STEUBENVILLE, OHIO—Recognizing the intense demand for ethically trained leaders in the computer and information technology fields, Franciscan University of Steubenville has developed a new Software Engineering Program that begins in the fall 2021 semester.

The program takes a systematic, engineering-based approach to the software industry and emphasizes hands-on experiential learning. Faculty with over 20 years experience in software engineering help students obtain internships for valuable experience that can lead to immediate employment after graduation.

With four additional classes, software engineering majors can obtain a concentration in cybersecurity, one of the most in-demand software fields. Students in other majors, such as computer science, can also benefit from the program with a minor in cybersecurity and a minor in software engineering.

“Graduates can be assured that the academic and ethical training built into Franciscan’s Software Engineering Program will help them as they enter this rapidly expanding job market,” said Dr. Derek Doroski, director of Franciscan’s Engineering Program. “Moreover, the program’s emphasis on high ethical standards will allow students to pass required security clearances and be trusted by their employers with handling sensitive information.”

Software Engineering Program courses include “Ethics in Cyberspace” and “Catholicism, Science, and Technology.”

The job market for software engineering and cybersecurity analysts is projected to grow by at least 11 percent annually in the next eight years, faster than the average for all other occupations. Salaries reflect the job market: Information security analysts earn $100,000 on average and computer network architects and software developers make over $110,000.

The Software Engineering Program is the first four-year fully on-campus program of Franciscan University’s engineering programs.

For more information on Franciscan University of Steubenville’s Software Engineering Program visit Franciscan.edu/softwareengineering or contact the Admissions Office at 800-783-6220 or at [email protected].