Master's Programme in Software Engineering, 60 HP
Start of studies
Form of education
Distance, Mixed-time, Half-time
Language
English
Ready to take the next step in your software development career? The one-year Master’s Programme in Software Engineering gives you deeper knowledge, greater responsibility, and the tools to lead and improve modern development processes.
The programme is offered part-time and is designed for professionals already working in software development. This allows you to combine work and studies – and apply your new knowledge in practice right away.
What will you learn?
You’ll develop your ability to create high-quality, efficient software – especially for complex systems and demanding technical environments. The programme includes topics such as:
- cloud-based software development
- machine learning in software systems
- software security
- research methodology
- testing and quality assurance
- modern methods for requirements engineering and process improvement
You’ll gain insight into the entire software lifecycle – from idea to delivery. You’ll learn to analyse needs, plan and build solutions, and implement them in organisations. This gives you a strong holistic understanding and the ability to contribute to innovation and change.
After graduation – what roles are you qualified for?
The programme comprises 60 credits and leads to a Master of Science (one year) in Software Engineering.
With a degree in Software Engineering, you’ll be prepared for roles such as:
- software architect
- team leader in development
- specialist in testing, quality or security
- developer with advanced technical responsibilities
- software engineer in international projects
You’ll also have a solid foundation for further studies at the doctoral level.
Eligibility and proof of experience
To be admitted to the programme, you must have professional experience in software development. You will need to upload a certificate from your employer verifying this experience. Please find the template certificate here doc, 55 kB..
"The teachers always have an open door and an empathic ear to listen to you both as a student and an individual. I feel like I have mentors for life now."
Gauri Vinsha Singh - student
This programme prepares you to develop software that meets the technological challenges of the future – often in interaction with other emerging technologies. You’ll gain advanced knowledge of how to build, test and improve software products, and how to drive development with quality and efficiency.
From idea to delivery
The courses cover the entire software lifecycle – from early requirements and planning to implementation, testing and deployment. You’ll strengthen your ability to see both the big picture and the technical details of the development process.
Technology and methodology in harmony
You’ll gain insights into modern development processes and how to optimise them. The programme combines technical skills with practical work methods – applicable in both small and large teams.
Interested in research?
The programme also includes research preparatory components. This provides a strong foundation for those considering doctoral studies in software engineering.
Note! The course list is tentative. See the programme syllabus for an established course list.
* Elective course
Spring semester 2026
Adaptive Lean Software Testing, 7,5 HP
Product and Requirements Management for Digital Environments, 7,5 HP
Autumn semester 2026
Applied Cloud Computing and Big Data, 7,5 HP
Agile and Lean Development of Software Intensive Products, 7,5 HP
Spring semester 2027
Research Methods and Master's Thesis (60 credits) in Software Engineering for Professionals, 18 HP
Machine Learning Engineering, 6 HP
Introduction to Security in the Software Development Lifecycle, 6 HP
Students who apply for a course or programme, and meet the general and specific entry requirements, compete with one another for available places. When there are more qualified applicants than there are places for an education, the places are distributed through a selection. Read about the selection methods and procedure here.
Evaluations and advisory board
The study programmes at BTH are continuously monitored and developed through yearly follow-up dialogues, course evaluations after each completed course, and programme evaluations. Results from follow-ups and evaluations can lead to changes in the programmes. These changes are always communicated to the students.
Each educational programme is tied to an advisory board that discusses issues such as the quality of the programme, its development, and relevance for the labour market. In the advisory board, or a committee to the advisory board, teachers, external members, students and alumni are represented.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an employment certificate from my employer?
Yes, you can find the template here doc, 66.5 kB.. The document needs to be signed by your employer.
How are timetables structured in this study form? Are there fixed times for lectures?
The lecturers are pre-recorded and available for the students to watch in their own pace. There may be some online interactive sessions.
How much workload I can expect?
The program is conducted on a 50% pace. You are expected to put approximately 20 hours per week.
Do I need to be on the campus?
No. The program is offered 100% on distance.
Bachelor of Science in Engineering or Bachelor of Science in a technical field, including a degree project of at least 15 credits. At least two years of professional experience of software development after graduation (shown by employer certificate). The work experience is expected to include programming skills (shown by employer certificates). English 6.
