With proximity to the nation’s capital, Maryland has a rich history of working with government agencies and private corporations. Home to large industrial and technology companies such as Lockheed Martin as well as numerous startups, Maryland is a state that continually provides opportunities for software developers and engineers.
Maryland also boasts several of the nation’s best universities, offering strong computer science and software engineering programs that position graduates for meaningful and high-paying jobs upon graduation.
Software Engineering Landscape in Maryland
Maryland has a strong reputation for supporting technology and innovation. For over two decades, the Maryland Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO) has partnered with universities, startups, and the federal government for continued research and development in emerging fields.
Recently, TEDCO has made significant contributions to a number of key projects, including investments in cybersecurity and Maryland-based tech startups. Because of this, software engineering jobs are being created regularly throughout the state, providing opportunities for professionals to earn a strong salary while working on meaningful state-supported initiatives.
Washington DC is not far behind for hiring trends, with nearly 10K jobs within its 68 square-mile area.
Nationwide, Maryland is also among the highest-paying states for software developers and engineers, with an average salary topping 130K annually.
Software engineering has a bright job outlook throughout the United States, and Maryland stands near the top of the list for both education and career opportunities.
Software Engineering Education in Maryland
Maryland has some of the best software engineering programs in the country, with students earning undergraduate and graduate degrees as well as professional certifications.
Undergraduate Programs
Capitol Technology University offers a BS in Software Engineering that is specifically geared for students to develop career-ready skills and experience. A highlight of the program is the Capitol Commitment: any student who earns their undergraduate degree is guaranteed to find a job within 90 days of graduation. If they don’t, CTU will provide up to 36 additional course credits—tuition free.
The University of Maryland Global Campus provides an online-only BS in Software Development and Security, a flexible yet rigorous program that prepares students for a career in one of many tech fields. During the program, students work in teams on industry-specific projects. They also complete an individual capstone project as a graduation requirement, ensuring that every graduate has the requisite skills and experience to excel in their chosen career.
Graduate Programs
Johns Hopkins University is a top-ranked university for many different fields, and their MS in Computer Science lives up to the school’s lofty reputation. Ranked #2 nationwide by US News and World Report, Johns Hopkins provides students with many opportunities to practice their developing skills, including independent research and a Capstone Course uniquely tailored to the student’s interests and career goals.
University of Maryland Baltimore County offers a Master’s of Professional Studies in Software Engineering that rivals any in the country. While its current 10-course program is designed for professionals of all levels, UMBC is also launching an accelerated program in Fall 2023.
Certificate Programs
Towson University offers a Software Engineering Post-Baccalaureate Certificate that is ideal for students with a background in IT or professionals who are looking to transition into a tech-focused career. The program can be completed online or in-person in as little as one year.
University of Maryland College Park offers a Graduate Certificate in Software Engineering that allows working professionals to pursue an advanced degree without sacrificing their current work responsibilities.
Software Engineering Jobs in Maryland
Software engineers in Maryland can join world-class organizations and work on dynamic projects. Companies in both the private and public sector are seeking talented recruits to work in diverse industries including education, health care, aerospace, and cybersecurity.
At Tenable, software engineers work on the cutting-edge of cybersecurity and exposure management. The Tenable One Exposure Management Platform empowers enterprises of every size to effectively manage cloud and identity security, achieve industry compliance, and proactively negate vulnerabilities in their technology ecosystems. Currently positions are available for software engineers in Maryland, internationally, and remotely.
Inovalon provides data insights, quality control, and revenue cycle management for health care organizations across the country. Its flagship platform is designed to reduce inefficiencies and improve healthcare outcomes at every stage of the patient journey. Because of its reputation as tech leaders in the health care space, Inovalon has an ongoing need for software engineers and developers.
For graduates and experienced professionals looking to leverage their skills with a career helping the country’s armed forces, ASRC Federal provides meaningful opportunities to work on critical aerospace and industrial projects. Its military partners include Air Force bases across the country, which means software engineers have the opportunity to work in Maryland or in locations around the United States.
2U is an innovative edtech platform that promises software engineers the chance to “bring higher education into the digital age, and transform the lives of students across the globe.” For those passionate about education and innovation, 2U has positions currently available at its Lanham headquarters.
By generating a talented workforce and supporting a thriving tech industry, Maryland is a top destination for software engineers to start or advance their careers.
Schools in Maryland with Software Engineering Degree Programs
9 Schools Found
Capitol Technology University
Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Data Science
Laurel, Maryland
Cecil College
Science & Technology
North East, Maryland
College of Southern Maryland
School of Professional and Technical Studies
La Plata, Maryland
Frederick Community College
Health, Business, Technology & Science Department
Frederick, Maryland
Johns Hopkins University
Whiting School of Engineering
Baltimore, Maryland
Towson University
Department of Computer & Information Sciences
Towson, Maryland
University of Maryland-Baltimore County
Office of Professional Programs
Baltimore, Maryland
University of Maryland-College Park
Maryland Applied Graduate Engineering (MAGE)
College Park, Maryland
University of Maryland-Global Campus
IT and Computer Science
Adelphi, Maryland