Student perfects software to boost signal strength

A Software Engineer
in the Making

Software engineering is a key component in all that is surrounding you, impacting every part of your life. It’s in your cell phones, vehicles, homes and cities. Even in agricultural machinery, hospitals and agile factories, software engineers pave the way to higher productivity.

  • 92%

    employed or continuing education within six months of graduation


  • $85,000

    average starting annual salary
     


  • $29/hr

    average earnings for internships and co-ops
     

A competitive advantage

Iowa State Engineers get hired. And we’re here to help connect you to internships and full-time jobs.

  • 1,400 employers recruit engineering students each year
  • One-on-one career advising
  • Networking opportunities

Engineering Career Services

Community and Support

College is more than just academics. Join the community and you’ll find friends, new perspectives and experiences—and support.

  • Learning communites
  • Clubs and student organizations
  • Support resources and groups

Student life and campus communities

So… what’s the difference?

Iowa State offers four computing-related engineering majors:
Computer, Cyber Security, Electrical and Software

Greg Carter, software engineering student

The people here move for you. They don’t just tell you to do something, they show you the path to success.

Greg Carter, software engineering

What can I study?

Software engineers deliver projects through planning, designing and testing software. At each stage of product development, software engineers ensure programs are correct and reliable and interact seamlessly with technology and hardware developed by other engineers. Emerging trends support software reuse to enhance productivity. This requires abstraction layers that make software agnostic to the underlying hardware and systems. Not only does Iowa State University’s software engineering program prepare you for the existing world of software engineering, but we also work to foster skills necessary to learn and adapt to the future landscape of this discipline.

Four-year course plan

For the 2024-25 academic year, our software engineering students preferred these minors:

Software Engineering at Iowa State

One of the earliest developed programs in the country, our software engineering degree program continues to receive top rankings. As the largest computing major on campus, we offer fast-growing career options which afford students opportunities through impressive post-graduation job placement rates and salaries with top companies worldwide.

  • Learn Multiple Skills

  • Hands-on Experience

  • Career Demand and Options

Code to Innovate

Software is everywhere. As the key component in all surrounding you, software impacts every part of your life. It’s in your cell phones, vehicles, homes and cities. Even in agricultural machinery, hospitals and agile factories, software is paving the way to higher productivity. It is at the heart of what makes our world more efficient and connected every day.

Each year, Iowa State awards millions of dollars in scholarships to students. Learn more about scholarship opportunities for:

More information about cost of attendance and other types of aid is available from the Office of Student Financial Aid.

Orientation is for students who have accepted admission to Iowa State and plan to enroll in an upcoming term. During orientation you will be provided the opportunity to:

  • meet with an academic advisor
  • register for classes
  • obtain your ISU card
  • become familiar with the campus
  • increase knowledge of important policies and procedures

The basic program for engineering majors is a set of courses common to all engineering curricula. Students normally enroll in the majority of the basic program courses during their first year.

Learn more about new student orientation and the first-year engineering program.

What courses should I be taking in high school to prepare for a engineering degree?

Many high school students have access to college-level courses in high school. We know it’s in your nature to maximize your opportunities.
Learn more about what’s required, what’s recommended and what will transfer


What kind of a laptop computer will I need?

Iowa State University students are required to own or obtain a laptop computer appropriate to your discipline and program of study.
College of Engineering laptop computer recommendations


Can I study abroad?

Engineering International Programs can help you find study or work abroad experiences suited to your interests and goals. Expert staff can assist with course enrollment and transfers to keep you on track for graduation.
Learn more about Engineering International Programs


Are there ways to get practical work experience while at Iowa State?

Participation in a co-op or internship is a great way to gain real-world work experience. Students are employed by industry and government organizations in positions related to their major field of study. Unlike a typical part-time or summer job, an engineering co-op or internship must Involve the Practice of Engineering, and students must be paid. Co-ops and internships are not required by the college, but they are highly encouraged.
Learn more about Internships and Co-ops

There are also opportunities for students to work alongside professors doing research in areas related to their major field of study.
Learn more about Undergraduate Research Opportunities

Engineering Recruitment and Student Services

1300 Marston Hall, 533 Morrill Road, Ames, IA 50011

Phone: (515) 294-7186

Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.