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Accelerated Software Engineering Bachelor's and Master's Degree

3rd Party Certifications Included in this Degree

OVERVIEW

Earn Your Bachelor’s and Master’s in Software Engineering Faster


 

Build the skills to design, develop, and lead the software systems shaping today's world—while earning two degrees with fewer courses, lower overall cost, and less time.

WGU's accelerated bachelor's and master's pathway begins with the Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering. As part of your bachelor's degree, you'll replace four undergraduate courses with four graduate-level bridge courses, allowing you to begin master's-level coursework early. After completing your bachelor's degree, you'll apply to the Master of Science in Software Engineering program, choose one of three specializations, and complete the remaining graduate coursework.

Along the way, you'll gain hands-on experience in building modern software applications while developing advanced skills in:

  • Software architecture and system design.
  • Cloud-connected systems.
  • AI-augmented engineering.
  • DevOps workflows and automations.
  • Scalable software design.
  • APIs and back-end services.

The bachelor's degree builds your technical foundation through hands-on software development and engineering practices while introducing graduate-level concepts through the bridge courses. After earning your bachelor's degree, you can continue into the Master of Science in Software Engineering, where you'll deepen your expertise in software architecture, scalable systems, AI-augmented technologies, and leadership-focused engineering practices. Together, the two degrees prepare you to contribute as a software engineer today and grow into senior engineering and technical leadership opportunities in the future.

Have questions? Attend our prospective student webinar to learn more about our programs.

Earn two degrees in about 

4 years*

This accelerated program combines a bachelor's degree and a master's, letting you take fewer courses than you would if you completed the programs separately.

*WGU Internal Data

Tuition per six-month term is

$4,395

Tuition is less for the undergraduate portion, and tuition is charged per term—rather than per credit—helps you control the ultimate cost of your degree. Finish faster, pay less!

Average salary increase

$10,019*

 Graduates of the B.S. Software Engineering program report an average salary increase of $10,019 after completing their WGU degree.

*WGU Internal Data

Ready to Start Your WGU Journey?

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HOW THIS PROGRAM WORKS

How the Accelerated Pathway Works

This program is designed to help you move efficiently from undergraduate learning into graduate-level software engineering study.

Step 1: Enroll in the B.S. Software Engineering degree program.

Step 2: Complete your bachelor's coursework while also taking four graduate-level bridge courses that count toward the master's degree.

Step 3: Earn your B.S. in Software Engineering.

Step 4: Apply to the M.S. in Software Engineering program.

Step 5: Select one of three master's specializations and complete the remaining graduate coursework.

Step 6: Earn your Master of Science in Software Engineering.

By completing graduate-level coursework during your bachelor's program, you'll reduce the total number of courses required, lower your overall tuition costs, and shorten the time it takes to earn both degrees.

Skills For Your Résumé

As part of this program, you will develop a range of valuable skills that employers are looking for. 

  • Software Development: Successfully implemented a process to create and maintain software source code to achieve goals.
  • Software Development Life Cycle: Created a detailed plan for developing, testing, and maintaining software systems, ensuring smooth and systematic software development lifecycle management.
  • Software Engineering: Analyzed the objectives, scope, and organizational impact of software systems, providing valuable insights.
  • Computer Science: Interpreted the impacts of various algorithms on performance, enabling optimization of software solutions for enhanced efficiency.
  • Java (Programming Language):  Developed an object-oriented program using Java, demonstrating strong programming skills.
  • Problem Solving: Analyzed data for the nature and extent of a problem, showcasing analytical capabilities to identify and address software-related challenges effectively.

 

Graduate Portion

In the graduate portion students will choose one of 3 tracks, each containing 10 courses. View the program guides or program pages for course details.

Technology
COMPARE

Domain Driven Design, Software Engineering – M.S.

Boost your résumé with the help of a software engineering degree, focused...

Boost your résumé with the help of a software engineering degree, focused on domain driven design.

  • Time: 61% of graduates finish similar programs within 20 months.
  • Tuition: $4,395 per 6-month term.
  • Courses: 10 total courses in this program.

In the Domain Driven Design specialization, software engineering students will get to focus on specific design areas to boost their résumé. 

Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program include: 

  • Agile and Scrum methodologies
  • Version control
  • Troubleshooting and debugging
  • Software development lifecycle 
  • Software design and architecture

 

Technology
COMPARE

AI Engineering, Software Engineering – M.S.

Discover how to enhance your AI skills with the help of an AI Engineering...

Discover how to enhance your AI skills with the help of an AI Engineering degree focus.

  • Time: 61% of graduates finish similar programs within 20 months.
  • Tuition: $4,395 per 6-month term.
  • Courses: 10 total courses in this program.

In this AI specialization you will be able to focus on AI prompts, machine learning strategies, and enhance your AI and software engineering skills. 

Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program include: 

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Machine Learning (ML)
  • AI Integration
  • Ethical AI
  • Human AI Interaction
Technology
COMPARE

DevOps Engineering, Software Engineering – M.S.

Discover how a focus on DevOps Engineering can boost your résumé and...

Discover how a focus on DevOps Engineering can boost your résumé and enhance your skills.

  • Time: 61% of graduates finish similar programs within 20 months.
  • Tuition: $4,395 per 6-month term.
  • Courses: 10 total courses in this program.

In the DevOps specialization students will gain specific skills that can help in their software engineering career.

Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program include: 

  • Test-driven development
  • API design
  • Requirements engineering
  • Software engineering leadership

COURSES

Software Engineering Bridge Courses

Program consists of 39 courses

At WGU, we design our curriculum to be timely, relevant, and practical—all to help you build skills you can apply immediately.

This accelerated pathway combines undergraduate software engineering coursework with graduate-level bridge courses that help prepare you for advanced study while reducing the overall time and cost required to earn both degrees.

Students begin by completing the Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering program, building skills in programming, software development, cloud technologies, software architecture, AI-informed engineering, security, and system design. Throughout the bachelor’s program, students will also complete four graduate-level bridge courses designed to support a smoother transition into the master’s degree.

After earning the B.S. Software Engineering degree and completing the required bridge coursework, students can apply to continue into the M.S. Software Engineering program and choose from one of three specialization pathways. Completion of the remaining graduate coursework results in the Master of Science in Software Engineering degree.

Program consists of: 39 courses

An unofficial estimated 14 courses are fulfilled by your associate degree leaving 27 courses.

In the undergraduate portion of this accelerated program, students will take the following courses:

Courses Fulfilled By Your Associate Degree

This is an unofficial estimate of your transfer credit. You may recieve more or less credits depending upon the specific courses taken to complete your degree and other credits you may have.

Below are the anticipated courses that will be fulfilled based on your indication that you have earned an associate degree. During the enrollment process this information will be verified.

General Education
Computer Science
Business of IT
Web Development
Mathematics
Artificial Intelligence
Physics Content
Cloud and Virtualization
General Science Content
Software
Data Management
Software Development
Full Stack Engineering
Mathematics Content
Programming
Software Applications

Why WGU?

Earning Potential

According to a 2024 Harris Poll, just two years after graduation, WGU grads report earning $14,671 more per year, and that amount increases to $30,300 four years after graduation.

On Your Schedule

No class times, no assignment deadlines. You are in charge of your learning and schedule. You can move through your courses as quickly as you master the material, meaning you can graduate faster.
 

Entirely Online

The accelerated software engineering bachelor's and master's at WGU is 100% online, which means it works wherever you are. You can do your coursework at night after working at your full-time job, on weekends, while you're traveling the world or on vacation—it's entirely up to you.

Accredited, Respected,
Recognized™

One important measure of a degree’s value is the reputation of the university where it was earned. When employers, industry leaders, and academic experts hold your alma mater in high esteem, you reap the benefits of that respect. WGU is a pioneer in reinventing higher education for the 21st century, and our quality is institutionally recognized.

IT CERTIFICATIONS

Certifications Included During the Bachelor's Portion of the Program


 

As part of your B.S. Software Engineering coursework, you'll earn valuable certifications that demonstrate your ability to build, develop, and support modern software applications using industry-relevant tools and technologies.

Included certifications:

  • AWS Certified Developer – Associate
  • ITIL® 4 Foundation
  • WGU Front-End Developer
  • WGU Back-End Developer
  • WGU Full-Stack Developer

These certifications help validate your skills in software development, cloud technologies, Agile workflows, and full-stack engineering—giving you résumé-ready credentials before graduation.

Project+ 

Axelos

ITIL®*^ Foundation Certification

*Subject to vendor availability.
^ITIL® is a registered trade mark of AXELOS Limited, used under permission of AXELOS Limited. All rights reserved.

COST & TIME

Affordable Online IT Degrees

By charging per term rather than per credit—and empowering students to accelerate through material they know well or learn quickly—WGU helps students control the ultimate cost of their degrees.

Costs for the Undergraduate Portion of This Program

$4,195

Tuition per 6-month term

At WGU, tuition is charged every six months. For the bachelor's degree, the only other fees you'll have is a flat fee of $200 each term for e-books and learning resources.

Costs for the Graduate Portion of This Program

$4,395

Tuition per 6-month term

Plus the $200 per term resource fee.

An Information Technology Management Degree Is Within Reach

There is help available to make paying for school possible for you:

The average student loan debt of WGU graduates in 2022 (among those who borrowed) was less than half* the national average.

Most WGU students qualify for financial aid, and WGU is approved for federal financial aid and U.S. veterans benefits. 

Many scholarship opportunities are available. Find out what you might be eligible for.

FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE

A Different Way to Learn: Degree Programs Designed to Fit Your Life—and All the Demands on Your Time

Professional responsibilities. Family obligations. Personal commitments. At WGU, we understand schedules are tight and often unpredictable for adult students. That’s why we offer a flexible, personalized approach to how education should be. No rigid class schedules. Just a solid, career-focused teaching program that meshes with your current lifestyle. You'll be challenged. You'll work hard. But if you commit yourself and put in the hours needed, WGU makes it possible for you to earn a highly respected degree as a busy working adult.

"Looking at the value you get for your education, including the certifications, and being able to work on my own time and make my own schedule made it the best choice for me.” 

— Lindsay S., B.S. Software Engineering 

CAREER OUTLOOK

Carve a Path to Success with a Software Engineering Degree 

Nearly every industry needs skilled software engineers. When you’ve completed WGU’s online, accelerated software engineering bachelor's and master's degree program, you’ll find yourself in demand because of the skills, knowledge, and certifications you’ve gained. In fact, you’ll have all the tools necessary for a successful tech career from fields like development to lead architect.

A software engineering degree from WGU is key in helping you gain the critical skills and experience you need to thrive in the tech sector. Increase your earning potential, boost your résumé with valuable credentials, and find a career you love with the help of bachelor’s and master’s degrees in software engineering. 

Return on Your Investment

Many WGU graduates may see an increase in income post-graduation

Average income increase in annual salary vs. pre-enrollment salary from all degrees. Source: 2024 Harris Poll of 1,655 WGU graduates.

Survey was sent to a representative sample of WGU graduates from all colleges. Respondents received at least one WGU degree since 2017.

17%

Employment of computer and information systems managers is projected to grow by17% through 2033.

—U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

A Software Engineering Degree that Builds Your Experience

Our B.S. Software Engineering alumni have great jobs and satisfying careers.

Job Titles

  • Software Engineer
  • Software Developer
  • Multimedia Programmer
  • Application Analyst
  • Game Developer

Diverse Industries

  • Consulting Firms
  • Technology Companies
  • Public Sector
  • Communications/Telecom

Major Employers

  • Cisco Systems
  • Dell
  • U.S. Air Force
  • Florida Community Health Centers
  • Legal Aid of West Virginia

WGU Grads Hold Positions with Top Employers

ADMISSIONS

Software Engineering Admission Requirements

To be considered for enrollment into this program, you must possess a high school diploma or its equivalent AND demonstrate program readiness through one of the following:

  • Option 1: Submit all transcripts documenting completion of college-level coursework with a minimum of 2.25 cumulative GPA or higher. 
  • Option 2: Possess a bachelor's or associate degree (A.A, A.S. or A.A.S. acceptable) from an accredited post-secondary institution.
  • Option 3: Submit official record of completion of a transferable IT certification, some of which may provide transfer credit  into various programs.
  • Option 4: Submit all high school transcripts with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75
  • Option 5: Submit all transcripts documenting completion of previous IT coursework. IT coursework must be 300 level or higher.

NOTE: You do not need to take the ACT or SAT to be admitted to this program. Learn why we don't require these tests.

Get Your Enrollment Checklist

Download your step-by-step guide to enrollment.

Get Your Questions Answered

Talk to an WGU Enrollment Counselor.

Transfer Credits

If you’ve taken courses, have earned certifications, or received a degree from a community college or another university, you're likely already well on your way to a WGU degree. You can almost always transfer credits when you send accredited bachelor's or associate degree transcripts.

WGU’s curriculum structure is competency-based, allowing you to apply your existing knowledge and skills to your education. Students with an Associate of Arts (A.A.) or Associate of Science (A.S.) degree usually qualify for upper-division standing at WGU.

Depending on your degree program, you may qualify for additional requirement waivers. If you have completed some college coursework but have not earned a degree, WGU will conduct  a transcript evaluation. Your experience may waive some of your requirements.

FAQs About the Accelerated B.S to M.S. Program

You should speak with an Enrollment Counselor. WGU can often provide advice or resources to help a prospective student fulfill enrollment prerequisites.

When you enroll in a WGU degree program, our goal is to see you through to graduation. Admission requirements are designed to increase your likelihood of success. Years of data and experience with the nontraditional students WGU serves have shown us how various types of academic and professional experience can be highly important in helping a student persist to graduation. Industry certifications are one of many ways a student can meet eligibility.

WGU has an obligation to our graduates—and their current and future employers—to ensure WGU alumni have mastered the most up-to-date, current competencies and skills needed in the workplace. Recency of certifications helps us ensure that students have demonstrated competency in skills as they are needed in today's working world.

As a full-time student, you will be required to maintain a minimum pace of 12 competency units (CUs) per term for undergraduate programs or 8 CUs per term for graduate programs. However, there is no maximum speed—once you complete a course, you move immediately to the next, and you complete a course not by waiting for the syllabus, the professor, or the rest of the class. You progress by learning the material and proving it—so you can move through your coursework at the speed of your own learning and experience.

Instructors are highly educated, experienced experts in the subject matter of a course. Unlike in a traditional university where going to class means listening to an instructor lecture while you take notes and try to learn in a group setting, WGU's Instructors provide one-on-one instruction and support when you need it—tailoring the instruction to your precise needs when you need it. Instructors also provide additional resources, lead topical discussions in online communities, and find countless other ways to bring a specific course to life for students.

This unique program allows you to fast-track your education and earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in less time. The program contains some courses that count toward both degrees, meaning you’ll take four fewer classes (or 12 fewer competency units) than you would if you were to pursue each degree individually through separate programs. 

The combined bachelor’s and master’s degree program contains largely the same curriculum as the two separate programs with a few modifications. The bridge courses students take are Technical Communication, IT Management, Project Management, and Emerging Technologies. These four bridge courses replace four undergraduate courses and allow students to move into their master’s program sooner.

This accelerated program costs $3,945 per six-month term for the undergraduate portion and $4,090 for the master’s portion. Since the undergraduate portion of this program satisfies part of the typical master’s portion, students can graduate in fewer terms than they would if they’d pursued each degree separately, thus earning a master’s degree for less.

Because of our competency-based model, the number of terms to completion varies. Overall, it’s anticipated that students can complete this program in one less term than it would take to complete the bachelor’s and master’s degrees separately.

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