Skills Developed through a Software Engineering Degree

A background in Software Engineering ensures that you develop the skills and mindset to tackle many different professional challenges. Here are just a few of the skills a Software Engineering degree can help you develop:

Core Software Engineering Skills

• A comprehension of the design process of contemporary software systems and the steps involved from planning to execution. This will be underlined by a curriculum focused solely on software, without much focus on hardware design
• A strong comprehension of mathematics, engineering and computer science principles
• An ability to use theory and think critically about the practical application of software systems in real life projects with fellow students and teachers

Communication, Data Gathering and Organizational Skills

• The ability to organize, understand and analyze sources of information and to apply novel forms of technology or new information to different professional settings and tasks
• The capacity to critically analyze problems, think creatively and make sound decisions while considering different sides of an argument
• The ability to explain complex ideas clearly to others and to apply complex theoretical concepts to everyday practice and professional dilemmas
• The skills to collect various types of information, assess them, analyze and incorporate potential linkages from different fields, put them into writing and efficiently convey your message and the goal of your work

Management and Teamwork Skills

• The ability to interpret and analyze information presented by peers and efficiently and constructively support or challenge their proposals, theories, ideas and reports in order to achieve a project’s intended and successful end result
• The capacity to lead and interact with a variety of people with different approaches and personal and professional backgrounds
• Skills enabling you to work effectively in group situations, partaking in decision-making, leading and contributing in various capacities to the ultimate success of the team and task
• The capability to identify priorities and proper courses of action, to plan the execution of tasks and to determine and delegate responsibilities to group members to most effectively carry out projects

Professional Associations and Organizations

Knowing the industry and how to excel in it after receiving a degree are key elements of future success. University study sets up the building blocks you will need to develop and enhance your understanding and knowledge in your career. Being part of a professional organization or network and gaining further insight through training are excellent ways of increasing your knowledge of the field. The following is a selection of organizations related to the field of Software Engineering that you may want to visit as you research career options for Software Engineering graduates.

• Software and Information Industry Association
• Computing Research Association
• Entertainment Software Association
• Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
• York University Lassonde School of Engineering: Software Engineering
• Department of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science: Software Engineering careers