Computer Software Technology: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Computer Software Technology equips students with the foundational engineering principles and technical expertise needed to assist in the design, deployment, and assessment of software systems and applications. This program emphasizes hands-on learning and practical application, preparing graduates to contribute effectively within software development teams across diverse industries.
- Computer Programming: Core instruction in writing, debugging, and optimizing code using industry-standard development practices and tools.
- Programming Languages: In-depth exposure to multiple languages such as Python, Java, and C++, enabling adaptability across different software environments.
- Databases: Study of database design, management, querying, and integration to support efficient data storage and retrieval.
- User Interfaces: Development of intuitive, responsive, and accessible interface designs that enhance user experience and system usability.
- Networking and Warehousing: Exploration of data communication protocols, network architectures, and data warehousing techniques for scalable system integration.
- Encryption and Security: Training in securing software systems through encryption methods, threat mitigation, and best practices for data protection.
- Software Testing and Evaluation: Application of systematic testing methodologies to identify defects, ensure reliability, and validate software performance.
- Customization: Skills in tailoring software solutions to meet specific client needs, including configuration, modification, and integration with existing systems.
Computer Software Technology Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Computer Software Technology Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Computer Software Technology degrees, including Software Developers, Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers and Computer Programmers. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 2,028,520 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers 15-1252 | $133,080 | $79,850 - $211,450 | 1,654,440 | $63.98 |
| Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers 15-1253 | $102,610 | $60,690 - $166,960 | 199,800 | $49.33 |
| Computer Programmers 15-1251 | $98,670 | $52,190 - $162,090 | 109,870 | $47.44 |
| Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other 17-3029 | $77,390 | $47,010 - $114,630 | 64,410 | $37.21 |
Computer Software Technology Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $68,693 in South Dakota to $137,530 in Washington—a 100% difference. The highest-paying states include Washington, California, and Maryland. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 2,028,520 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Computer Software Technology by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 19 institutions offering Computer Software Technology programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Computer Software Technology is found at Western Governors University (WGU) (63 graduates), Oregon Institute of Technology (OTI) (40 graduates), Sinclair Community College (37 graduates), Sam Houston State University (SHSU) (26 graduates), and Klamath Community College (KCC) (18 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 278 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Western Governors University (WGU) |
Bachelor's
|
63 | Salt Lake City, Utah | Private | wgu.edu |
| Oregon Institute of Technology (OTI) |
Bachelor's
|
40 | Klamath Falls, Oregon | Public | oit.edu |
| Sinclair Community College |
Other Award
|
37 | Dayton, Ohio | Public | sinclair.edu |
| Sam Houston State University (SHSU) |
Bachelor's
|
26 | Huntsville, Texas | Public | shsu.edu |
| Klamath Community College (KCC) |
Associate's
Other Award
|
18 | Klamath Falls, Oregon | Public | klamathcc.edu |
| Rogue Community College (RCC) |
Associate's
Other Award
|
14 | Grants Pass, Oregon | Public | roguecc.edu |
| Mountainland Technical College (MTECH) |
Other Award
|
14 | Lehi, Utah | Public | mtec.edu |
| University of the District of Columbia (UDC) |
Associate's
|
12 | Washington, District of Columbia | Public | udc.edu |
| Duke University |
Master's
|
10 | Durham, North Carolina | Private | duke.edu |
| Zane State College (ZSC) |
Residency
Other Award
|
10 | Zanesville, Ohio | Public | zanestate.edu |
| University of Advancing Technology (UAT) |
Associate's
Bachelor's
|
10 | Tempe, Arizona | Private | uat.edu |
| Cincinnati State Technical and Community College (CSTCC) |
Associate's
|
8 | Cincinnati, Ohio | Public | cincinnatistate.edu |
| Coconino Community College (CCC) |
Associate's
|
6 | Flagstaff, Arizona | Public | coconino.edu |
| Kellogg Community College (KCC) |
Associate's
|
4 | Battle Creek, Michigan | Public | kellogg.edu |
| Oakton College |
Other Award
|
2 | Des Plaines, Illinois | Public | oakton.edu |
| University of Missouri-St Louis (UMSL) |
Postbac Cert.
|
1 | Saint Louis, Missouri | Public | umsl.edu |
| Allegheny College |
Bachelor's
|
1 | Meadville, Pennsylvania | Private | allegheny.edu |
| Weber State University (WSU) |
Other Award
|
1 | Ogden, Utah | Public | weber.edu |
| ATA College |
Associate's
|
1 | El Cajon, California | Private | atacollege.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Computer Software Technology programs
How much can I earn with a Computer Software Technology degree?
Salaries for Computer Software Technology graduates vary by role and location. Software Developers earn a median of $133,080 annually, while Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers earn around $102,610. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in Washington average $137,530 compared to $68,693 in South Dakota. Approximately 2,028,520 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Computer Software Technology programs?
Currently 19 accredited institutions offer Computer Software Technology degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Western Governors University (WGU) (63 graduates), Oregon Institute of Technology (OTI) (40 graduates), and Sinclair Community College (37 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Computer Software Technology growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have increased over the past decade, rising from 145 in 2010 to 278 in 2023-24. This represents a 92% increase overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with steady interest, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Computer Software Technology degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Software Developers, Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers, and Computer Programmers. Related occupations employ approximately 2,028,520 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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