Overview

The M.Sc. in Software Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University provides a rigorous academic foundation in the core disciplines required to build complex, large-scale software systems. This programme is designed for students with a strong computer science background who wish to master the technical and organisational methods necessary for professional engineering excellence. By engaging in active learning and collaborative projects, participants gain the expertise needed to solve real-world problems through disciplined engineering practices.

Why Software Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University?

Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Carnegie Mellon University offers students unparalleled access to the world’s most vibrant technology ecosystem. The programme is uniquely positioned to provide networking opportunities with industry giants and innovative startups. Students benefit from a curriculum that integrates professional-grade AI tools and design thinking, ensuring they are prepared for the evolving demands of the global tech industry. Additionally, high-performing students may access paid teaching assistantships to enhance their leadership and communication skills.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 60400 per year
National fee: USD 60400 per year
Local fee: USD 60400 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on the essential practices of modern software development, from architecture to verification. Modules may include:

Software Architecture and Design
Software Verification and Testing
Functional Programming in Practice
Decision Analysis and Engineering Economics
Software Requirements and Interaction Design
Software Engineering Methods
Software Refactoring
Data Science for Software Engineering

Careers with Software Engineering

Graduates of the programme are highly sought after by leading technology firms and innovative enterprises. The curriculum prepares students for advanced roles in software development, system architecture, and technical leadership. Alumni have successfully secured positions at world-renowned organisations, including:

Google
Facebook
Amazon
Microsoft
Salesforce
Tesla
LinkedIn
VMWare

The programme's location in the San Francisco Bay Area facilitates direct engagement with the entrepreneurial culture, enabling some graduates to launch their own successful business ventures.

Accreditation

The Master of Science in Software Engineering (MS-SE) is a unique program offered exclusively at CMU’s Silicon Valley campus. It emphasizes a rigorous foundation in the principles of software engineering within the context of ECE’s top-ranked Computer Engineering program.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Twisted Signals: Multimedia Processing for the Arts
ECE Sophomore Seminar Pittsburgh

Mathematical Foundations of Electrical Engineering

Computer Systems

Electronic Devices and Analog Circuits

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 18 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-12 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-31 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-15 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

36 alternative credits

Carnegie Mellon has adopted the method of assigning a number of “units” for each course to represent the quantity of work required of students.

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Pittsburgh, United States

Disciplines

Software Engineering View 339 other Masters in Software Engineering in United States

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Academic requirements

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

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IELTS

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

GRE scores
Official transcripts from each university you have attended, regardless of whether you received your degree there.

Current resume.

Statement of Purpose.

Three letters of recommendation.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

60400 USD / year

≈ 60400 USD / year
Out-of-State

60400 USD / year

≈ 60400 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

60400 USD / year

≈ 60400 USD / year

Living costs

Pittsburgh

United States

1148 - 1944 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Software Engineering.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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About

Overview

Accreditation

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Pittsburgh

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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