Software Engineering
Why Study Software Engineering at U of G?
Providing a foundation in computer science concepts, the software engineering major focuses on a collaborative approach to software development, design methodologies, professional standards and project management. With supportive, award-winning instructors, you’ll build the skills to create, evaluate and lead in a rapidly evolving digital world. Develop and strengthen your knowledge by selecting one of four Areas of Emphasis: Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Science or UX where you'll take more focused courses.
Learn Practical and Theoretical Skills
Select a focal area of emphasis from in-demand sectors such as cybersecurity, AI, data science or user experience.
Story by the Numbers
Ranked #3 in Canada for research quality in Computer Science. In the Winter 2026 term 95% of our Software Engineering co-op students found employment.
Entrepreneurship
Tap into our student innovation centre on campus to develop potential business apps, services or products.
To see all courses offered in the Software Engineering major, including the areas of emphasis, visit our Academic Calendar. Our emphasis on programming and diversification also means our program is not P.Eng. accredited.
Gain Valuable Experience Through Co-op
Our Software Engineering co-op is a five-year program, with five co-op work terms, providing opportunities to work with a wide variety of employers. Co-op is designed to facilitate the transition of students from academic studies to a professional career improving students’ job search skills, work performance and networking abilities, and boosting resume experience. Learn more about the Software Engineering co-op program.
Study in Canada
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Careers in Software Engineering
Graduates of the Software Engineering program at the U of G go on to careers where they explore problems, build innovative computing solutions and contribute to the evolution of technology and software around the world.
Here are just a few careers our graduates have successfully pursued:
- Software developer
- Game programmer
- Mobile application developer
- Web infrastructure developer
- Systems architect
- Cloud developer
- Security analyst
Canada’s Most Coveted Scholarships
Apply now for the Schulich Leader Scholarships — Canada’s top STEM scholarship: get up to $120,000 over four years. Nomination deadline is January 28, 2026, so don’t wait — talk to your school rep today!
Hear from a Software Engineering Student
Attending the University of Guelph (U of G) has been an incredibly rewarding experience, in part due to my involvement with SOCIS (Society of Computing and Information Science) and Gryphacks. Through their wonderful programming, I have been able to find my niche among like-minded peers and develop my computing skills and grow leaps and bounds as a result. Additionally, my co-op placements have been incredibly beneficial. For example, I worked at KPMG where I functioned as a Technology Risk Consultant and helped organizations identify and manage risks within their systems.
My name is Rashi, and I’m from Indore, India. I came to Guelph to pursue a degree in Software Engineering and later added Statistics as a minor after thoroughly enjoying the introductory statistics class. I am in my third year of studies and have been fortunate to gain employment at companies such as Amazon and Nokia through my co-op program. I’ve also had the chance to conduct research at the University of Guelph and teach part time as a Teaching Assistant. As the Co-president of the Guelph Women in Computer Science, I’m passionate about giving back to this amazing community that has supported me. Guelph has been the perfect choice for me as an international student and I’m confident you will have a similarly enriching experience!
The software engineering program at U of G provides a solid foundation and practical skills that are highly valuable in the tech industry. I co-founded GryphHacks, the University’s first worldwide hackathon...to connect students to sponsoring employers, host dozens of workshops and give out prizes to the most innovative projects. Overall, the University of Guelph has provided me with an environment that fosters both academic and personal development, enabling me to become a more well-rounded and self-assured individual, fully prepared to pursue my career goals.
Discover More Options
Students considering Software Engineering may also be interested in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or other majors.
Admission Requirements
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Scholarships & Bursaries
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