The IT industry in the Asia-Pacific region is in growing need for qualified software engineers able to manage the development of large enterprise-class software systems. On the supply side, however, regional universities are not keeping up with the increasing demand. In fact, worldwide, enrollment in traditional academic computer science programs is actually declining at many universities.
We believe one reason behind the enrollment decline, particularly for Master's programs, is that many talented prospective students see traditional computer science as being too theoretical and not industry-oriented. To address this perception and to help satisfy the IT industry's demand for qualified professionals, we have created a special track within the computer science program designed for students interested in obtaining specialized skills not offered in their undergraduate curricula prior to entering industry.
Industry-oriented students want a curriculum specializing in the particular skills that will help them get good jobs, get paid more, or get promoted more quickly. The goal of our new industry-oriented curriculum is to attract top graduates from computer engineering, computer science, and information technology programs throughout the Asia-Pacific region. To attract these students, we offer an innovative curriculum within what is already one of the strongest and most international computer science programs in Asia. The Master of Science in Computer Science with Specialization in Software Engineering leverages our current program but focuses less on basic skills and theory and focuses more heavily on the emerging techniques and technologies that will drive innovation in enterprise software development in coming years.