About Computer Software Engineering Technology

Computers have become a major factor in the development and operation of the modern industry. From providing means of communications, to operating machines, to facilitating international commerce, to systems animation, computers and their related software programs makes things possible.

The Computer Software Engineering Technology program prepares students to design, develop, and build customized software programs for specific applications. Specifically, students will learn basic programming, how to interpret specifications, application of software architecture, verification and validation principles, and software performance standards. Students will create software programs which address known specifications. The program emphasizes a practical hands-on education as software projects are required each semester.

Upon completion of the program, graduates will find a wealth of employment opportunities in a variety of businesses and industries. Unlike some disciplines which are tied directly to a specific technical area, graduates of this program will work in small businesses, large industries, private organizations, software specialty businesses, IT Department, Government, and other agencies.


What you’ll learn

  • Edit and modify existing software programs with the aim of upgrading and correcting errors.
  • Improve the performance of software programs, or adapt it to new and old hardware and software.
  • Analyze the needs of users for project design.
  • Design and modify software systems for specific applications
  • Analyze and recommend all necessary system layouts and modifications.
  • Train users how to make use of new software.

Sample Job Titles 

Application Developer, Application Integration Engineer, Developer, Infrastructure Engineer, Network Engineer, Software Architect, Software Developer, Software Development Engineer, Software Engineer, Systems Engineer

Essential Skills Needed

This program requires a variety of foundational skills for students to thrive. Click the button below to view the full list of essential skills you’ll need before enrolling.

Location
Griscom Education Center, Lobby Level

Type of program
Associate Degree

Job/Salary Outlook
See industry data

Length of program
2 years, 73 credits

Cost of program
$4,500/semester tuition
$3,105 – $3,623/semester housing
$1,915 – $2,417/semester meal plan

Tool List (PDF)

Program details

Courses

MODEL SCHEDULE FOR COMPUTER SOFTWARE ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY

  • CSET 105 Intro to Web Applications (3 credits)
  • CSET 110 Web Development I (3 credits)
  • CSET 115 Technical Requirements & Data Structures (3 credits)
  • CSET 120 Software Project I (3 credits)
  • General Education Elective (3 credits)
  • ENG 221 Public Speaking (3 credits)
  • CSET 155 Database Design (3 credits)
  • CSET 160 Web Development II (3 credits)
  • CSET 170 Security & Professional Ethics (3 credits)
  • CSET 180 Software Project II (3 credits)
  • MATH 137 Intermediate Algebra (or higher) (3 credits)
  • ENG 106 English Composition (3 credits)
  • CSET 205 Advanced Data Integration (3 credits)
  • CSET 222 Database Management Systems (3 credits)
  • CSET 210 Workplace Communications (3 credits)
  • CSET 220 Software Project III (3 credits)
  • ENG 216 Technical Report Writing (3 credits)
  • CIS 111 Introduction to Computer Applications (3 credits)
  • CSET 265 Software Principles (3 credits)
  • CSET 270 Mobile Development (4 credits)
  • CSET 280 Capstone Project OR CSET 290 CSET Internship (4 credits)
  • PHYS 106 Physics for Everyday Life (OR any CHEM, BIO, SCI, or Higher PHYS) (3 credits)

Additional General Education Requirements

  • Health/PE Elective (1 credit)
  • Humanities Elective (3 credits)

Total Credits 73

Faculty
Fahim Shams first year students computer software engineering technology instructor

Fahim Shams

Instructor, Computer Software Engineering Technology, Second-Year Students
MD Mainul Chowdhury first-year students computer software engineering technology instructor

Md Mainul Chowdhury

Instructor, Computer Software Engineering Technology First-Year Students
Muhammad Ashraful Huq second year students computer software engineering technology instructor

Mohammad Ashraful Huq

Instructor, Computer Software Engineering Technology, First-Year Students
Arafat Hassan Second year students Computer software engineering technology instructor

Arafat Hassan

Instructor, Computer Software Engineering Technology, Second-Year Students
Occupational Advisory Committee

The Occupational Advisory Committee (OAC) serves as a vital link between the Program of study and industry, ensuring that the program remains aligned with current workforce needs, technological advancements, and best practices in the field. Composed of employers, educators, and other community members, the committee provides guidance, feedback, and recommendations to enhance the curriculum, instructional methods, and student learning experiences.

Purpose and Responsibilities:

  • Curriculum & Industry Alignment
  • Workforce Readiness
  • Student & Faculty Support
  • Internship & Employment Connections
  • Accreditation & Program Evaluation
  • Facilities & Equipment Recommendations

By fostering a strong relationship between academia and industry, the OAC helps ensure that Thaddeus Stevens College programs maintain the highest standards in CTE (career and technical education). 

  • Alexis Gosik, Technology Council of Central PA
  • Brandon Green, Global Critical Logistics
  • Trevor Kimble, Lancaster Design and Consulting
A faculty member advises a student in the Computer Science Engineering Technology program while they both look at a computer screen.

The outcomes speak for themselves

The Computer Software Engineering Technology program prepares students to design, develop, and build customized software programs for specific applications. The numbers below are three-year averages across program cohorts.


You can also view Institutional Performance Data here.

Success stories

Students and an instructor in a Computer Software Engineering Technology class.

Our graduates work with the industry’s best

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