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Software Engineering

Software engineering plays a key role in our digital world. It is the application of engineering principles and methods to the software development process.  As a student at OBU, you will learn multiple languages and technologies and apply these skills to all stages of the software life cycle.

A degree in software engineering from OBU will equip you with the principles of theory as well as the practical skills needed to develop high-quality software systems.

Dr. Timothy Darr

Assistant Professor of Computer Information Science

"OBU is excited to offer current and future students a degree in software engineering. This degree provides an immersion into all areas of software development, with enough flexibility to pursue a minor in any area of interest. Students with a software engineering degree will be well-prepared for a career in software development in the industry of their choosing.”

Benefits of an OBU Software Engineering Degree

In-Depth Training

Through OBU's software engineering curriculum, you will learn multiple languages (Python, Java, HTML / CSS / JavaScript) and technologies (data analytics, relational and NoSQL databases, containers, cloud technologies) and apply these skills all stages of the software life cycle: analysis, design, implementation, testing and deployment to the cloud.

Personal and Impactful Learning

As a Christian liberal arts university, OBU offers you a unique well-rounded education that integrates faith in learning. Our professors are dedicated to raising up the next generation of technology professionals who combine the knowledge, experience and virtues necessary to bring about positive change in the world, both today and into the future.  

Our small class sizes provide individualized attention and mentorship which helps you thrive both academically and professionally.  As a software engineer you will have gain competencies and confidence to help you reach your fullest potential when entering the work force.

High Demand for Jobs

OBU’s software engineering program trains students for the growing demands of the technology industry. Because these specific skills are in high demand, software engineers have significant opportunities for employment and long-term careers. The breadth of the skills included in the OBU software engineering degree will position studnets for success in their chosen career.

With companies eager to stay competitive in the rapidly changing world of technology, they are continually investing in positions of employment that can advance their place in the digital age. This is a diverse and varied employment path, where OBU graduates can continuously develop their technical skills and progress in their career. 

Incredible Education, Affordable Cost.

OBU provides a minimum $10,000 per year scholarship to every incoming first-time freshman and $8,000 to every incoming transfer student. And you could qualify for even more financial aid! Many of our students also receive money through federal Pell grants and OBU Bison Grants.

To get an estimate of what your cost to attend OBU might be, please check out our Net Price Calculator. We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised with how affordable an OBU education really is. Especially considering the incredible academic quality, personal mentor relationships with faculty and staff, and strong Christian commitment you will experience at OBU. You won’t find an experience like this anywhere else!

Program Information

Broad Curriculum Scope

Students in the software engineering program will gain a deep understanding of topics such as data science, software development, network security, artificial intelligence, operating systems and information assurance. By prioritizing creativity and technical precision, the curriculum is structured to ensure that you are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the ever-evolving software industry.

Practical Problem Solving

Software engineering requires a varied technical skills base and expert knowledge of programming languages to design and develop software.  It requires a variety of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Overcoming complex challenges is at the heart of this degree, requiring a methodical, logic-based approach to identifying technical issues and improving processes. Software engineers apply engineering principles and knowledge of programming languages to build software solutions for end users.

Internships

Internships in software engineering provide you with valuable real-world experience. These opportunities are of great benefit as you discover what types of specific work you are interested in. While not guaranteed, it is not unusual for internships to turn into full-time employment. OBU faculty work closely with contacts in their professional network to obtain internships for students who are interested and qualified. 

Professional Networking Opportunities

Lydia’s Lamp

Lydia’s Lamp offers a unique opportunity for female students in the School of Business to enhance their future careers through connection, mentorship and knowledge. Founded in 2017, the program connects students with female business mentors who will help guide them through their time at OBU. The program can help build lasting relationships that go beyond their time at OBU and further prepare students for the workforce.

Elijah’s Mantle

This year-long mentoring program will pair you with a businessperson so you can make a meaningful connection in the business world. Elijah's Mantle is an opportunity for male students to connect with industry professionals and receive mentorship and guidance that will enhance their future careers. The program often includes business professionals from various areas of specialty who, in many cases, are OBU alumni.

Board of Executives

The Paul Dickinson School of Business has a Board of Executives that assures our curriculum remains relevant to industry and provides networking opportunities for you.

Leadership and Service

A vital leadership opportunity for business majors and minors is Collegiate DECA. This student club prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management. DECA allows students to enhance their business skills and grow as a leader while networking with college university students and business professionals from around the world. OBU students compete in regional and national competitions through DECA intersecting all functional areas of business.

Job Opportunities and Outcomes

Graduates will be prepared to pursue careers as software engineers, developers, systems architects, or in other roles such as:

  • Software Developer
  • Systems Engineer
  • System Administrator
  • Application Developer
  • Quality Assurance Engineer
  • Project Manager
  • Data Scientist
  • Cyber security analyst
  • Information systems manager
  • Multimedia programmer

Program Options

Bachelor of Science (BS)

  • Software Engineering

Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)

World-Class Faculty

OBU faculty are experts in their fields and will be with you every step of the way.

Dr. David Houghton

Dr. David Houghton

Chair, School of Business
Lloyd G. and Betty E. Minter Chair of Business
Professor of Business
Director, MBA Program

Dr. Timothy Darr

Dr. Timothy Darr

Lawrence Peitz Chair of Business
Assistant Professor of Computer Information Science