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Fastest Online Bachelor's in Software Engineering for 2025

Imed Bouchrika, Phd

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Software developer roles are growing fast—17.9% growth is expected between 2023 and 2033—and employers need skilled talent now. But those who stick to the standard four-year path may fall behind, missing out on remote-ready jobs that favor quick, flexible degrees.

This article spotlights the fastest online bachelor’s in software engineering programs for 2025. Designed by career planning experts, it will help you move faster, graduate sooner, and land a tech job while the momentum is still on your side.

What are the benefits of getting an online bachelor's in software engineering? 

  • Prepares you for roles like software developer, QA analyst, or systems engineer in tech-driven industries.
  • Median salary for software engineers with a bachelor’s degree is about $127,260 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
  • Online programs offer faster completion and flexible schedules, letting you gain in-demand skills without relocating or pausing work.

What can I expect from an online bachelor's in software engineering?

An online bachelor’s in software engineering teaches you how to build, test, and maintain software systems. You’ll take core courses in programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, and software design. Most programs include a capstone project that simulates real-world software development. Some also require internship hours to give you hands-on experience.

Online classes are usually delivered through recorded lectures, interactive assignments, and virtual labs. Some programs offer live sessions, but most are asynchronous, letting you study on your schedule.

Tuition ranges from $30,000 to $70,000 for the full program, depending on the school. Some accelerated formats let you finish in just 2.5 to 3 years, saving both time and money compared to a traditional degree.

Where can I work with an online bachelor's in software engineering?

An online bachelor’s in software engineering opens doors to tech roles across many industries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2022, industries with the highest employment of software developers include:

  • Computer Systems Design: Employs about 526,240 software developers, making up over 21.3% of the industry's workforce.
  • Software Publishers: Employs over 162,130 developers, reflecting the growing need for secure, efficient financial software.
  • Company Management: Employs around 78,280 developers, especially in areas like automation and embedded systems.
  • Data Processing & Web Hosting: Employs approximately 67,690 developers, supporting consumer and enterprise software solutions.
  • Credit Intermediation (Banking): Employs about 50,640 developers, often for internal business systems and tech platforms.

How much can I make with an online bachelor's in software engineering?

Software engineering professionals have strong earning potential across industries. The 2023 median wages for related roles far exceed the U.S. average of $23.11 per hour (U.S. BLS, 2024):

  • Software Developers: $63.20 per hour; $131,450 per year
  • Web Developers and Digital Designers: $45.85 per hour; $95,380 per year
  • Computer Systems Analysts: $49.90 per hour; $103,790 per year

Table of Contents

  1. List of the Best Online Bachelor's in Software Engineering Programs for 2025
  2. How long does it take to complete an online bachelor's in software engineering program?
  3. How does an online bachelor's in software engineering program compare to an on-campus program?
  4. What is the average cost of an online bachelor's in software engineering program?
  5. What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online bachelor's in software engineering program?
  6. What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online bachelor's in software engineering program?
  7. How Do Online Bachelor's Programs in Software Engineering Embrace Emerging Trends?
  8. How Do Online Bachelor's Programs in Software Engineering Collaborate with Industry?
  9. What courses are typically in an online bachelor's in software engineering program?
  10. What types of specializations are available in an online bachelor's in software engineering program?
  11. How to Choose the Best Online Bachelor's in Software Engineering Program
  12. What career paths are available for graduates of an online bachelor's in software engineering program?
  13. What is the job market for graduates with an online bachelor's in software engineering program?
  14. Other Things You Should Know About Online Bachelor's in Software Engineering Programs

List of the Best Online Bachelor's in Software Engineering Programs for 2025

How do we rank schools?

A college degree can come with a high price tag, so our rankings are built to help students make informed decisions using dependable data. We evaluate online electrical lineworker trade degree programs using trusted sources like the IPEDS database, Peterson's database, the College Scorecard database, and The National Center for Education Statistics. For full details on our approach, see Research.com's methodology page.

1. Western Governors University (B.S.S.E.)

Western Governors University online Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering program emphasizes practical, project-based learning to prepare students for real-world development roles. The curriculum blends computer science fundamentals with industry-relevant tools and agile methodologies. Designed for flexibility and self-paced progress, the program supports learners aiming to accelerate their entry into software engineering careers.

  • Program Length: 35 months
  • Required Courses to Graduate: 36 or 38
  • Cost: $4,085 per six-month term flat rate
  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

2. Pennsylvania State University – World Campus (B.S.S.E.)

Balancing theory with practical application, the online Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering from Penn State World Campus helps students develop skills in programming, software design, and testing. With a strong focus on collaborative projects and real-world challenges, the program prepares graduates for careers in development, systems analysis, and related fields.

  • Required Credits to Graduate: 126
  • Cost: $632 / $678 per credit hour
  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

3. Southern New Hampshire University (B.S.C.S. with concentration in Software Engineering)

With a focus on full-stack development, software testing, and user interface design, the online Bachelor’s in Computer Science from Southern New Hampshire University includes a concentration in Software Engineering. Students work on hands-on projects using current tools and industry practices, building practical experience for roles in software and systems development.

  • Required Credits to Graduate: 132
  • Cost: $330 per credit hour
  • Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

4. University of Arizona (B.S.S.E.)

The University of Arizona online Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering blends engineering principles with computer science to prepare students for software design, development, and maintenance roles. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through collaborative projects and real-world applications, focusing on building scalable, reliable, and secure software systems across various industries.

  • Required Credits to Graduate: 120
  • Cost: $525 per credit hour 
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

5. University of Minnesota (B.S.S.E.)

Designed for students who want a strong technical base in software development and systems design, the online Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering from the University of Minnesota also integrates project management and agile methodologies. Through real-world team projects and hands-on use of industry tools, students gain practical skills aligned with current software engineering demands.

  • Required Credits to Graduate: 120
  • Cost: $448 per credit hour
  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

6. St. Cloud State University (B.S.S.E.)

St. Cloud State University online Bachelor’s in Software Engineering focuses on the full software development lifecycle, from design to deployment. The program emphasizes practical skills in programming, testing, and systems analysis. Students gain hands-on experience through team-based projects and real-world problem solving, preparing them for dynamic roles in the tech industry.

  • Required Units to Graduate: 122
  • Cost: $350 per credit hour
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

7. Kennesaw State University (B.S.S.E.)

In Kennesaw State University online Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, students learn to build, test, and maintain complex software systems. The curriculum combines engineering principles with computer science and features hands-on team projects that reflect real industry workflows. Learners also gain experience in agile development, software architecture, and emerging technologies.

  • Required Credits to Graduate: 120
  • Cost: $530 per credit hour (Tuition + Student fee)
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

8. Grand Valley State University (B.S.S.E.)

Offering a strong foundation in programming, systems design, and quality assurance, the online Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering at Grand Valley State University emphasizes hands-on learning through lab work and collaborative projects. The curriculum is designed to build practical, industry-relevant skills for careers in software development and engineering.

  • Required Credits to Graduate: 120
  • Cost: $665 or $699 per credit hour (In-state) / $947 or $980 per credit hour (Nonresident)
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

9. Fisher College (B.S.I.T with Software Engineering Concentration)

Fisher College online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Software Engineering equips students with core IT knowledge alongside specialized skills in software development. The program covers programming languages, systems analysis, and database design. Students also explore cybersecurity and project management, preparing them for technical and leadership roles in the field.

  • Required Credits to Graduate: 120
  • Cost: $5,040 per module tuition cost (Full-time) / $2,520 per module tuition cost (Half-time)
  • Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

10. Colorado Technical University (B.S. in Computer Science - Software Engineering)

At Colorado Technical University, the online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a concentration in Software Engineering provides a strong foundation in programming, algorithms, and software design. The curriculum includes industry-relevant coursework, hands-on virtual labs, and project-based learning to prepare students for careers across the tech sector.

  • Required Credits to Graduate: 183
  • Cost: $340 per credit hour / $65,450 total program cost
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

How long does it take to complete an online bachelor's in software engineering program?

You can complete an online bachelor's in software engineering in just 2 to 3 years with an accelerated program.

Accelerated programs use shorter, year-round terms—often 7–8 weeks each—to speed up graduation. With six terms per year, students typically finish in three years, and sometimes as fast as two, especially with transfer credits. Some learners even pursue advanced credentials concurrently, such as enrolling in one of the fastest online master's programs in cybersecurity to stack skills and shorten the total time to a high-demand career. Traditional programs, by contrast, take about 4 years of full-time study (120 credits), with ~15 instructional hours per week across two semesters annually.

Many online programs accept transfer credits—some allow up to 90 credits—so students entering with previous college or dual-enrollment credits may complete the degree in just 12 months. As for study workload, accelerated online learners typically spend about 15 hours weekly in class; project labs and homework often push this to 20+ hours per week.

Fastest Online Bachelor's in Software Engineering1.png

How does an online bachelor's in software engineering program compare to an on-campus program?

Online and on-campus software engineering degrees deliver nearly identical curricula and career outcomes.

  • Employer perception: 87.4% of employers hired graduates with online degrees in 2024 and reported equal starting pay compared to in-person grads, according to the 2024 NACE survey.
  • Course content and quality: Online bachelor's in software engineering programs, including those considered the fastest online software engineering degree options, offer the same core topics, projects, and accredited standards as campus programs. Accredited schools often employ the same faculty for both formats.
  • Hands‑on experience and internships: About 22% of students participate in internships — both online and in-person — with a roughly even split between remote and onsite placements .
  • Career support and satisfaction: Online learners generally get equal access to career services, group projects, and support. Completion and satisfaction rates align closely with in‑person programs.

What is the average cost of an online bachelor's in software engineering program?

The average cost of an online bachelor’s in software engineering is approximately $40,500 at public in-state schools and $63,200 at private colleges.

That averages to $337 per credit hour at public institutions and $516 per credit hour at private ones. In comparison, traditional on-campus private programs can charge well over $1,100 per credit, making online options — and even the fastest behavioral health science degree online — more affordable.

Many online students receive financial aid. About 55% receive federal aid, while 23% get state assistance and 28% receive institutional grants. Overall, roughly 68–74% of undergraduates (across all formats) receive some aid.

Extra fees—such as technology, course materials, and library access—typically add $100–$500 annually.

Most graduates borrow to cover costs. The average student loan debt for bachelor’s recipients is about $37,900.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online bachelor's in software engineering program?

Online students can use the same financial aid programs as on-campus learners.

Federal aid

Complete the FAFSA to qualify. About 55% of undergraduates receive federal aid, and 40% get Pell Grants.

Grants and scholarships

Around 84% of college students receive need-based grants, with awarded amounts averaging over $15,750 per year for first-time four-year undergraduates. Specific scholarships exist for computer science, merit, or diversity categories, and many of these funding opportunities are also available to students pursuing the fastest online master's degrees in business law.

Employer tuition assistance

Around 56% of U.S. organizations offer tuition reimbursement. Big tech firms like Amazon and Starbucks cover up to $5,250 per year tax-free.

Institutional and state aid

Many online bachelor's in software engineering programs provide institutional grants and career support. State-based grants are often available, especially to in-state residents.  If you’re pursuing a fast-track online data analytics degree or a similar STEM program, you may also find targeted financial aid designed to support tech-focused learners.

To apply, complete the FAFSA, list your school as an online program, and meet deadlines. You may also qualify for state grants or institutional scholarships specific to software engineering majors.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online bachelor's in software engineering program?

You typically need a high school diploma (or GED) and a GPA of around 3.0.

Many students enter online software engineering programs without prior coding skills. Still, roughly 70% of learners use online resources to learn to code before or during their studies. High school preparation in math (algebra, geometry, calculus) and science boosts readiness. Students who take STEM courses in high school—over 80% do—tend to transition smoothly, especially those pursuing an accelerated online bachelor's degree in computer science or related fields.

Most online bachelor's in software engineering programs expect at least a 3.0 GPA. A few accept students with lower GPAs if they compensate with strong essays or recommendations. SAT or ACT scores are often optional, with over 2,000 colleges waiving them for online applicants. Some schools require test scores only if the GPA falls below a threshold.

Fastest Online Bachelor's in Software Engineering2.png

How Do Online Bachelor's Programs in Software Engineering Embrace Emerging Trends?

Leading institutions continuously update their curriculum to address breakthroughs in technology, ensuring course content remains aligned with industry innovations. Programs are increasingly integrating topics such as augmented reality, advanced cybersecurity protocols, IoT, and agile development practices to prepare students for disruptive market shifts. Some degrees even incorporate elements from online programs for game development to offer insights into interactive media and simulation-based design, further diversifying the technical skill set required in today’s dynamic landscape.

How Do Online Bachelor's Programs in Software Engineering Collaborate with Industry?

Top-tier programs leverage strong industry partnerships to integrate real-world challenges into academic projects and coursework. These collaborations often include guest lectures by industry experts, joint project sponsorship, and exclusive internship pipelines that provide students with practical insights and networking opportunities. Additionally, some programs align with professional certification bodies and explore interdisciplinary opportunities—such as engaging with programs like the most affordable online master's in biotechnology—to foster a well-rounded skill set that meets evolving market demands.

What courses are typically in an online bachelor's in software engineering program?

An online bachelor’s in software engineering includes core computing, math, general education, and a capstone project. For those looking to enter the field faster, fastest online software engineering bootcamps offer condensed, hands-on training focused on the same core skills.

Programming language

You’ll learn Python, JavaScript/TypeScript, Java, C#, Rust, Go, and SQL—languages widely used in AI, web, and systems development in 2025 .

Math courses

Expect at least three courses—calculus, linear algebra, and discrete math—to build essential problem-solving skills.

General education

About 30% of credits cover writing, humanities, and social sciences, ensuring a well-rounded education.

Full-stack development

Curricula combine front-end and back-end training, meeting growing market demand for versatile developers .

Capstone or projects

You’ll complete a culminating project that mimics real-world software work—data shows capstone courses improve job readiness and employment outcomes.

Some students also pursue an affordable low cost master's in instructional design online afterward to expand into tech-focused education or training roles.

What types of specializations are available in an online bachelor's in software engineering program?

Online software engineering programs typically offer specializations in areas like AI/machine learning, cybersecurity, full-stack development, and software architecture.

AI & Machine Learning

AI and ML specializations are increasingly common. LinkedIn reported a 59% increase in AI job postings by 2024, highlighting strong demand for neural network, deep learning, and data modeling skills. Much like students in the fastest online corrections degree programs focus on niche skills within criminal justice, software engineering students can choose targeted AI pathways to deepen expertise in high-growth areas.

Cybersecurity

Often included as a focus area, cybersecurity is projected to grow 33% between 2023 and 2033, much faster than average. A military studies degree online may also be useful for students interested in cybersecurity roles within defense or government agencies.

Software Development vs Software Engineering Tracks

Development tracks zoom in on coding, while engineering tracks emphasize system design and architecture. Both lead to solid job placement and comparable salaries.

Full-Stack or Architecture Concentrations

These programs prepare you to build entire systems end-to-end—back-end services, front-end UIs, and system infrastructure.

Specialized graduates enjoy strong employment-job placement rates near 95%, outperforming general software paths. Choose a track that aligns with your skills and career goals. If you enjoy math and data, AI/ML may suit you. If you’re drawn to security and risk management, go for cybersecurity. If you aim to build systems end-to-end, a full-stack or architecture path works best.

How to Choose the Best Online Bachelor's in Software Engineering Program

Start by checking accreditation, faculty quality, internship options, and how well the program fits your learning style. Some students also consider the cheapest online applied sciences degree programs as a cost-effective alternative with a technical focus.

1. Verify accreditation

Look for ABET accreditation. Only about 21 software engineering bachelor’s programs in the U.S. are ABET-accredited. This ensures your degree meets industry standards and is recognized by employers.

2. Check faculty credentials

Faculty experience affects outcomes. Programs ranked highly by U.S. News often feature professors with strong industry or academic backgrounds, which is linked to higher student success and graduation rates.

3. Review rankings and student satisfaction

While rankings aren’t everything, top-rated online bachelor's in software engineering programs usually score well in areas like support services, engagement, and course structure—all linked to student satisfaction.

4. Look for internship and co-op opportunities

Internships matter. Nearly 100% of bachelor’s programs say employers actively recruit interns, and co-op experience raises job placement rates to over 90%.

5. Match the format to your learning style

Research shows online students perform as well or better than in-person peers when the course is structured, interactive, and tech-supported.

What career paths are available for graduates of an online bachelor's in software engineering program?

Graduates can pursue a wide range of tech roles across industries.

Core development positions

Roles include software engineer, full-stack developer, QA analyst, IT project manager, product manager, and technical writer.

Remote-first opportunities

Remote roles are common—about 35% of tech industry listings were remote in 2024.

Career advancement options

Experienced graduates often move into project management, lead developer, or technical architect positions. Technical writers and product management roles are also natural fits.

Industry variety

Employers across tech, healthcare, finance, government, e-commerce, and cybersecurity seek software engineers, reflecting broad market demand. Related career paths, such as how to become a geospatial analyst, may also appeal to those interested in applying software skills to mapping, defense, or environmental data.

What is the job market for graduates with an online bachelor's in software engineering program?

The job market for software engineering graduates is strong, with roles growing much faster than average. Earning the cheapest online master's in education technology can also help software engineering graduates qualify for roles in instructional design or education-focused tech development.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 17.9% growth in software developer jobs between 2023 and 2033, well above the 4% average across all occupations. That translates to hundreds of thousands of new openings each year.

Online and traditional degree holders are hired at similar rates. A survey by NACE found that 87.4% of employers hired recent grads with online degrees and paid them equally to on-campus grads.

Entry-level roles are plentiful, including software developer, QA tester, and junior full-stack positions. Current unemployment for these grads remains low compared to the national average.

Remote work is common too—many companies now list fully remote software roles, making geography less of a barrier.

Still, competition exists. New graduates should expect a tighter entry-level market and may need internships, strong portfolios, and hands-on projects to stand out.

Fastest Online Bachelor's in Software Engineering3.png

Other Things You Should Know About Online Bachelor's in Software Engineering Programs

Can you work as a Software Engineer online?

Software engineers can work entirely online, and remote roles are widely available across the tech industry. In 2024, 38% of developers reported working fully remote, and another 42% worked in hybrid roles, according to the Stack Overflow Developer Survey. Globally, 54% of developers said they preferred remote work. Both startups and large tech companies regularly hire remote engineers, offering flexibility and global job access.

Is software engineering a lot of math?

Most software engineering roles require only basic math, like algebra, logic, and discrete math. Typical coursework includes calculus I–III, linear algebra, discrete math, and basic statistics, but not all roles need all of them—only specialized areas like graphics, machine learning, or cryptography use advanced math extensively.

Research across 158 universities shows nearly all CS and software programs require calculus and discrete math, yet the placement varies. Many developers working in web development, mobile apps, or standard backend systems use arithmetic and logic daily, but rarely apply advanced math.

What is the easiest engineering degree?

Industrial engineering is widely considered the easiest engineering degree due to its lower emphasis on advanced math and physics and stronger focus on practical, process-based problem-solving. It typically requires courses in statistics, calculus, and basic physics, but avoids heavy theory found in fields like electrical or mechanical engineering.

In a 2024 ranking, industrial engineering ranked as the most accessible, followed by environmental and architectural engineering. It’s a strong choice for students seeking applied, real-world work with manageable technical rigor.

Which programming language is best for getting a job?

Python is the best language for job seekers in 2024–2025. In a DevJobsScanner analysis, Python job listings topped 408,000, about 20% of all roles requiring a specific language. The same study placed JavaScript/TypeScript at ~31%, but Python remained a close second, showing strong demand.

Stack Overflow’s 2024 survey found 51% of developers use Python, and it’s the most sought-after language by users . Its versatility across web, data, AI, and automation makes it a top choice for job opportunities.

References:

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