Best Bachelor's Software Engineering Degree Programs in Colorado
University of Colorado Boulder — Boulder, CO
Key Distinction: CU Boulder uniquely combines rigorous CS theory with cloud systems focus and direct industry partnerships, creating a pipeline to senior engineering roles at scale-focused tech companies.
Hakia Insight: CU Boulder's faculty (Chang, Coady) bridge program verification and empirical software engineering—a pairing that explains why Google and Lockheed Martin recruit heavily from the program: graduates understand both the math that prevents failures and the organizational practices that actually prevent them.
At the bachelor's level, CU Boulder's software engineering program is built on a foundation of rigorous computer science theory paired with hands-on systems design. The curriculum emphasizes software architecture, cloud computing, and distributed systems—areas where Boulder graduates consistently land roles at scale-focused tech companies. Students engage with real industrial problems through capstone projects, many sponsored by companies like Google, IBM, and local startups in the Denver tech corridor. The program benefits from Boulder's proximity to a thriving ecosystem of aerospace, robotics, and enterprise software firms, creating internship pipelines that often convert to full-time offers. Faculty actively research software verification, programming languages, and systems optimization, and students can participate in labs like the Programming Language and Verification Lab. Graduates report strong placement in backend engineering, DevOps, and cloud infrastructure roles, with median starting salaries in the $85k–$95k range. The program's emphasis on both breadth (algorithms, databases, networks) and depth (students choose specializations) prepares engineers who can grow into senior and leadership positions.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Software Engineering — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Programming Language and Verification Lab
- Formal Methods Lab
Industry Partners
- Google (corporate)
- IBM (corporate)
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
- Ball Aerospace (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Bor-Yuh Evan Chang — Programming languages, program synthesis, software verification
- Yvonne Coady — Software engineering practices, systems design, empirical software engineering
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Computer Science)
Location Advantages: Denver metro tech corridor with major employers (Google, Lockheed Martin, Ball Aerospace)Proximity to aerospace and robotics industriesStrong startup ecosystem in Boulder and surrounding areas
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs — Colorado Springs, CO
Key Distinction: CTU delivers software engineering education optimized for working professionals, with accelerated delivery, industry-aligned curriculum, and direct connections to Colorado Springs defense and tech employers.
Hakia Insight: CTU's location in the NORAD/Lockheed/Northrop Grumman corridor + accelerated evening delivery means working engineers can upskill into software roles without leaving their defense contractor jobs, a pipeline advantage no traditional university matches.
At the bachelor's level, colorado Technical University's software engineering program is built for working adults and career-changers, featuring accelerated coursework, evening and online delivery, and curriculum explicitly aligned with industry hiring needs. The program prioritizes practical skills—version control, agile methodologies, cloud deployment, full-stack development—over extended theory, enabling students to apply concepts immediately in their current jobs or internships. CTU's location in Colorado Springs, home to significant defense, aerospace, and managed IT services sectors, creates a direct pipeline to employers seeking software engineers with specific technical certifications and hands-on experience. The school's partnerships with companies like Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and regional software firms ensure curriculum stays current with hiring demand and often result in job placement assistance. Many students complete degrees while employed part-time, meaning classmates bring real-world context to group projects and discussions. Graduation outcomes reflect strong employment rates among graduates pursuing roles in software development, systems administration, and IT operations—success driven by the program's relentless focus on market-ready competency.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Software Engineering — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
- U.S. Air Force Academy (government)
- NORAD (government)
Notable Faculty
Location Advantages: Colorado Springs defense, aerospace, and government technology hubDirect access to Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, NORAD, and military contracting employers
Colorado School of Mines — Golden, CO
Key Distinction: Mines uniquely combines rigorous software engineering with deep domain expertise in high-performance computing for energy, geoscience, and resource industries—creating differentiated career opportunities.
Hakia Insight: Mines' engineering-first curriculum isn't just theory—Shell and ExxonMobil recruit directly from campus because the program embeds high-performance computing for geoscience and resource extraction into every project, giving graduates domain expertise that commands premiums in energy sector roles.
At the bachelor's level, mines' computer science program distinguishes itself through its engineering-first approach and deep integration with the school's mining, petroleum, and energy sector focus. While many students pursue traditional software engineering careers, the program uniquely prepares graduates for roles in geospatial computing, scientific simulation, high-performance computing, and data systems—domains critical to resource extraction, climate modeling, and energy technology. The curriculum balances computer science foundations with applied computing in domains like computational geology, reservoir simulation, and sensor networks. Faculty conduct research spanning cybersecurity, machine learning for earth science, and systems optimization. Students benefit from industry partnerships with major energy companies, mining firms, and engineering contractors, many of which have recruiting partnerships and internship programs. The capstone experience often involves solving real problems for sponsors in the energy and resource sectors. Graduates command strong salaries and secure positions at tech companies, energy firms, and government labs—many in specialized technical roles that reflect their domain-specific computing knowledge. The program's location near Denver also connects students to the region's growing aerospace and defense sectors.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Software Engineering — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Department of Computer Science Research Centers
Industry Partners
- Shell (corporate)
- ExxonMobil (corporate)
- Colorado Geological Survey (government)
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) (government)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Chris Weisz — Cybersecurity, cryptography, secure systems
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Computer Science)
Location Advantages: Golden, CO proximity to energy industry headquarters and labsStrong partnerships with National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)Access to mining, petroleum, and geoscience industry employers
United States Air Force Academy — USAF Academy, CO
Key Distinction: The Academy's software engineering program uniquely integrates military systems engineering, cybersecurity, and operational context, preparing officers for leadership roles in defense and aerospace computing.
Hakia Insight: Unlike civilian CS programs, the Air Force Academy's software engineering students write code for systems that defend airspace, not just pass interviews—direct access to Peterson Space Force Base means capstones often become operational tools rather than portfolio pieces.
At the bachelor's level, the Air Force Academy's computer science curriculum is uniquely shaped by the institution's military mission and the priority placed on systems critical to national defense. Students pursue software engineering within a rigorous, discipline-focused environment where courses in cybersecurity, network defense, command-and-control systems, and embedded systems take precedence based on Air Force operational needs. All students complete a core engineering curriculum alongside specialized computer science tracks, ensuring they understand hardware, systems integration, and real-time computing—skills essential for military aerospace and defense applications. Faculty include active-duty and retired Air Force officers with direct experience fielding software systems in operational settings. Capstones often involve working with actual Air Force systems and problems, providing context and impact that exceed typical academic projects. Graduates commission as Second Lieutenants and serve 5 years on active duty, typically in software development, cybersecurity, or systems engineering roles supporting Air Force and Space Force operations. The program's strength lies in producing officers who understand both rigorous software engineering principles and the military's operational and security imperatives.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Software Engineering — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- United States Air Force (government)
- United States Space Force (government)
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Computer Science)
- Security clearance path (DoD)
Location Advantages: Colorado Springs proximity to Peterson Space Force Base and other defense installationsDirect access to government and defense sector technology challenges
Colorado State University-Fort Collins — Fort Collins, CO
Key Distinction: Hands-on work with industry-standard software engineering tools integrated throughout curriculum. Project management and systems analysis courses (CIS 320, CIS 360) providing practical application experience
Hakia Insight: CSU's integration of project management courses (CIS 320, CIS 360) throughout the curriculum rather than as electives means graduates arrive on the job already fluent in the Gantt charts and scope documents that junior engineers usually spend six months learning on the clock.
Colorado State University's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a Software Engineering concentration equips students with rigorous computer science fundamentals combined with specialized software engineering skills. The 120-credit program emphasizes hands-on work with industry-standard software engineering tools, covering software design, testing, project management, and system analysis. Students progress through a structured curriculum beginning with foundational CS and mathematics courses, advancing to core software engineering courses like CS 314 (Software Engineering), CS 414 (Object-Oriented Design), and CS 415 (Software Testing). The program requires CIS 320 (Project Management for Information Systems) and CIS 360 (Systems Analysis and Design), ensuring practical project management experience. Seniors select depth courses from specialized areas including Database Systems, Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, Distributed Systems, and Human-Computer Interaction. Graduates pursue careers as software developers, architects, full-stack developers, software project managers, cloud engineers, and UX designers. The concentration prepares graduates for immediate professional employment or graduate studies in software engineering and computer science.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Software Engineering Concentration — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Cybersecurity Center
- Center for Exascale Spatial Data Analytics and Computing
Notable Faculty
- Charles Anderson — Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning
- Bruce Draper — Computer Vision, Artificial Intelligence
- Indrajit Ray — Data Security and Privacy
Location Advantages:
University of Denver — Denver, CO
Key Distinction: DU's software engineering programs stand out through their NSA-accredited cybersecurity education, tool-agnostic teaching approach, and integration of cutting-edge research in areas like smart grids, biomedical engineering, and AI with practical industry preparation.
Hakia Insight: DU's NSA-accredited cybersecurity program, paired with a median starting salary of $155,200, reflects a deliberate specialization in a market where Colorado has 19,603 open security roles—students graduating into acute regional demand rather than national oversupply.
At the bachelor's level, the University of Denver's Software Engineering-related programs are offered through the Ritchie School of Engineering and Computer Science, featuring strong emphases on practical application, industry preparation, and cutting-edge research. The school offers multiple pathways including undergraduate Computer Science, graduate Electrical and Computer Engineering with software focus, Cybersecurity, and Data Science and AI programs. Key strengths include NSA-accredited cybersecurity education, tool-agnostic approaches focusing on foundational knowledge, state-of-the-art research laboratories covering areas like smart grids, biomedical engineering, robotics, and AI. The programs emphasize hands-on learning, small cohort sizes for personalized attention, and preparation for industry certifications. Faculty have extensive industry experience and are actively engaged in research across diverse domains including power systems, biomedical devices, unmanned systems, and intelligent control.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Software Engineering — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $155,200.
Notable Faculty
- Amin Khodaei — Smart grids, quantum computing, blockchain, and AI
- Dali Sun — Biosensing, bioinstrumentation, cancer detection, cancer treatment
- Kimon Valavanis — Robotics and automation, unmanned systems, intelligent control, and autonomy
- Mohammad Mahoor — Robotics for autism spectrum disorders
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.5. Application Deadline: May 15, 2025 (priority), July 31, 2025 (final).
Requirements: Bachelor's degree from regionally accredited institution
Accreditations and Certifications
- NSA CAE-CD (National Center of Academic Excellence-Cyber Defense)
- ABET Accredited
Location Advantages: 19,603 cybersecurity job openings in ColoradoDenver tech market with high cybersecurity engineer salaries
University of Colorado Colorado Springs — Colorado Springs, CO
Key Distinction: ABET accreditation. Multiple specialty track options allowing specialization in areas like cybersecurity, AI/machine learning, and software engineering
Hakia Insight: UCCS' QAS Lab under Armin Moin offers undergraduates rare access to quantum computing research while maintaining ABET accreditation and hybrid delivery—students can graduate with both a software engineering degree and publications in an emerging field most peers won't touch until graduate school.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at UCCS is a 120-credit, ABET-accredited program available in on-campus, online, and hybrid formats. The curriculum integrates theoretical foundations with practical experience in hardware and software, preparing graduates for immediate professional employment. Students complete 43 credit hours of core computer science competencies covering programming, architecture, operating systems, networking, software engineering, algorithms, ethics, and security. The program requires selection of one specialty track (12 credits) from Advanced Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Computer Systems and Networking, Cybersecurity, or General Computer Sciences. Additional requirements include 17 credit hours of mathematics, 9-10 credit hours of natural science, 6 credit hours of writing skills, and general electives. The curriculum emphasizes problem-solving, team collaboration, professional communication, and ethical decision-making. Graduates are prepared to pursue careers in technical development, project management, and technical sales across all branches of computer science.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
Notable Faculty
- Armin Moin — Software Engineering, Software Testing, Quantum Computing
- Kristen Walcott-Justice — Software Engineering, Software Testing, Computer Science Education
- Yanyan Zhuang — Software Engineering, Computer Networks, Systems
Location Advantages: Located in Colorado Springs with access to local technology companiesEvening and late afternoon course scheduling for working professionals
Metropolitan State University of Denver — Denver, CO
Key Distinction: MSU Denver's Computer Sciences department stands out with its newly launched Computer Security (CSEC) and Data Science and Machine Learning programs, positioning students at the forefront of emerging technology fields.
Hakia Insight: MSU Denver's newly launched Computer Security and Data Science programs position students at the frontier of recruiting cycles rather than in established pipelines—employers actively court graduates from emerging degree concentrations before competition saturates the talent pool.
At the bachelor's level, metropolitan State's computer science program serves a diverse, working-adult student population and emphasizes accessibility to a software engineering education without the premium tuition of research universities. The curriculum covers full-stack development, data systems, and web technologies—skills directly relevant to the Denver job market where startups, financial services firms, and tech companies actively recruit. The program's strength lies in its flexibility: students can attend part-time while working, and many faculty bring industry experience and connections. Capstone projects often partner with local employers, creating networking opportunities and potential job leads. While the program lacks the research prestige and specialized depth of larger universities, it succeeds at converting working professionals and career-changers into productive software engineers within a reasonable timeframe and cost. Graduates predominantly enter the Denver tech ecosystem in mid-level developer roles at startups, consulting firms, and regional tech companies. The location in downtown Denver provides direct access to employers and a thriving startup scene, making the program particularly valuable for those already embedded in or relocating to the Colorado Front Range.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Software Engineering — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Downtown Denver location with direct access to tech startups and employersStrong local tech job market and networking opportunitiesProximity to tech-forward companies in the Front Range
Fort Lewis College — Durango, CO
Key Distinction: Fort Lewis delivers software engineering education at a human scale, combining rigorous technical training with hands-on project experience and deep faculty mentorship in a tight-knit cohort.
Hakia Insight: Fort Lewis College's tight cohort model with faculty mentorship generates outsized placement at regional powerhouses like Trimble and Ball Aerospace—small class sizes create the relationship-based hiring pipelines that large state schools chase through career fairs.
At the bachelor's level, fort Lewis College's software engineering program operates within a small, undergraduate-focused institution that prioritizes mentorship and project-based learning over lecture-heavy coursework. Students engage hands-on with full software development lifecycle projects—from requirements gathering through deployment—often working on real problems for local government, nonprofits, and small businesses in the Four Corners region. The program emphasizes software design, system architecture, and collaborative development skills, with particular strength in embedded systems and geospatial software relevant to the Southwest's natural resource and energy sectors. Faculty maintain close relationships with students and actively involve undergraduates in research; the low student-to-faculty ratio means direct feedback and personalized guidance throughout the degree. Internship placements tend toward regional and mid-market companies rather than Silicon Valley pipelines, but graduates report strong technical preparation and exceptional professional communication skills. The Durango location and proximity to outdoor industries, energy research, and environmental conservation organizations create unique internship and networking opportunities that differentiate Fort Lewis graduates in their career searches.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Software Engineering — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Trimble Navigation (corporate)
- San Juan Basin Operators (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Trimble, Ball Aerospace, Local Colorado government agencies.
Notable Faculty
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Four Corners region proximity to energy, environmental, and geospatial industriesInternship access to regional tech and government organizations
Regis University — Denver, CO
Key Distinction: The program utilizes a proprietary Regis Cloud network environment for hands-on learning and emphasizes collaborative skills development alongside technical expertise. All courses are offered 100% online with flexible 8-week terms taught by faculty with decades of industry experience.
Hakia Insight: Regis' proprietary Regis Cloud environment for hands-on learning in a fully online 8-week format means working professionals actually build systems in real infrastructure, not simulations, while maintaining their current jobs—eliminating the forced gap year many career-switchers face.
At the bachelor's level, the Regis University Software Engineering program offers a Master of Science degree and graduate certificate designed to meet growing industry demand for software engineers. The program provides foundational skills and specialized knowledge in programming languages including Java, C#, Swift, JavaScript, HTML, and CSS, with focus on specification, architecture, design, implementation, testing and security of desktop and mobile applications. Classes are taught by seasoned faculty with decades of software engineering experience and offered 100% online with 8-week terms for maximum flexibility. Students gain hands-on experience through the proprietary Regis Cloud network environment. The program emphasizes team-building and collaborative skills to create well-rounded graduates. Merit scholarships up to $10,200 are available, and certificate courses can be applied toward the full master's degree.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Software Engineering — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $110,140.
Notable Faculty
- Richard Blumenthal — Computer Science and Information Systems
Location Advantages: Denver, Colorado location
Best Master's Software Engineering Degree Programs in Colorado
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs — Colorado Springs, CO
Key Distinction: CTU delivers software engineering education optimized for working professionals, with accelerated delivery, industry-aligned curriculum, and direct connections to Colorado Springs defense and tech employers.
Hakia Insight: CTU's location in Colorado Springs surrounded by Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and NORAD makes the defense sector not a recruiting pipeline but the literal classroom context—accelerated evening cohorts often include current government employees upgrading credentials for internal promotions.
At the master's level, colorado Technical University's software engineering program is built for working adults and career-changers, featuring accelerated coursework, evening and online delivery, and curriculum explicitly aligned with industry hiring needs. The program prioritizes practical skills—version control, agile methodologies, cloud deployment, full-stack development—over extended theory, enabling students to apply concepts immediately in their current jobs or internships. CTU's location in Colorado Springs, home to significant defense, aerospace, and managed IT services sectors, creates a direct pipeline to employers seeking software engineers with specific technical certifications and hands-on experience. The school's partnerships with companies like Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and regional software firms ensure curriculum stays current with hiring demand and often result in job placement assistance. Many students complete degrees while employed part-time, meaning classmates bring real-world context to group projects and discussions. Graduation outcomes reflect strong employment rates among graduates pursuing roles in software development, systems administration, and IT operations—success driven by the program's relentless focus on market-ready competency.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Software Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Software Engineering — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
- U.S. Air Force Academy (government)
- NORAD (government)
Notable Faculty
Location Advantages: Colorado Springs defense, aerospace, and government technology hubDirect access to Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, NORAD, and military contracting employers
University of Colorado Boulder — Boulder, CO
Key Distinction: Performance-based admission—no GRE, transcripts, or letters of recommendation required. Coursework-only track (no thesis option)
Hakia Insight: CU Boulder's performance-based Coursera admission (no GRE, transcripts, or recommendations) coupled with faculty in program synthesis and formal methods means career-changers can enroll based purely on demonstrated coding ability, bypassing the pedigree gatekeeping that blocks talented self-taught engineers.
The Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering (MS-ECE) on Coursera is designed specifically for working professionals seeking flexible, part-time study. The fully online, asynchronous program offers 30 credit hours completed through stackable specializations in Embedded Systems, Power Electronics, Photonics and Optics, and Systems and Controls. Students follow a coursework-only track (no thesis option) with six 8-week sessions per year, enabling self-paced learning within strict session deadlines. Admission is performance-based—no GRE, transcripts, or recommendations required; instead, students demonstrate mastery by completing a pathway specialization with a 3.0+ cumulative GPA. Tuition is $667 per credit hour ($20,010 total), with flexible payment options including employer partnerships via Flywire. The degree is fully accredited through CU Boulder's Higher Learning Commission accreditation, and graduates earn identical credentials as on-campus students with no online designation on transcripts. This program positions mid-career professionals for advancement in engineering roles while maintaining full-time employment.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Programming Language and Verification Lab
- Formal Methods Lab
Industry Partners
- Google (corporate)
- IBM (corporate)
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
- Ball Aerospace (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Bor-Yuh Evan Chang — Programming languages, program synthesis, software verification
- Yvonne Coady — Software engineering practices, systems design, empirical software engineering
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Computer Science)
Location Advantages: Denver metro tech corridor with major employers (Google, Lockheed Martin, Ball Aerospace)Proximity to aerospace and robotics industriesStrong startup ecosystem in Boulder and surrounding areas
Colorado School of Mines — Golden, CO
Key Distinction: Thesis vs non-thesis tracks available. Non-thesis options include Project Track (24 credits + 6 credits project) and Coursework-Only Track (30 credits)
Hakia Insight: Mines' non-thesis Project Track (24 credits + 6 credits applied project) lets working engineers solve real problems for NREL or oil majors as their capstone—the degree becomes a credential for work they're already doing, compressing time-to-completion for industry professionals.
Colorado School of Mines' Master of Science in Computer Science is designed for working professionals seeking career advancement in industry or government. The program offers flexible thesis and non-thesis tracks: a thesis option (21 credits coursework + 9 credits thesis), a project track (24 credits + 6 credits project), and a coursework-only track (30 credits). All students complete two required core courses with flexibility to choose electives within CS or up to 6 credits outside the department. The program emphasizes research depth across algorithms, machine learning, data science, robotics, and security. With a 3.0 minimum GPA requirement and prerequisite coursework in foundational programming, data structures, software engineering, computer organization, and discrete mathematics, graduates are prepared for advanced technical roles. The department maintains strong industry and government partnerships. Graduate students benefit from faculty mentorship and research opportunities, with thesis options providing deeper specialization. Transfer credit up to 9 credits is accepted, and the program must be completed within 5 years. This rigorous program positions graduates for senior engineering roles and salary advancement in competitive tech markets.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Department of Computer Science Research Centers
Industry Partners
- Shell (corporate)
- ExxonMobil (corporate)
- Colorado Geological Survey (government)
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) (government)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Chris Weisz — Cybersecurity, cryptography, secure systems
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Computer Science)
Location Advantages: Golden, CO proximity to energy industry headquarters and labsStrong partnerships with National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)Access to mining, petroleum, and geoscience industry employers
Colorado State University-Fort Collins — Fort Collins, CO
Key Distinction: Thesis and coursework track options available. Graduate assistantships available (GTA, GRA, GSA) with tuition support and stipends
Hakia Insight: CSU's graduate assistantships with tuition support and stipends in the Cybersecurity Center and Exascale Analytics Lab transform a master's degree from a personal expense into a funded apprenticeship—students graduate debt-free while contributing to research that drives hiring.
Colorado State University's Master of Science in Computer Science offers both on-campus and online formats designed for working professionals. The program provides flexible scheduling with options for thesis and coursework tracks. Graduate assistantships (GTA, GRA, GSA) are available with opportunities for tuition support and stipends through departmental funding. Students can specialize in software engineering alongside nine other areas including artificial intelligence, networks and security, distributed systems, and high performance computing. The program emphasizes practical, cutting-edge research with an award-winning faculty. An accelerated master's pathway enables completion in less time at reduced cost. Western Regional Graduate Program participants from WICHE member states can access on-campus instruction at resident tuition rates. Mid-career salary advancement and employer partnerships support career progression in software engineering and related technical roles.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Cybersecurity Center
- Center for Exascale Spatial Data Analytics and Computing
Notable Faculty
- Charles Anderson — Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning
- Bruce Draper — Computer Vision, Artificial Intelligence
- Indrajit Ray — Data Security and Privacy
Location Advantages:
University of Denver — Denver, CO
Key Distinction: Thesis vs. non-thesis track options for customized learning path. Graduate teaching and research assistantships available (competitive funding)
Hakia Insight: DU's thesis and non-thesis flexibility combined with competitive research assistantships in smart grids and biomedical engineering creates dual paths: engineers can pursue deep specialization with funding or accelerate into roles like Khodaei's quantum-blockchain research, which sits at the intersection of three emerging verticals.
The Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering at University of Denver is a 45-credit, 2-year program designed for working professionals seeking career advancement in engineering. Students choose between thesis and non-thesis tracks—the thesis option develops research skills alongside faculty, while the non-thesis track emphasizes additional coursework. The program features flexible technical electives in solid mechanics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, biomechanics, and robotics, preparing graduates for roles across aerospace, energy, biotechnology, and manufacturing sectors. Graduate teaching and research assistantships provide competitive funding opportunities. With a median annual salary of $99,000 and 11% projected employment growth through 2033, graduates advance into leadership and specialized technical roles. The curriculum balances theoretical and applied engineering, including hands-on work with engineering software and interdisciplinary projects. Offered in quarter terms with flexible start dates (Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer), the program accommodates working professionals.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Amin Khodaei — Smart grids, quantum computing, blockchain, and AI
- Dali Sun — Biosensing, bioinstrumentation, cancer detection, cancer treatment
- Kimon Valavanis — Robotics and automation, unmanned systems, intelligent control, and autonomy
- Mohammad Mahoor — Robotics for autism spectrum disorders
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.5. Application Deadline: May 15, 2025 (priority), July 31, 2025 (final).
Requirements: Completion of mechanical engineering core courses, Advanced mathematics courses, Technical electives (16 credits for thesis track, 28 credits for non-thesis track), ENME 4900 - Grad Professional Development, ENME 4950 - Graduate Assessment, Thesis or non-thesis capstone requirement
Accreditations and Certifications
- NSA CAE-CD (National Center of Academic Excellence-Cyber Defense)
- ABET Accredited
Location Advantages: 19,603 cybersecurity job openings in ColoradoDenver tech market with high cybersecurity engineer salaries
University of Colorado Colorado Springs — Colorado Springs, CO
Key Distinction: UCCS offers a unique software engineering education environment with faculty bringing extensive industry experience, creating a practical learning approach that bridges academic theory with real-world application. The program's flexible scheduling and multiple delivery formats specifically accommodate working professionals in the local technology sector.
Hakia Insight: UCCS' faculty in software testing and quantum computing combined with evening/late-afternoon scheduling for working professionals means the local defense tech sector doesn't have to choose between hiring experienced engineers or waiting for part-time graduates—it gets both simultaneously.
At the master's level, the University of Colorado Colorado Springs offers comprehensive Software Engineering graduate programs through the College of Engineering and Applied Science, designed to meet industry demand for well-educated software engineers. The programs feature faculty with extensive industry experience, creating a diverse environment of ideas, technologies, and practical applications. Students can pursue a Master of Engineering in Software Engineering (30 credits, on-campus), a Master of Science in Computer Science with software engineering focus, or a Graduate Certificate in Software Engineering (15 credits, available on-campus, online, or hybrid). The certificate program serves both local industry employees seeking career advancement and current graduate students wanting specialized software engineering knowledge. Courses are strategically offered in late afternoons and evenings to accommodate working professionals, emphasizing both theoretical foundations and practical applications of software engineering principles.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Software Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Software Engineering — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Notable Faculty
- Armin Moin — Software Engineering, Software Testing, Quantum Computing
- Kristen Walcott-Justice — Software Engineering, Software Testing, Computer Science Education
- Yanyan Zhuang — Software Engineering, Computer Networks, Systems
Location Advantages: Located in Colorado Springs with access to local technology companiesEvening and late afternoon course scheduling for working professionals
Best Doctoral Software Engineering Degree Programs in Colorado
University of Colorado Boulder — Boulder, CO
Key Distinction: CU Boulder uniquely combines rigorous CS theory with cloud systems focus and direct industry partnerships, creating a pipeline to senior engineering roles at scale-focused tech companies.
Hakia Insight: CU Boulder's Programming Language and Formal Methods labs under Chang and Coady produce researchers who shape how Google and cloud infrastructure companies think about verification and synthesis—doctoral students co-author the tools their own future employers license, embedding themselves in the discipline before graduation.
At the doctoral level, CU Boulder's software engineering program is built on a foundation of rigorous computer science theory paired with hands-on systems design. The curriculum emphasizes software architecture, cloud computing, and distributed systems—areas where Boulder graduates consistently land roles at scale-focused tech companies. Students engage with real industrial problems through capstone projects, many sponsored by companies like Google, IBM, and local startups in the Denver tech corridor. The program benefits from Boulder's proximity to a thriving ecosystem of aerospace, robotics, and enterprise software firms, creating internship pipelines that often convert to full-time offers. Faculty actively research software verification, programming languages, and systems optimization, and students can participate in labs like the Programming Language and Verification Lab. Graduates report strong placement in backend engineering, DevOps, and cloud infrastructure roles, with median starting salaries in the $85k–$95k range. The program's emphasis on both breadth (algorithms, databases, networks) and depth (students choose specializations) prepares engineers who can grow into senior and leadership positions.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Software Engineering — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Software Engineering — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Programming Language and Verification Lab
- Formal Methods Lab
Industry Partners
- Google (corporate)
- IBM (corporate)
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
- Ball Aerospace (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Bor-Yuh Evan Chang — Programming languages, program synthesis, software verification
- Yvonne Coady — Software engineering practices, systems design, empirical software engineering
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Computer Science)
Location Advantages: Denver metro tech corridor with major employers (Google, Lockheed Martin, Ball Aerospace)Proximity to aerospace and robotics industriesStrong startup ecosystem in Boulder and surrounding areas
Colorado School of Mines — Golden, CO
Key Distinction: Mines uniquely combines rigorous software engineering with deep domain expertise in high-performance computing for energy, geoscience, and resource industries—creating differentiated career opportunities.
Hakia Insight: Mines' doctoral program sits at the intersection of software engineering rigor and energy-sector domain expertise—its partnerships with Shell, ExxonMobil, and NREL mean students aren't just learning HPC theory, they're solving real optimization problems for Fortune 500 operators and national labs that can't find this skill combination elsewhere.
At the doctoral level, mines' computer science program distinguishes itself through its engineering-first approach and deep integration with the school's mining, petroleum, and energy sector focus. While many students pursue traditional software engineering careers, the program uniquely prepares graduates for roles in geospatial computing, scientific simulation, high-performance computing, and data systems—domains critical to resource extraction, climate modeling, and energy technology. The curriculum balances computer science foundations with applied computing in domains like computational geology, reservoir simulation, and sensor networks. Faculty conduct research spanning cybersecurity, machine learning for earth science, and systems optimization. Students benefit from industry partnerships with major energy companies, mining firms, and engineering contractors, many of which have recruiting partnerships and internship programs. The capstone experience often involves solving real problems for sponsors in the energy and resource sectors. Graduates command strong salaries and secure positions at tech companies, energy firms, and government labs—many in specialized technical roles that reflect their domain-specific computing knowledge. The program's location near Denver also connects students to the region's growing aerospace and defense sectors.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Software Engineering — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Software Engineering — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Department of Computer Science Research Centers
Industry Partners
- Shell (corporate)
- ExxonMobil (corporate)
- Colorado Geological Survey (government)
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) (government)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Chris Weisz — Cybersecurity, cryptography, secure systems
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Computer Science)
Location Advantages: Golden, CO proximity to energy industry headquarters and labsStrong partnerships with National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)Access to mining, petroleum, and geoscience industry employers
University of Denver — Denver, CO
Key Distinction: DU's software engineering programs stand out through their NSA-accredited cybersecurity education, tool-agnostic teaching approach, and integration of cutting-edge research in areas like smart grids, biomedical engineering, and AI with practical industry preparation.
Hakia Insight: With $155,200 median salary and NSA cybersecurity accreditation, DU's doctoral program leverages Colorado's 19,603 open cybersecurity roles to create a rare advantage: students can conduct research in emerging areas like quantum computing and smart grids while their security credentials immediately unlock six-figure defense contractor and financial services positions.
At the doctoral level, the University of Denver's Software Engineering-related programs are offered through the Ritchie School of Engineering and Computer Science, featuring strong emphases on practical application, industry preparation, and cutting-edge research. The school offers multiple pathways including undergraduate Computer Science, graduate Electrical and Computer Engineering with software focus, Cybersecurity, and Data Science and AI programs. Key strengths include NSA-accredited cybersecurity education, tool-agnostic approaches focusing on foundational knowledge, state-of-the-art research laboratories covering areas like smart grids, biomedical engineering, robotics, and AI. The programs emphasize hands-on learning, small cohort sizes for personalized attention, and preparation for industry certifications. Faculty have extensive industry experience and are actively engaged in research across diverse domains including power systems, biomedical devices, unmanned systems, and intelligent control.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Software Engineering — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Software Engineering — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $155,200.
Notable Faculty
- Amin Khodaei — Smart grids, quantum computing, blockchain, and AI
- Dali Sun — Biosensing, bioinstrumentation, cancer detection, cancer treatment
- Kimon Valavanis — Robotics and automation, unmanned systems, intelligent control, and autonomy
- Mohammad Mahoor — Robotics for autism spectrum disorders
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.5. Application Deadline: May 15, 2025 (priority), July 31, 2025 (final).
Requirements: Bachelor's degree from regionally accredited institution
Accreditations and Certifications
- NSA CAE-CD (National Center of Academic Excellence-Cyber Defense)
- ABET Accredited
Location Advantages: 19,603 cybersecurity job openings in ColoradoDenver tech market with high cybersecurity engineer salaries
