As the demand for software professionals grows, Southern Polytechnic State University has been authorized by the Board of Regents to offer a new degree - the Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering (BSSwE). The program is the first of its kind in the state and will supplement SPSU's current master's program in software engineering.

The goals of the Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering degree include providing students with a solid foundation in science as well as a focused application of computer science and mathematics to engineering software systems. The degree will train students in the application of engineering processes, methods and practices (standards) for the delivery of high quality software systems.

"The new program will help address the critical need for software engineers," said SPSU President Dr. Lisa A. Rossbacher. "Over the past decade, the demand for highly skilled software professionals has increased dramatically. Right now, Georgia is filling only 25% of the available high-tech jobs from within the state. Southern Polytechnic wants to change that."

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the specific area of computer science engineers and scientists, which includes software engineers, is expected to grow by 114% between 1996-2006.

SPSU's Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering program directly relates to the goals of Governor Barnes' Yamacraw project. Southern Polytechnic has been an active participant in all aspects of Yamacraw - academic education, research and continuing education.

"The Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering degree will help to meet the Governor's initiatives with Yamacraw. The program will provide graduates in the areas of wireless communications and telecommunications as well as embedded systems," said Dr. Becky Rutherfoord, interim department head of Computer Science.

The Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering curriculum addresses all aspects of software development and maintenance and provides experience in realistic team environments.