software engineering phd sop

Graduate School Statement of Purpose

Criteria for success.

Your statement of purpose, sometimes referred to by other names including “statement of objectives,” should…

• convince a faculty committee that you are qualified for their program and that you are a good fit for their program’s focus and goals.
• show a select group of skills and experiences that convey your scientific and technical accomplishments and interests.
• include concrete and quantitative experiences, accomplishments, and qualifications.
• adhere to the length and formatting guidelines of the program to which you are applying (usually no more than 2 pages).

Structure Diagram

The graduate school statement of purpose should strengthen your chance of acceptance into a graduate program by demonstrating that you are a good match for the particular department or program. Matching goes both ways: they should be interested in you, and you should be interested in them. Your statement should make this match clear by telling your personal story as a researcher.

Analyze Your Audience

Your statement of purpose is typically read by a graduate committee, a handful of faculty from your program. They’re trying to determine if you will be a successful graduate student in their department, a positive force in the department’s intellectual life, and a successful researcher after you graduate. They are therefore interested in your qualifications as a researcher, your career goals, and how your academic focus matches their labs and department.

The graduate committee could read hundreds of applications a year. To make it easy for them to figure out that you are a good fit, make direct, concrete statements about your accomplishments and qualifications. To make it easy for them to remember you, create a narrative that “brands” you.

Create a personal narrative

PhD programs invest in the professional and technical growth of their students. Get the committee excited about investing in you by opening your essay with a brief portrait of what drives you as a scientist or engineer. What research directions are you passionate about, and why? What do you picture yourself doing in 10 years?

If you’re not quite sure what you want to do in graduate school, it’s still best to focus on a specific area or topic in your application. What would you work on if you had to start graduate school tomorrow? You can always change your research focus later.

Any personal stories should fit in the overall narrative of your research story. Avoid cliche openings like “ever since my childhood, I’ve been fascinated by…”. The statement of purpose, sometimes called a personal statement, is “personal” in the sense that it tells your unique research story, not your life story.  

Close your essay with a 2-3 sentence discussion of your career interests. No one will hold you to these plans; it simply helps your committee visualize your potential trajectory. Emphasize how the program you are applying to will help prepare you for these long-term goals.

Describe your experiences

Experiences are the “what” of your essay. What experiences led you to develop your skill set and passions? Where have you demonstrated accomplishment, leadership, and collaboration? Include research, teaching, and relevant work experience or extracurriculars. State concrete achievements and outcomes like awards, publications, or projects completed.

Achievements do not need to be directly tied to research projects or publications. However, they should relate to the type of work you expect in graduate school. For example, you can discuss significant, research-oriented class projects. Describe any collaborations with senior students or faculty that demonstrate your passion about relevant research topics. Computer science students can discuss projects from software internships that involved architecture design, algorithm design, security considerations, machine learning, etc. These experiences can inform your academic interests and demonstrate ability as well as more formal research experience. Also consider including experiences that demonstrate other skills that are crucial for a successful grad student such as good communication and self-motivation. 

Quantify your experiences to show concrete impact. How many people were on your team? How many protocols did you develop? How many people were in competition for an award? As a TA, how often did you meet with your students?

Describe actions, not just changes in your internal mental or emotional state. A statement of purpose is a way to make a narrative out of your CV. It is not a diary entry

Explain the meaning of your experiences

Meaning is the “why” or “so what” of the document. Why was this experience important to your growth as a researcher? What does it say about your abilities and potential? It feels obvious to you, but you need to be explicit with your audience. Your descriptions of meaning should also act as transition statements between experiences: try to “wrap” meaning around your experiences.

Demonstrate match to your target program

Demonstrate an understanding of the program to which you’re applying and about how you will be successful in that program. To do this:

• Read the program’s website. See what language they use to describe themselves, and echo that language in your essay. For example, the website for MIT’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory displays three main research areas and the values of the lab .
• In some areas (often those with a more rigid lab structure), reaching faculty is very important. You should know what faculty members are taking new students and whether or not you would be a fit for their lab before applying. In other areas, contacting faculty is not expected and may be difficult. Reach out if in doubt and consult current graduate students, undergraduate professors, or graduate admissions officers if you are unsure what is typical in your area.
• State which professors in the program you would plan to work with. Show how their research areas align with your background and your goals. You can even describe potential research directions or projects. It can also be helpful to mention other departments or groups at the university that you might be interested in collaborating with or learning from.

Content adapted by the MIT Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Communication Lab from an article originally created by the MIT Biological Engineering Communication Lab .

Related Resource

For more information, see these statements from MIT EECS faculty about what they look for in a grad school application.

Resources and Annotated Examples

Annotated example 1.

Personal Statement submitted by graduate student enrolled at MIT in CSAIL 192 KB

Annotated Example 2

Personal Statement submitted by graduate student enrolled at MIT in EECS 292 KB

Annotated Example 3

Personal Statement submitted by graduate student enrolled at MIT in EECS 873 KB

BUILDING STELLAR PROFILES FOR DREAM ADMITS

Statement of purpose (SOP) done right! [with Samples]

Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Personal Statement forms a crucial element of the graduate school application process. For the uninitiated, a Statement of Purpose is an essay that introduces YOU to the Admissions Review Committee (AdCom). It contains your accomplishments, career plans, and reasoning of why you think a particular graduate program is the ‘right fit’ for you. 

Nearly every respectable graduate program in the world, be it a Master of Science, Engineering Management, MiM or MBA requires applicants to submit a Statement of Purpose while applying.

The AdComs put a lot of value on a candidate’s SOP, evaluating their ‘intent for applying to that program’ and whether it resonates with the University’s mission and objectives.

Jared Pierce, associate director of enrollment services at Northeastern University, says a strong statement of purpose can be the deciding factor in a graduate student’s admission.

“Your statement of purpose is where you tell your story about who you are and why you deserve to be a part of the [university’s] community. It gives the admissions committee the chance to get to know you and understand how you’ll add value to the classroom,” he says.

Clearly then, you will have to construct your statement of purpose which tells your “story” rather than list out your “achievements”

So, how do the applicants go about writing the SOP? Which experiences are viewed favorably by the AdCom, and what should be avoided. In this blogpost, I touch upon the effective strategies that if adopted, can transform your SOP into your story.

STEP – I: Decoding the types

Let’s start by clearing out a few things about the Statement of Purpose. They go by different names — Personal statement, letter of intent, letter of motivation, mission statement, elevator pitch, video sop…. The list is too long! Each of them serves a different purpose and should be written within the frameworks of the university guidelines.

Perhaps the first step you should do before you start writing your SOP is to prepare an outline and use it as a roadmap.

To be honest, this is not a very popular step with most of the students. They imagine that this “extra” step will add time and complicate their application process when in fact, creating an outline can not only help streamline one’s essay writing but can also go a long way in boosting the resulting essays’ effectiveness.

By organizing your thoughts in the form of short phrases and key terms, you will observe that your story unfolds more easily. Moreover, it also ensures that there are no gaps of information in what you are trying to convey. This translates to a more persuasive final SOP and, in most cases, fewer rounds of editing and revision.

Sample Outline A

• Passion for chess – coaching and playing
• Volunteer activities with Greenpeace 
• Love of Shah Rukh Khan films
• Managing literature conference at IIT, Mumbai
• Love of biking – Sunday bike rides with “team”
• Semester exchange in France 
• Travel to 21 countries – Iceland, Russia and Peru highlights
• Close relationship with grandma
• Budding love of cooking
• Love of Mumbai

Once a sample outline has been prepared, it is now easier to construct a structure for the statement of purpose.  

STEP – II: Break it down

Building upon the outline, each SOP needs to be structured so that it logically fits in the narrative.

Many clients that we have encountered confuse ‘structure’ with ‘chronology’. When asked to write a draft of the essay, they present their achievements in chronological order, thinking that this will give the essay a proper structure.

However, your experiences and how they have translated and shaped you into what you are today, may or may not be chronological. Thus, you have to start your essay with the most significant one and connect the dots from there.

The Admissions Review Committee is looking out for very specific things in your application. Unless you break it down, it will be an arduous task to explain them your story. And no one wants a confused AdCom guy in their life.

What is the Admission Committee looking for?

The simple answer would be – what makes you, YOU.

But if only things were so simple. What they are really looking for is how you fit into the overall scheme of things at the University.

Broadly, there are 5 factors they are trying to evaluate you on:

– Why have you applied for that particular program?

– What kind of skills do you have to succeed in that program?

– How do you want to leverage your university connections to network and contribute to the school community?

– How are your professional goals aligned with the program outcomes?

– Why are you the ‘best fit’ for the university?

Your statement of purpose or letter of motivation should talk in brief about all these points.

Even for the most practiced of writers, crafting a successful application essay can be an uphill task. So, trust us on this – Most of the SOPs that we read make us go….

Ideating and then organizing thoughts into outlines for essays will facilitate this process, as we illustrated in Part 1 of this guide, and now we will offer a few basic steps that will help you create and refine your drafts.

STEP- III: Tell your story

As we discussed it earlier, your statement of purpose is not merely an instrument to present facts from your life to the AdCom. Infact, it’s a platform to tell your story. Of who you are, and how has your experiences shaped you. You should therefore focus on narrative writing (which primarily describes) rather than expository writing (which primarily explains). In a narrative, the central facts about a situation are not just bluntly introduced, but are presented in a way that lets them speak for themselves and paint a rounded picture of an experience.

Consider the following examples:

My upbringing in a family full of entrepreneurs made me acquainted to data analytics early in life. When I supported my father’s organization, where they manually used to analyze data and predict delivery date & raw material ordering, I helped them develop an automated system with the use of pivot tables and slicers, that can be used together to visualize data and create easy to use dashboards.

Coming from a business background and having an undergrad degree in Information Technology, it was only natural for me to have a formidable combination of – entrepreneurial streak and technical expertise. My formative years were spent engaging in insightful dining table discussions with my father, pertaining to our business-related products and services. As a result, I was presented with several opportunities to understand the legal, commercial and technical aspects of our business. However, the opportunities that I loved most were the technically challenging ones that had the potential to impact our business positively. One such opportunity that I got was to review and remodel our existing data management system, which had severe limitations in terms of performance and scalability.

Which one of the above example do you think creates a more compelling image of the person you are reading about?

While example A is vague in terms of details, example B has a lot of specifics. It creates a holistic picture of the candidate and evokes imagery for the reader, which is more compelling. Thus, leaving out important details is detrimental to the health of the essay.

STEP – IV: Connect the dots

A good story is as good as its parts. Details, which are crucial to the development of the story, if left out does not reveal the entire picture and leaves the readers confused.

As you write your essay drafts, check each sentence to make sure that it includes a key part of the story you are telling. If you can remove a sentence and your essay still makes sense, that line is unnecessary and should remain deleted. However, if your narrative suddenly becomes unclear, that is your proof that the sentence in question is not superfluous and that you are on your way to creating a profoundly connected narrative.

Having a keen interest in operations research motivated me to work on my bachelor’s thesis: Efficient utilization of weight and volume capacity of a fleet of goods containers. The objective here is to build an algorithmic model for transportation of goods, cargoes, and shipments by utilizing the maximum load and volume capacity of the containers. The study is being carried out with a view to enabling the freight companies in reducing cost and enhancing operational efficiency. I have identified the constraints posed such as categorization of goods according to their suitability, shortest route according to the consignments, delivery of goods within the prescribed time, maximizing the profit and providing customer satisfaction, and successfully developed a mathematical model for the intercity transport, using shortest route and minimum cost per volume using traveling salesman and transportation concepts. Moreover, I am also trying to implement algorithm theory and computational complexity theory to solve the combinatorial problem considering the constraints faced.

Notice how the dots are getting connected.

1st sentence – Having a keen …. – Provides a justification to work on the bachelor’s thesis in Operations Research based on the interest of the applicant.

2nd sentence – The objective here is to build an algorithmic model…. – Clears the aim of the the project and gives idea to the AdCom about the scope of the project.

3rd sentence – The study is being carried out …. – End goal of the project is described.

4th sentence – I have identified the constraints… – talks about problem/constraint identification that the student is trying to resolve

… and successfully developed a mathematical model… -highlights the solution to the given constraints.

Leaving out any sentence written in this paragraph would be eliminating a key detail, and thus will confuse the reader about the project. In short, the story will be difficult to follow.

STEP – V: Create a ‘hook’ in the Introduction paragraph

Sometimes the most difficult part of writing a strong essay is determining the best way to start it. Even when you have a strong outline in hand, crafting those first few words or phrases can be challenging. To help you over this hurdle, we offer a few strategies for beginning your essays.

Maintaining a mystery

This is one of the best ways to grab the attention of the AdCom.

There are only a few rare moments in life, interspersed within our chaotic daily routines, during which we find our true calling. And those moments generally come like a blitzkrieg, inspiring us to make choices which define who we eventually become. I encountered one such moment, as a part of my internship with Bless Foundation, an NGO which strives to alleviate the sufferings of the underprivileged.

(Selected at University of South California, MS in Computer Science).

Do people shape cities or do cities shape people? Irrespective of the order of transformation, I am of the belief that city landscapes impact our daily lives in a significant way.

(Selected at TU Delft, MS in Architecture)

While watching the digitally remastered and coloured version of 1960 Bollywood classic ‘Mughal-e-Azam’, then shot in monochrome, I realised that I was less concerned about the cinematic brilliance but more about certain stats I read about the movie.

(Selected at Cornell University, MPS program in Applied Statistics)

The main stage was set while I enthusiastically waited in the crowd for Guns N’ Roses to surface from behind the spotlight. It was an absolute dream for me to witness the band live in concert, after having grown up and getting inspired by Slash and his musical eccentricities. As they emerged on stage and plucked the first strings, I was transported in a trance of hedonistic pleasure. Surprisingly, it was not the music that had the greatest influence that night.

(Selected at Stanford, MS in Computer Science)

In all of the above examples, the first few lines draw the reader into the essay and make him ask the question, what happens next? This approach is a sure shot way to indulge the AdCom into reading your application in full.

Strictly avoid: Clichés

Let’s be honest here. The AdCom knows when clichés are coming. And no one likes them. Consider this for example:

Being an ardent fan of the Marvel Universe, I believe that if we have the thirst for knowledge, ability to rectify the errors and better our skillset like Ironman and if we have grit, perseverance and will to do good for the mankind like Captain America, then we can win any battle and achieve something great. I tried to follow these ideologies while working on all my projects and technical papers.

My profound interest in mathematics, computers, and problem-solving became the basis for furthering a career in Computer science. In order to broaden my horizons of technical acumen, I joined Oracle after completing my undergrad. This allowed me to develop a clearer vision about pursuing a career in my field of Software Engineering.

It’s safe to say that introductions like these should be avoided at all costs as they have been read by the AdCom a million times. You don’t want to be the million plus one candidate.

Lead with your best

When you are pitching your application to the AdCom, it is highly recommended that you start your essays with your most compelling experience. Do not follow a template of chronological detailing of your academic records and professional achievements. Show your best foot forward. You do not always have to outline your history to create context for your narrative.

Example A (Student Version of her internship)

Due to these rewarding experiences and key learnings acquired from projects, I secured a position as a Developer at Barclays India, which has been exhilarating from the onset. In a span of four months, I underwent intensive training in several technologies like Java, JavaScript, Embedded JavaScript, Spring Framework, Servlets etc.

Example B (Gradsmiths version)

At Barcalays, internship not only meant exposition to multimillion-dollar client portfolio, but also getting intensive training in tools like Java, JavaScript, Embedded JavaScript, Spring Framework, and Servlets.

Example A exhibits significant backstory, but the most important parts that she learned new technologies was mentioned after the third line. In example B, this happens right in the second line, and is smartly packaged for the reader.

This introduction—just one sentence long, rather than four—introduces the reader to the individual’s high- level position right away and is therefore much more compelling and effective.

Step – VI: Don’t put extra information in your essays

Although it seems to be a no brainer, most students end up doing this. They provide irrelevant information in their essay, which makes it a boring read.

Consider this:

My final year project was ‘Analysis and Design of a high rise building with R.C Shear wall’. This project was done by 4 undergrads. In the initial phase, a 3-storied building is designed in ETABS software using Dead and Live load. In the next phase a 15-storied building with shear walls considering Earthquake and wind load is designed under G. A. Bhilare Consultants Pvt. Ltd., Pune. Seismic design parameters like story drift, lateral displacement was studied and shear forces, axial forces, bending moment were interpreted. This project increased my understanding of ETABS and improved my skills .

In the example above, there are too many details like the no. of storey of the building and name of the consultants, which are not required. It adds on to the word count and makes it a slow-developing paragraph.

Revised version

To gain more understanding of structures and the mechanics of forces at play, my final year project focused on the analysis and design of a high rise building with R.C Shear wall. In association with three other undergrads, we worked to design a 3-storied building, followed by its higher version in ETABS software using Dead and Live load. Carefully monitoring the shear walls considering Earthquake and wind load, we studied Seismic design parameters like story drift, lateral displacement. All this culminated under a sponsored industry project in collaboration with top architects of the city. This experience helped me to analyse complex structural models with loads, and design them in the most sustainable way, a skill which I am confident will prove beneficial during my graduate studies.

Step VII: Honour the word limit

Although we can assure you that no one will toss your application in the trash if your essays exceed the school’s stated word limits a little, in general, sticking as closely as possible to these limits is the best plan. Doing so indicates to the admissions committee not only that you pay attention to and can follow directions (which reflects positively on you as a potential student who will be required to follow numerous guidelines throughout the course of the MS program) but also that you are willing to put in the work required to convey your story effectively within the stated parameters. Also, you show respect for the school as well as for the admissions readers, who must sort through thousands of essays each week. A good rule of thumb is to not surpass the school’s requested word count by more than 5%, though of course, the fewer extra words you include, the better—and minimizing any risk of a negative impression resulting from exceeding the set word count is best.

Step VIII: Answer the question

This is our most obvious rule yet, but one that must be stated nonetheless: make sure that you answer the question the school is asking. Sometimes candidates possess a great story and really want to “spin” it for a particular essay prompt. Other times, applicants work and rework an essay so much that when they are done, they do not realize that they have changed their initial story entirely and the resulting essay no longer addresses the school’s question. Not answering the question is one of the admissions committees’ biggest peeves. In addition to indicating an ability to follow directions on your part (if not an outright attempt to withhold information), not answering the question asked means that you have not provided the information the admissions committee is specifically seeking and needs. So, regularly revisit the essay prompts as you revise your essays, ensuring that you are on track and providing a topical response.

Step IX: Customize your responses

It cannot be stressed enough how important it is to customize your essays for your choice of University. Many a times, we have seen that one SOP is sent to 5 different universities, with just a few line changes.

To us, this is a very easy and a lazy approach to essay drafting. Moreover, the AdCom through their years of experience of reading SOPs figure out whether you have followed a template or not.

Your short and long term goals should be aligned with the research areas and expertise of the University. AdCom loves to see how the university can help you realize your personal and professional milestones.

A common point of contention among students is whether or not to include the names of professors. In our opinion, you should go beyond name-dropping and identify key research areas where you would like to work. This creates a better representation of your academic interest and underlines your motivation to apply for the program.

It is important to understand that the AdCom is looking for unique and interesting candidates, who contribute to the campus and community. Thus, desire to work in student clubs, campus organizations, or community service is viewed positively. It shows that you have a multi-dimensional personality and go beyond your academic interests. Another quirky thing to add is why the location of the college is important to you and your goals. It can be the vibrant startup culture of the place, proximity to tech centers or Silicon Valley, or even the music vibe of the place.

Step X: Read, Re-read, Proofread. Repeat.

If you have followed all the steps above, and drafted your statement of purpose, great work done! Now will be a good time to send it to your friends, relatives, colleagues, and anywould who would care to read it.

You will amazed at how many grammatical errors get discovered. And we don’t even want to get started on the formatting bits.

Your goal, before sending out your statement of purpose should be to make it as error-proof as possible. This can be achieved by proofreading it multiple times to check for nasty little bits of flaws that hides furtively behind the pompous words and achievements.

The Statement of Purpose is perhaps the hardest thing you will encounter during your application stage.

The good news is that the process does not seem so overwhelming when you break it down into simple, actionable steps as described above.

At Gradsmiths, we have come across more than a thousand essays and SOPs, some brilliant while some total disasters. What really saddened us was that the same mistakes were being repeated in every other document, which motivated us to compile these steps that we follow into this post to draft an awesome statement of purpose.

Statement of Purpose (Samples and formats)

Statement of Purpose that got accepted to UPenn MS in Computer Science

Sample Statement of Purpose that got accepted to MS in Mechanical Engineering, Arizona State University

Statement of Purpose that got accepted to Cornell University’s Engineering Management program

Enjoyed the blog? Why not drop in your e-mail address below, and we send more such tips and strategies straight to your mailbox.

WE DON’T SPAM.

If you have got the time, do check out our FREE E-book on ‘Biggest Mistakes you make in your resume’. It contains some super pointers on how to modify your resume and make it fit for a graduate school application.

Interested in talking to a Gradsmiths expert on how to go about your essays? Book your calendar here.

2 thoughts on “Statement of purpose (SOP) done right! [with Samples]”

Pingback: Mechanical Engineer (1.5 years Work Exp) goes to Columbia Business Analytics program – GRADSMITHS

Comments are closed.

Ph.D. Software Engineering

A new code search engine. New insights into how trust emerges (or doesn’t) in distributed software development organizations. New visualizations to aid developers in debugging code. New lessons about the quality of open-source components. A new Internet infrastructure that enables secure computational exchange.

These are just some examples of the wide variety of projects being worked on by current Ph.D. students in the software engineering Ph.D. program at UC Irvine.

As software continues to transform society in dramatic and powerful ways, we must improve our ability to reliably develop high-quality systems. From early incarnations as just an idea or set of requirements to when software is actually built, deployed and customized in the field, many challenges exist across the lifecycle that make creating software still a non-trivial endeavor today.

The software engineering Ph.D. program offers students the opportunity to tackle these challenges, whether it is through designing new tools, performing studies of developers and teams at work, creating new infrastructures or developing new theories about software and how it is developed. No fewer than six faculty members bring a broad range of expertise and perspectives to the program, guaranteeing a diverse yet deep education in the topic.

A strong core of classes introduces students to classic material and recent innovations. At the same time, we focus on research from the beginning. New students are required to identify and experiment with one or more research topics early, so that they can become familiar with the nature of research, write papers, attend conferences and begin to become part of the broader software engineering community. This focus on research naturally continues throughout the program, with an emphasis on publishing novel results in the appropriate venues.

Why study at UC Irvine?

• Excellence . You will be part of a world-class group of faculty and students who have an outstanding track record of publishing innovative and impactful research.
• Placement . We prepare our students for rich, fulfilling careers — as faculty members in academia, researchers at corporate research labs, development leads all throughout the industry and entrepreneurs starting their own businesses.
• Support . You will join a team that strongly believes that working together is essential to progress. Whether within a research group or across groups, we encourage you to seek advice from and work with other faculty members and students.
• Connections . We host a steady stream of visitors from all over the world to whom you get to talk, demo and present. Moreover, we help connect you with research labs and industry for internships that complement your research.
• Diversity . UCI was founded with a focus on diversity of thought, experiences and ideas. Our department faculty represent a wide variety of disciplinary backgrounds and have in-depth collaborations across campus.

Interested?

We are always looking for talented students to join! To learn more about our work and accomplishments, we encourage you to explore this web site, as well as the web sites of many research labs and centers in the department. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us via our vice chair for graduate affairs or by e-mailing one of the software engineering faculty directly.

Detailed requirements

Please see the catalogue for a detailed description of the requirements of the software engineering Ph.D. program.

• Graduate Application Process
• Past Dissertations
• Ph.D. Research
• Labs & Centers
• Student Profiles
• Graduate Alumni Spotlights
• Coming from Abroad

“For me, the most enjoyable part of doing research is finding myself at the limits of knowledge. Doing research gives you the ability to provide new findings and perspectives on various phenomena.”

Home › All Programs › Software Engineering (PhD)

Home › All Programs › Software Engineering (PhD) ›

Software Engineering (PhD)

Doctor of philosophy.

of All Higher-Ed Institutions

-Center for World University Rankings, 2022

In Best Value Among Arizona's Public Universities

- Payscale, 2022

Quick Facts

College of Engineering

Program details.

The University of Arizona's College of Engineering has launched the Software Engineering PhD degree in response to the high demand for individuals trained in the software engineering discipline. The degree program is critical in driving student success in a rapidly changing world and tackling essential problems at the edges of human endeavor. 

As a student graduating with a PhD in Software Engineering, you will be better positioned to develop the skills and mindsets to be leaders in software development, computing, machine learning, ever-increasing automation and connectivity, human and intelligent systems, data science, and network sciences.

Through the PhD program, you'll demonstrate the ability to design, develop, test, integrate, and evaluate software applications/products/systems in diverse computing and engineering domains. You'll also be able to critically analyze and review published research results and other literature related to your area of study. You'll also demonstrate your ability to articulate all aspects of the research in your software engineering specialization area, describe and defend the significance of your work, explain your research methodologies, and summarize your findings. 

The global software engineering market alone will be worth $64 billion by 2025, and it is a vital part of a larger industry. Some factors behind this growth include increased automation in multiple sectors, the demand for cloud-based solutions, the Internet of Things, and an increased number of devices that can be used in daily life for convenience. Thus, pursuing a Software Engineering PhD will give you a competitive edge in this fast-growing industry.

No GRE is required for this graduate degree program.

A minor is required for this program and will be determined by the student and advisor.

Students who do not have a degree equivalent to the UArizona Bachelor of Science degree in a computing-related program may be admitted into the graduate program but may be required to complete additional graduate-level pre-requisite courses prior to enrolling in some graduate courses. 

Proficiency in one or more programming languages OR one to two years of industry experience in a software-related position is required.

*Residents of some U.S. Territories may not be eligible. Please see our Eligibility & State Authorization page for more information.

Courses for this program include: 

SFWE 502: Software DevSecOps

This course will allow you to explore key principles of a DevSecOps approach to software development. Development (Dev) and operations (Ops) are the union of people, processes, and technology to continually automate and develop higher-quality/more reliable software products faster. Security (Sec) is integrated into a typical DevOps pipeline to address potential security issues in code as soon as possible in the software development lifecycle.

SFWE 503: Software Project Management

In this course, you will learn how to plan, track, and communicate the status of large-scale software projects to a diverse group of stakeholders. Using modern traditional and Agile software development methodologies and tools and emulating a realistic software development project, students will be immersed in the activities used by industry to develop, manage, and monitor software product development throughout the semester. You’ll learn why planning a software project is important, what constitutes a good plan, how to adapt to the unexpected and unknowns that are likely to occur throughout the project development, and how to track and share the status of the project with your team members, other teams, and the customers/business managers.

SFWE 504: Software Requirements Analysis & Test

Learn how to derive and develop software requirements that are measurable, testable, and lead to a compliant software design and implementation. Using industry best practices and tools, you will learn how to elicit, analyze, specify, and validate functional requirements (what should the software system do) and non-functional software requirements (how should the software system fulfill the functional requirements). You will develop software requirement models and specifications that capture the customer/user's needs.

SFWE 505: Software Architecture & Design

In this course, you'll explore different architectural styles and patterns and learn to apply modern processes, methods, and tools in architecting, modeling, and designing software systems. They will also learn the importance of developing a sound software architecture as part of the overall software design.  

SFWE 506: Distributed Computing

In this course, you will explore the unique aspects and considerations required to develop a large-scale software product in a distributed computing environment. Distributed computing refers to a system where processing and data storage are distributed across multiple devices or systems rather than being handled by a single central device. In a distributed system, each device or system has its own processing capabilities and may also store and manage its own data. 

SFWE 507: Foundations of Software Engineering

Gain foundational skills and knowledge used by software engineers in diverse industries. The course introduces you to the different software development lifecycle (SDLC) phases used in developing, delivering, and maintaining software products for a wide variety of applications. Common software process models will be introduced, along with developing an understanding of the importance of defining software requirements, developing software architectures and designs, and the various forms of testing that go into delivering reliable and resilient software systems.

SFWE 509: Cloud Computing Principles and Practices

This introductory course on cloud computing delves into the fundamental technologies and ideas that make up contemporary cloud computing infrastructure. You'll get hands-on practice using cloud service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS, FaaS), virtualization, data centers, cloud management, and essential Linux commands. The course also covers advanced topics such as cloud storage, containers, microservices, serverless computing, cloud security, emerging trends in cloud IoT, mobile clouds, edge computing, and big data processing.

SFWE 510: Cloud Native Software Engineering

This course introduces the design and implementation of decentralized systems with up-to-date software architecture and relevant development frameworks. Topics include inter-module communication, asynchronous processing, security, concurrency, parallelism, and an overview of contemporary enterprise technology and challenges. The course also dives into the development, infrastructure, best practices, and DevOps practices for monitoring and debugging such systems.

Earning your Doctor of Philosophy in Software Engineering (PhD) will build core skills, including:

• Software engineering
• Software Development Lifecycle
• Agile methodology
• Full stack development
• Continuous integration
• Continuous deployment
• Cloud & distributed computing
• Programming language proficiency
• Algorithm design & optimization
• Cybersecurity practices & standards
• Artificial Intelligence
• Machine learning algorithms & approaches

Graduates of the Software Engineering PhD program will be prepared to pursue careers in the following fields, among many others:

• Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning
• Aerospace & Defense
• Space Exploration
• Data Science & Analytics
• Medical Devices Technologies
• Financial Systems & Technologies
• Quantum Computing
• Automotive/Vehicle Networking/Autonomous Driving
• Cybersecurity Analysis
• Engineering
• Systems & Software Solutions Architecture
• Mobile Computing
• Computer Vision
• Cloud Computing/Networking

You may also be interested in

How to Apply

Financial Aid

Keep in Touch

Start the application by logging into the portal

Undergraduates

First time users

Create Account

Returning users

• Costs, Scholarships & Aid
• Campus Life
• Faculty & Staff
• Family & Visitors
• DFW Community
• Galaxy Login
• Academic Calendar
• Human Resources
• Accessibility

Doctor of Philosophy in Software Engineering

Program description.

The PhD in Software Engineering program is tailored to the student. The student must arrange a course program with the guidance and approval of a faculty member chosen as their graduate advisor. Adjustments can be made as the student’s interests develop and a specific dissertation top is chosen.

The software engineering researchers in the Department of Computer Science are focused on issues related to effectively developing large-scale, complex systems. In particular, new categories of applications are emerging such as big data, cyber physical, and autonomous adaptable systems, which continue to drive leading edge research in software engineering on diverse topics. Key research areas include requirements engineering, architecture, design, service-oriented computing, testing and verification, static analysis, software maintenance and multi-agent systems.

Career Opportunities

Virtually all major companies and corporations need software related core competencies. Software engineers are central in developing and making use of these competencies. They work in teams that interface extensively with clients, company executives, IT managers, data scientists, security and domain experts.

Software engineering professionals are creative, highly collaborative, well paid, and in very high demand with employers. Graduates of the program seek academic positions at universities, as well as positions as researchers, senior software engineers and data scientists. Graduates often become industry experts in various fields like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, machine learning and natural language processing.

Marketable Skills

Review the marketable skills for this academic program.

Application Requirements

Test score required:  Yes

Deadlines:  University  deadlines  apply.

Admission Option One

• Degree requirements:  A master’s degree in computer science or its equivalent
• GPA:  Minimum of 3.5
• Test score:  Minimum revised GRE scores of 308, 153, 155, and 4 for the combined, verbal, quantitative and analytical writing components, respectively, are advisable.

Admission Option Two

• Degree requirements:  A BS degree in related area that includes two semesters of calculus and linear algebra.
• GPA:  Minimum of 3.5 in the last 60 semester credit hours.
• Test score:  Minimum revised GRE scores of 315, 156, 159 and 4 for the combined, verbal, quantitative and analytical writing components, respectively, are advisable.

Applicants are admitted on a competitive basis.

Contact Information

Admissions Email: [email protected]

Shyam Karrah Email: [email protected] Phone: 972-883-4197 Office: ECSS 4.704 Website: personal.utdallas.edu/~skarrah

Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science The University of Texas at Dallas, ECW41 800 W. Campbell Road Richardson, TX 75080-3021 Email: [email protected]

cs.utdallas.edu engineering.utdallas.edu

Request More Information

Contact Email

We have received your request for more information, and thank you for your interest! We are excited to get to know you and for you to explore UT Dallas. You’ll begin receiving emails and information about our beautiful campus, excellent academic programs and admission processes. If you have any questions, email  [email protected].

The University of Texas at Dallas respects your right to privacy . By submitting this form, you consent to receive emails and calls from a representative of the University.

* Required Field

Cookie Acknowledgement

This website uses cookies to collect information to improve your browsing experience. Please review our Privacy Statement for more information.

Ph.D. - Computer Science and Software Engineering

Why this degree.

The Doctor of Philosophy program in Computer Science and Software Engineering offers a unique opportunity for doctoral students to develop research and development skills in cutting-edge computer science and software engineering disciplines. We cater to doctoral students with an outstanding aptitude and strong research skills in computer science and software engineering. A dissertation embodying the results of this research represents the major portion of the requirements for this degree. Four calendar years beyond the bachelor’s degree or three past the master’s degree are usually needed to complete the Ph.D. program.

You are eligible to apply if...

• You hold a Bachelor's degree or a master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Cybersecurity Engineering or equivalent from an institution of recognized standing
• Your GPA is 3.0 or above
• Your GRE general exam combined score is at least 300, with a verbal score of at least 150, a quantitative score of at least 150; and a written score of at least 3.
• If you are an international student, your TOEFL iBT score should be at least 79, with a minimum of 16 on each of four component parts (reading, listening, speaking, and writing) or, IELTS score of at least 6.5.

To complete the program you must...

• Take a minimum of 66 credit hours of graduate work past the bachelor’s degree.
• All the courses except COMP8990 must be graded courses, among which three (i.e., COMP7270, COMP7300, and COMP7500) are required core graduate courses for a total of nine (9) credit hours.
• (i) formal COMP courses (minimum 21 credit hours) and/or
• (ii) other elective courses (up to 9 credit hours) at 6000 level or higher is required.
• May take up to six (6) credit hours of directed study (i.e., COMP7930/8930).
• Take at least one additional COMP course at 7000 level or higher (excluding COMP7930/8930).
• Take at least 18 credit hours of COMP 8990 Research and Dissertation.
• (i) the “PhD Qualifying Examination” and
• (ii) the “PhD General Oral Examination”. The PhD Qualifying Examination will be successfully fulfilled by passing the three qualifying exams (i.e., computer organization/architecture, operating systems, and algorithms) or earning a B or higher in required remedy courses.
• Prepare an acceptable dissertation reflecting high achievement in scholarship and independent investigation.
• Pass a Final Oral Examination defending the dissertation.

Doctoral students must meet the following repeating-courses requirements:

• Students who have taken a 5000-level course at Auburn University may not take the 6000-level equivalent for credit.
• Doctoral students may not take more than six hours of Directed Study (i.e., COMP7930/8930).
• Special Topics (i.e., COMP7970/8970) may be repeated provided each entails a change in topic.
• Dissertation and Research, COMP8990, may be repeated, but only a maximum of 18 hours count toward the Ph.D degree.

What can you expect?

• Xiao Qin, graduate program officer — [email protected]
• Clint Lovelace, manager of academic programs — [email protected]
• Faculty Information: http://www.eng.auburn.edu/comp/faculty
• https://www.slideshare.net/xqin74/auburn-csse-graduate-student-orientation

Applying for the Ph.D. - Computer Science and Software Engineering

• Fill out the online graduate application at https://graduate.auburn.edu/prospective-students/application-instructions/ (you will be required to create an account)
• Upload your GRE scores, official transcripts, statement of purpose, resume, and three recommendation letters
• Upload your TOEFL or IELTS scores (For International Students)
• For more information, visit http://www.eng.auburn.edu/comp/academics/graduate

• Skip to content

SoftwareDegrees.org

PhD in Software Engineering Programs

On This Page:

Take your education to the highest peak with our PhD in software engineering guide! This real-world resource will help you understand how doctoral programs in software are structured & delivered. Learn about admissions, coursework, research, and dissertation requirements. Take a closer look at PhD program costs, online learning opportunities, and the career benefits of earning a doctorate in software engineering. And find answers to frequently asked questions from potential students.

Have you already decided on a doctorate? Skip ahead to our state-by-state listings of PhD in software engineering programs !

What is a Doctorate in Software Engineering?

A PhD in software engineering transforms great software engineers into field experts. PhD programs allow students to immerse themselves in advanced focus areas such as software organization and properties, notations and tools, and creation and management. In addition, doctoral students complete original and detailed research in order to become a go-to expert on their dissertation topic.

A doctorate in software engineering is a top-level educational qualification. Professionals who pursue this path usually plan to become university professors, high-flying researchers in major tech companies, and well-paid consultants. Before you commit to 4-5 years of hard work, it’s worth knowing where you’re headed.

Software Engineering PhD Programs: Your Degree Options

Phd in software engineering.

A PhD in software engineering has a two-fold purpose. It hones your ability to engineer efficient and practical software systems. But it also challenges you to consider the theories behind software development, study its applications, and develop new tools. In doing so, you’ll be prepared to:

• Lead research and development teams in advancing software architecture
• Teach software engineering (and pursue tenure) at the university level
• Assume executive positions responsible for top-level software-related decisions

PhD in Software Development

A PhD in software development prepares you to apply advanced problem-solving techniques to the field of software. You’ll design, develop, validate, and maintain large software applications and work with the latest technologies. Like PhD in software engineering candidates, most software development PhD graduates pursue university-level teaching jobs and research-focused industry positions (e.g. senior or principal software developer).

PhD in Computer Science with a Software Engineering Concentration

A PhD in computer science with a software engineering concentration will provide you with the research skills to advance software systems through computational theory, algorithmic research & development, and/or practical design innovations. PhD graduates play a lead role in advancing cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI). They also apply for software engineering & computer science faculty positions at colleges and universities.

PhD Program Overview: Curriculum, Admission Requirements & Costs

Structure & timeline.

Have a look at the curriculum links in our listings to get a sense of how a doctorate is structured. PhD programs in software engineering consist of core courses, electives, research, and a dissertation. They typically take four or five years to complete.

• Years 1-3: At most universities, doctoral students in software engineering complete core requirements and electives in the first two or three years of the program. During this time, you will also select a dissertation topic, develop a proposal, and defend your plan in a public setting. PhD students earn candidate status once the proposal is approved.
• Years 4-5: PhD programs become research-heavy in the final two years. You should expect to spend a couple of years conducting research and writing your dissertation. A faculty advisor will help guide you through the dissertation process, providing advice on topic selection, assistance with research, and prep for your dissertation defense. At the end of the program, you will publicly defend your findings in front of a faculty dissertation committee.

PhD in Software Engineering: Curriculum

Core coursework & electives.

Software engineering PhD programs contain core coursework and electives, with specific credit mandates. Each school will allow you to explore different topics, easing the process of creating an impactful and motivating dissertation proposal. Advisors will tailor your coursework to help you discover and focus on your specialization.

For example, a PhD in software engineering from the University of California Irvine has a 48-credit coursework requirement, consisting of:

• The software engineering core
• Five electives in software engineering topics
• Three courses of individual study and/or thesis supervision
• Additional coursework to fill in credits toward the 48-credit requirement
• Attending dozens of seminars

A PhD in software engineering from Carnegie Mellon features:

• One core research course in software engineering
• Four “star” and two elective courses, each selected by the student
• A practicum
• Two semesters as a teaching assistant serving as an assistant teacher

North Dakota State University’s software and security engineering PhD program contains:

• Six core courses
• One of two focus tracks in either software engineering or cybersecurity, each requiring three courses
• The doctoral dissertation

You’ll notice that some PhD in software engineering courses overlap with subjects that have been addressed in master’s programs. The difference is that doctoral courses are much more in-depth. Top-level coursework completed within PhD programs can include:

• Models of software systems
• Type systems for programming languages
• Cloud and security foundations
• Optimizing compilers for modern architectures
• Global e-business strategy
• Information security and privacy
• Human aspects of software development

Research & Dissertation Preparation

While you’re tackling courses, you’ll also be exploring possible research ideas for your dissertation. This phase of your PhD in software engineering can cover a large range of topics. You may wish to investigate advanced areas in software such as:

• Software architecture and design
• Security and privacy
• Analysis and quality assurance
• Developer tools
• Management and organization of software development

Faculty members will help you break down these general categories into an impactful & targeted research topic for your PhD dissertation. You must receive approval for your dissertation topic before you are allowed to complete the last few years of your doctorate.

Be prepared to hit the ground running. Research work will usually begin in the early stages of your doctoral program. The University of California Irvine and Carnegie Mellon specifically mention working on research projects at the onset of the PhD. Some schools even provide directed study opportunities. Directed study allows you to conduct research under the oversight of a faculty member in preparation for your dissertation.

Dissertation

Software engineering PhD students are required to conduct original research that will explore new territory and broaden the industry’s knowledge of the field. You’ll be expected to present your conclusions & findings in a written and publicly defended dissertation. Carnegie Mellon’s handbook offers a thorough account of the dissertation process, from the proposal to its ultimate defense.

Once you have decided on a dissertation topic, completed your research, and created your dissertation:

• A committee of several faculty members involved in your doctoral work will review your written work.
• You will then be required to defend your findings in an oral presentation. A dissertation defense takes approximately 45 minutes, followed by questions.
• The committee can decide to approve—either with or without corrections—or reject the dissertation.

Wondering what a dissertation in software engineering looks like? Examine the following completed dissertations by PhD candidates at UC Irvine and Auburn University:

• Reusable Method Summaries for Improving Performance of Dynamic Dependence Analysis by Vijay Krishna Palepu (PhD graduate from the University of California Irvine)
• Popularity-Aware Storage Systems for Big Data Applications by Ting Cao (PhD graduate from Auburn University)

PhD Admission Requirements

Admission requirements to software engineering PhD programs vary by school. However, you can expect to see most (if not all) of the following listed in university doctoral admissions guides:

• Master’s Degree in a Related Field: Common MS majors include software engineering, computer science, software development, etc. (Some schools will consider BS applicants).
• High GPA: Universities will usually ask for a minimum 3.0 GPA at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
• Competitive GRE Scores
• Personal Statement:  Universities will want to know about your interests, goals, and/or professional experience.
• Letters of Recommendation
• Proof of Proficiency in English: International students from non-English speaking countries may need to take a IELTS or TOEFL test.

Admission to PhD in software engineering programs is highly competitive, so be aware that schools will be considering other aspects of your background. For example, UC Irvine reviews design portfolios, GitHub profiles, and any relevant writing (e.g. scholarly papers).

Tuition Costs & Funding for Software Engineering PhD Programs

It’s important to note that most PhD programs in software engineering are fully funded. If you are considering a doctorate in a STEM field, be sure to ask if tuition is covered. For example:

• The University of Michigan-Dearborn’s PhD in Computer and Information Science (CIS): Software Engineering Concentration follows the university’s fully-funded PhD model.
• PhD candidates earn a tuition waiver and monthly stipend, plus health insurance, in exchange for their work as a graduate student instructor or research assistant (or both).

Similar arrangements exist for PhD candidates at UC Irvine and North Dakota State University.

If you are unable to find a fully funded PhD program, you may wish to look into filing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid ( FAFSA ) for graduate students, scholarship and fellowship options, and—as a last resort—private loans. Tuition for non-funded doctorates will vary from school to school, but you can expect to see tuition prices range from $15,000 to north of $50,000 per year.

Online PhD in Software Engineering Programs

Software development needs no lab work and few physical references, so some online PhD in software engineering programs do exist. However, virtual doctorates are still far less common than online BS in software engineering degrees and online MS in software engineering programs .

Examples of online doctoral programs in the field include the:

• Online PhD in Systems Engineering at Colorado State University
• Online PhD in Computer Science with software engineering coursework at the University of North Dakota

These are doctorates from regionally accredited institutions with solid brick & mortar reputations. You’ll be able to view on-campus lectures live or watch recordings afterwards. You can discuss your work in virtual meetings with your faculty advisors. And you can fit your dissertation research around other commitments. Be aware that online PhD programs aren’t usually funded—you may end up paying tuition costs of $800+ per credit.

PhD Career Benefits & Opportunities

What can you do with a phd in software engineering.

A PhD in software engineering makes you the world’s expert on your dissertation topic. You will be acknowledged as a specialist in software engineering & development wherever you go. While your expertise in the field awards you some flexibility in the roles you choose to pursue, there are a handful of opportunities that are tailor-made for software engineering PhD graduates.

University Faculty in Software Engineering : A PhD is the standard requirement for tenured faculty positions. Entering the world of academia will involve a number of responsibilities, including:

• Instructing undergraduate and graduate students on software engineering principles
• Developing new course materials to address advances in software engineering
• Writing grant proposals to fund research into new technologies
• Conducting research to expand the field of software engineering
• Writing white papers and presenting at conferences and seminars

Computer & Information Research Scientists : Computer and information research scientists design new computer architectures to improve network technology, increase computing speeds, and advance data security measures.

Principal Software Engineers : Principal software engineers function as a company’s technical and managerial focal point for software engineering projects. They ensure clients’ satisfaction with the end product and provide executive management updates on budgetary and resource constraints.

Executives or Start-up Founders : Executives and founders create and guide a company’s vision by applying in-depth knowledge of software systems and applications. If you find yourself interested in leading a start-up, then it’s likely you’ve created—or are involved with—a new software technology or product with industry potential.

Industry Experts & Consultants : Legislatures and agencies enforce various compliance requirements to ensure data security. Industry experts serve as consultants to develop and modify policies and regulations. You essentially monetize your knowledge by lending your expertise wherever it is needed.

Salaries for PhD in Software Engineering Graduates

General salaries.

Wondering if earning a PhD in software engineering will have a positive impact on your earning potential? Well, according to Glassdoor, the answer is a resounding “yes.” Software engineers with PhD degrees earn an average of $40,000 more than master’s degree earners. In 2023, PhD in software engineering earners averaged $164,835 per year ($130,041 base pay and $34,794 additional pay), compared to $121,158 per year ($101,096 base pay and $20,062 additional pay) for master’s in software engineering earners .

Big Tech Company Salaries

Large technology companies—like Google and Meta—seek out elite software engineers. These firms pay well to recruit the best candidates, so your chances of being hired increase significantly with a PhD.

Specific Job Salaries

Sources : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provided a computer and information research scientist’s salary (updated May 2021). Glassdoor provided all other salary estimates (updated February 2023). Additional pay refers to cash bonuses and profit sharing.

Is a PhD in Software Engineering Worth it?

You’ve reviewed what earning a PhD in software engineering entails, how long it will take, and what it might cost . You’ve considered admissions criteria , carefully reviewing your own background and your odds of gaining entry to a reputable program. Now for the most important question: Is a PhD in software engineering really worth it?

This is a difficult question to answer, as the decision ultimately depends on your professional goals, existing responsibilities, and your budget. To help you decide, we’ve made the case for both sides.

Pros of a PhD in Software Engineering

Earning a PhD in software engineering is worth it if you want to pursue advanced career opportunities that are unavailable to those with an undergraduate or master’s degree. For example, you may wish to:

• Apply for a top Research & Development (R&D) position within global tech companies (e.g. Microsoft or Google)
• Support start-ups who rely on skilled researchers and innovators as they develop new technologies
• Join the academic world in order to lead groundbreaking research while educating future software engineers

If any of the above sound like you, then a PhD in software engineering is worth it.

Cons of a PhD in Software Engineering

Earning a PhD in software engineering is not worth it if you’re not prepared for the obstacles and intense commitment required to complete a doctorate. For example, you may:

• Have existing responsibilities (family, career, etc.) that make dedicating four to five years to a doctoral program an impossibility
• Are unable to secure admission to a fully-funded program and are overwhelmed with the idea of taking on enormous debt in exchange for an advanced degree
• Either have not considered your career goals or are unsure about your interest in the opportunities available to PhD holders

If the above points ring true for you, then a PhD in Software Engineering is not worth it.

PhD in Software Engineering: Frequently Asked Questions

Can you pursue a doctorate in software engineering without earning a master’s degree first.

Yes. Several schools allow bachelor’s degree graduates to apply without first completing a master’s degree. For example:

• University of Texas at Dallas requires a Bachelor of Science in a related field, 3.5 GPA, and strong GRE scores.
• North Dakota State University requires a Bachelor of Science degree, at least three years of full-time professional software engineering experience, and one programming language (C++, C#, or Java preferred).
• Auburn University requires a relevant bachelor’s degree, with computer science, software engineering, and cybersecurity engineering being preferred.

How Long Are Software Engineering PhD programs?

Most doctoral programs require a full-time commitment of four to five years. PhD programs in software engineering are split into two major phases: coursework and the dissertation. PhD coursework requires two to three years of full-time effort. The dissertation typically takes an additional two to three years of research, writing, and defense.

How Are Master’s Degree and PhD in Software Engineering Programs Different?

Master’s degrees and PhD programs are advanced educational qualifications in software engineering, but there are some important differences between them:

• Program Length : A software engineering master’s degree usually takes two years of full-time study; a PhD program requires a full-time commitment of four to five years.
• Coursework : Master’s programs typically require 30 course credits, culminating with a thesis or final project. PhD programs are four to five years long and involve core coursework, electives, and the completion of a PhD dissertation.
• Master’s Thesis vs. PhD Dissertation : A master’s thesis involves analyzing and commenting on existing research in the world of software engineering. A PhD dissertation requires unique research and the development of an original concept. PhD students ultimately contribute new knowledge to the field of software engineering.
• Career Opportunities : A master’s degree in software engineering will provide you with advanced skills required to thrive within software development companies. You’ll be able to apply your in-depth knowledge to create & manage complex software applications through the entire development cycle. A software engineering PhD prepares you to conduct research and educate students within academia or pursue professional R&D positions.

All PhD in Software Engineering Programs

8 Schools Found

Auburn University

Samuel Ginn College of Engineering

Auburn University, Alabama

PhD in Computer Science and Software Engineering

Naval postgraduate school.

Department of Computer Science

Monterey, California

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Software Engineering

Offered Online

University of California-Irvine

Department of Informatics

Irvine, California

PhD Software Engineering

North dakota, north dakota state university-main campus.

College of Engineering

Fargo, North Dakota

PhD in Software and Security Engineering

Pennsylvania, carnegie mellon university.

Institute for Software Research

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Southern Methodist University

Lyle School of Engineering

Dallas, Texas

Doctor of Engineering in Software Engineering

The university of texas at arlington.

Arlington, Texas

Doctorate in Computer Science - Software Engineering Track

The university of texas at dallas.

Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science

Richardson, Texas

Electrical and Computer Engineering

College of engineering, ms in software engineering.

The Master of Science in Software Engineering (MS in SE) is a unique program offered exclusively at CMU’s Silicon Valley campus. It emphasizes a rigorous foundation in the core disciplines of software engineering. The program offers students fundamental knowledge, skills, and first-hand experience in software engineering by balancing theory and practice, engaging students in active learning, and encouraging collaboration on projects drawn from real-world contexts.

Our students enter the program with a strong foundation in computer science. They leave the program with a deep knowledge of software engineering.

Navigation:

> What is Software Engineering? > Core Software Engineering Courses > Research Opportunities >  Networking and Career Opportunities > Teaching Assistantships > Program Expectations > Application Guidelines > Further Information

What is Software Engineering?

Despite overlaps, software engineering is not the same as computer science. Computer science focuses on the foundations of computing (e.g., algorithms, computer architecture, compilers, programming languages, operating systems, databases, machine learning, discrete mathematics). Software engineering focuses on the technical and organizational methods, practices, and tools necessary to develop complex software systems in teams.

Software engineering is about solving real-world problems through effective engineering practices spanning software requirements, interaction design, architecture, technical design, implementation, quality assurance, and delivery. Since the work is done in teams, software engineering is also deeply concerned with effective collaboration and work organization.

^Back to top

Core Software Engineering Courses

The MS in SE program does offer the possibility of taking courses in a variety of computing fields, including computer science, cyberphysical systems, mobile computing,  security and privacy, data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, but   its main orientation is software engineering . The following are core software engineering courses:

• 18-652 Foundations of Software Engineering
• 18-653 Software Architecture and Design
• 18-654 Software Verification and Testing
• 18-656  Functional Programming in Practice
• 18-657 Decision Analysis and Engineering Economics for Software Engineers
• 18-658 Software Requirements and Interaction Design
• 18-659 Software Engineering Methods
• 18-664 Software Refactoring
• 18-668 Data Science for Software Engineering
• 18-671 Foundations of Database Design

Check the program requirements for more information about which and how many of the above courses you need to take to obtain an MS in SE.

Research Opportunities

ECE’s MS in SE faculty conduct research in core software engineering topics as well as complementary areas where software’s role is pivotal. MS in SE students contribute to a variety of projects pursued by the MS in SE faculty and other ECE faculty across both Pittsburgh and Silicon Valley campuses to hone and apply their skills and gain experience in a research context. MS in SE students are able to participate in research activities either for pay as graduate research assistants or for credit by enrolling in ECE’s MS Graduate Project course.

Networking and Career Opportunities

CMU’s Silicon Valley campus is located at the heart of a unique and rich ecosystem with the world’s highest concentration of technology organizations. From startups to giants, software is a central component of these organizations’ business models, delivery systems, and operations. Students have ample opportunities to participate in this ecosystem and Silicon Valley’s entrepreneurial culture via internships, tech talks, meetups, hackathons, and other on- and off-campus career development experiences. These experiences help our graduates build a career path with lifelong networking skills. Our graduates are competitively recruited by small and large companies alike, including Google, Facebook, Microsoft, VMWare, Amazon, IBM, Salesforce, Yahoo, SAP, PayPal, LinkedIn, Coursera, Cisco, NVidia, Tesla, Docker, and many others in the San Francisco Bay Area and high-technology centers elsewhere. Some of our students choose to develop their own business acumen through elective courses, and become entrepreneurs themselves upon graduation.

Visit the Silicon Valley career services page for professional development activities available to students. For job placement statistics, visit the Postgraduate Outcomes dashboard at the CMU Career & Professional Development Center .

Teaching Assistantships

Teaching assistantships are available to high-performing and interested  MS-SE students on a paid basis, typically after their first semester. Being a Teaching Assistant is a great way for students to improve their mentoring, communication, and leadership skills. Students invariably characterize their experience as Teaching Assistants as rewarding and an invaluable addition to their resumes.

Program Expectations

Computing background and experience .

We expect most applicants to have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer engineering, or a related computing field with a sufficient number of foundational courses in computer science and focusing on software (listed below). These foundational topics are not taught in the program: we assume all incoming students have the required knowledge. While we occasionally accept exceptional applicants whose undergraduate is in a non-computing field, this is rare. If your undergraduate is from a non-computing field, we look for (1) evidence of having completed qualifying foundational courses at the college- or university-level in relevant topics (listed below), (2) evidence of significant work experience related to software development, and (3) evidence of strong interest and self-learning to fill in any gaps. Satisfaction of these expectations guarantee that the applicant, if accepted, has a fairly high chance of succeeding in the MS in SE program. It is desirable for the qualifying foundational courses to have been taken for credit as part of another degree (for example, a minor in a computing subject), but we will also accept non-credit courses taken in an extension or bridge program at an accredited higher-level education institution. Transcripts are required showing a numerical or letter grade in either case. Courses with a pass/fail grade do not qualify. 

The list of relevant foundational courses for applicants with a degree in a computing field and relevant qualifying courses for applicants with a degree in a non-computing field are as follows:

• Algorithms and complexity
• Data structures
• Discrete mathematics
• Introductory probability or statistics  
• Computer architecture
• Operating systems
• Web programming
• Object-oriented programming
• Programming languages
• Courses that focus on or teach modern programming languages

Note that the last topic above emphasizes our expectation that the applicant is sufficiently familiar with multiple programming languages and paradigms. If some of the above topics are missing, the applicant should convincingly demonstrate how the gaps are filled through experience, self-learning, and extracurricular activities, addressing the gaps in detail in the essays submitted. In addition to the above, we assume that the applicant possesses (1) undergraduate-level mathematics, engineering, and science background depending on their particular field of undergraduate study; (2) comprehension skills to understand and appreciate the contexts in which complex engineering problems are solved; and (3) analytical, critical, and abstract thinking skills consistent with an engineering orientation at the graduate level.  

Applicants with Job Experience in Software Development or in a Software-Intensive Field

The MS in SE program maintains a strong practical focus without neglecting theoretical foundations. While relevant job experience is not a requirement, applicants who possess a certain level of job experience in software development, either through internships or through post-graduation employment, maximally benefit from the program. Even students with several years of post-graduate job experience benefit greatly. We emphasize that the curriculum is rigorous, and accordingly, we expect all applicants to be willing to (1) learn new skills and concepts, (2) be interested in both theory and practice to acquire a deep level of understanding in the topics taught, and (3) experiment with new ways of working that might potentially be different from what they have been exposed to during their careers.  If you are an experienced applicant who is unsure about the program’s rigor expectations, please contact the program lead. 

Application Guidelines

Please review the graduate applications guidelines page for recommendations on how best to prepare your application package. Please also view the following guidelines specific to the MS-SE program. Following this additional guidance is central to increasing your chances of admission to the MS-SE program:

When listing the courses you definitely want to take:  During the application process, you will be asked to list the courses that you definitely want to take and that you are interested in taking (each applicant can list up to a total of 10 courses). The MS-SE admissions committee specifically looks at this list to determine an applicant's fit to the program. If you are applying to the MS-SE program as your first choice, the courses that you definitely want to take  must all be   selected from the list of  Core Software Engineering Courses  given above to meet the MS-SE program requirements, and must include the mandatory course 18-652. The courses that you are interested in taking can be selected from among the  Core Software Engineering Courses  or they can be any other eligible CMU course.

In your statement of purpose (SoP): Make sure to demonstrate an understanding of what software engineering is, your familiarity with the specific goals of the program, and your interest in the program’s content. I f your main interest is in a specific application domain (e.g., machine learning, data science, cyber-physical systems, security, natural language processing, e-health, autonomous computing, computer vision) or in a computing field other than software engineering, discuss why the MS in SE is the right program for you. You should also explain how your main interests can benefit from a degree with core skills in software engineering. Show awareness of the differences between software engineering and other computing fields in which you have an interest.

In your curriculum vitae or resume:   List software development technologies with which you are familiar, together with level of familiarity ( beginner, intermediate, advanced, expert ), including programming languages, frameworks, tools, main libraries, methods, development practices, and standards.  Provide evidence of skills from courses or certifications taken, from research or academic projects completed, or from previous internships or jobs.

Further Information

If you have questions about the MS in SE program’s goals and content and to find out whether this program is right for you, contact the Program Lead, Prof. Hakan Erdogmus, at  [email protected] with information on your background and interests (you may add your resume to your enquiry).

For questions about the application process and administrative issues, please first explore these pages:

• Graduate Application Instructions 
• Graduate Application FAQ (deadlines, application process, required materials, staff contact email for further questions)
• Tuition and Fees
• MS in SE Program Requirement s and Variations

Additional information about the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE) can be found  here .

Helpful links

To apply, select  Master's  or  Doctoral  from the dropdown, then select  Electrical and Computer Engineering . The list of available programs will then display. You may select up to three programs for which to be considered.

Visit Silicon Valley

Silicon Valley handbook

Kshitij Tiwari Ph.D.

Statement of Purpose (SOP) for PhD programs [FREE Template]

When applying for a PhD program, you must do 2 things as pre-work: 1.) Make sure you are convinced that PhD is the right choice for you ; 2.) Make sure you have identified the ideal supervisor .

Once that much is done, the next step is preparing your application packet to start applying for available PhD positions.

As a part of your application packet, you will be required to write a Statement of Purpose, more commonly known as an SOP . It is a 1-2 page essay of up to 1000 words that tells a story about who you are and why you want to pursue a PhD in the subject you have chosen.

Let us look into how to write an engaging SOP for your PhD program and build a FREE to use template that generalizes for various PhD programs.

DISCLAIMER: The template is meant to help you get started with organizing your thoughts. Using this template, by no means is meant to encourage to copy-paste the same SOP across multiple applications. Use this to structure your thoughts and iteratively improve over the write up.

Table of Contents

What is an Statement of Purpose (SOP)?

Is SOP same as Letter of Intent (LOI)?

How to write an sop for phd, [free] sop template, formatting your sop.

• Should you create a unique SOP for each program?

Key takeaways

What is a statement of purpose (sop).

A Statement of Purpose (SOP) is a narrative essay that outlines your academic and professional background, your qualifications, and your reasons for wanting to pursue a doctoral program. It’s an opportunity to showcase your unique experiences and talents and explain how they make you a great fit for the particular school and program. An SOP should be written in a professional yet personal tone, as it should capture your personality, as well as your academic and work experience.

Short answer : No, an SOP and a Letter of Intent (LOI) are not the same. LOI is more of an outline whereas SOP is an in depth statement.

Long answer : An SOP focuses on your academic and professional background, while an LOI focuses more on personal and professional goals and objectives. An SOP should share how your background and experiences have shaped who you are today and how these qualities will enable you to excel in your chosen field. An LOI should be more detailed and specific, and should include more information about your goals and objectives. Additionally, an LOI should provide an overview of you, your skills, and the value you can bring to the program.

Writing an SOP can feel intimidating and overwhelming. However, there are some steps you can take to make the process easier. When writing your SOP, it is important to be honest and sincere. Start by understanding your purpose, writing a clear outline and identifying the key points you want to make. Additionally, use active language and provide evidence to support your claims. Finally, once you have completed your essay, make sure to edit and proofread it thoroughly before submitting.

When writing your SOP, it is important to create an engaging essay that stands out. Make sure to highlight unique elements of your background and experiences, such as your achievements, volunteer work, awards, and other accomplishments. Mention any research you’ve conducted and any internships you’ve completed. This will show the admissions committee that you are committed to the program and the research it encompasses. Additionally, make sure to tell stories, describe how you overcame challenges, and emphasize the impact your work has had on others.

Below is a free SOP template that you can use to get started on writing your own statement for the PhD program of your choice .

The key thing to keep in mind while writing an SOP is to show evidence how you can build on your prior experience to excel in your PhD. It is possible that you may not have the exact skill set or even prior publications but that’s OK as long as you make a convincing case as to how your broader skills generalize.

Think of it this way- you want to convince the University that if given a chance, you are willing to go the extra mile to make sure you succeed and make their investment in you, worthwhile.

Subject: Statement of Purpose for P h D program at [Name of University] *** Introduction *** My name is [Name], and I am applying to the [Name of Program , mention Term for which you are applying ] at [Name of University]. I am a [field] professional with [X] years of experience in the [relevant field]. In the past, I have worked in various capacities, including [list relevant positions], and I am dedicated to furthering my education and pursuing my passion in the field of [field]. *** Body Paragraph 1 *** In my current role as [role – can be as a UG student ], I am responsible for [ broadly list responsibilities]. In this role, I have had the opportunity to \[list accomplishments\] and \[mention research projects\] that I have conducted. I have also gained valuable insights into the field of \[field\] and the potential impact it can have on society. This experience has reaffirmed my commitment to pursuing a P h D and has provided me with the motivation to continue my studies. *** Body Paragraph 2 *** I am confident that the \[Name of Program\] at the \[Name of University\] is the great place for me to continue my studies. I have been impressed by the \[list qualities\] that \[Name of University/Program /Potential supervisor \] has to offer and I am confident that I will receive the support I need to excel in my studies. *** Conclusion *** In conclusion, I am excited for the opportunity to pursue a P h D in \[field\] during \[term\] and I believe that the \[Name of Program\] at \[Name of University\] is the perfect place for me to do so. With my prior experience, knowledge and dedication, I am confident that I will be successful in my studies and make a meaningful contribution to the field of \[field\].

While most of the programs may not impose rigid formatting guidelines, as a rule of thumb, keep your SOP within 1-2 pages. As for the fonts, try using at least 12 pts to make it easier to read, underline the key takeaways so that the reviewers can get the gist even if they glance through it. For page margins, keep the standard page formatting for an A4/ Letter paper.

Should you create unique SOP for each program?

Yes , it is important to create an individual and unique SOP for each program you are applying to. Each program has its own requirements, and your SOP should be tailored to each specific program.

Additionally, it is important to include information that is relevant to the program you are applying to. This will help you stand out to the admissions committee and demonstrate how you can contribute to the program and the field as a whole.

Having a template at hand should help you save some time but that should in no way be an indicate to copy-paste SOPs across applications as this will diminish your chances of standing apart from the rest of the applicant pool.

Writing an SOP is an important part of applying to any PhD program. To be successful, it is important to be honest and sincere, use active language and provide evidence to back up your claims. Additionally, make sure to highlight unique elements of your background and experiences and tell stories that capture your personality and experience. With these tips in mind, you can create an impactful SOP that will be sure to catch the eye of the admissions committee. Finally, make sure to create a unique SOP for each program you are applying to, as this will help you stand out and demonstrate your commitment to the program.

Related resources

• I consent to the having this website store my submitted information as per the privacy policy so they can respond to my inquiry.

Explore your training options in 10 minutes Get Started

• Graduate Stories
• Partner Spotlights
• Bootcamp Prep
• Bootcamp Admissions
• University Bootcamps
• Coding Tools
• Software Engineering
• Web Development
• Data Science
• Tech Guides
• Tech Resources
• Career Advice
• Online Learning
• Internships
• Apprenticeships
• Tech Salaries
• Associate Degree
• Bachelor's Degree
• Master's Degree
• University Admissions
• Best Schools
• Certifications
• Bootcamp Financing
• Higher Ed Financing
• Scholarships
• Financial Aid
• Best Coding Bootcamps
• Best Online Bootcamps
• Best Web Design Bootcamps
• Best Data Science Bootcamps
• Best Technology Sales Bootcamps
• Best Data Analytics Bootcamps
• Best Cybersecurity Bootcamps
• Best Digital Marketing Bootcamps
• Los Angeles
• San Francisco
• Browse All Locations
• Digital Marketing
• Machine Learning
• See All Subjects
• Bootcamps 101
• Full-Stack Development
• Career Changes
• View all Career Discussions
• Mobile App Development
• Cybersecurity
• Product Management
• UX/UI Design
• What is a Coding Bootcamp?
• Are Coding Bootcamps Worth It?
• How to Choose a Coding Bootcamp
• Best Online Coding Bootcamps and Courses
• Best Free Bootcamps and Coding Training
• Coding Bootcamp vs. Community College
• Coding Bootcamp vs. Self-Learning
• Bootcamps vs. Certifications: Compared
• What Is a Coding Bootcamp Job Guarantee?
• How to Pay for Coding Bootcamp
• Ultimate Guide to Coding Bootcamp Loans
• Best Coding Bootcamp Scholarships and Grants
• Education Stipends for Coding Bootcamps
• Get Your Coding Bootcamp Sponsored by Your Employer
• GI Bill and Coding Bootcamps
• Tech Intevriews
• Our Enterprise Solution
• Connect With Us
• Publication
• Reskill America
• Partner With Us

• Resource Center
• Bachelor’s Degree
• Master’s Degree

Best Doctorates in Software Engineering: Top PhD Programs, Career Paths, and Salaries

The best PhDs in software engineering are a great tool for graduate students who want to earn advanced degrees, elevate their engineering skills, and access high-paying professions. With a software engineering PhD, you’ll be able to work in leadership positions in government, engineering, and education.

If you want to pursue doctoral studies and are looking for software engineering programs, look no further. In this article, we discuss the best software engineering jobs, listing PhD in software engineering salary ranges and prospective job growth projections in the software engineering field.

Find your bootcamp match

What is a phd in software engineering.

A PhD in software engineering is an advanced study graduate degree in software engineering. It focuses on researching and implementing computer systems. Students are required to learn how to analyze the needs of their clients to design and deploy new software.

How to Get Into a Software Engineering PhD Program: Admission Requirements

To get into a software engineering PhD program, you need to complete an online application, pay the application fee, send your official transcripts, and provide GRE test scores. Other admission requirements may include letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a current resume. The requirements will vary by institution.

PhD in Software Engineering Admission Requirements

• Online application and application fee
• Transcripts from each higher education institution attended
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Current resume

Software Engineering PhD Acceptance Rates: How Hard Is It to Get Into a PhD Program in Software Engineering?

It is hard to get into a PhD program in software engineering because these programs are highly competitive. PhD programs require a high academic standing, extensive experience and educational background, and strong references. To accommodate the great amount of one-on-one time students need with professors, PhD class sizes are very small and have low acceptance rates.

How to Get Into the Best Universities

[query_class_embed] how-to-get-into-*school

Best PhDs in Software Engineering: In Brief

Best Universities for Software Engineering PhDs: Where to Get a PhD in Software Engineering

The best universities for software engineering provide high-quality education and prepare you to succeed in your future career.  If you’re wondering where to get a PhD in software engineering, check our list of the 10 best programs, below.

Auburn University (AU) was founded in 1856. It is a public land-grant research university, the second largest in the state of Alabama. AU offers a wide range of PhD programs in education, history, nutrition, and chemical engineering. 

PhD in Computer Science and Software Engineering

This 66-credit PhD program in computer science and software engineering guides PhD students as they develop research and build skills in cutting-edge disciplines. Throughout the program, they learn about advanced topics in algorithms, computer architecture, and operating systems. 

PhD in Computer Science and Software Engineering Overview

• Program Length: 4 years
• Acceptance Rate: Not stated
• Tuition and Fees: $560/credit (in state); $1,680/credit (out of statet)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate assistantships, Merriwether Fellowships, Presidential Graduate Research Fellowships, National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships

PhD in Computer Science and Software Engineering Admission Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Cyber Security Engineering, or equivalent
• 3.0 GPA or above
• GRE score of at least 300, with a verbal score of at least 150, a quantitative score of at least 150, and a written score of at least 3
• TOEFL scores (for international students)

Carnegie Mellon University was founded in 1900. It is a private research university with over 6,000 graduate students enrolled across its seven colleges and independent schools. It offers programs in computer science, business, and electronics engineering. It boasts curious and passionate students who go on to build cutting-edge start-ups and innovative technology. 

PhD in Software Engineering

This degree in software engineering teaches students about computational methods, current policies, and societal and organizational needs. It aims to produce the next generation of software engineering professionals, educational leaders, and problem-solvers in the field.

PhD in Software Engineering Overview

• Program Length: 4-5 years
• Acceptance rate: Not stated
• Tuition: $23,200/semester 
• PhD Funding Opportunities: All applicants admitted to the doctoral program receive full financial support, but there are also many fellowship programs available, such as the Microsoft Research PhD Fellowship, the Siebel Scholars Program, and the Facebook Fellowship
• Online application
• Three letters of recommendation
• Unofficial transcript of all collegiate work completed post-high school

Clemson University is a public land-grant research university. It was founded in 1889 and currently consists of seven different colleges. More than 5,500 graduate students are enrolled across its graduate programs.

PhD in Computer Engineering

This PhD in computer engineering teaches students about computer hardware and architecture, programming systems, software engineering, and signals. Students are required to complete a total of 42 credits to complete this program. Students in the program have the opportunity to work at the SCE&G Energy Innovation Center, an advanced energy systems testing facility. 

PhD in Computer Engineering Overview

• Program Length: 2 years 
• Tuition: $5,056/semester (in-state)/ $10,644/semester (out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate assistantships, Microsoft Research PhD Fellowship, NVIDIA Fellowship, Google PhD Fellowship

PhD in Computer Engineering Admission Requirements

• Online application and $80 application fee
• Unofficial transcripts from each institution attended

Cornell University is a private Ivy League land-grant research university. It was founded in 1865 with the intention to offer high-quality education and contribute in all fields of knowledge. It currently has over 8,800 graduate students enrolled.

PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering

Cornell’s PhD program in electrical and computer engineering prepares students for a successful career in research, teaching, and development across all industries. Graduate students are required to engage in cutting-edge coursework and conduct studies in the field.

PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering Overview

• Program Length: Not stated
• Tuition: $29,500/year
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate assistantships (research and teaching) and fellowships

PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering Admission Requirements

• GPA of 3.5 or above
• Academic statement of purpose
• Personal statement
• Unofficial transcript from each university attended
• Resume 

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) was established in 1861. It is a private land-grant research university with over 6,800 enrolled graduate students. It offers PhD programs in the humanities, social sciences, and STEM fields.

PhD in Computational Science and Engineering

This PhD program requires students to specialize in a computation-related field of their choice. Courses are taught across different departments, including mathematics, mechanical engineering, and materials science and engineering. Graduate students in this program are required to complete 60 credits of coursework and thesis preparation. 

PhD in Computational Science and Engineering Overview

• Tuition: $28,795/semester
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate assistantships

PhD in Computational Science and Engineering Admission Requirements

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent
• Transcripts from all institutions attended
• Statement of objectives

Purdue University is a public research university. It was founded in 1869 and is now the flagship campus of the Purdue University system. It offers over 70 master's and doctorate programs and has more than 10,000 graduate students enrolled.

This PhD in Computer Engineering prepares graduate students to take on real-world problems in big data, cloud computing, the Internet of Things (IoT), and machine learning. This program’s graduates work in industrial research, development, and academia. During their studies, PhD students have access to well-funded research assistantships. 

• Program Length: 4-5 years (6-year limit)
• Tuition: $4,859/semester (in state); $9,401/semester (out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate assistantships, fellowships
• Master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.25
• Transcript from every institution of higher education attended
• Statement of Purpose
• GRE scores (optional)

University of California, Irvine , is a public research university. It was established in the 1960s and is one of the 10 campuses of the University of California System. It has 14 schools, several interdisciplinary programs, and over 6,600 graduate students.

The 48-credit degree program in software engineering teaches students how to design new tools, engage in relevant research in the software industry, create infrastructures, and develop theories about software and its utility.

• Program Length: 6 years
• Tuition: $3,814.00/semester
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Teaching assistantships, reader fellowships, Steckler Family Endowed Fellowship, Google PhD Fellowship 
• Bachelor’s degree with a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0
• English proficiency tests (all applicants)
• Transcripts for all institutions attended since high school

University of Miami (UM) was founded in 1925. It is a private research university with 12 colleges and schools. UM offers 67 doctoral degree programs and has over 6,400 graduate students. 

Graduate students in this PhD program learn about programming languages and algorithms, computer networks, architecture, and digital systems. They must complete 30 credits, pass their qualifying examination, and defend their dissertation to complete the program.

• Tuition: $19,530/semester
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Internal and external fellowships, scholarships
• Transcripts from each post-secondary institution attended
• Official GRE scores with a minimum score of 310

University of Michigan is a public research university that consists of 19 colleges. It was founded in 1817, offers 100 doctoral programs, and has over 16,000 graduate students enrolled. The school offers over 3,000 courses and is ranked third among the leading public universities in the US. 

PhD in Computer Science and Engineering

This PhD program teaches advanced topics in computer science and engineering. The degree supports students in conducting research and writing publishable papers. This program is intended for those who wish to pursue a career in academics, and PhD students are expected to contribute to the field of computer science and engineering through their research. 

PhD in Computer Science and Engineering Overview

• Program Length: 4- 5 years
• Tuition (and Fees): $1,730/credit (resident); $3,132/credit (non-resident)

PhD in Computer Science and Engineering Admission Requirements

• Research interest
• Faculty interest
• Official transcripts from each bachelor’s, master’s, professional, and doctoral degree earned

University of Utah was established in 1850. It is a public research university, and the flagship institution of the Utah System of Higher Education. It offers several programs in biology, computer science, and political science. Its 8,000 graduate students can choose from over 200 degree programs and access $641,000,000 in research funding.

"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"

Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot

This PhD program in computer engineering prepares students for a successful career in the software engineering industry, academia, and government. It teaches advanced topics in computer engineering, such as digital communication and advanced embedded software. Students will conduct research, pass qualifying examinations, and defend a dissertation. 

• Program Length: 3 years
• Tuition and Fees: $1,271.79/credit (in state); $4,517.11/credit (out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Teaching assistantships, ASEE SMART Fellowships, National Science Foundation (NSF) – Graduate Resources, Microsoft Research PhD Fellowship Program
• Master of science degree 
• Personal Statement

Can You Get a PhD in Software Engineering Online?

Yes, you can get a PhD in Software Engineering. However, there are very few software engineering PhD programs available online, as most degree programs at this level require hands-on involvement. It would be easier to find PhD programs in computer science, which will cover aspects of engineering. If you want to earn your PhD in Software Engineering, you’ll more than likely need to be willing to attend an in-person program.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Software Engineering?

It takes four to five years to get a PhD in software engineering. This is the average duration for most PhD programs. Throughout the program, you will complete coursework, sit for qualification exams, and write and defend your final doctoral dissertation.

The first year usually covers core courses. The second and third years are for advanced courses related to the specialization. During the fourth and fifth years, students research and defend their PhD dissertations.

Is a PhD in Software Engineering Hard?

Yes, a PhD in Software Engineering is hard. PhD programs are hard to complete because they’re meant to develop future experts, are highly specialized, and require a lot of independent work. Over the course of five years, students are expected to learn advanced topics in their field, develop cutting-edge, relevant research, write and publish papers, and write final dissertations that dissect original research.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a PhD in Software Engineering?

On average, it costs $19,314 a year to get a PhD in software engineering, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. This value may vary. University prestige, public or private university status, and student resident status are some aspects that affect tuition.

How to Pay for a PhD in Software Engineering: PhD Funding Options

PhD funding options that students can use to pay for a PhD in Software Engineering include research and teaching assistantships, internal and external fellowships, and scholarships. Many universities have internal funding for PhD students, which you can access through the institution’s financial office.

Best Online Master’s Degrees

[query_class_embed] online-*subject-masters-degrees

What Is the Difference Between a Software Engineering Master’s Degree and PhD?

The main difference between a software engineering master’s degree and a PhD is that master’s degrees are focused on preparing students for the job market, while a PhD program is more research-based.

Software engineering PhDs prepare students for advanced careers in research and academia. Master’s degrees are a lower qualification but are often more job-focused. Other differences between these types of graduate programs include career options and the time it takes to complete.

Master’s vs PhD in Software Engineering Job Outlook

The job outlook for master’s and PhD graduates in software engineering are similar since both qualifications make you eligible for similar positions. Even though their salaries are different, both professionals are looking at the same job outlook.

Postsecondary teaching employment, a common professional for PhD-holders, is expected to grow by 12 percent in the next decade.  Meanwhile, employment in web development, a position better fitted for a Master’s Degree in Software Engineering, is expected to grow by 13 percent over the next decade, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Difference in Salary for Software Engineering Master’s vs PhD

While master’s and doctorate students share many of the same job positions, their salaries vary slightly. When applying for the same position, a PhD graduate can bargain for a higher salary with their advanced knowledge and skills. However on average, according to PayScale, a software engineer with a master’s degree earns, on average, $111,000 per year, while a software engineer with a PhD in the field earns $103,000 , annually.

Related Software Engineering Degrees

[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/software-engineering-bachelors-degrees/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/online-software-engineering-degree/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/software-engineering-associate-degrees/

Why You Should Get a PhD in Software Engineering

You should get a PhD in software engineering because the demand for software engineers is high, meaning the salaries are high as well. You can complete a PhD program with full funding, and the program will elevate your career, improve your communication skills, and hone career-specific skills. It also qualifies you for senior positions and to teach at the university level.

Reasons for Getting a PhD in Software Engineering

• Higher salaries. Professionals with a software engineering PhD generally earn more than those who have bachelor’s or master’s degrees.
• Funding opportunities. Most students pursuing a PhD in software engineering are eligible for research and teaching assistantships, internal and external fellowships, and scholarships that cover their full tuition.
• Improve communication skills. Software engineering PhD students are required to research and write papers. They are then required to dissect their findings in conferences and seminars, which builds communication skills.
• Hone career-specific skills. Throughout a software engineering PhD program, students work on their programming, software development, software testing and debugging problem-solving, teamwork, and other career-specific skills.

Getting a PhD in Software Engineering: Software Engineering PhD Coursework

Besides research and writing a dissertation, getting a PhD in software engineering requires completing courses in software engineering research, symbolic mathematical modeling and analysis, and human-focused empirical research. Software engineering PhD coursework also includes topics like design and engineering of software systems and the applications of software in society, business, and policy.

Software Engineering Research

A software in engineering research course is designed to prepare students to develop relevant research skills. It introduces field research strategies, discusses developments that led to current inquiries, and allows students to critique and evaluate research papers.

Symbolic Mathematical Modeling and Analysis

In this course, students engage in research methods that include discrete models, proofs, and software-relevant mathematical topics. The most common areas of study in this course are machine learning, programming language semantics, and formal logic.

Human-focused Empirical Research

This course focuses on behavioral science research methods. It touches on human-based topics relevant to software engineering and includes the study of interviews, case studies, surveys, human subjects experiments, and mining software repositories.

Design and Engineering of Software Systems

The design and engineering of software systems course requires a significant engagement with software design, consideration of software artifacts, and exposure to tradeoffs at the core of software engineering.

Software in Society, Business, and Policy

This course covers ways in which software interacts with problems in society, businesses, and public policy. It focuses on topics like the social web, information security and privacy, privacy engineering, and the foundations of privacy.

Best Master’s Degrees

[query_class_embed] *subject-masters-degrees

How to Get a PhD in Software Engineering: Doctoral Program Requirements

To get a PhD in software engineering, you need to meet your school’s program requirements. These include completing the required coursework, passing the qualifying and candidacy exams, creating a program of study, and defending a final dissertation.

A PhD in software engineering requires the completion of a few core courses in the first year of the program. Once you are done with these courses, you’ll need to be evaluated to continue the program.

At the end of the first year of the software engineering PhD program, students have to pass a qualifying exam. This examination evaluates students on their knowledge in core subjects that they studied throughout the year.

In the second year of study, students enroll in more specialized courses. With the help of an advisor, students create a program of study for the rest of the program, including finding a permanent advisor to guide them through their dissertation.

Once you’re done with the advanced courses, the faculty will have to assess your knowledge in the different areas of your specialization. Students also have to present a preliminary sample of what their dissertation will be. After passing this exam, students are considered PhD candidates.

At the end of the software engineering PhD program, students must present and defend their final dissertation in an oral presentation. Once they pass their presentation, they must deliver a copy of their final work.

Potential Careers With a Software Engineering Degree

[query_class_embed] how-to-become-a-*profession

PhD in Software Engineering Salary and Job Outlook

Getting a PhD in software engineering will give you access to jobs that pay well above the national average and grant you career stability. Career prospects are positive since employment in the field is projected to grow over the next decade.

What Can You Do With a PhD in Software Engineering?

With a PhD in software engineering, you can get a job as a computer and information systems manager, a computer and information research scientist, or a senior software developer. You might also become a database administrator, database architect, or computer science postsecondary teacher. With a PhD, you can access senior roles in the industry.

Best Jobs with a PhD in Software Engineering

• Computer and Information Systems Manager
• Computer and Information Research Scientist
• Software Developer
• Database Administrator and Architect
• Computer Science Postsecondary Teacher

What Is the Average Salary for a PhD in Software Engineering?

The average salary for a PhD in software engineering is $103,000 per year, on average, according to PayScale. This salary average varies with the career path you choose, the industry you’re working in, and the state you’re based in.

Highest-Paying Software Engineering Jobs for PhD Grads

Best Software Engineering Jobs with a Doctorate

Throughout the following sections, we’ll discuss some examples of the best software engineering jobs with a doctorate. We’ll also cover how much they pay, the job outlook, and the highest-paying states for each job.

Computer and information systems managers plan, coordinate, and direct every computer-related activity in their company. They are responsible for making sure the company’s current computer systems can support business goals. 

This position carries a lot of responsibility and can be specialized depending on the specific company needs and your skillset. Your title may be chief information officer, chief technology officer, IT director, or IT security manager.

• Salary with a Software Engineering PhD: $162,930
• Job Outlook: 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 482,000
• Highest-Paying States: New York, California, and New Jersey

Computer and information research scientists create computer software and hardware and improve the existing tech. They work across industries and their main responsibility involves studying and solving problems in computing. 

• Salary with a Software Engineering PhD: $142,650
• Job Outlook: 22% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 33,000
• Highest-Paying States: Oregon, Arizona, and Texas

Software developers create computer applications to help organizations reach their full potential. They oversee the entire development process, from communicating with clients to coding the program, to launching the new software and performing software maintenance.

• Salary with a Software Engineering PhD: $120,990
• Number of Jobs: 1,847,900
• Highest-Paying States: California, Washington, and Maryland

Database administrators and architects create and organize software systems to store and secure information. They evaluate their organization’s software requirements, design database models, code new data architecture, and check for errors and inefficiencies.

• Salary with a Software Engineering PhD: $96,110
• Job Outlook: 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 168,000
• Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Washington, and California

Postsecondary computer science professors teach advanced courses in computer sciences. They may specialize in a field of computer science like software engineering. Usually, they work in the computer science department of a university and teach one or two courses a semester.

• Salary with a Software Engineering PhD: $89,610
• Job Outlook: 12% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 37,800
• Highest-Paying States: California, Oregon, and District of Columbia

Is a PhD in Software Engineering Worth It?

Yes, getting a PhD in software engineering is worth it. With a PhD, you will develop relevant skills for the job market, work on your research and communication skills, and get a high-paying job in the field. A software engineering PhD opens doors for a range of high-paying positions. While most PhD graduates want to pursue a career in academics, you can also choose to work for the government or engineering companies.

Additional Reading About Software Engineering

[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/software-engineering-career-path/ https://careerkarma.com/careers/software-engineer/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/software-engineer-jobs-without-a-degree/

PhD in Software Engineering FAQ

Yes, there are several software engineering events that you can attend for learning and networking. This October, the DotNETOS Conference will take place online, covering .NET 5, .NET 6, and .NET Core for people invested in the .NET community. You can attend for free.

The difference between a software engineer and a programmer is in their focus. Programmers create functional code while software engineers design software from an engineering perspective. Software engineers have to consider end-users and are also programmers themselves.

Some of the best software engineer tools include Adobe Dreamweaver, Gnu Debugger, and Notepad++. A few other popular tools for software engineers are GitHub, Stack Overflow, and Visual Studio.

The top skills for software engineers include programming languages, programming skills, cloud computing foundations, knowledge of DevOps practices, familiarity with the software development process, and strong communication skills.

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .

What's Next?

Get matched with top bootcamps

Ask a question to our community, take our careers quiz.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Social Science
• Psychotherapy

SAMPLE-SOP-Software-Engg

Related documents.

Add this document to collection(s)

You can add this document to your study collection(s)

Add this document to saved

You can add this document to your saved list

Suggest us how to improve StudyLib

(For complaints, use another form )

Input it if you want to receive answer

Carnegie Mellon University School of Computer Science

Scs graduate application instructions.

To apply for admission to our master's and/or doctoral programs, read the following instructions carefully and make certain that you have met all requirements when you submit your application. You can apply to up to three doctoral programs and any of the master's programs .

• If you submit your application early, your recommenders still have until Dec. 11, 2024, to submit recommendations. 
• Note: The MSE, MSE-ES, MSE-SS programs are not following any early deadlines in the application fee is $100.
• Application Fee Waivers:   We expect all applicants to submit payment with their online application. However, note that we do waive the required fee under certain circumstances. For information about how to apply for an application fee waiver, visit the   SCS Graduate Application Fee Waiver Page .
• If you need to take/retake your TOEFL, IELTS and/or GRE for this application, we highly recommend you take the exam no later than Nov. 27, 2024. Reportable scores can take two weeks to process and we may not be able to review any scores that arrive after our Dec. 11, 2024, deadline.
• Each program sets its policy on whether GRE scores are required and which test type is accepted. You can read short descriptions of each program's GRE policy below .
• GRE Institution Code: 2074
• GRE Department Code: 0402
• GRE scores will not be accepted if they are more than five years old.
• If you will be studying on an F-1 or J-1 visa, and English is not a native language for you ("native language" meaning spoken at home and from birth), we are required to formally evaluate your English proficiency.
• We require applicants who will be studying on an F-1 or J-1 visa, and for whom English is not a native language, to demonstrate English proficiency via one of these standardized tests: TOEFL (preferred), IELTS or Duolingo. We discourage the use of the "TOEFL ITP Plus for China," since speaking is not scored.
• We do not issue waivers for non-native speakers of English . In particular, we do not issue waivers based on previous study at a U.S. high school, college or university. We also do not issue waivers based on previous study at an English-language high school, college or university outside of the United States. No amount of educational experience in English, regardless of the country it occurred in, will result in a test waiver. 
• Some of our programs will accept expired test scores from applicants who have recently completed a degree in the United States if the applicant can present a copy of an official score report showing the applicant's picture, not an unofficial score listing. Please consult the information for each specific program you apply to.
• If you have not received a bachelor’s degree in the U.S., you will need to submit a English proficiency score no older than two years. (Test scores taken before Sept. 1, 2022, will not be accepted.)
• Important: Applicants applying to MCDS and MHCI are required to submit scores from an English proficiency exam taken within the last two years. Scores taken before Sept. 1, 2022, will not be accepted regardless of whether you have previously studied in the U.S. For more information about their English proficiency score policies, visit the MCDS or MHCI admissions websites.
• TOEFL Institution Code: 4256
• TOEFL Department Code: 78
• A successful applicant will normally have a total iBT score of at least 100.
• We prefer that you take the TOEFL, but we will accept the IELTS.
• The same restrictions of expiration dates apply with an IELTS.
• An IELTS score of 7 is equivalent to a TOEFL score of 100.
• We accept IELTS scores through E-delivery. Please use the information below when setting up your IELTS scores for delivery to our institution. Account Name: Carnegie Mellon University School of Computer Science Address: School of Computer Science 5000 Forbes Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15213    United States 
• We prefer that you take the TOEFL or IELTS, but if you cannot do that, you may take the Duolingo test.
• A Duolingo score of 120 is equivalent to a TOEFL iBT score of 97-102.
• Be sure to use the same email address as you plan to use when you apply to a CMU program. Also be sure that Duolingo scores are sent to “Carnegie Mellon University – Graduate Computer Science Programs."
• Important:  Make sure to request that Duolingo includes your subscores when they send your test results to Carnegie Mellon University – Graduate Computer Science Programs.
• Additional details about English proficiency requirements are provided on the FAQ page.
• All transcripts must be uploaded prior to submission.
• Since fall grades are not required, upload your transcripts as early as possible.
• We do not require hard copies of your transcripts at the time of application. If you are accepted to a program, you will be given instructions to mail your transcripts at that time. 
• Submit your current resume. It should outline your education, research experience, work experience, publications, scholarships awarded, prizes and honors received, society memberships, and any other extracurricular activities. 
• You must upload your resume in PDF format. 
• Submit a Statement of Purpose.  Each program has specific SOP instructions which can be found inside of that programs application.
• A concise one or two-page essay that describes your primary areas of interest in research, your related experiences and your objective in pursuing a graduate degree at Carnegie Mellon.
• Your essay should be specific in describing your interests and motivations. When describing your research interests, you should explain why you think they are important areas of study and why you are particularly well-suited to pursuing them.
• You should describe any relevant education, research, commercial, government or teaching experience.
• Our review committees in every program value applicants who display persistence and resilience in the face of challenge and adversity, demonstrate a commitment to ethics, show concern for others and for their community, and/or exhibit leadership in one or more endeavors.
• We recommend that you use AI tools only in a limited fashion. They are great for correcting grammar and spelling. They are terrible for expressing your own interests and experiences. Remember that you are solely responsible for 100% of what is submitted in your application. Please consider carefully how you use these tools as the use of them may impact your ability to be admitted.
• Submit three letters of recommendation. Recommenders should know you relatively well and be   able to evaluate the quality of your previous work. At least two should be from faculty or recent employers.
• Letters of recommendation will be requested and submitted electronically. 
• If you submit your application early, your recommenders still have until the final deadline to submit recommendations.
• Application Fee
• Test Scores
• Unofficial Transcripts
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
• Supplemental Information
• SOP Instructions for Specific Programs

Helpful Links

• Graduate Admissions Overview
• Application Instructions
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Master's Programs
• Doctoral Programs
• Program Leadership

Application Deadline

Early Deadline: Nov. 20, 2024   (3 p.m. EST)

Final Deadline: Dec. 11, 2024    (3 p.m. EST)

GRE & TOEFL Codes

GRE Report Codes:

• Institution Code - 2074
• Department Code - 0402

TOEFL Report Codes:

• Institution Code - 4256
• Department Code - 78

GRE Policies for the Academic Year 2024-2025

  Top of Chart

Software engineering (MS)

Software engineering.

• About the Degree
• Degree Requirements
• Career Opportunities
• Course Descriptions
• Software Engineering MS Catalog

Graduate Student Menu

• Newly Admitted Student Information
• Graduate Admissions Information
• Policies, Forms and Procedures
• Course Permission Requests
• Teaching/Research Assistantships, Fellowships and Awards
• SCAI Advising Appointments
• Course List
• Older Handbooks

Software Engineering MS Handbook - 2023-2024

MS Handbook 2022-2023

MS Handbook 2021-2022

MS Handbook 2020-2021 MS Handbook 2020-2021 Addendum

400-Level Course List

500-Level Course List

MS Handbook  2019-2020

M.S. Handbook  2018-2019

M.S. Handbook  2017-2018

M.S. Handbook  2016-2017

M.S. Handbook  2015-2016

The Master of Science in software engineering degree program focuses on developing advanced knowledge and abilities in the design and application of software. Students will learn to apply engineering principles to software development, including design methodologies, operation principles and maintenance and testing approaches.The program involves the application of engineering principles to software development including design methodologies, operation principles, and maintenance and testing approaches. The MS in software engineering degree program is offered on the Polytechnic campus.

The MS in software engineering program builds upon the Bachelor of Science in software engineering program and is aimed at developing professional skills in this discipline as well as providing opportunities for students to engage in and develop research abilities.

Graduate admissions

Deadline dates.

Admission requirements

For questions regarding supplemental materials, such as letters of recommendation requirements or your statement of purpose, contact [email protected] . For questions regarding the online graduate application or the status of documents, please contact Graduate Admissions .

Application requirements

Begin by visiting the  Graduate Admissions  website and completing the Graduate Admissions application and paying the application fee. The fee is nonrefundable and the application will not be processed until the fee is received. In addition to completing the ASU Graduate Admissions application, the following materials must also be submitted to complete your application package:* U.S. Residents:

• One set of official transcripts from every college and university attended, including ASU, unless the student graduated from ASU
• Three letters of recommendation^
• Statement of purpose

International Applicants:

• Academic credentials (all international records must be submitted in the original language accompanied by an official English translation). If you have attended a U.S. institution, one set of official transcripts from every college and university attended, except ASU.
• Official GRE General test scores taken within the last five years.**  See average GRE scores for applicants . The ASU institution code is: 4007. If a department code is required use: 0000.
• Official TOEFL score, taken within the last two years (please see ASU’s English Proficiency requirements ) . The TOEFL score must be valid on the first day of class for the term the student is applying for. SCAI required that TOEFL scores must be above 575 (paper), or 90 (iBT). We also accept IELTS with a minimum overall band scores of 7.0 or the Pearson Test of English (PTE) with a minimum score of 65 or higher. Please see the Graduate Admissions website for TOEFL deadline dates. The ASU institution code is: 4007. If a department code is required use: 0000.

The required materials should be mailed to:

Please include the document reference number on all materials sent. Applications are not evaluated until all required documents have been received.

^Letters of Recommendation are not required for students applying to the Software Engineering MS  program.

Calculus and GPA requirements

Knowledge in calculus is required to be successful in a SCAI Graduate Program. Below you will find the calculus courses that must be completed with a grade of  ‘C’ or better prior to applying to the program.

Below are the minimum GPA requirements for the SCAI Graduate Programs. This GPA is calculated from the last 60 hours of the undergraduate degree. Students who are applying to a PhD following a master’s degree must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 for the last degree awarded.

Deficiency Courses

Please see below for a list of the current Deficiency Courses required for admission. A flowchart showing the progression of coursework is also available  At the time of application there should be no more than three deficiency courses pending.

Software Engineering Deficiency  Course List  and  Flowchart

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. Take the first step today

Here’s your new year gift, one app for all your, study abroad needs, start your journey, track your progress, grow with the community and so much more.

Verification Code

An OTP has been sent to your registered mobile no. Please verify

Thanks for your comment !

Our team will review it before it's shown to our readers.

Sample SOP for MS in CS

• Updated on  
• Jul 27, 2023

How to write SOP for MS in Computer Science? There are certain rules, formatting as well as writing tone and style you should follow while writing your SOP for Computer Science. As it is one of the sought-after courses around the world, universities get an array of applications for MS in CS and it is essential that you write an impressive and well-structured SOP for successful selection. For a Statement of Purpose for MS in Computer Science, you must include your interests, achievements, previous internships or any projects along with your future aspirations, short-term and long-term goals and any research projects that you worked on. Read this blog to find the best sample SOP for MS in CS (Computer Science), important rules, format, PDFs, what to include and more!

Sample SOP for MS in Computer Science

Looking for SOP samples for MS in CS? To help you find the best SOP sample for MS, here are some SOP examples for MS in CS you can use for your MS application:

Sample 2 SOP for MS in CS

Sample SOP for MS in CS without Work Experience

To write an impressive SOP for MS in CS without work experience, you must emphasis on your passion to explore the world of Computer Science as well as your academic credentials and achievements that set you apart from the crowd.

Here is a sample SOP for MS in CS without work experience:

The ever-evolving field of Computer Science has always intrigued me and I learned coding first during seventh grade and leapt into the world of computer programming when I was just 13 years old. There has been no looking back since then as I decided to pursue BTech in Computer Science Engineering (CSE) after graduating from high school. I took part in many data science competitions at the university as well as online and pursued a wide range of online certifications in Machine Learning, Python and Artificial Intelligence to satiate my growing knowledge to learn about the world of computer science.

I was extensively involved in data science seminars and events at the university and decided to apply for a masters in Computer Science directly after graduating. Though I don’t have any professional work experience in this field, I have been in the top 5% of my class during my undergraduate degree and also served as the president of my university’s Robotics society, RoboGyaan and further pursued various internships during the final two years of my bachelor’s degree.

I have always envisioned the world of computer science as a powerful blend of well-known subsets as well as untapped areas filled with humongous potential to change the world. I also assisted one of my seniors during her project focused on how Artificial Intelligence is changing the world which gave me many valuable insights into this domain. My passion to explore the field of computer science can be seen from my academic achievements, online certifications as well as internships that pursued.

Studying an MS in Computer Science, I would like to further delve deeper into this specialisation and gather advanced-level knowledge as well as incremental research skills that can help me thrive in my career. My core aim is to become a Data Scientist and this master’s degree at your university can equip me with the knowledge and skills I need to fulfil my career aspirations .

Sample SOP for MS in CS For ECE Background

Here is a sample you can use for SOP for MS in CS with work experience for ECE graduates:

In the present world that focuses on innovation and computing applications, there is hardly any field that has been untouched by the all-encompassing facets of technology. As a kid, I was always mesmerized by how simple hi-tech appliances made our daily activities smoother and efficient to carry on. As an ardent gaming fan and tech geek, I was always curious in exploring the inner-workings of the daily appliances we use and I would always have a screwdriver box ready to get to the bottom of everything. While I was passionate about the hardware aspects, I got inclined towards programming and coding when I studied computer science as an elective in 12th grade.

Python was the first programming language I learned while I was in school and then went on work on coding and building new data networks from scratch. I decided to pursue BTech in Electronics and Communications Engineering because my passion for electronics was abundant and I couldn’t resist pursuing this specialisation for my bachelor’s degree. I worked on different projects during my internships while I pursued undergraduate studies and these helped me figure out my inclination towards computing technologies.

Before opting for a master’s degree, I wanted to gain prior work experience in this field so I worked as a Junior Data Scientist at FinCorp, which aimed to build a hi-tech AI-blended Finance technology that can automate financial services. After working at FinCorp for over two years, I realised that Computer Science is the core specialisation I want to pursue for MS. That’s when I came across the meticulously structured MS in CS program at your university and decided that it is the right one for an experienced data science professional like me.

An MS in CS will help me get valuable insights into the world of Computer Science, Data Analytics, Network Programming, Algorithms and Operating Systems and much more. I aim to establish a career in research after completing this degree and studying under the guidance of a highly-qualified faculty at your university can equip me with the mentorship as well as knowledge I need to become a successful research scientist.

Sample SOP for MS in Data Science

Sample SOP for MS in Artificial Intelligence

As a kid, I was mesmerized by robots and how they actualised the simulation of the human mind. I opted for Computer Science as an elective subject in my higher secondary which increased my interest in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence and its massive potential in every sector and area of study. Artificial Intelligence can transform everything from medical science and healthcare to mobile technology and education. This is what sparked my interest in AI and its universal applications.

I pursued my undergraduate program in Computer Science to know more about data science and technology and afterwards, when I was wondering about the best specialisation for masters, I picked Artificial Intelligence.

During my bachelor’s studies, I was the head of my college’s Data Science and AI Society where we represented our institution at several intra-college and inter-college competitions. I also build various AI devices from scratch for various college projects as well as won several prizes during data science competitions online and at the university level.

Studying MS in Artificial Intelligence, I want to further gain specialized knowledge of this area of study along with contributing to research at your renowned university. My long-term goal is to establish a successful career in research in AI and utilise its key potential across various areas. This program in Artificial Intelligence will also help me gain useful knowledge and skills to steer towards a successful career and fulfil my research aspirations.

To know more, check out our blog on SOP for MS in Data Science !

Want to find the best SOP for Computer Science or MS in CS? Here is the SOP format you can follow to draft a winning SOP:

Want a Free Career Counselling Session? Register Here!

How to Write an SOP for MS in CS? 

There are a few things that need to be kept in mind when writing an SOP for MS in CS. First of all, organize your thoughts and make pointers before sitting down to write the same. A disorganized mind does not yield a good Statement of Purpose. Always remember, the institutes are looking out for candidates who are passionate about the course they are pursuing. Ensure that you refer to sample SOP for MS in CS before writing your own. A perfect SOP should have 4 key sections which we have elaborated below:

How to Start SOP for MS in CS?

The first paragraph should be smart and creative. Here are the major elements you should definitely consider while writing your SOP for MS in CS:

• Start with an opening line that catches the eye of the admissions committee.
• Add any thoughtful quotation that you have always found inspiring.
• If you have noticed the sample SOP for MS in CS, we have begun with an interesting introductory line and then connected it to the aspirations of the candidate.
• Highlight the most prominent reason why you have chosen to pursue MS in CS in particular.
• Mention what you aspire or aim to achieve through the program.

Second Paragraph for SOP for MS in CS

For the second part of the SOP for MS in CS should talk about your academic milestones and achievements. It’s just a matter of finding the right to glorify the details without sounding arrogant. However, scoring fewer marks and just making the cut is also something you can write about. Take a look at the following things you must add to this section:

• A brief and concise representation of your academic quest.
• Ensure that you are elucidating awareness about your weakness and the lessons you learnt to move towards making better choices.
• Mention that through your previous academic degree you have learnt how to apply knowledge to practical situations that aren’t restricted to written examinations and the marks that go with them.
• Talk about their projects and work experience to highlight what they have learned during the four years in their respective colleges.

Third Paragraph of SOP for MS in CS

If you see our sample SOP for MS in CS, the third paragraph talks about the extracurricular activities of the student. The elements of this section are as follows:

• Understand that institutes prefer students who are all-rounders or have some interests other than their immediate academic work.
• Any kind of volunteer work, internship, research activities or training programs the student was involved in should be mentioned.
• Even with students who have tons of extracurricular activities to write about, they need to be precise about all their achievements, so that they can give a summary of their work without missing any of it.

Fourth Paragraph of SOP for MS in CS

For the fourth paragraph of your SOP for MS in CS, you must start focusing on what you are aiming to fulfil in your career journey.

• It must mention the goals and aspirations of the student.
• Making an effort to understand the university or college and mentioning the core subjects is a good way to show the institute how interested you are in attending their course.
• Research about the professors of CS in the university and their projects for additional references as adding your knowledge about the institution is another good idea since the admissions committee will appreciate your enthusiasm and see how their teachers and the overall program inspire you.
• Be careful not to overstep the line between inspired and desperate creates the wrong impression.

The last and concluding paragraph of an SOP for MS in CS should be just as impressive as the first one. In this paragraph of the SOP for MS in CS, you can talk about how the institute will gain a capable and outstanding student, who will give their all to maintain the stature of the university and succeed.

Quotes for SOP for MS in Computer Science

Here are the best inspiring quotes you can add to your SOP for MS in Compute Science:

• “When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.” –Lao Tzu
• “Do or do not. There is no try.” – Yoda
• “Too many of us are not living our dreams because we are living our fears.” — Les Brown
• “The whole secret of a successful life is to find out what is one’s destiny to do, and then do it.” -Henry Ford
• “Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a wonderful stroke of luck.” —Dalai Lama
• “Knowledge is being aware of what you can do. Wisdom is knowing when not to do it.”
• “The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.” —Ralph Waldo Emerson

See more at Motivational Science Quotes !

What to Include in an SOP for MS in CS?

With the above-given sample SOP for MS in CS, you might be well aware of the tone and style of how an SOP for MS in CS can be written. Now, take a look at the integral elements that you must add to your SOP for MS in CS.

• Elaborate briefly upon academic achievements and milestones .
• Mention why you pursued your undergraduate degree in a certain field and the knowledge and skills you earned from it.
• Talk about extracurricular activities and any leadership experiences .
• Reasons why you chose MS in CS (put the essential focus on Computer Science as the specialisation) and what you aim to gain from it.
• Why you selected the particular university (talk about their faculty as well as any unique feature of the program)
• Write about your career aspirations that you want to fulfil through an MS in CS.
• Previous work experience (if any) or internship or training experience .
• Reflect upon where you see yourself after finishing this course .

Things to Keep in Mind for SOP for Computer Science

Before you set out to draft your SOP for MS in CS or SOP for Computer Science, there are certain elements that you should definitely consider to ensure that it is well-written and detailed enough to inform the admission committee about your interests and objectives behind choosing a masters in Computer Science. Let’s take a look at the essentials you must add in your statement of purpose:

• The SOP for Computer Science should be somewhere around one to one and half a page long . Use a simpler font style such as Times New Roman with no more than 12-point size and 1.5 line spacing . The font size should not be too big or too small because that can make your SOP difficult to read. Remember that the admission committee has to read many SOPs and making sure that your SOP is a simpler read can create a great impression.
• Make sure that the career goals you are describing in your SOP for MS in CS align with the degree program as well as the university’s expertise areas which you can find from their online website.
• Maintain a formal tone throughout the statement of purpose. Avoid using any slangs or humour in your SOP for Computer Science.
• While drafting your SOP for MS in CS, if you are mentioning your prior work experience , you also need to elaborate upon how it will help in the degree you are opting for . Strongly highlight the reasons to explain why your professional experience makes you unique . For this, use storytelling to describe your interests and exposure you got and how it will help you further through your chosen course.
• If you are someone who took some time away in your career for some reasons, the reasons why you took that gap needs a crucial mention in the SOP for Computer Science. Connect it with how an MS in Computer Science will assist you in kickstarting your career after the break.
• While writing about your skills and expertise in your SOP for Computer Science, elucidate them by using examples from your everyday life . Add interesting anecdotes to gather the reader’s and keep it hooked till the end.

The first thing to do before writing the SOP is the collection of points that are to be mentioned. Here are some steps that can help you with the same: Step 1: List all your accomplishments Step 2: Write down your goals Step 3: Make a comparison, classify the data and make changes Step 4: Know all about the university that you plan to join. Step 5: You are now ready to write the SOP for MS in CS.

1. State the reason why you want to pursue this course 2. Make sure you know all about the university and the course you want to join. 3. List your academic performance 4. Write about your previous experiences

Always start your SOP by introducing yourself. Give your academic background and mention how you decided to pursue a particular course.

SOP or Statement of Purpose is an admission essay that is to be submitted while applying for an undergraduate or postgraduate degree programme in universities abroad. Therefore, candidates aiming to study Computer Science also need to write an SOP.

These are a few tricks that can help you write a sample SOP for MS in CS or an SOP for Computer Science. To get more details and assistance in writing the sample as well as the final draft of your statement of purpose, get in touch with Leverage Edu today. After all, the best students deserve help from the best of experts!

Team Leverage Edu

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Contact no. *

Leaving already?

8 Universities with higher ROI than IITs and IIMs

Grab this one-time opportunity to download this ebook

Connect With Us

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. take the first step today..

Resend OTP in

Need help with?

Study abroad.

UK, Canada, US & More

IELTS, GRE, GMAT & More

Scholarship, Loans & Forex

Country Preference

New Zealand

Which English test are you planning to take?

Which academic test are you planning to take.

Not Sure yet

When are you planning to take the exam?

Already booked my exam slot

Within 2 Months

Want to learn about the test

Which Degree do you wish to pursue?

When do you want to start studying abroad.

September 2024

January 2025

What is your budget to study abroad?

How would you describe this article ?

Please rate this article

We would like to hear more.

• SoP Writing
• LoR Writing
• Residency PS Editing
• Residency PS Writing
• Statement of Intent
• Letter of Intent for Grad School
• How We Work
• Testimonials

When Do You Need to Write SoP for Software Engineering?

All the experts from a statement of purpose writing services say that SoP writing difficulties are increasing with every passing day because of adaptations in formats, length, layout and many other steps of it. The selection teams so prefer more concisely written SoPs than the one based on several long passages and more than 1000 words.

Let’s say you have to write a statement of purpose for software engineering, then you’ll be supposed to focus more on showcasing your technical skills instead of praising yourself in the entire SoP. Here are some reasons to write statement of purpose for software engineering program:

• The students who want to seek admission in this program post completing the high school must write the software engineering SoP.
• They need to begin working on this application straight after completing the twelve years of education.
• It is better to start writing this application at least one month before the submission of the credentials for admission.

SoP for Masters in Software Engineering: The Importance We Usually Don`t Know

Like composing the SoP for any other field, one needs to pay equal attention to crafting the statement of purpose of software engineering program. It has a lot of significances. Once you learn the appropriate ways of writing this application, you will be able to create similar SoPs for programs, e.g., SoP for cyber security , Computer Engineering, BS in IT, MS in IT, and other related programming fields.

After writing this SoP, you would be better prepared for the interview. Make sure that you have chosen a good statement of purpose sample for MS software engineering. Secondly, this application can give you more exposure in the respective field. This means that you will definitely get the praises from the admission committee.

A well-written SoP can have miraculous results. All you need to do is to keep it simple that can be easily discussed in the interview session. Otherwise, you would face challenges in explaining the points of self-written SoP. More practice leads to more success. So, keep this in mind and then write.

The Do`s and Don`ts of Writing a Statement of Purpose

We mostly don’t focus on things to do and to avoid while writing a SoP. These points are enough to either make or break your deal. So, think wisely before you pen down anything in the application. Your single word can have an unexpected impact on your selection. Sometimes, the minor errors create trouble for the applicants while defending the points in the interview session. While writing your statement of purpose for PhD in Software Engineering, you must focus on these do’s and don’ts.

• Keep it brief.
• Compose it in a quirky style i.e. use of impactful words/vocabulary
• Follow the top-rated templates to get the ideal final copy.
• Study and study the previously written samples before begin to write.
• Keep your emphasis on the skills and capabilities that can impress the selection committee.
• Go through the procedures of platforms i.e. ICCP.
• Never ask for considering your application again and again. It sounds irritating.
• Do not paraphrase any previously written SoP.
• Don’t use a lot of punctuation symbols. Keep on using full stops and commas.
• Neither make any false claims nor add any untrue information.
• Do not repeat the same sentences by rephrasing them.

Writing a Triumphant SoP: Statement of Purpose Software Engineering for Graduation

There can be various ways of writing a successful statement of purpose. Some applicants even present the GPA waiver to make their strong chances of selection. But writing a good SoP can be enough to do it. Here are some points to make your SoP writing experience memorable and successful:

• It is better to avoid discussing your marks/scores in the previous classes.
• Start with writing the captivating introduction and the conclusion.
• More achievements lead to more chances for selection. Include every accomplishment in different walks of life i.e. silver medalist swimmer.
• Never say that you are the best. It really shows that you are a narcissist. Try to prove yourself by showcasing personal accomplishments.
• Try to keep every sentence concise. This is what that grab the attention of readers towards your application.
• Keep the same length of content under each heading.

Our Help for Writing the SoP

It’s never too late to call us for an urgent SoP writing help . Yes, we can do this for you even before a week of your admission application submission deadline. We are a team of experts who have ample experience in writing different types of job applications. From the authors to the editor specialists, our entire focus is on creating the awe-inspiring content for you.

If you are still unsure about personal abilities to write  production engineering statement of purpose , you need to give us a try. We are sure that you’ll be fully satisfied with the work. The urgent deliveries of tasks are icing on a cake to give you more satisfaction beyond the imaginations. Our services rates are too affordable.

• Our work is based on no plagiarism.
• We have a group of qualified writing experts.
• The data of clients is kept secret.
• We focus on creating quality with timely submission.
• The clients can ask for revisions as many times as they want.

Statement of purpose for software engineering writing isn’t a nightmare for you now. Here is a team of experts who collect a set of instructions from the clients and craft the pro-like SoPs for them. Would you like to employ such team today? You’re definitely not going to disappoint by trying us out.

Get the best help with crafting your statement of purpose for software engineering today!

SOP FOR PHD IN engineering

Are you in search of professional writers who can prepare a high-quality statement of purpose for your admission for PhD in Engineering? With the help of our professional writers, you can spare yourself the time and effort needed to craft a  good quality SOP  for PhD in Engineering.

Every hopeful student with the dream of an overseas career in the technical domain will covet a research fellowship at top universities. Such qualifications will completely refurbish your career and take you to new professional heights. If you are planning to pursue and PhD in Engineering but got stuck at the SOP part, please do not worry. Our excellent writers are here to help you out.

SOP Samples For Masters

Many elements make an SOP strong. Below we share with you a few of them with explanations. Make sure to include them in your SOP for PhD in Engineering. Also, take your time to read the PhD sop sample for engineering courses of different specializations on our website.

Write for your audience

Research aptitude, achievements, the university, sample sop for phd.

In search of the ideal statement of purpose sample for phd? To help you understand, we’ve included a few SOP samples that have been approved by experts. To download free samples, click on the links in the attachments below.

Even if you have all the necessary elements, the process of assembling them to create an SOP for PhD in engineering can be a bit effortful. There is an overwhelming number of things you have to consider when penning each word – the writing style, spelling, grammar, punctuation, and so on. It is best to spare yourself from all the exertions and redirect the energy to other areas of your career.  This is why opting for professional SOP writers is your best shot. With a reputed writing service like us, you will have no reason to worry about such essential details.

Are you Searching for the perfect SOP Samples for MS ? Here we have attached a few SOP samples to make your understanding clear. Click on the below-attached links to download free samples.

We Will Help You With SOP For PhD In Engineering

Even if you know all and have all the ingredients needed for making a delicious SOP, the actual process of cooking one up can be a bit difficult.

We offer experienced writers who will draft professional-quality documents for your admission purposes. The guaranteed premium quality of the content that we write will ensure that your SOP for PhD in Engineering will give you the best chances of securing a research fellowship. We undertake assignments for all types of engineering specializations like chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, and so on.

SOP For Other Countries

Our writers draft every essay to meet your conditions to the word. We involve you in every step of writing the SOP and address all of your concerns. You can rest assured that the final output is of high quality, free of errors, and get delivered on time.

Do you want an excellent document that will present you in the best possible light to your target university?

Contact us if you wish to have a well-written SOP for PhD in Engineering.

Read more about SOP for PhD.

Other Writing Services For Students

+91 98959 02451

[email protected]

Ernakulam Kerala 682028

© 2022. All rights reserved.

Writing Service

• SOP Writing Services
• LOR Writing Services
• Personal Statement Writing
• Admission Essay Writing
• College Application Essays
• Scholarship Essay Writing
• Student Resume Writing

Quick Contact

Description