Software Engineering

The application of a systematic, disciplined, quantifiable approach to development, operation, and maintenance of software is termed as software engineering. Software engineers analyze users’ needs and design, and construct, test, and maintain computer applications software or systems. They use programming languages such as C, C++, Java, and Python to design and develop new computer software systems and incorporate new technologies into newer applications. Professionals in this field must possess strong programming skills, but should be well versed in developing algorithms, and analyzing and solving programming problems than with writing codes.

Courses and Eligibility:

Students can opt for degree courses such as BE/ME/BTech/MTech in software engineering. The basic eligibility criteria to get admitted into BE/BTech in Software Engineering is a 10+2 certificate or equivalent examination, with physics, chemistry and mathematics as core subjects. BE/BTech in Software Engineering is of 4 years’ duration. Admissions to this course are made on the basis of marks secured in the 10+2 exam and in the entrance exams. For ME or MTech in Software Engineering one must complete the BE/BTech program successfully. Besides BE/BTech or ME/MTech, one can also pursue BCA or MCA to make a career in software programming. Admissions to BCA and MCA courses are based on a written test.

Career Prospects:

Computer software engineers are one of the fastest growing professionals. Owing to the robust growth of e-commerce, software programmers can be employed in various industries, in places ranging from corporate houses to public sector undertakings. Public and private sector banks, financial institutions, schools and colleges also require the services of software engineers. Besides, software engineers can also open their own software development firm. They can also run consultancy to develop and repair software according to the requirements of the clients. Teaching in an engineering college is also a very good option. Graduates can also be placed in other fields such as production, research and development.

Remuneration:

A career in software engineering is highly rewarding considering the present status of the IT industry. In public sector companies, the starting salary of a software engineer is Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 15,000 per month. Extremely talented graduates may earn a salary of around Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 25,000 per month in the private sector. Remuneration of a software engineer may reach up to Rs. 60,000 or more depending upon qualification and experience. Software programmers who run their own consultancy firms may also get handsome returns.