Best Software Engineering Associate Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

Anne Arundel Community College was founded in 1961 and it has a student population of 11,948. This community college has 46 associate programs and 62 certificate programs across its five campuses. Its computer science programs have been rated as some of the best in the country.

Associate of Science in Computer Science and Software Development

This associate degree program will teach you about software development technologies and computer science techniques. You’ll learn programming basics and math. The school allows students to transfer these credits toward a bachelor’s degree where they can choose between a computer science and information systems concentration.

At Anne Arundel Community College, students can become interns on campus, join clubs, and participate in a wide variety of extracurricular activities. This 60-credit program includes core subjects such as Introductory Object-Oriented Program Analysis and Design, Computer Science 1, and Computer Science 2. While the program is aimed at students looking to transfer to a four-year degree, students will have the required skills for entry-level jobs .

Associate of Science in Computer Science and Software Development Overview

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Tuition: $264 per credit hour (in state); $415 per credit hour (out of state)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: in-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 27%

Associate of Science in Computer Science and Software Development Admission Requirements

• GPA: not required
• Standardized Tests: not required
• Application Fee: $50 for AACC members, $75 for non-members
• Minimum Education: high school diploma or GED
• Other Requirements: high school, SAT, or Accuplacer scores needed for class placement

Applying to Anne Arundel Community College

1. Apply for admission using an online application form
2. Explore your financial aid options on the AACC website
3. Submit high school or GED transcripts, SAT scores, or Accuplacer test scores
4. Meet with an advisor
5. Register for classes
6. Attend a virtual orientation
7. Pay your tuition and fees

Cincinnati State Technical and Community College was founded in 1969 and has a student population of 6,873. This college has over 116 associate degree and certificate courses ranging from business to humanities to health to computer engineering. They provide students with one of the largest cooperative learning programs in the US and today they have 895 active co-op job placements.

Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming and Database Management, Software Engineering Technology Major

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 general electives to pick from in subjects like math, humanities, and economics. This college has many partner programs so transferring your credits to a bachelor’s degree will be easy. This is ideal for students who wish to eventually pursue a master’s degree or even a PhD degree .

Students who complete this 65-credit program will be able to enter the workforce as highly-skilled computer programmers, software engineers, or systems integrators. Students can choose between a wide variety of technical concentration electives such as C, Java, web programming, IBM Power Systems, mobile application, computer networking, database analytics, and game development.

Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming and Database Management, Software Engineering Technology Major Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition: $264 per credit hour (in state); $415 per credit hour (out of state)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: in-person, hybrid, or online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 15%

Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming and Database Management, Software Engineering Technology Major Admission Requirements

• GPA: not required
• Standardized Tests: not required
• Application Fee: none
• Minimum Education: high school diploma or GED
• Other Requirements: high school, SAT, or Accuplacer scores needed for class placement

Applying to Cincinnati State Technical and Community College

1. Complete and submit the standard online application
2. Request your official high school or GED transcripts to be sent to Cincinnati State
3. Apply for your online FAFSA
4. Use the MyCState student portal to view the status of your application
5. Allow two weeks for your application to be processed and once accepted attend an orientation, register for classes, and pay your fees

Dakota State University is a public university that was founded in 1881. The student population is 3,186 and the university offers 45 undergraduate majors and several graduate degrees. Dakota State University is one of the most technologically advanced campuses in the midwest.

Associate of Science in Software Development

Students will study how to design, develop, test, and maintain computer hardware and software during this program. They also learn about writing computer programs and various software engineering applications. Dakota State University’s high-quality curriculum is recognized by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.

Throughout this 60-credit program, students work on software engineering projects and develop their technical portfolio. Graduates can transfer to a DSU bachelor’s program or work as entry-level software engineers, software developers, database programmers, programmers, or programmer analysts. Classes in this program include Web Application Programming, Software Security, Object-Oriented Design, and Database Management Systems.

Associate of Science in Software Development Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition and Fees: $319.35 per credit hour (in state); $397.90 per credit hour (out of state)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: in-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 49%

Associate of Science in Software Development Admission Requirements

• GPA: not required
• Standardized Tests: not required
• Application Fee: $20
• Minimum Education: high school diploma or GED
• Other Requirements: none

Applying to Dakota State University

1. Apply to Dakota State University using an application form
2. Pay $20 application fee
3. Send in high school or GED transcripts
4. Submit housing form and $50 housing deposit if required
5. Apply for FAFSA
6. Apply for DSU Foundation Scholarship
7. Register for classes
8. Pay tuition and fees

Dallas College was founded in 1965 and has an extremely diverse student population of nearly 75,000. This massive college offers over 300 academic and technical degrees and certificates and endeavors to transform lives and communities through higher education.

Associate of Science in Software Engineering

60 credit hours are needed to complete this program. You’ll learn to code across three levels of Programming Fundamentals classes and study advanced mathematical concepts. Dallas College will help you transfer to a four-year degree through guided pathways. It will also help you start looking for work with access to job resources and student support services to make a career choice.

Associate of Science in Software Engineering Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Tuition: $135 per credit hour (in state); $200 per credit hour (out of state)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: in-person, hybrid, or online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 21%

Associate of Science in Software Engineering Admission Requirements

• GPA: not required
• Standardized Tests: not required
• Application Fee: none
• Minimum Education: high school diploma or GED
• Other Requirements: submit SAT, ACT, TAKS, or STAAR scores or take the TSI assessment at Dallas College

Applying to Dallas College

1. Complete a new student application form
2. Apply for financial aid and scholarships
3. Submit high school or GED transcripts
4. Submit SAT, ACT, TAKS, or STAAR scores or take the TSI assessment at Dallas College
5. Attend the new student online orientation
6. Meet with an advisor
7. Register for classes
8. Pay your tuition and fees

Ivy Tech Community College was founded in 1963 and offers over 74 academic programs. The student population is nearly 65,000. Ivy Tech is the largest, singly-accredited community college in the US with 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 Development

This associate program consists of 60 credits over four semesters. The content explores software development basics, web development, and computing logic. Students can choose to transfer to a related bachelor’s program or look for entry-level work as an applications developer, a systems programmer, a web developer, or a webmaster, to name a few.

Associate of Applied Science in Software Development Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition: $149.55 per credit hour (in state); $292.57 per credit hour (out of state)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: in-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 28%

Associate of Applied Science in Software Development Admission Requirements

• GPA: not required
• Standardized Tests: not required
• Application Fee: none
• Minimum Education: high school diploma or GED
• Other Requirements: Assessment documents such as SAT scores or high school test scores may be submitted

Applying to Ivy Tech Community College

1. Submit your free Ivy Tech application online
2. Upload assessment documents such as SAT scores or high school transcripts
3. Wait seven to 10 business days for an application decision
4. Contact the admission team with further questions

Jackson College was founded in 1928 as Jackson Junior College and has been accredited since 1933. The student population is 4,140 and the college has 48 associate degrees and certificate programs, as well as transfer agreements for Jackson county and Michigan residents.

Associate of Applied Science in Software Engineering

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.

Job opportunities include applications developers, computer consultants, IT analysts, programmers, software developers, and software engineers. Coursework includes cloud computing, multiple programming languages, systems design, and databases.

Associate of Applied Science in Software Engineering Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition: $168 per credit hour (in state); $190 per credit hour (out of state)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: in-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 12%

Associate of Applied Science in Software Engineering Admission Requirements

• GPA: not required
• Standardized Tests: not required
• Application Fee: none
• Minimum Education: high school diploma or GED
• Other Requirements: none

Applying to Jackson College

1. Complete and submit an online application
2. Complete your free FAFSA online
3. Send your high school transcripts and test scores
4. Attend online orientation
5. Meet with the admissions department
6. Obtain any required course materials

Lake Washington Institute of Technology was founded in 1949 and is the only public institute of tech in Washington. The school has 10 applied bachelor’s degrees, 35 associate degrees, and 86 certificate programs, many of which are STEM-focused courses . The current student population is 3,319.

Associate of Applied Science in Computing Software Development

Learners in this degree program gain skills in backend and front end development, coding, database systems, and maintaining applications. Once you’ve completed the required 92 to 93 quarter credits requirement and 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 Computing Software Development Overview

• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
• Tuition: $1,148 per quarter (in state); $3,316 per quarter (out of state)
• Required Credits: 92-93 quarter credits (approx 61-62 semester credits)
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: in-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 39%

Associate of Applied Science in Computing Software Development Admission Requirements

• GPA: not required
• Standardized Tests: not required
• Application Fee: $50
• Minimum Education: high school diploma or GED
• Other Requirements: English and math placement through high school transcripts or guided self-placement test

Applying to Lake Washington Institute of Technology

1. Connect with an LWTech admissions coach
2. Submit an online application
3. Obtain your student number and provide high school tests or equivalent for math and English placement
4. Fill out your FAFSA form
5. Activate your LionsLink account
6. Pay your tuition and fees

New England Institute of Technology was founded in 1940 and provides its students with professional skill-building, hands-on learning, industry-leading instructors, small classes, student support, and flexible learning formats. It has a student population of a little over 2,000 and offers over 50 programs including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, master’s degrees, and online classes.

Associate of Science in Software Engineering and Web Development

The goal of this program is to prepare you for either an entry-level position or a NEIT software engineering or business management 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 as well as how computer applications can solve business issues.

This program will prepare students for work as entry-level software developers, computer network support specialists, software testers, and data entry clerks, to name a few. Students are required to complete between 98 and 101 quarter credits and during their studies, they will have access to an extensive set of computer labs to gain hands-on experience in a range of tech skills such as programming, networking, software application, and administration.

Associate of Science in Software Engineering and Web Development Overview

• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
• Tuition: $32,100 per academic year
• Required Credits: 98-101 quarter credits (approx 65-67 semester credits)
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: in-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 48%

Associate of Science in Software Engineering and Web Development Admission Requirements

• GPA: not required
• Standardized Tests: not required
• Application Fee: $50
• Minimum Education: high school diploma or GED
• Other Requirements: none

Applying to New England Institute of Technology

1. Submit an application using the NEIT application portal or the common application
2. Submit your official high school transcripts
3. Two or three letters of recommendation and a 300-500 word open-topic essay are recommended but optional

Oakland Community College was founded in 1964 and has a student population of 14,511. It's the largest community college in Michigan and offers 57 associate degrees and 41 certificate programs.

Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems, Software Engineering Option

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.

This program will teach students the fundamental computer skills that are required to transfer to a higher education program or work in the IT industry. Students must complete 62 to 63 credits and will take classes such as Networking Concepts, Principles of Software Engineering, and various computer programming classes that cover C++, Java, JavaScript, and HTML.

Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems, Software Engineering Option Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition: $99 per credit hour (in state); $192 per credit hour (out of state)
• Required Credits: 62-63 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: in-person and online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 15%

Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems, Software Engineering Option Admission Requirements

• GPA: not required
• Standardized Tests: not required
• Application Fee: information not provided
• Minimum Education: high school diploma or GED
• Other Requirements: none

Applying to Oakland Community College

1. Go to the Oakland Community College and log in to self-services
2. Set up an OCC student email
3. Search for the sections (classes) you want to enroll in
4. Plan and register for sections in your program plan
5. Plan and register for sections not in your program plan
6. View your schedule and drop or add sections as needed

Tacoma Community College is a public college and was founded in 1965. The current student population is 5,823 and the college offers nearly 60 associate and certificate programs as well as four Bachelor of Science degrees. Tacoma’s students represent the diversity of the Puget Sound area with ethnic minorities and students of various ages.

Associate of Science in Computer Engineering

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 that offers services from an academic advisor.

Students who complete this 90-quarter-credit program can find entry-level jobs or transfer to a Washington state public university. Career options include computer hardware engineers, software developers, electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians, or computer network architects to name a few.

Associate of Science in Computer Engineering Overview

• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
• Tuition and Fees: $116.05 per credit (in state); $131.27 per credit (out of state on waiver), $299.12 per credit (out of state)
• Required Credits: 90 quarter credits (approx 60 semester credits)
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: in-person and online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 25%

Associate of Science in Computer Engineering Admission Requirements

• GPA: not required
• Standardized Tests: not required
• Application Fee: none
• Minimum Education: high school diploma or GED
• Other Requirements: math or English placement tests may be required

Applying to Tacoma Community College

1. Complete an online application
2. Set up an online TCC account
3. Apply for financial aid
4. Submit high school or GED transcripts
5. Take math and English placement test if required
6. Take the online student orientation and new student survey
7. Register for classes

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.

• Average Salary: $93,730
• Job Outlook: 7%
• Number of Jobs: 607,800
• Highest-Paying States: California, Virginia, New York

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.

• Average Salary: $89,190
• Job Outlook: -10%
• Number of Jobs: 185,700
• Highest-Paying States: Washington, District of Columbia, California

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.

• Average Salary: $77,200
• Job Outlook: 13%
• Number of Jobs: 199,400
• Highest-Paying States: Washington, California, Georgia

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.

• Average Salary: $69,000
• Job Outlook: 22%
• Number of Jobs: 33,000
• Highest-Paying States: California, Virginia, New York

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.

• Average Salary: $63,523
• 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.

• Average Salary: $62,474
• 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.

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

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.

• Average Salary: $55,510
• Job Outlook: 9%
• Number of Jobs: 844,600
• Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Washington, Massachusetts

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.

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

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.

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