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Software Engineering

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Undergraduate Major

Allendale • Face to face (?) • 120 Credits

Software engineering is the systematic application of engineering principles to design, develop, test, and maintain software systems.

Overview

Grand Valley's Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering equips students with the skills needed for efficient and high-quality software development. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, supported by industry collaborations and extensive internship opportunities.

Students study a variety of topics, including programming, full-stack development, software engineering principles, secure software development, and data management. Specialization tracks are available in areas like AI, mobile and web applications, game development, human-computer interfaces, and project management.

Choosing Grand Valley for software engineering offers several benefits: ABET accreditation, experienced faculty, dedicated labs with advanced equipment, and a curriculum tailored to industry needs. These elements provide graduates with a competitive edge in the job market.

College of Computing

gvsu.edu/computing
C-2-100 Mackinac Hall
(616) 331-2060

Admissions and Recruitment Office

gvsu.edu/admissions

Career Opportunities

Develop and implement websites, web applications, application databases, and interactive web interfaces. Evaluate code to ensure that it is properly structured, meets industry standards, and is compatible with browsers and devices. Optimize website performance, scalability, and server-side code and processes. May develop website infrastructure and integrate websites with other computer applications.

Top skills
  • Programming
  • Critical Thinking
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Operations Analysis
  • Complex Problem Solving
Earnings statistics
Annual Earnings Percentile
$ 43,764.64 10%
$ 55,156.57 25%
$ 91,208.00 50%
$110,179.81 75%
$136,959.28 90%

Develop and execute software tests to identify software problems and their causes. Test system modifications to prepare for implementation. Document software and application defects using a bug tracking system and report defects to software or web developers. Create and maintain databases of known defects. May participate in software design reviews to provide input on functional requirements, operational characteristics, product designs, and schedules.

Top skills
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Listening
  • Speaking
  • Critical Thinking
  • Writing
Earnings statistics
Annual Earnings Percentile
$ 57,573.08 10%
$ 74,726.97 25%
$ 98,186.31 50%
$118,439.81 75%
$133,817.24 90%

Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. Update software or enhance existing software capabilities. May work with computer hardware engineers to integrate hardware and software systems, and develop specifications and performance requirements. May maintain databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team.

Earnings statistics
Annual Earnings Percentile
$ 73,125.18 10%
$ 84,893.38 25%
$107,500.39 50%
$134,775.23 75%
$165,493.70 90%

Design core features of video games. Specify innovative game and role-play mechanics, story lines, and character biographies. Create and maintain design documentation. Guide and collaborate with production staff to produce games as designed.

Top skills
  • Programming
  • Active Listening
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Critical Thinking
  • Complex Problem Solving
Earnings statistics
Annual Earnings Percentile
$ 37,017.16 10%
$ 47,525.22 25%
$ 75,347.42 50%
$ 98,446.52 75%
$124,951.03 90%

Develop and implement websites, web applications, application databases, and interactive web interfaces. Evaluate code to ensure that it is properly structured, meets industry standards, and is compatible with browsers and devices. Optimize website performance, scalability, and server-side code and processes. May develop website infrastructure and integrate websites with other computer applications.

Top skills
  • Programming
  • Critical Thinking
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Operations Analysis
  • Complex Problem Solving
Earnings statistics
Annual Earnings Percentile
$ 43,702.94 10%
$ 58,028.94 25%
$ 85,292.82 50%
$119,926.91 75%
$164,490.73 90%

Develop and execute software tests to identify software problems and their causes. Test system modifications to prepare for implementation. Document software and application defects using a bug tracking system and report defects to software or web developers. Create and maintain databases of known defects. May participate in software design reviews to provide input on functional requirements, operational characteristics, product designs, and schedules.

Top skills
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Listening
  • Speaking
  • Critical Thinking
  • Writing
Earnings statistics
Annual Earnings Percentile
$ 60,607.37 10%
$ 79,407.75 25%
$102,516.93 50%
$131,798.52 75%
$167,018.06 90%

Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. Update software or enhance existing software capabilities. May work with computer hardware engineers to integrate hardware and software systems, and develop specifications and performance requirements. May maintain databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team.

Top skills
Earnings statistics
Annual Earnings Percentile
$ 78,498.05 10%
$101,802.59 25%
$132,263.52 50%
$169,430.86 75%
$215,108.44 90%

Design core features of video games. Specify innovative game and role-play mechanics, story lines, and character biographies. Create and maintain design documentation. Guide and collaborate with production staff to produce games as designed.

Top skills
  • Programming
  • Active Listening
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Critical Thinking
  • Complex Problem Solving
Earnings statistics
Annual Earnings Percentile
$ 43,711.90 10%
$ 60,286.37 25%
$ 92,151.19 50%
$134,806.16 75%
$186,486.74 90%
85%
GVSU Students Receive Offers Before Graduation
"One of the Top Public Universities in America"
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Page last modified May 20, 2025