Software Engineering, M.S.

In the software engineering program, classroom learning is combined with hands-on experiences that mirror real-world industry challenges, enabling students to develop creative solutions to complex problems.

The program is designed for collaborative study, allowing students who are already industry professionals to apply advanced concepts directly to their work. Professors mentor students closely, guiding them through coursework and research in a practical, problem-solving environment.

This student-focused culture encourages the application of real-world experience to classroom discussions, helping students refine their skills while contributing to innovative advancements in technology.

Our software engineering faculty address the most relevant issues in software engineering today through their work and ongoing research. They bring years of industry experience to the classroom, providing master’s in software engineering degree students with real-world understanding of the field.

With small class sizes and a low student-faculty ratio, you’ll get a level of personalized attention not found in many universities. At Florida Tech, you’ll cultivate beneficial relationships with students and professors who generally care about your success.

Students in the master’s in software engineering program benefit from access to advanced computing labs and a full suite of professional software development tools.

On campus, the L3Harris Institute for Assured Information supports interdisciplinary research in cybersecurity and information protection, providing opportunities to engage with state-of-the-art technologies in a real-world context.

Florida Tech’s focus on research provides students the ability to work individually and collaboratively with faculty and fellow students in topical research areas, including:

• Computer security, malicious code and information protection
• Software product architecture and design
• Software testing
• Process improvement and quality assurance
• Software maintenance and evolution
• Secure software development

These research opportunities equip students with practical skills and advanced knowledge to address complex challenges in software engineering and related fields.

Software engineering master’s students complete either a thesis or a capstone project, each offering unique opportunities to advance your expertise.

The thesis option involves in-depth research on a specific topic, allowing you to contribute original insights to software engineering. This experience helps you build expertise in a specialized area, positioning you for advanced roles requiring deep technical knowledge or future doctoral studies.

The capstone project emphasizes applied research, focusing on solving a real-world problem or exploring a major-related issue under the guidance of a graduate faculty mentor. This process culminates in comprehensive written and oral reports, showcasing your ability to analyze, synthesize and communicate technical findings.

Both paths provide personalized mentorship and networking opportunities with experienced faculty, helping you achieve your academic and professional goals.

Florida Tech’s location in a high-tech corridor makes it ideal for your software engineering master’s degree.

Our area has one of the largest high-tech workforces in the country—and that means numerous internship and employment opportunities for our students. Our 130-acre campus is in the heart of the Space Coast; NASA-Kennedy Space Center on Cape Canaveral is just north of us.

When it’s time to unwind, you’ll enjoy easy access to 72 miles of pristine Atlantic beaches and the Indian River Lagoon, North America’s most biodiverse estuary. Plus, the Florida Keys and Orlando’s world-famous theme parks are just a short drive away, giving you a perfect balance of career-building and recreation.

Florida Tech’s campus is a hub of international connection, bringing together students from across the U.S. and around the world. This dynamic environment encourages collaboration, cultural exchange and mutual understanding—preparing you to succeed in an increasingly connected global landscape.

Whether you’re a U.S. student eager to engage with peers from different cultures or an international student pursuing new opportunities in the U.S., Florida Tech provides a welcoming atmosphere in which to learn, share and grow together.

This program is ideal for students with a background in software engineering, computer science or a related field, as well as for working software engineers looking to expand their perspective and advance their development skills. It's also a good fit for experienced programmers who want to transition into a career in software engineering.

Courses are designed for students with a technical undergraduate degree and substantial programming experience. If you have a strong academic background but lack certain coursework, the department may require you to complete additional prerequisites to ensure you're well prepared for the program.

Please see our graduate admission requirements for more information or start your application now.