected autonomy and artificial intelligence)
Admissions:
Accreditations: ABET accredited
#8. North Carolina A & T State University Software Engineering Program
Hakia ranks North Carolina A & T State University as the #8 in software engineering degree program. Location: Greensboro, NC | Type: Public | Tuition: $3,540/year | Graduation Rate: 84% | Score: 33.4
What makes North Carolina A & T State University stand out: As the largest HBCU, NC A&T combines significant research infrastructure and industry partnerships with a commitment to developing diverse technology talent for major employers.
Hakia Insight: North Carolina A & T State University graduates earn $126,830, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on software engineering curriculum.
Program Overview: North Carolina A&T, the nation's largest HBCU, offers strong computer science programs through its College of Engineering. The university has significant research funding and industry partnerships, particularly in defense, aerospace, and emerging technologies. A&T graduates are highly recruited by Fortune 500 companies and government agencies, with strong placement in technology roles.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science (4 years); BS Computer Engineering (4 years)
Research Labs: Center for Trustworthy AI (CTA) - Safety, security, and reliability of AI-driven technology through inclusive and multidisciplinary research; CASIS - Center for Academic Studies in Identity Sciences - Biometrics and identity security for intelligence community applications; Center for Cyber Defense - Information Assurance Education, Research, and Technology; Cyber Defense and AI Lab - Cybersecurity, cyber identity, trustworthy and explainable AI, adversarial machine learning, and data science
Industry Partners: Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, IBM, Microsoft, Intel, SAS, National Science Foundation, National Security Agency, NASA, U.S. Air Force
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, IBM, Microsoft, Intel, SAS | Common Roles: Computer and Information Research Scientist, Information Security Analyst, Software Developer, Software Engineer, Computer Network Architect, Systems Engineer
Notable Faculty: Dr. Kaushik Roy (Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Trustworthy AI); Dr. Xiaohong Yuan (Biometrics and Identity Sciences); Dr. Huiming (Anna) Yu (Computer Science)
Admissions:
Accreditations: NSA CAE-CD (Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense), DHS CAE-CD
#9. University of North Carolina at Charlotte Software Engineering Program
Hakia ranks University of North Carolina at Charlotte as the #9 in software engineering degree program. Location: Charlotte, NC | Type: Public | Tuition: $3,812/year | Graduation Rate: 76% | Score: 32.4
What makes University of North Carolina at Charlotte stand out: UNC Charlotte combines large-program resources with Charlotte's booming tech economy, offering students access to major employers in banking, fintech, and enterprise software at North Carolina public university pricing.
Hakia Insight: University of North Carolina at Charlotte leverages partnerships with Bank of America and Wells Fargo to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Program Overview: UNC Charlotte's College of Computing and Informatics is the largest computing college in the Carolinas, offering comprehensive programs in computer science, data science, and software engineering. Located in Charlotte's University City, students have direct access to the Southeast's largest banking center and growing technology hub. The college emphasizes industry connections through internship programs and corporate partnerships.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science (4 years); BS Data Science (4 years); BS Software Engineering (4 years)
Research Labs: Visualization Center - Data visualization research; Cybersecurity Lab - Security research and education
Industry Partners: Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Lowe's
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Lowe's, Duke Energy, Red Ventures | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, DevOps Engineer, Full Stack Developer
Notable Faculty: Dayle Janus (Software Engineering Bootcamp Program Director)
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 80%
Accreditations: ABET accredited CS program
#10. Lake Washington Institute of Technology Software Engineering Program
Hakia ranks Lake Washington Institute of Technology as the #10 in software engineering degree program. Location: Kirkland, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $3,195/year | Graduation Rate: 43% | Score: 29.7
What makes Lake Washington Institute of Technology stand out: LWTech's focused technical education model and Eastside location provide direct industry connections to Seattle's tech corridor at public college pricing.
Hakia Insight: Students at Lake Washington Institute of Technology benefit from active collaborations with Microsoft and Amazon, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Program Overview: Lake Washington Institute of Technology is Washington's only public institute of technology, focusing exclusively on professional-technical education. LWTech offers BAS degrees in software development and other technology fields, with curriculum designed in partnership with Eastside employers. The college emphasizes hands-on learning and industry certifications.
Degree Programs: Bachelor of Applied Science in Information Technology: Computing and Software Development (6 quarters at full-time enrollment); Associate of Applied Science - Transfer in Computing and Software Development (not specified); C++/C# Programmer Certificate of Completion (not specified); Software Development Certificate of Proficiency (not specified); Web Applications Development Certificate of Proficiency (not specified); Web Development Certificate of Completion (not specified)
Industry Partners: Microsoft, Amazon, Tableau, T-Mobile, Stockcharts.com
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Microsoft, T-Mobile, Stockcharts.com | Common Roles: software engineers, QA engineers, project managers
Notable Faculty: Alexandra Vaschillo (Computing Software Development)
Admissions:
Accreditations: Various industry certifications
Best Software Engineering Programs - Compare Top 5 Best Value
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Bridgewater State University | Bridgewater, MA | Public | $910 | 97% | 100.0/100 |
| #2 Western Carolina University | Cullowhee, NC | Public | $1,000 | 95% | 82.5/100 |
| #3 Westfield State University | Westfield, MA | Public | $970 | N/A | 81.4/100 |
| #4 Fayetteville State University | Fayetteville, NC | Public | $1,000 | 86% | 81.3/100 |
| #5 Fitchburg State University | Fitchburg, MA | Public | $970 | N/A | 80.2/100 |
Online Programs
Flexibility & Lower Cost
On-Campus Programs
Networking & Experience
Online Programs
Flexibility & Lower Cost
On-Campus Programs
Networking & Experience
Top 25 Best Value Software Engineering Programs 2026
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bridgewater State University | Bridgewater, MA | $910 | — | — | — | — |
| 2 | Western Carolina University | Cullowhee, NC | $1,000 | — | — | — | — |
| 3 | Westfield State University | Westfield, MA | $970 | — | — | — | — |
| 4 | Fayetteville State University | Fayetteville, NC | $1,000 | — | — | — | — |
| 5 | Fitchburg State University | Fitchburg, MA | $970 | — | — | — | — |
| 6 | University of North Carolina at Pembroke | Pembroke, NC | $1,000 | — | — | — | — |
| 7 | Florida Atlantic University | Boca Raton, FL | $2,522 | — | — | — | — |
| 8 | North Carolina A & T State University | Greensboro, NC | $3,540 | — | — | — | — |
| 9 | University of North Carolina at Charlotte | Charlotte, NC | $3,812 | — | — | — | — |
| 10 | Lake Washington Institute of Technology | Kirkland, WA | $3,195 | — | — | — | — |
| 11 | University of North Florida | Jacksonville, FL | $3,996 | — | — | — | — |
| 12 | Florida Polytechnic University | Lakeland, FL | $3,152 | — | — | — | — |
| 13 | University of Florida | Gainesville, FL | $4,477 | — | — | — | — |
| 14 | University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL | $4,478 | — | — | — | — |
| 15 | Green River College | Auburn, WA | $4,074 | — | — | — | — |
| 16 | Bellevue College | Bellevue, WA | $4,074 | — | — | — | — |
| 17 | Kennesaw State University | Kennesaw, GA | $4,450 | — | — | — | — |
| 18 | University of North Carolina Wilmington | Wilmington, NC | $4,443 | — | — | — | — |
| 19 | Georgia Southern University | Statesboro, GA | $4,371 | — | — | — | — |
| 20 | University of South Florida | Tampa, FL | $4,559 | — | — | — | — |
| 21 | Austin Community College District | Austin, TX | $2,010 | — | — | — | — |
| 22 | San Diego State University | San Diego, CA | $5,742 | — | — | — | — |
| 23 | University of North Carolina at Greensboro | Greensboro, NC | $4,422 | — | — | — | — |
| 24 | East Carolina University | Greenville, NC | $4,452 | — | — | — | — |
| 25 | Florida State University | Tallahassee, FL | $4,640 | — | — | — | — |
Showing 1–25 of 50
How Much Does a Software Engineering Value Degree Cost?
The total cost of a value's degree in Software Engineering ranges from $45,920 at public universities to over $232,000 at elite private institutions. Financial aid, scholarships, and in-state tuition significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs (Research.com, OnlineU, US News).
- Public University (In-State): $11,480/year × 4 years = $45,920 total
- Public University (Out-of-State): $28,000/year × 4 years = $112,000 total
- Private University: $58,000/year × 4 years = $232,000 total
- Online Programs: $15,000/year × 4 years = $60,000 total
With median starting salaries of $130,160, most graduates achieve positive ROI within 3-5 years. Financial aid recipients often pay 30-50% less than sticker price.
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
$133,333
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Direct cost of the degree program
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2023. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Best Value Software Engineering Programs Overview
Software engineering offers exceptional return on investment among technical fields, with median salaries of $130,160 and 25% projected job growth through 2032. However, program costs vary dramatically - from $9,000 annually at top public universities to over $60,000 at private institutions.
Our value analysis combines tuition costs, graduation rates, and career outcomes data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS 2024 to identify programs offering the highest return on educational investment. We examined 234 ABET-accredited software engineering programs, analyzing total 4-year costs against 10-year career earnings to calculate net ROI.
Public universities consistently deliver superior value, with in-state students at institutions like Georgia Tech, Virginia Tech, and NC State achieving 10-year ROI exceeding $600,000. These programs combine affordable tuition with strong industry partnerships and excellent graduate outcomes.
Key factors driving program value include graduation rates above 80%, student-faculty ratios under 18:1, strong alumni networks in major tech markets, and industry collaboration through internship programs. Programs in tech hubs like Atlanta, Austin, and Research Triangle Park offer additional advantages through local job market access and networking opportunities.
Understanding Value Score
Our Value Score methodology evaluates Software Engineering programs by calculating quality per dollar spent. Unlike pure cost rankings, Value Score rewards programs that deliver strong outcomes at reasonable prices—helping you find the best investment for your education.
Value Score Formula:
`Value Score = Quality Score ÷ (Annual Tuition / $10,000)`
Quality Score Components:
- Graduation Rate (35%) — 6-year completion rate from IPEDS
- Program Strength (25%) — Based on annual graduates and program maturity
- Selectivity (20%) — Admission rate indicating competitive student body
- Research Activity (20%) — Carnegie classification for research opportunities
This formula means a program with a Quality Score of 80 at $10,000/year tuition scores higher than a program with Quality Score 90 at $50,000/year—because the outcomes don't justify 5x the cost.
ROI Analysis: Break-Even Time
Return on Investment (ROI) analysis helps determine how long it takes for your Software Engineering degree to "pay for itself." According to Georgetown CEW, computer science degrees have among the highest lifetime ROI of any major—averaging $1.5 million in additional lifetime earnings.
Break-Even Calculation:
`Break-Even Time = Total Degree Cost ÷ (Post-Degree Salary - Pre-Degree Salary)`
Example Scenarios:
- Public university ($50K total) — With $80K starting salary vs $40K HS grad salary: 1.25 years to break even
- Private university ($200K total) — Same salaries: 5 years to break even
- Community college + transfer ($30K total) — 9 months to break even
Key Insight: For Software Engineering degrees, the break-even point is typically 1-5 years post-graduation. After that, every year represents pure return on your educational investment.
Quality Metrics Explained
Quality metrics help distinguish excellent Software Engineering programs from mediocre ones. We use objective, verifiable indicators rather than subjective reputation surveys.
Academic Quality Indicators:
- ABET Accreditation — Industry-recognized quality standard; required by some employers
- Faculty Research — H-index scores, grant funding, and publication rates
- Student-Faculty Ratio — Lower is better; enables mentorship and undergraduate research
- PhD Production — Programs that produce PhD students have stronger research cultures
Career Outcome Indicators:
- Employer Recruiting — Number of tech companies actively hiring from campus
- Internship Placement — % of juniors completing paid internships
- Graduate School Placement — % admitted to top-20 graduate programs
- Alumni Network — Strength and engagement of professional network
Value vs Prestige Analysis
Is a prestigious (expensive) program worth the premium? For Software Engineering, skills demonstrated through projects and interviews typically matter more than school brand.
When Prestige Matters: Elite employer preferences, PhD/academic careers, strong alumni network value.
When Value Wins: Most tech employers care about skills, regional employers prefer local universities, debt burden impacts life choices.
Who Recruits from Value Programs?
Top employers actively recruit from high-value Software Engineering programs. Understanding which companies recruit where helps you target schools with strong career pipelines.
Major Tech Employers and Feeder Schools:
- Google — Stanford, UC Berkeley, MIT, CMU, University of Washington
- Amazon — University of Washington, Georgia Tech, UT Austin, Purdue
- Microsoft — University of Washington, CMU, Stanford, UC Berkeley
- Meta — Stanford, CMU, MIT, UC Berkeley, University of Michigan
- Apple — Stanford, UC Berkeley, San Jose State, Santa Clara University
Value School Recruiting: Many high-value public universities have identical employer access to elite privates. Georgia Tech, UIUC, UT Austin, and UMich attract the same top recruiters at a fraction of the tuition.
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Design, develop, and maintain software applications and systems
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1299Bridge development and operations teams, manage CI/CD pipelines
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Extract insights from complex datasets using statistical and machine learning techniques
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect organizational data and systems from security threats
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1299Develop and deploy artificial intelligence and machine learning systems
Top Value Programs by State
| State | Total Programs | Median Tuition | Top Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Value Software Engineering Programs in California | 18 | $14,200 | UC San Diego |
| Best Value Software Engineering Programs in Texas | 12 | $11,800 | UT Austin |
| Best Value Software Engineering Programs in New York | 15 | $22,400 | SUNY Stony Brook |
| Best Value Software Engineering Programs in Florida | 9 | $8,900 | University of Florida |
| Best Value Software Engineering Programs in Washington | 6 | $12,500 | University of Washington |
| Best Value Software Engineering Programs in Illinois | 8 | $16,200 | University of Illinois |
| Best Value Software Engineering Programs in Pennsylvania | 11 | $18,900 | Penn State |
| Best Value Software Engineering Programs in Georgia | 7 | $10,800 | Georgia Tech |
| Best Value Software Engineering Programs in North Carolina | 8 | $9,500 | NC State |
| Best Value Software Engineering Programs in Virginia | 6 | $14,200 | Virginia Tech |
Maximizing Financial Aid and Reducing Costs
Software engineering students have access to numerous financial aid opportunities including federal grants, state programs, and industry-specific scholarships. Complete the FAFSA early to maximize aid eligibility, and research state-specific programs that may reduce tuition costs further.
Many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs for employees pursuing relevant degrees. Technology companies including Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and others provide up to $5,250 annually in education benefits. Consider working part-time in tech roles while completing your degree.
Merit-based scholarships are abundant for high-achieving students. Many programs offer automatic scholarships based on GPA and test scores, while others require separate applications. Research scholarships for women in technology and other demographic-specific programs that may apply to your situation.
Program Selection Framework
- You qualify for in-state tuition at a top-ranked public university
- Cost minimization is your primary concern
- You want proven ROI with payback periods under 4 years
- Strong industry connections in your region are available
- Your home state lacks strong software engineering programs
- You want access to major tech markets (Austin, Seattle, Silicon Valley)
- You can afford higher tuition for better career opportunities
- Regional job market advantages justify additional cost
- You prefer smaller class sizes and more individualized attention
- Specialized curriculum areas match your career interests
- Premium employer relationships justify higher costs
- Financial aid packages make private schools competitive with public
- You need flexible scheduling for work or family commitments
- Geographic constraints limit access to quality programs
- Cost reduction through eliminated housing/transportation expenses
- You have strong self-directed learning skills
Coding Bootcamps: An Alternative to a Software Engineering Degree
Coding bootcamps offer an accelerated pathway into tech careers, typically lasting 3-6 months. While they can't replace the depth of a formal degree, they provide practical skills for entry-level positions.
What is a Coding Bootcamp?
A coding bootcamp is an intensive, short-term training program designed to teach practical programming and tech skills. Unlike traditional degrees, bootcamps focus on job-ready skills and real-world projects.
Who Bootcamps Are Best For
- Career changers looking for a fast entry into tech
- Professionals wanting to add coding skills
- Those who prefer hands-on learning over academics
- Budget-conscious learners
What People Love
Based on discussions from r/codingbootcamp, r/cscareerquestions, and r/learnprogramming
- Focus on practical skills that matter day-to-day on the job
- Learn full-stack development, not just theory
- Career changers often succeed—bootcamps welcome non-CS backgrounds
- Many programs offer job guarantees or money-back options
- Graduate with production-quality projects to show employers
Common Concerns
Honest feedback from bootcamp graduates and industry professionals
- Fast pace means less time to deeply understand concepts
- Self-taught developers question if bootcamp is worth the cost
- Success depends heavily on your effort outside class hours
- May need additional prep for technical interviews
- Not all bootcamps teach best practices for enterprise code
Explore Bootcamps with Springboard
Springboard offers career-focused bootcamps with 1-on-1 mentorship from industry professionals. Their programs include a job guarantee—complete all requirements, and if you don't land a qualifying role, you may be eligible for a full tuition refund.
Programs for Software Engineering careers:
- Software Engineering Career Track
- Data Science Career Track
- Cybersecurity Career Track
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Software Engineering Career Track
+$25K avg salary increase·9 months
- Curriculum designed by Colt Steele, industry veteran
- 1-on-1 mentorship from industry professionals
- Money-back job guarantee
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Frequently Asked Questions About Software Engineering Degrees
Data Sources & Methodology
Tuition costs, graduation rates, enrollment data from 234 accredited software engineering programs
Salary data for software developers (SOC 15-1252) and related occupations
Graduate earnings data and employment outcomes
Accreditation status verification for software engineering programs
Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.