Program Description

The Executive Master in Software Engineering (EMSE) program is designed with working professionals in mind. Taught by world-class faculty, The Master of Science in Software Engineering (MSSE) program prepares students to design, develop and manage complex software systems. With a strong foundation in computing theory and software practices, the program emphasizes real-world application, collaborative problem-solving, and innovation in system architecture, testing and project management.

Earning a master’s degree in software engineering can help you advance your career, increase your earning potential and remain competitive in the tech industry. The program develops advanced skills in design, architecture, testing and project management, while preparing you for leadership roles and specialized positions. Employers value the added expertise and credentials that come with a graduate degree.

The program offers courses and research opportunities in a wide variety of Software Engineering subfields, including:

• Quality, Reliability, Security, Availability, and Safety of Software Systems   
• AI and Machine Learning-based Techniques for Software Engineering  
• Software Engineering Techniques for AI and Machine Learning 
• Knowledge and Data Mining-based Techniques for Software Engineering  
• Object Oriented Software Engineering  
• Software Architecture and Design, as well as Requirements Engineering  
• Software Testing, Validation, and Verification 

Benefits

The software engineering master’s program ensures that students gain a broad understanding of their discipline, apply their knowledge and analytical skills to create effective and novel solutions to practical problems, and communicate and work effectively in collaborative environments.  

Other benefits include:  

• World-Class Faculty: The program is led by faculty of the Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science who are widely cited experts in their respective fields, many of whom also have professional industry experience. 
• Multidisciplinary Opportunities: In addition to core program faculty, many other UT Dallas faculty are involved in research related to Software Engineering, from the natural and social sciences to business and management. Master’s students have the opportunity to consult and work with faculty across disciplines. 
• Facilities and Infrastructure: Jonsson School facility resources now include one of the largest project design studios in the country, as well as a Makerspace area for creative pursuits. Three buildings on campus are dedicated to engineering and computer science: ECS South, North and West, as well as collaborative research spaces in the Bioengineering and Sciences building, the Edith O’Donnell Arts and Technology building and the Natural Science and Engineering Research Laboratory. 
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Courses in the software engineering master’s program will introduce students to new ideas, technologies, and competencies while also teaching them the skills they will need to thrive in competitive, ever-changing industries. 
• Location: Situated in the greater Dallas region, recently rated by Forbes magazine as the #1 “Best City for Jobs,” UT Dallas provides students with easy access to employers and internship opportunities, as well as a large and supportive alumni population.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Software Engineering master’s program have gone on to pursue professional careers in a wide variety of fields. Some of the most popular fields include:  

• Software engineering  
• Software development  
• Cybersecurity engineer   
• Data science  
• Program analysis  
• Computer systems analysis  

Database administration  
 
Software engineering is one of the most lucrative fields in tech, with many roles offering six-figure salaries and strong growth potential. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for software professionals is expected to grow much faster than average in the coming years.  

Application Deadlines and Requirements

Please take note of all application deadlines and visit the Apply Now webpage to begin the application process. See the software engineering degree program webpage for additional information.

Applicants to the software engineering master’s degree program should have: 

• A bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering or a related field from an institution of higher education in the U.S. or from a comparable institution abroad.
• A grade point average (GPA) in upper-division quantitative coursework of 3.0 or better on a 4.0-point scale.
• GRE Test Scores: GRE revised scores of 308, 153, 155, and 4 for the combined, verbal, quantitative and analytical writing components, respectively, are advisable based on our experience with student success in the program.
• Letters of Recommendation: Applicants must submit three letters of recommendation from individuals able to judge the candidate’s potential for success in the master’s degree program.
• Admissions Essay: Applicants must submit an essay outlining their background, education, and professional goals. 
• A resume.
• International applicants must submit a TOEFL score of at least 80 on the internet-based test. Scores must be less than two years old. See the Graduate Catalog for additional information regarding English proficiency requirements for international applicants.