There are many engineering disciplines in our universe and several that focus upon computer technologies. However, software engineering is the only area that focuses upon the software development life-cycle (SDLC). Software Engineering is defined as a branch of computer science that deals with the design, implementation, and maintenance of complex computer programs.
The Software Development Life-Cycle consists of planning, design, implementation, testing, documenting, training, releasing, and maintenance and enhancement. Planning includes both project planning and requirements development. Before development can begin an understanding of what the customer and users need must be defined. The design is then created based upon what these requirements describe is needed. The implementation consists of the software engineer developing the code or what is also referred to as “writing code” or just “coding”. This is the most common activity associated with what a software engineer does but only represents about 20-40% of the activities of the SDLC. The software must then be tested and documented to make sure it meets the requirements and is defect free. The software is then moved to deployment where training and support is provided to the end-user. Maintenance and enhancement is the final stage in the life-cycle which require updates to the code, documentation, and integration with other products.
Within the software engineering discipline there are various specialized jobs that can be performed within each of the SDLC areas. Of course, most people like to know how much they will be making as a software engineer. With starting salaries at $54,840, it is the number one paying computer career. The average salary matching a search on Indeed.com for Software Engineering is $91,000.The high range positions can see as much as $132,000 a year. The position is currently one of the most in-demand with a 10-year growth of 32%. There are approximately just over 900K professionals currently employed in the position.
I hope this information has peaked your interest in Software Engineering.
Dale
“The views and opinions expressed in this page are strictly those of the page author (s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of West Virginia University.”
Dale
“The views and opinions expressed in this page are strictly those of the page author (s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of West Virginia University.”