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The Software Engineering Program

Students in the Software Engineering major will take the common Computer Science/Math core, specific courses in their degree, as well as an application minor. Students will learn a variety of languages, design techniques, and foundational methods to give them the ability to constantly improve on future programs and software. This program emphasizes team work and the processes of developing large-scale software projects focused on the end user.

Careers

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor, Software Developers made a median income of $103,560 and System Analysts made a median income of $88,270 in 2017. The need for developers is expected to increase by 24% and analysts by 9% through 2026. A degree in Software Engineering could give you opportunities in positions such as these:

  • Information director
  • Web developer
  • Software engineer
  • Designer
  • Developer
  • Tester
  • MIS officer
  • Network administrator
  • Information technology specialist
  • Teacher
  • Trainer
  • Technical writer
  • System analyst
  • Website designer
  • Data architect

Internships

By participating in internships, students surround themselves with a professional environment while generating experience and future opportunity. While internships are not required in this program, students understand their importance and pursue internship possibilities within Oskaloosa and other surrounding communities. William Penn Software Engineering students have worked as interns at the following local companies:

  • Musco Sports Lighting, LLC.
  • Mahaska Communications Group (MCG)
  • Cargill Corporation
  • Pella Corporation
  • Army Corp of Engineers
  • VGM
  • Wellmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield

Faculty

Steve Rittgers, M.S.

Instructor of Computer Science 641-673-1081 Email

Jonathan H. Stevens, M.Ed., M.S.

Assistant Professor of Applied Computer Science 641-673-1251 Email

It's exciting being involved in a constantly changing field. Our graduates are applying their knowledge in areas as diverse as Financial Services, Communications, Management and Graduate School.

Judy Williams, Assistant Professor of Applied Computer Science

Organizations

William Penn University’s Computer Club (WPC2) opens its doors to all WPU students regardless of major. Members have the opportunity to travel to the annual SIGCSE Technical Symposium to meet with great computer innovators and enjoy a diverse selection of technical sessions and opportunities for leaning and interaction. WPC2 members also participate in Experience Iowa Technology every fall and graduating seniors are inducted into the Pledge of the Computing Professional.

Courses

As a student of the Software Engineering program, you will be taking the following courses:

Computer Science/Math Core courses

  • APCS 205 Algorithms & Programming
  • APCS 220 Computer Organization & Digital Circuits
  • APCS 242 Computer & Network Management
  • APCS 265 Systems Analysis & Design Methods
  • APCS 312 Operating Systems
  • APCS 326 Database Mgmt Information Systems
  • APCS 336 Web Programming
  • APCS 360 Software Engineering Project
  • APCS 390 Professional Development Seminar
  • MATH 140 College Algebra/Trigonometry
  • MATH 211 Discrete Mathematics
  • MATH 303 Statistical Methods (or higher Stats)

Software Engineering courses

  • APCS 114 Business Computer Applications
  • APCS 215 Visual Programming
  • APCS 311 Networks
  • APCS 350 Data Structures & Algorithm Analysis
  • APCS 355 Testing & Quality Assurance
  • APCS 370 Systems Implementation
  • BUSI 230 Principles of Management*Plus and approved minor