Software Engineering, M.S.

Program Overview

Saint Louis University's Master of Science in Software Engineering develops students' skills in designing, implementing, and testing complex software systems. Through hands-on projects and team-based learning, students gain practical knowledge, emphasizing critical design strategies for continuous innovation. The program culminates in a capstone project, where students apply their skills to a real-world software development challenge. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in the software development industry.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Saint Louis University's Master of Science in Software Engineering is designed for students seeking to develop high-quality, large-scale software systems. The program emphasizes hands-on projects and modern software tools, allowing students to gain practical knowledge, skills, and experience. Students learn critical design strategies that foster continuous innovation throughout their careers. The program features small class sizes and team-based learning, guided by experienced professors.

Objectives:

• Design, implement, evaluate, and test complex software systems that meet specific computing requirements.
• Utilize project management processes and tools throughout the software life cycle.
• Assess relevant literature and technical documents in the field of computing.
• Communicate effectively with both professional and general audiences in oral and written forms.
• Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
• Function effectively as a member of a team in developing computing technology and solving technical problems.

Outline:

Curriculum:

• Project-based curriculum emphasizing teamwork and regular student-faculty interactions.
• Focus on processes and techniques for developing quality software systems.
• Flexible electives allow students to explore other areas of computer science, such as systems, theory, networking, security, and artificial intelligence.
• A culminating capstone project brings teams together for a full development cycle.

Course Schedule:

• Year One:
• Fall:
• CSCI 5030 Principles of Software Development (3 credits)
• CSCI 5050 Computing and Society (3 credits)
• Software Engineering Elective (3 credits)
• Spring:
• CSCI 5300 Software Engineering (3 credits)
• Software Engineering Elective (3 credits)
• General Elective (3 credits)
• Year Two:
• Fall:
• Software Engineering Elective (3 credits)
• General Elective (3 credits)
• Spring:
• CSCI 5960 Software Engineering Capstone Project (3 credits)
• General Elective (3 credits)

Modules:

• CSCI 5030 Principles of Software Development: This course covers fundamental principles of software development, including software design, programming languages, data structures, algorithms, and software testing.
• CSCI 5050 Computing and Society: This course explores the social, ethical, and legal implications of computing, including topics such as privacy, security, intellectual property, and the impact of technology on society.
• CSCI 5960 Software Engineering Capstone Project: This course culminates the program with a team-based project that allows students to apply their knowledge and skills to a real-world software development challenge.
• Software Engineering Electives: Students can choose from a variety of electives to specialize in areas of interest, such as advanced programming, database systems, artificial intelligence, or cybersecurity.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, group projects, and hands-on labs.
• Faculty: The program is taught by experienced faculty members with expertise in software engineering and related fields.
• Unique Approaches: The program emphasizes team-based learning and regular student-faculty interactions, providing students with opportunities to collaborate and receive personalized guidance.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Graduates of the program are prepared for a variety of careers in the software development industry, including:
• Software Developer
• Software Engineer
• Systems Analyst
• Database Administrator
• Web Developer
• Mobile App Developer
• Cybersecurity Analyst
• Data Scientist
• Opportunities: The program provides students with opportunities to gain practical experience through internships and part-time work in the St. Louis technology community.
• Outcomes: Graduates of the program are highly sought after by employers in the software development industry and are well-prepared for successful careers in this field.

Other:

• Location: The program is located in the Midtown area of St. Louis, Missouri, which offers students access to a robust technology community, operations for many Fortune 500 companies, and a vibrant startup culture.
• Fieldwork and Research Opportunities: The program provides students with opportunities for summer internships, part-time work during the academic year, and jobs after graduation.
• Cortex Innovation Community: SLU's campus is within walking distance of the Cortex Innovation Community, a vibrant innovation hub and technology district.