Software Engineering Associate Degrees: Best Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

If you want to

become a software engineer

, an associate degree can help you. These degree programs are ideal for recent high school graduates. You can get your associate degree and use those credits towards a bachelor’s degree.

This detailed guide has the best software engineering associate degrees, with online and in-person options. You’ll also find the top careers for this degree, complete with the salary you can expect for each one. Let’s get started.

What Is Software Engineering?

Software engineering is considered a computer science discipline and it requires advanced skills in programming, information systems, and network security. Professionals in this field apply engineering approaches to develop software. They should also know how to design, test, and evaluate software to fulfill their duties.

What Is a Software Engineering Associate Degree?

A software engineering associate degree is an entry-level degree requiring two years of study. A software engineering associate degree covers the content of the first two years of a bachelor’s degree. An associate degree program is available to students with no prior qualifications.

Your core courses will cover foundational skills for software engineering. Many schools offer part-time or full-time study options, and after your program, you’ll have a lot of career paths to pursue. You might also find a degree program that provides student resources like career support and tutoring.

Software Engineering Associate Degree Requirements

The admission requirements for a software engineering associate degree is typically a high school diploma or equivalency. Prospective software engineering students don’t need experience or prior qualifications to complete this degree program.

The application process usually includes submitting your official transcripts. There could be an interview to ensure you align with the school’s core principles. Overall, the admission process for an associate degree isn’t very strict.

How Much Does a Software Engineering Associate Degree Cost?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average cost of fees and tuition for a

software engineering associate degree are $3,621 annually

. When you include living costs, this figure increases to $11,391.

Software Engineering Associate Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Software Engineering Degree

There are many financial aid options available to software engineering students. You can use private student loans, scholarships, federal loans such as FAFSA, or GI Bill benefits.

Best Software Engineering Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

Best Colleges for Software Engineering: Top Software Engineering Associate Degree Programs

If you want to learn the fundamental concepts of software engineering and experience on-campus life, these degree programs are great options. Many schools provide career development support and there are tons of in person activities to join. Here are details on the best in-person software engineering associate degrees.

Associate of Science in Computer Science and Software Development | Anne Arundel Community College

This associate degree program will teach you about software development technologies and computer science techniques. You’ll learn programming basics and mathematics. The school allows students to transfer these credits toward a bachelor’s degree. Students can become interns on campus, join clubs, and participate in a wide variety of extracurricular activities.

Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming and Database Management, Software Engineering Technology Major | Cincinnati State Technical and Community College

This degree program teaches you to develop software on various platforms like Windows and Linux. You’ll also learn to use SQL. There are many electives to pick from in subjects like mathematics, humanities, and economics. This college has many partner programs so transferring your credits to a bachelor’s degree will be easy.

Associate of Science in Software Engineering | Dallas College

There are 60 credit hours needed to complete this program. You’ll

learn to code

and study mathematical concepts. Dallas College will help you transfer to a four-year degree through guided pathways. Students also have access to job resources and student support services to help them make their career choice.

Associate of Science in Software Development | Dakota State University

Students will study how to design, develop, test, and maintain computer hardware and software. They also learn about writing computer programs and various software engineering applications. Throughout this program, students work on their own software engineering projects.

This associate program consists of 60 credits over four semesters. The content explores software development basics, web development, and computing logic. This community college has campus locations all across the US. No matter where you choose to attend, you can join on-campus organizations and events.

Associate of Applied Science in Software Engineering | Jackson College

This software engineering associate degree is awarded after the completion of 60 credits. You’ll learn database systems, web design and development, and Java. There is an internship phase of your program, so you can gain work experience. Jackson College also has student resources, a student government, and clubs for you to join.

Associate of Applied Science in Computing and Software Development | Lake Washington Institute of Technology

Learners in this degree program gain skills in backend and front end development, coding, database systems, and maintaining applications. Once you’ve earned your associate degree, you can use those credits toward a four-year degree at this school. On campus, there are student clubs, a meditation room, counseling, and career support.

Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems, Software Engineering Option | Oakland Community College

Oakland Community College provides this associate degree to teach students critical thinking skills through courses in data structures and programming. This community college offers student services like tutoring, disability support, counseling, and a career services office. You can also join student clubs and on-campus events.

Associate of Science in Software Engineering and Web Development | New England Institute of Technology

The goal of this program is to prepare you for either an entry-level position or a bachelor’s degree program. The school aims to teach its students to be self-motivated and continue learning even after graduation. You’ll learn basic data analysis skills, algorithm implementation, and database design.

You’ll learn a wider range of engineering skills than just software engineering in this degree program. These skills include conducting scientific experiments, designing software to meet users’ needs, and finding engineering-oriented solutions. Tacoma Community College has a career services office and offers services from an academic advisor.

Best Online Software Engineering Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

Best Colleges for Software Engineering: Top Online Software Engineering Associate Degree Programs

You can attend online programs to get an Associate Degree in Software Engineering. This format may be better for students wanting to avoid on-campus living costs and the expense of study materials. Below are the top software engineering associate degrees that you can get online.

Associate of Science in Software Development | Champlain College

Over two years, this program will help you get practical skills through hands-on learning. There are part-time and full-time programs, but either way you can expect to spend at least 10-17 hours on each course every week. This college also provides career support, advising, and tutoring.

Associate Degree, IT Software Developer | Chippewa Valley Technical College

Studying at this college, remote learners will cover fundamental skills like Java, SQL, PHP and databases. Chippewa Valley Technical College provides financial aid solutions. You need to complete 60 credit hours to graduate from this program.

Associate of Science in Software Development | Herzing University

This virtual degree will teach you everything you need to know about coding, information technology, and databases. After graduating from this program, you’ll know how to design software systems, create technical documents and develop software applications.

In this program, students will learn about computer programming. You’ll learn how to write your own computer code and fix bugs that are causing problems with the code that’s already in place. Learning how to work as a team to solve problems is another important skill you’ll learn during this program.

Associate Degree in IT, Software Developer | Northcentral Technical College

This 64-credit associate degree will teach you jQuery, JavaScript, and SQL. Students will also be taught

how to use CSS

, HTML, and C#. You can choose to study part-time or full-time. Northcentral Technical College has a long list of transfer partners if you’re interested in pursuing a bachelor’s degree.

Associate Degree in Software Application Development | Rasmussen University

Within 18 months, remote learners will complete project-based courses and gain technical skills. You can adapt the online program to your schedule, and there are self-directed assessments available to make sure you’re understanding the material. Rasmussen University provides virtual learners the same resources as on-campus students.

Associate of Science in Computer Science | South College

If you want to study software engineering principles but also want to gain a wider range of tech skills, this is a great choice. There are grants and scholarships available. You’ll get software engineering skills as well as skills in critical thinking, operating systems, database management, and programming. Students will complete team projects and learn to collaborate with peers.

Associate of Science in Computer Science | Southern New Hampshire University

Students in this program will

learn C++

programming, operating systems, and create a portfolio to show potential employers. This program emphasizes software design and development, so you’ll be ready to start your new career as a software engineer.

Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science and Engineering | Stark State College

The core courses in this degree program cover basic software engineering skills like Java, C++, data modeling, data design, and information systems. Students learn how to design and use database systems. There are full-time and part-time options available.

Associate Degree in Programming and Software Development | University of Toledo

This associate degree program teaches industry-proven computer science techniques, programming, and database design and management. After earning this degree, you can become a data manager, programmer, or software engineer. This university provides online tutoring, a virtual library, and career services to remote learners.

What’s the Average Software Engineering Associate Degree Salary?

According to PayScale, the

average salary is $58,000

for professionals with an Associate Degree in Software Engineering. While that’s a pretty hefty salary to begin with, you can always get a certification or a bachelor’s degree to increase your earning professionals.

Top Software Engineering Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview

Best Software Engineering Associate Degree Jobs Explained

Computer Systems Analyst

Computer systems analysts have a comprehensive understanding of information and database management systems. They analyze computing systems and prescribe more efficient and effective solutions. If you want to apply for this career with a software engineering associate degree, you also need industry experience in a related field.

Computer Programmer

If you’re interested in becoming a computer programmer, an Associate Degree in software engineering is a great place to start. You’ll rely on your excellent coding skills to solve computer problems and develop programs for computers.

Web Developer

Like software engineers, web developers rely heavily on their coding skills. These developers create websites according to their client’s requirements. Their websites need to be functional, responsive, and bug-free.

Computer Research Assistant

Computer research assistants help improve software programs by creating algorithms. Computer research assistants experiment with datasets and technologies to find unique research routes for computing.

Junior Software Developer

Similar to junior software engineers, these professionals assist software development and engineering teams. They assess their company’s needs and use design principles to help the software development process.

Junior Software Engineer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $62,474
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  22%*
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  1,847,900*
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Washington, California, New York*

Junior software engineers assist senior engineering and development teams. They evaluate software, perform troubleshooting, create software designs, and code. It often takes some experience in this role to prepare to become a professional software engineer.

Junior Application Developer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $59,290
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  22%*
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  1,847,900*
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Washington, California, New York*

Junior application developers work beside professional mobile and desktop application developers. They apply design principles and brainstorm application ideas. These professionals also depend on their communication skills to voice suggestions and provide feedback.

Computer Support Specialist

If you have fantastic communication, interpersonal and critical thinking skills, this career will be enjoyable. These specialists help clients navigate their way around programs, and provide solutions to technical challenges. Your knowledge of software engineering will come in handy for this job.

Web Designer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $52,114
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  13%**
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  199,400**
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Washington, California, Georgia**

Web designers

know how to use HTML

, CSS, and JavaScript to design interactive elements for websites. They work with web developers to provide an aesthetically pleasing and well-performing website.

Junior Software Tester

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $48,548
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  22%*
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  1,847,900*
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Washington, California, New York*

Junior software testers work in teams to test and evaluate software. They detect and monitor bugs to find solutions, perform troubleshooting with their software development skills, and communicate feedback.

*

Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data on Software Developers, Software Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers

**Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data on Web Developers and Digital Designers

Software Engineering Bootcamp vs Software Engineering Associate Degree: Which Is Better?

Software engineering bootcamps and associate degrees cover fundamental software engineering skills. Bootcamp programs are quicker, more intensive, and you can get a unique qualification. Let’s review the

benefits of a coding bootcamp

compared to those of an associate degree programming.

Benefits of a Software Engineering Associate Degree

• 
  Access to entry-level jobs.
  
  After completing the technical courses in an associate degree program, you can apply for entry-level job opportunities.
• 
  Get your foot in the door.
  
  You’ll learn a wide range of skills while earning a software engineering degree. Having a basic understanding of software engineering concepts gives you the skills to progress into various tech positions.
• 
  Earn an accredited degree.
  
  High-paying jobs usually have education requirements, and an accredited degree will help you be ready.
• 
  Fewer barriers to entry.
  
  It’s easy for most students to get a software engineering associate degree. Acceptance into associate degree programs is usually less restrictive.
• 
  Pathway to a bachelor’s degree.
  
  After your associate degree program, many schools allow you to transfer those credits into a four-year degree. Find out if your potential college has partner programs to make this possible.

Benefits of a Software Engineering Bootcamp

• 
  Get software engineering skills quickly.
  
  Software engineers who study through bootcamp programs become qualified in less than a year.
• 
  Inexpensive.
  
  Most bootcamps have online options so you don’t have to worry about living costs, housing, or transport expenses.
• 
  Learn from industry experts.
  
  Software engineering bootcamp programs usually have industry professionals as teachers. You can get hands-on experience from an accomplished software engineer.
• 
  Network with industry professionals.
  
  Networking is important when you’re looking for a job. You’ll build relationships with professionals who could get you the job you really want.
• 
  Get an innovative qualification.
  
  Software engineering bootcamp programs are becoming more popular as college tuition rates rise. You’ll get a full education in a fraction of the time it would take you to earn a degree. With a bootcamp certificate, employers will know you’re ready to start working right away.

Should You Get an Associate Degree in Software Engineering?

Yes, you should. If you want to break into software engineering, an associate degree is a great start. Students learn foundational concepts for software engineering while gaining hands-on experience. Many schools also have transfer programs so you can progress into a four-year degree.

It is easier for unqualified students to enter the software engineering job market when they start with an associate degree. Technology has become more important than ever before, so consider earning this qualification today.

Software Engineering Associate Degree FAQ