New Software Engineering Management Program Announced
As worldwide dependence on software grows, the demand for informed and experienced managers grows. Carnegie Mellon University is responding to this need by introducing the Master of Science in Information Technology, Software Engineering Management (MSIT-SEM) degree. A collaborative effort from Carnegie Mellon's School Heinz School, School of Computer Science, and the Software Engineering Institute (SEI), the new degree program offers a multi-disciplinary view of software engineering that can give managers a unique edge in today's complex marketplace.
The MSIT-SEM degree is a competitive credential that will equip managers for leadership positions within their organizations. The degree couples graduate studies from the School of Computer Science and Heinz School with the professional courses in software process management offered by the SEI, which lead to one or more SEI certificates in Software Engineering Process Management.
"This degree program is different from other MSIT programs because of the integration of SEI-specific courses into the required curriculum," according to Paul Nielson, director and CEO of the SEI.
Students who enroll in the MSIT-SEM degree program complete core and elective courses in computer science, business, and management, as well as professional training from the Software Engineering Institute and a practicum component that provides hands-on learning. The practicum is a key component to this degree program, says Mark Wessel, Dean of Carnegie Mellon's Heinz School. "These projects are for real clients in real organizations. Practicums require the students to apply what they've learned in class—there is no substitute for this experience."
Carnegie Mellon will accept the first class of candidates for the MSIT-SEM degree in 2008. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and have at least five years of work experience in a management position or in an information technology/software development position.
