The Fastest Online Software Engineering Degrees: How to Get Your Software Engineering Degree Fast

If you’re searching for the fastest online software engineering degree, you’re probably eager to move into a high-demand tech career without spending years in school. Accelerated degrees enable you to earn credentials more quickly while still developing the technical and problem-solving skills employers need.

Online education has experienced a surge in popularity—more than 9 million undergraduates enrolled in online programs in 2021—and accelerated formats now make it possible to complete a program in half the time of a traditional one.¹ You’ll learn how to code, build software systems, and prepare for industry certifications, all on a flexible schedule you can balance with work or family life.

In this guide, we’ll break down how accelerated software engineering degrees work, the types of programs available, and the schools offering the fastest online tracks. We’ll also cover career outcomes, job salaries, and tips to help you graduate quickly.

What Is an Accelerated Software Engineering Degree?

An accelerated software engineering degree is a program that condenses the time it takes to earn a software engineering degree. You will get more hands-on experience in less time and graduate faster than the average student. Accelerated software engineering degrees can be pursued through intensive courses or by taking classes that satisfy the requirements for two degrees simultaneously.

How Do Accelerated Degrees Work?

Accelerated degrees at colleges and universities operate by offering a compressed structure of classes with a significantly shorter duration, reducing the traditional 16-week terms to between five and 12 weeks. Through this intensive course format, accelerated degrees enable online students to learn the necessary fundamental concepts and technical skills more quickly.

Another type of accelerated degree is the dual degree, where students earn college credit for two degrees simultaneously. Students attend traditional-length classes and earn the same number of credits for both traditional degrees, but the overall time to graduation is shorter because one course can count towards two different degrees.

Types of Accelerated Software Engineering Degrees

There are four major types of accelerated software engineering degrees you can choose from. They are associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and combined bachelor’s and master’s degrees. While it can be possible to complete an accelerated degree program on a part-time basis, it would be wise to focus your energy on being a full-time student. We’ll explain the difference between these types of programs below.

Accelerated Associate Degrees

With an accelerated associate degree program, you earn both an associate degree and a smooth pathway towards your bachelor’s degree and, consequently, other advanced degrees. A traditional associate degree typically takes two years to complete, and an accelerated associate degree takes between one and one and a half years to finish.

Accelerated Bachelor’s Degrees

An accelerated bachelor’s degree program enables you to earn your four-year undergraduate degree in three years or less. It is a relatively popular option. One pathway for students to accelerate their bachelor’s degree timeline is to take advantage of most schools’ generous credit transfer policies and transfer credits from an associate degree program from a previous institution.

Accelerated Master’s Degrees

In comparison to the standard two years required to complete most STEM master’s degree programs, an accelerated master’s degree program enables you to complete the program in 12 to 18 months. These programs are typically taught by expert faculty who are industry experts and have years of professional experience.

Combined Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees

A combined bachelor’s and master’s degree program leads to two degrees in five years, rather than the traditional six years. These programs are sometimes called “4+1” degree programs, referring to the four years in the bachelor’s program and one year in the master’s program.

Students will take graduate courses in the final years of their bachelor’s degree programs that count towards both the bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Getting an advanced software engineering degree faster means that you can start looking for roles in software development even sooner.

Who Should Get an Accelerated Software Engineering Degree?

Individuals who wish to transition into software engineering, complete their education more quickly, or have more life experience and are older than traditional-aged students may benefit from an accelerated software engineering degree. Incoming students who have just gotten their high school diploma and want a traditional college experience might find it hard to balance an accelerated degree and make connections in on-campus life.

These fast-paced, online programs take your full attention. You might be able to work part-time while earning your accelerated degree, but the workload makes it extremely difficult to work full-time and earn an accelerated degree. There are a few exceptions, however, as some accelerated master’s degree programs are designed for working adults.

Fastest Online Software Engineering Degrees: The Basics

* Published timelines are typical minimums and depend on transfer credit, course availability, and student load.
Master of Science in Computer Science | Capitol Technology University²

School Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $650/credit (2025–26)
Required Time: As little as 1 year (30 credits)

Capitol Tech offers one of the quickest online master’s degrees in computer science. Students complete a 30-credit program, which includes a core course in software engineering, and conclude with a self-designed capstone project. The university connects students with employers in the DC area, providing graduates with strong placement opportunities. This program is ideal for those seeking a short, career-focused master’s degree with networking opportunities built in.

Master of Science in Computer Science, Software Engineering Concentration | Lewis University³

School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: Varies by program; consult Student Accounts
Required Time: Varies by pace (30 graduate credits; additional foundation courses may be required for non‑CS backgrounds)

Lewis’s MSCS with a Software Engineering concentration blends technical depth with leadership skills. Coursework covers software architecture, Agile development, QA, and project management. Students can also take electives in databases and web development. The program is flexible, with pacing options for both full-time students and working professionals.

Master of Science in Computer Science (Software Engineering option) | Nova Southeastern University⁴

School Accreditation: SACSCOC
Tuition: $989/credit (College of Computing, AI & Cybersecurity)
Required Time: Varies by pace (30 credits)

NSU’s online MSCS program allows students to tailor their degree to software engineering, featuring classes in design patterns, object-oriented programming, and software verification. Career services include access to South Florida tech employers and alumni mentoring. The program is competitive yet flexible, making it a good fit for students aspiring to leadership roles in software teams.

Master of Computer Science (MCS) | University of Illinois Urbana‑Champaign⁵

School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $780/credit (2025–26; $623 IL resident) for 32 credits
Required Time: 1–5 years (program allows flexible pacing)

UIUC’s MCS is offered through Coursera, giving students global access. The curriculum covers cloud computing, machine learning, and software engineering, with flexible pacing from 12 months up to five years. Students work on applied projects and join Illinois’s large alumni network, which includes many Silicon Valley engineers.

Bachelor of Science in Applied Computer Science (Post‑Baccalaureate) | University of Colorado Boulder⁶

School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: See Bursar rate sheets; costs vary by residency and COF
Required Time: Varies (45 credits to the degree)

Designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, this program provides an accelerated path into computer science. Coursework includes programming, systems, and web development. Boulder’s online format is flexible but rigorous, and students can finish in under two years depending on transfer credits.

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Master of Science in Computer Science | Syracuse University (Engineering Online)⁷

School Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $2,015/credit (2025–26) + $100 program tech fee (one‑time)
Required Time: As few as 15 months (30 credits)

Syracuse’s MSCS offers multiple start dates each year. Students complete four core courses plus electives in advanced systems or security. The program emphasizes applied learning and connects students with employers in defense and technology, including Lockheed Martin.

Master of Science in Computer Science (Software Systems focus available) | Franklin University⁸

School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $670/credit (Tuition Guarantee locks rate while enrolled)
Required Time: About 20 months (published typical pacing)

Franklin’s MSCS is 100% online and designed for working adults. Students can specialize in software systems, cybersecurity, or data analytics, and every course includes real-world projects. The flexible schedule makes it a strong option if you want to keep working while advancing your career.

The Fastest Online Software Engineering Degrees, Explained

In the next section, we’ll explain a little more about each of the fastest online software engineering degrees. You’ll learn how long each program takes, the graduation rate, tuition costs, and some general information about each program’s curriculum.

Fastest Software Engineering Degree Completion Programs

A degree completion program is designed for students who have earned some undergraduate college credits but have not yet completed a bachelor’s degree. This group includes students who learned the basic concepts of software engineering when they earned an associate degree. Many schools offer degree completion programs online, providing students with greater flexibility. Adult learners, in particular, can benefit from one of the fastest degree completion programs listed below.

• Bachelor of Computer Information Systems with Software Engineering Concentration Degree Completion Program | MidAmerica Nazarene University. This online Bachelor of Computer Information Systems degree completion program with a concentration in software engineering can be completed in two years. The degree prepares students to work as software engineers, software developers, and applications developers.
  
• Computer Science Online Degree Completion | California State University Monterey Bay. This two-year program for online learners equips each computer science student with computer science skills and design skills. Students will graduate with the advanced technical skills necessary for a career in technology project management, mobile application development, or any other field within software engineering.
  
• Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science | Lewis University. This accelerated online program for adults teaches students popular programming languages, including Python, Java, C#, JavaScript, and Ruby, while also introducing them to topics in computer networks and cybersecurity. Students can earn college credit for relevant work experience, reducing the number of classes they need to take to graduate.

Do Employers Respect Online Degrees?

Yes, employers respect online degrees. These days, most employers realize that online degrees aren’t any different from on‑campus degrees. Given that software developers work online, employers of software developers in particular respect online degrees. Online learners can also take professional certification exams for additional proof of technical skills.

What Jobs Can You Get with an Accelerated Software Engineering Degree?

Below are examples of roles and updated BLS pay figures (May 2024). Each role typically requires at least a bachelor’s degree; some management roles prefer a master’s.

• Computer and Information Systems Manager | $171,200 2024 median pay; 15% job outlook (2024–34)⁹
  
• Software Developer | $133,080 2024 median pay; 15% job outlook (2024–34)¹⁰
  
• Information Security Analyst | $124,910 2024 median pay; 29% job outlook (2024–34)¹¹
  
• Computer Systems Analyst | $103,790 2024 median pay; 9% job outlook (2024–34)¹²
  
• Web Developer | $98,090 2024 median pay; 7% job outlook (2024–34)¹³

If you’re pursuing IT support as an entry path, BLS lists 2024 median pay of $60,340 for user support specialists and $73,340 for network support specialists.¹⁴

Are Online Software Engineering Degrees Worth It?

Yes, online software engineering degrees are worth it because they help transform students into qualified software engineers. There can even be access to networking opportunities that you wouldn’t normally have because you’re taking classes with students all over the country. Online learners have access to quality education on a flexible schedule at a reduced tuition rate. If you want a degree program that fits into your daily life, an online education in software engineering is a great choice.

How to Get a Software Engineering Degree Fast

• Transfer your credits. If you have already taken college-level courses at an accredited institution, you may be able to transfer those credits to your current degree progress. Check the school website and send your transcripts to the program administrator to see if you can get credit for your previous work.
  
• Take summer classes. Many programs take a break during the summer, which adds time to your overall program. Earning the required credits during the summer can reduce your overall time to graduation.
  
• Test out of introductory college classes. Taking standardized exams like the College Level Examination Program (CLEP), Advanced Placement (AP), and Excelsior College Exams (ECE) can help you earn additional credits for college courses. Check with your school to learn which exams are accepted for credit.
  
• Arrange your schedule to increase study hours. Accelerated programs move fast. Make sure you leave yourself enough time every week to study so you don’t fall behind. Having to retake a class will delay your graduation date and, ultimately, your entrance into the job market.
  
• Meet with your academic advisor. Discuss your graduation timeline goal with your academic advising office. They will help you optimize your class schedule.

Fastest Online Software Engineering Degrees FAQ

Sources (accessed August 25, 2025)

1. https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=80 
2. https://www.captechu.edu/degrees-and-programs/masters-degrees/master-science-computer-science
3. https://www.lewisu.edu/academics/mscomputerscience/
4. https://computing.nova.edu/academics/graduate/degree-programs/computer-science.html
5. https://online.illinois.edu/online-programs/graduate-programs/computer-science
6. https://online.colorado.edu/applied-computer-science-bs
7. https://onlinegrad.syracuse.edu/form-computer-science 
8. https://www.franklin.edu/degrees/masters/computer-science-programs
9. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm
10. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm
11. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm 
12. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-systems-analysts.htm
13. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/web-developers.htm
14. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-support-specialists.htm