Software Engineer
Build Real Products
Solve Complex Problems
Create Scalable Technology
Undergraduate
Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
Graduate
No degrees available
Post-Graduate
No degrees available
This is the educational pathway. There may be additional tests or licensure requirements necessary before begining to practice in the field. Consult your state guidelines for more. information.
Career Reality
Average Salary
The median annual wage for software developers was $132,270 in May 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Job Market Demand
Employment of software developers is projected to grow about 17 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations, driven by increasing demand for software systems and digital platforms.
Work Environment
Software engineers work in technology companies, startups, financial institutions, healthcare systems, and corporate IT departments. Many roles offer hybrid or remote work.
Common Employers
Technology companies, software firms, financial services companies, healthcare organizations, consulting firms, and government agencies.
Career Advancement
Advancement may include senior software engineer, software architect, engineering manager, or leadership roles such as chief technology officer.
Popular Titles
Core Areas of Impact
Is this career right for you?
What is the role of a software engineer?
A software engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains software applications and systems that power websites, mobile applications, enterprise platforms, and digital services.
What does a typical day look like?
A typical day includes writing and reviewing code, building software features, debugging issues, testing applications, and collaborating with product managers, designers, and other engineers.
Where do software engineers work?
Software engineers work in technology companies, startups, financial institutions, healthcare organizations, consulting firms, and government agencies.
What are the common job titles and career paths?
Common roles include Software Developer and Full Stack Developer. Career paths may lead to software architecture, engineering leadership, product development leadership, or executive technology roles.
Who is this career a good fit for?
This career suits individuals who enjoy programming, problem solving, logical thinking, and building technology solutions.
What are the biggest rewards of this career?
Rewards include strong compensation, high demand across industries, opportunities for remote work, and the ability to build products used by millions of people.
What does long-term growth look like?
Long-term growth may include specialization in areas such as cloud systems, artificial intelligence, or cybersecurity, as well as leadership roles managing engineering teams.
What is the educational pathway to become a software engineer?
Most software engineers hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, data science, or a related technical field. Strong programming skills and experience building software projects are essential.
Sara Schenirer offers a Bachelor’s in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence through St. Peter’s University, which provides training in programming, algorithms, machine learning, and data systems. These technical skills form a strong foundation for careers in software engineering and modern technology development.
The standard pathway includes completion of a technical bachelor’s degree, development of programming expertise, and practical experience building software systems.
