College of Liberal Arts & Sciences

Iowa State University
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College of Liberal Arts & Sciences

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
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For more information contact:
Gloria Cain
Academic Advisor
College of Liberal Arts & Sciences
213 Atanasoff Hall
Ames, Iowa 50011
515.294.6607
gcain@iastate.edu

For more information contact:
Vicky Thorland-Oster
Academic Advisor
College of Engineering
214 Nuclear Engineering Building
Ames, Iowa 50011
515.294.8778
vithorl@iastate.edu

Software Engineering

Software engineers use their expertise in computer science, engineering, and math to design, develop, and evaluate software for companies that configure and install complete computer systems. The specific tasks software engineers perform evolve quickly, reflecting changes in technology as well as the needs of employers. They work as members of teams that may include engineering, marketing, manufacturing, and design people, who work together until a product is released.

The demand for software engineering graduates is strong. Rapid employment growth is expected for several years, which should result in good opportunities for college graduates. The average starting salary, according to the U.S. Department of Labor, is about $60,000.

  • Fast Facts
    Software engineering is projected to remain one of the fastest growing career fields. Rapid growth will mean good opportunities for college graduates.

    More than 800,000 persons were employed as computer software engineers in 2005, mostly for medium to large-sized firms. A growing number are becoming self-employed as consultants, however.

    The median average salary for full-time software engineers was about $80,000 in 2005. The average starting salary offer to graduates with a bachelor’s degree was more than $60,000.

    *Source: U.S Dept. of Labor

    NEWS: Software Engineering Chair established in Department of Computer Science. News Release

Air Force Aerospace Studies - Anthropology - Biochemistry, Biophysics & Molecular Biology - Chemistry - Computer Science
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Classical Studies - Communication Studies - Criminal Justice Studies - Environmental Science - Environmental Studies - Interdisciplinary Studies
International Studies - Liberal Studies - Linguistics - Software Engineering - Speech Communication - U.S. Latino/a Studies - Women's Studies