What do you do as a Systems Engineer in the Software Field?
System engineering is a profession on a steady rise. If you are looking to take the next big step in this profession, pursuing an M.S. degree in systems engineering could open up your opportunities and equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to be a valuable asset in this industry. System engineering in the software field is particularly exciting with software becoming an integral part of every aspect of our lives.
From the most precise financial calculation to our wearable devices and home appliances, software is everywhere. It is, therefore, no surprise that the global software market is expected to exceed $575 billion by 2024. It is an exciting period for people looking to join or progress in this career path. Let us look back at what it means to be a software engineer in the software field.
What is System Engineering all about?
System engineering plays a critical role in the efficiency, growth and success of many businesses across different industries. It is a multidisciplinary, meaning it derives insights from a host of many fields of study to attain a unified set of objectives. As a practice, it lays the foundation for the conception and production of systems with a goal of realizing valuable operations.
According to the International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE), the origin of system engineering can be traced back to Bell Telephone Laboratories during World War II in the 1940s. With constantly evolving needs, technology and principles, the discipline has come a long way.
Today, system engineering is a process that involves using consumer needs to identify a problem and then develop a solution that is carefully re-evaluated throughout its implementation. System engineers employ an interdisciplinary approach to translate technical needs into cohesive systematic processes. This requires them to become a buffer between the project manager and the engineering team combining the technical side of a system with the theoretical guidelines of system engineering.
What is the Role of a Systems Engineer in the Software Field?
In this age, it is virtually impossible to spend an hour without interacting with software. Additionally, software does not operate in a vacuum. They are constantly communicating, recording and retrieving data from other devices and from the users. This interconnectivity means that there are thousands if not millions of interactions with and by the software. These interactions can develop unexpected patterns and properties. This is where the system engineer steps in.
A system engineer in the software field ensures that every aspect of software, right from how it is designed to how it performs, is beneficial to the end user. They combine the technical side of the software with the theoretical guidelines in system engineering to arrive at a system that meets the needs of its users.
Your role as a systems engineer is more of discovery rather than manufacturing. You have a responsibility to be on the lookout for any inefficiencies or discrepancies in a system and proceed to solve those issues. As a system engineer, you will be required to solve many different problems such as, testing and evaluation, logistics, engineering requirements and reliability. You are also required to apply principles of systems thinking in order to organize and optimize system knowledge.
However, many people often confuse software developers and engineers. The main difference between these two professions is the level of education and training requirements. Due to the need to apply various disciplines such as engineering, software design and management, a systems engineer requires a higher level of education and training.
It follows that if you already have a Bachelor’s degree, pursuing a Master of Science in Systems Engineering with a concentration in Software Engineering is the next logical step.
How Will You Benefit From a Master's Degree in this Field?
Systems are continually evolving by the day. As such, system engineers in the software field have a responsibility to ensure that software and systems evolve as they should and continue to serve the end user needs. A master’s degree in systems engineering could equip you for a wider range of opportunities in areas such as software design, software construction, data mining, quality assurance and artificial intelligence just to name a few. It could also allow you to take up higher positions in career fields such as industry, government, and business.
The program works to empower students to combine the perspectives of systems engineering and software engineering. It might help you go beyond software “recipes” and help you dive deep into the principles and theories that make systems work. With a master’s degree, you could distinguish yourself as a leading expert in software systems engineering.
Are You Ready for Your Next Step?
Do you want to take that next step and earn a Master of Science Degree in Systems Engineering with a concentration in Software Engineering? Our accelerated program allows you to earn your degree in a short time, under a flexible schedule all while equipping you with necessary skills to excel in this career. For more information, connect with our friendly admissions advisors today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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