Explore Courses

Master’s in Software Engineering in the USA

Did you know?
One of the most significant developments in software engineering is AI's impact on careers. AI tools like GitHub Copilot and advanced language models have increased engineering productivity by up to 30% at companies like Salesforce. This shift has led to software engineering education gearing towards tool-augmented development, influencing curriculum design & research focus in Master’s programs.

The United States is home to over 1.58 million foreign students, with 1 in 4 coming from India, making it a leading destination for higher education. Master’s degrees are particularly popular, with 79% of students opting for advanced studies. 

In the recent past 194,554 international foreign students secured work authorization through OPT, while 95,384 participated in STEM OPT, and 130,586 benefited from CPT.

If you’re considering a Master’s in Software Engineering in the USA, you’ll be entering a growing field that aligns with the growing demand for digital infrastructure worldwide. With access to the best universities and colleges, advanced research, and excellent employment prospects, studying in the USA provides an advantage in areas like software development, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and system design.

Masters in Software Engineering in the USA: Highlights

The demand for software engineers is rising steadily as businesses shift to scalable infrastructure. CareerExplorer gives software engineering an ‘A’ employability rating, predicting strong job opportunities for the foreseeable future. 

The U.S. is expected to need 260,200 software engineers in the next decade, including 255,300 new positions and 4,900 replacements due to retirements. 

 If you plan to pursue a Master's in Software Engineering in the USA, these key facts will help you understand what to expect from the program. 

Parameters Details
Course Duration
  • 1-2 years full-time
  • 2-4 years part-time
Intakes

 

Course Level

 

Top Universities
Average Annual Tuition Fees $25,000 (INR 21.51L) - $63,798 (INR 54.90L) per year
Entrance Exams Required
  • TOEFL: 80
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • GRE: 320 or above
Eligibility Criteria
Career Opportunities
  • Senior Software Engineer
  • Machine Learning Software Engineer
  • AI Research Engineer
Popular Specializations

A carefully selected university offers not only quality education but also valuable networking opportunities and practical experience. Let's explore some key reasons to study in the USA.

Why Study Masters in Software Engineering in the USA?

Master's in software engineering programs in the USA open the door to exceptional career prospects, leadership, hands-on training, and access to the world's leading technology hubs. The software engineering job market is projected to grow 17% from 2023 to 2033, adding roughly 327,900 new jobs.

Here's why pursuing this degree in the USA can fast-track your career:

  • Job Market: The U.S. has a strong and growing demand for software engineers, with an average of nearly 300 open roles, and a focus on AI-related positions. 
  • Lucrative Salaries: Software engineers earn an average of $123,573 (INR 1.06Cr) per year, with total compensation reaching $156,133 (INR 1.34Cr) when including bonuses and benefits, offering competitive pay in the industry.
  • STEM OPT Extension: As a STEM-designated field, Software Engineering enables international students to apply for a 24-month OPT extension, totaling 36 months of work authorization after graduation.
  • Access to Leading Tech Companies: U.S. universities offer proximity to tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon, providing access to high-paying jobs and internships in top tech hubs like Silicon Valley and Seattle.
  • Cutting-Edge Research Opportunities: U.S. institutions lead in advanced research across AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity, offering opportunities for students to engage in world-class research projects.
  • Comprehensive Curriculum with Co-op Programs: U.S. software engineering programs integrate theory with practical experience through co-op opportunities, giving students hands-on industry experience while completing their degrees.

Now that you understand the benefits of studying in the USA, let's explore some of the top universities that offer exceptional Master's programs in Software Engineering.

Top Universities for Masters in Software Engineering in the USA

Selecting the right university plays a crucial role in shaping your learning experience, career opportunities, and exposure to research. As per the QS World University Rankings 2025, 20 U.S. universities are ranked among the global top 100, showcasing the country's high standards in the education system.

Refer to the table below for a quick comparison of tuition fees, programs, and duration at the top U.S. universities offering a Master's in Software Engineering.

University Program   Tuition Fees  Duration and Deadline
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Software Engineering  

$64,310 per year (INR 55.43L)

 

2 Years

December 1, 2024, for Fall 2025 intake

Stanford University Master’s in CS   $13,040 (INR 11.26L) per quarter 2 Years
December 3, 2025, for Autumn 2026 intake
University of California, Berkeley Master of Engineering in Software   $49,677 (INR 42.90L) (Resident) 2 Years
December 2, 2025, for Fall 2026 intake
Harvard University MS in Computational Science & Engineering   $59,320 (INR 51.22L) per year 2 Years December 1, 2025, for Fall 2026 intake
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) Masters in Software Engineering   $65,622 (INR 56.67L) per year 1.5 - 2 Years
December 15, 2025 for 2026 Intake
Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) MS in Software Engineering   $53,000 (INR 45.77L) per year

1.5 - 2 Years
Early Deadline: November 19, 2025

Final Deadline: December 10, 2025

University of California, San Diego Master of Advanced Studies in Data Science and Engineering   $18,000 (INR 15.54L) 1 Year
July 18, 2025, for Fall 2025 intake
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Masters in Software Engineering   $21,115 (INR 18.23L) per year 2 Years
December 15, 2024, for Fall 2025 intake (closed)
University of Illinois  Master’s in CS   $805 (INR 69K) per credit hour 1.5 - 2 Years
Deadlines vary
University of Washington Master’s in CS   $998 (INR 86K) per credit 2 Years 
Deadlines vary

In addition to these universities, there are other popular institutions offering a Masters in Software Engineering in the USA.

Popular Universities for Masters in Software Engineering in the USA

There are close to 6000 colleges & universities in the US. Knowing these alternatives expands your options and helps you select the best fit based on your personal preferences and goals. For example, universities like Gannon University in the USA are well-known for their reputable Masters programs in Software Engineering. 

Below are some popular universities offering Software Engineering in the USA.

University Program Tuition Fees Duration & Deadline
Auburn University Master of Science in Computer Science and Software Engineering INR 25.63L/yr ($30,756) 1 Year / August 2025 intake
California State University, USA MS in Software Engineering INR 13.72L/yr ($16,464) 1 Year / January 2026 intake
University of Colorado Colorado Springs, USA Master of Engineering - Software Engineering INR 30.43L/yr ($36,516) 1 Year 6 Months / August 2025 intake
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, USA Master of Science in Software Engineering INR 48.10L/yr ($57,720) 1 Year 11 Months / August 2024 intake
University of Advancing Technology, USA Master of Science in Software Engineering INR 22.46L/yr ($26,952) 1 Year 5 Months / September 2024 intake
Gannon University, USA Master of Science in Embedded Software Engineering INR 28.26L/yr ($33,912) 1 Year 5 Months / August 2024 intake
Stevens Institute of Technology, USA Master of Science in Software Engineering INR 32.42L/yr ($38,904) 1 Year / September 2024 intake
New Jersey Institute of Technology, USA M.S. Software Engineering INR 26.56L/yr ($31,872) 1 Year / Not specified

After exploring the top universities offering a Masters in Software Engineering, let’s look at the eligibility criteria for applying.

Eligibility Criteria for Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Germany

The application process for a Master's in Software Engineering in the USA is crucial, as it serves as your first step in gaining admission to prestigious programs. One key aspect of this process is the submission of Academic Transcripts

 

A strong academic record, with a minimum GPA of 3.0, is essential for demonstrating your preparedness for advanced studies and can greatly influence your chances of acceptance. 

Below are additional criteria in the application process.

Requirement

Details

Academic Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering, or a closely related field like Information Technology or Computer Engineering

 

Academic Transcripts Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale of the last 60 semester hours.
English Language Proficiency (ELP)

All International students or Non-native English speakers must provide proof of English language proficiency. 

Competitive Exams
Additional Documents
Visa requirements Passport: Must be valid for at least 3 months after the visa duration.
Must have an official admission letter (Form I-20) from a U.S. university certified by SEVP.
Proof of Funds: $18000 (INR 15.47L) for the first year
Health Insurance: Mandatory coverage during studies, in line with state or university policies.
Visa Application: Complete the DS-160 form and schedule a visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Visa Fee (F & M Visa types): $535 (INR 45,991)

Note: Competitive test scores may vary between programs. Please check the university's official website before applying. 

Now that you’ve seen the eligibility requirements to study a Masters in Software Engineering in the USA, let’s check out the application process.

Application Process for Masters in Software Engineering in USA

Universities like California Institute of Technology (Caltech) have a highly competitive acceptance rate of around 3%. To increase your chances, it is essential to understand the requirements in advance.

The application process involves submitting your application through the university portal with documents like academic transcripts and proof of English language proficiency level. If selected, apply for a US student visa with documents like your passport

Below are the steps to apply for a Master's in Software Engineering in the USA.

Step 1: Research and Select Programs: Before beginning your application, it's important to research and identify suitable programs like SEVP-certified institutions (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) that offer Master's programs in Software Engineering. Also consider factors such as program curriculum, faculty expertise, location, and cost.

Step 2: Understand Admission Requirements: Most US universities require the following for admission to Software Engineering Master's programs:

  • A bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related technical/scientific discipline.
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • Statement of Purpose highlighting your academic background
  • Resume/CV detailing your education, work experience, projects, and technical skills
  • Letters of recommendation (typically 2-3) from professors or employers who can speak to your abilities
  • Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended.

Step 3: Submit Applications: Fall admission deadlines typically range from December to February for most competitive programs while Spring admission deadlines are usually in September-October.

Step 4: Check Application Status: After submission, monitor your application status through the university’s portal. Ensure all additional documents, if any, are submitted on time.

Step 5: Accept Admission Offer: Once you receive the offer, confirm your admission and follow the university’s guidelines to secure your spot.

Step 6: Apply for Student Visa: After receiving an acceptance letter, international students must:

  • Obtain Form I-20
  • The university will issue Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status)
  • Review the I-20
  • Pay SEVIS Fee
  • Keep the receipt as proof of payment for your visa interview.

Step 6: Pre-Departure Preparations: Once your visa is approved, make the necessary travel arrangements to arrive before your program start date. Arrange for housing (on-campus or off-campus) and ensure you have health insurance coverage as required by most universities.

By following these steps and carefully preparing your application materials, you can navigate the process of applying to Master's programs in Software Engineering in the United States. Next, let’s take a closer look at the details of the program..

Masters in Software Engineering in the USA: Course Details

A Master's in Software Engineering in the USA will cover core subjects such as Advanced Software Development, Algorithms, and Systems Architecture, equipping you with practical skills in areas like software design and system optimization. 

In addition to these, you can specialize in emerging fields like Masters in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, and Cloud Computing. 

US universities also provide hands-on experience through capstone projects and internships, allowing you to collaborate with top companies like Google, Microsoft, and IBM. 

Below are the course details for a Master's in Software Engineering in the United States.

Course Type Details
Core Subjects
  • Advanced Data Structures and Algorithm Analysis
  • Foundations of Software Engineering
  • Software Architecture
  • Object-Oriented Software Design
  • Software Verification and Validation
  • Software Engineering Process
  • Programming Languages and Paradigms
  • Software Development Frameworks
  • Information Structures with Python
  • Advanced Programming Techniques
Electives or Specializations
  • Software Agility
  • Advanced Software Design
  • Software Requirements and Specification
  • Software Project, Process, and Quality Management
  • Machine Learning for Software Engineering
  • Cybersecurity for Software Engineers
  • Mobile Computing
  • Cloud Computing
  • IoT (Internet of Things) Systems
  • Database Programming
Other Offerings
  • Capstone Project (team-based software development challenge)
  • Thesis or Research Project
  • Industry Internship or co-op programs
  • Technical & Scientific Writing
  • Professional Development Seminars

Now that you’ve explored the courses and specializations, let’s discuss the costs involved in studying for a Masters in Software Engineering in the USA.

Cost of Studying Software Engineering in the USA

Understanding the cost of studying in the USA helps you plan your finances better. Along with tuition fees, you must consider housing, meals, books, and daily expenses. 

In major cities like Boston, the cost of living in the USA can be higher, while in smaller cities like the University of California, San Diegoyou can spend anywhere between $1,186 - $2,326 (1.2L - 2L per month).

Here is the breakdown below to estimate your yearly expenses for software engineering master's programs in the USA.

Expense Category Annual Cost (USD) Annual Cost (INR)
Tuition Fees $33,700 - $64,310 28.94L - 55.23L
Housing $10,000–$15,000 8.58L - 12.88L
Food $3,000–$5,000 2.57L - 4.29L
Transportation $1,000–$1,500 85K - 1.28L
Health Insurance $3,500 3L
Books, course materials & Supplies $1,400 1.20L
Miscellaneous Expenses (Internet, phone etc.) $4,600 per year on-campus 3.95L

Note: Currency conversions are approximate and reflect the current exchange rate. The living expenses can vary in Universities like MIT, as some expense,s like health insurance, are included in the tuition fees.

You can reduce your financial burden by applying for scholarships available for international students in software engineering programs.

Scholarships for International Students

Studying abroad comes with high expenses, but several scholarship programs can ease the financial load. At MIT, about 58% of graduates received scholarships with a need-based award for students, approx USD $66,663 (INR 57.30L), making funding opportunities critical for applicants. Many scholarships for MIT USA support tuition, living, and travel costs.

Explore the scholarships below to see which ones match your academic level and goals.

Internal Scholarships

Internal scholarships are funded through the university’s resources and endowments. For a Master's in Software Engineering, you can apply for scholarships like the Knight-Hennessy Scholars, which covers full tuition fees, including living costs, health insurance up to 3 years, along with additional benefits.

Here are some other internal scholarships that are highly sought after among international students. 

Scholarship Name

Type

Details

Knight-Hennessy Scholars Full Funding Fellowship

Eligibility: Open to graduate students from all disciplines.

 

Benefits: Covers full tuition, fees, living stipend, travel allowance, & health insurance for up to 3 years.

Siebel Scholars Program Merit-Based Scholarship

Eligibility: Students from a Computer Science background with academic excellence.

 

Benefits: Provides a $35,000 (INR 30.07L) award for the final year of graduate study. 

NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) Research Fellowship

Eligibility: US citizens, nationals or PR pursuing STEM education

 

Benefits: Provides a stipend and education allowance for graduate students in NSF-supported STEM fields.

Alumni Endowed Scholarship Need-Based Scholarship

Eligibility: Alumni of an institution or meeting specific criteria, like financial need

 

Benefits: Provides awards ranging from $10,000 (8.58L) to $20,000 (INR 17.18L) to select applicants.

Now, let’s explore some external scholarship options for students pursuing a Master's in Software Engineering in the USA.

External Scholarships

In US universities, students can also apply for external scholarships funded by the government or foundations. You can apply for scholarships like the Fulbright Foreign Student Scholarshipwhich covers full tuition fees and provides placement services to candidates. 

Below are some top scholarships in the USA for Indian students.

Scholarship Name Type Details
Graduate Fellowships for STEM Diversity (GFSD) Diversity-Focused Fellowship

Eligibility: For students pursuing graduate degrees in STEM courses.

 

Benefits: Offers funding and mentorship along with $20,000 (INR 17.26L) annual stipend 

AAUW International Fellowships Merit-Based Fellowship for Women

Eligibility: Woman, non-U.S. citizen, pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral studies, commitment to women’s empowerment.

 

Benefits: $20,000 (INR 17.25L) for Master’s, $25,000 (INR 21.57L) for Doctoral, $50,000 (INR 43.14L) for Postdoctoral, funding for tuition & living expenses

Fulbright Foreign Student Program Government-Based Offers J-1 visa support, funding for tuition and living expenses, and a health benefit plan for international students.

Scholarships can also improve your access to top-tier job roles after graduation by easing the financial pressure during your studies. 

Career Options after Masters in Software Engineering in USA

Software Engineering master's programs in the USA prepare you for high-demand roles across industries. Approximately 55,742 software engineering job openings were reported in October 2024. driving the need for skilled professionals in this stream. These jobs offer substantial salaries and long-term career stability.

Explore the jobs in the USA for fresher graduates below, along with their average annual earnings, to guide your next move.

Job Title Average Annual Salary (USD) Average Annual Salary (INR)
Software Engineer $123,573 1.6 Cr
Senior Software Engineer $151,978 1.30 Cr
Machine Learning Software Engineer $84,000 72 L 
AI Research Engineer $150,000 1.28 Cr
Software Engineering Manager $200,000 1. 71Cr
Frontend Engineer $138,932 1.19 Cr
Lead Development Engineer $121,499 1.04 Cr
Software Developer $95,617 82.17L

Source: Indeed

Note: Currency conversions are approximate and based on current exchange rate.

Landing these roles relies not only on skills but also on finding the right employer. Some companies dominate the software engineers talent hiring market across the USA.

Top Recruiters for Software Engineering

Companies like Amazon, with 3,201 job openingsGoogle with 922, and Meta offering 360 software engineering roles, are leading recruiters. Other notable companies hiring freshers include MongoDB with 131 positions, Netflix with 251 openings, and Uber with 355 roles, all offering competitive salaries.

Let’s take a look at the table below, which highlights the top companies and the industries in which they are hiring.

Top Recruiter Job Role Average Annual Salary
Meta (Facebook) $179,000 INR 1.54Cr
Apple $161,000 INR 1.38 Cr
NVIDIA $160,217 INR 1.38 Cr
Microsoft $146,136 INR 1.26 Cr
Amazon $142,656 INR 1.23 Cr

SourceIndeed

NoteThe INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate. 

After exploring potential job roles, let’s see how upGrad can assist you in pursuing a Masters in Software Engineering in the USA.

How Can upGrad Help You Study Software Engineering in the USA?

Planning your Master's in Software Engineering in the USA involves strict timelines, paperwork, and specific visa rules that can change by intake. Even a small mistake in your application can cause delays or rejections. This is where expert guidance becomes crucial.

upGrad can help you choose the right universities based on your academic background and career goals. They assist in preparing important documents like SOPs, LORs, and resumes, ensuring everything is error-free to avoid application rejections.

If you're unsure where to start, you can schedule a free one-on-one session with upGrad's experts. They’ll provide practical guidance on university selection, visa requirements, and financial proof, helping you move forward with confidence.

...Read more
  • Level of study
  • Streams
  • Countries
  • Cities
  • Fees
  • Exams Accepted
  • Course Duration
  • Masters
  • Clear All
20 results found

SOFTWARE ENGINEERING (MS)

University of Scranton, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year 2 Months
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Master of Science in Software Engineering

DePaul University, USA

  • DURATION
    3 Years
  • FEES
    INR 56.27L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    JUN 2025
View details

Master of Science in Software Engineering

University of Minnesota, USA

  • DURATION
    -
  • FEES
    INR 18.08L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

Software Engineering, M.S.

Florida Institute of Technology, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Software Engineering MS

East Carolina University, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 15.78L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Software Engineering Systems MS

Northeastern University, USA

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 20.50L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    JUN 2025
View details

Master of Science in Software Engineering

The University of Texas at Dallas, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year 1 Month
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Software Engineering, M.S.

Saint Louis University, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year 6 Months
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

M.S. Software Engineering

New Jersey Institute of Technology, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 26.56L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Master of Science in Software Engineering

Stevens Institute of Technology, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 32.42L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.0
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2024
View details

Master of Science in Computer Science and Software Engineering

Auburn University, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 25.63L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

Software Engineering, M.S.S.E.

West Virginia University, USA

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Master of Science in Software Engineering

Rochester Institute of Technology, USA

  • DURATION
    -
  • FEES
    INR 66.86L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Master of Science in Software Engineering

Cleveland State University, USA

  • DURATION
    -
  • FEES
    INR 35.82L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.0
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

Master of Software Engineering

University of Texas at Arlington, USA

  • DURATION
    -
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

MS in Software Engineering

California State University, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 13.72L/yr
  • EXAMS
    TOEFL-80
  • INTAKE SESSION
    JAN 2026
View details

Master of Engineering - Software Engineering

University of Colorado Colorado Springs, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year 6 Months
  • FEES
    INR 30.43L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

Master of Science in Software Engineering

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year 11 Months
  • FEES
    INR 48.10L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.0
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2024
View details

Master of Science in Software Engineering

University of Advancing Technology, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year 5 Months
  • FEES
    INR 22.46L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2024
View details

Master of Science in Embedded Software Engineering

Gannon University, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year 5 Months
  • FEES
    INR 28.26L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.0
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2024
View details

TRENDING SEARCHES

Universities

Rapidly Growing

Editor's Pick

Also Check

Top Paying

Disclaimer

All information provided on this page is for general use and upGrad Abroad is not responsible for any errors or omissions. The Universities involved in this Program are accredited/recognized in the countries where they are established. Relevant terms and conditions apply.Any action taken upon the information found on this website is strictly at your own risk.

upGrad
Study Abroad Important Blogs