Academic Programs

Academic Programs

Software Engineering Master's Program

Expand your knowledge, career opportunities and network with UT Austin’s Software Engineering Master’s Degree

The Cockrell School of Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin is a global leader in technology advancement and engineering education, making our graduates the first choice for recruitment opportunities by major tech companies like Dell, Intel, Google – and more.

The Software Engineering Executive Master's Degree is the same degree as the traditional master’s that allows students to keep working while pursuing their studies. The curriculum focuses on key proficiencies in emerging software system technologies, machine learning, distributed computing and concurrent computing required to design and deliver systems successfully.

Important note for international students

The Software Engineering degree program does not meet the U.S. government requirements for students to be eligible for an F-1 VISA. However, international applicants on an eligible non-student VISA are welcome to apply. Please see more details in the Admissions section.

Program Highlights

  • Expert Faculty: the same faculty teach in both the executive master’s program as the full-time master’s program in software engineering.
  • Flexible Format: program accommodates working professionals with classes meeting one weekend per month.
  • Innovative Curriculum: focuses on real-world applications and cutting-edge technology.

Why Choose Cockrell School of Engineering?

At the Cockrell School, we don’t just teach engineering; we create leaders. Our program stands out because:

  • Our in-person, once a month format nurtures a valuable network with colleagues and professors, often leading to job referrals and opportunities.
  • Your degree will be recognized worldwide given the Cockrell School’s ranking in the top 10 best engineering schools in the U.S. and world.
  • Return on investment: Cockrell School graduates see on average a 20% salary increase.

Difference between Software Engineering and Computer Science

  • Software engineers look at systems from an engineering perspective. We look at the lifecycle of systems working with stakeholders, from requirements elicitation, through design, architecture, implementation, testing and maintenance.
  • The software engineering mindset is skilled and ready to analyze the framing of software engineering challenges and create solutions through constructing, testing and maintaining the entire system.
  • Software engineering is often viewed as a subdiscipline of computer-science, a discipline that is more tactical rather than theoretical in nature.

Hear from our Alumni

My time at Cockrell has allowed me to build amazing relationships with my classmates. They’ve become a pivotal part of my experience. I’ve often leaned on this community for support with coursework. The technical skills I’ve gained have also been instrumental in understanding the ‘under-the-hood’ mechanics of my daily tasks, allowing me to describe and comprehend deep technical concepts that were previously challenging. This has accelerated my career growth compared to before my time at Cockrell.

-Pablo Smith, Graduate December 2024

From a career perspective, so much of what I learned here became somehow applicable within my work. I enjoyed all the classes I took - it was the perfect kind of challenging. More than anything else, the friends I made while in this program will be relationships I keep for the rest of my life.

-Jon Sobocinski, December 2023 graduate

Ready to Lead at the Forefront of Engineering?

Apply now to become a pivotal part of the evolving engineering landscape or request more information to discover how the University of Texas at Austin can be the key to your future success.

Apply Now

Application Deadlines

Fall: June 1st

Spring: November 1st

Completed applications and supporting materials must be received by the above dates to be considered for admission.

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Speak with our Admissions Expert

For additional information on our graduate master's degree programs, please contact a This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..