Software engineering is the systematic approach to the development, operation, maintenance and retirement of software; the controlling element of computer-based systems. As society becomes even more dependent on computers, one of the biggest challenges is the creation of new software necessary to make computers useful. Software engineering deals with the challenges associated with large-scale, high quality software: size and complexity, cooperation between developers, clients and users, and evolution of software over time to maintain its value. Software engineers use principles of computer science, engineering, design, management, psychology, sociology and other disciplines to design and manage large software systems. Team and individual projects are a focus of this plan, an approach valued by employers.

Software engineers work in large multi-national companies, state and federal government departments and agencies, and in many small, specialised and emerging companies. Career opportunities for software engineers are excellent and should remain so for the foreseeable future. Australian graduates are well accepted internationally and many graduates work overseas to expand their expertise. Students interested in careers in the aerospace and aviation industry can now combine a full single major in Software Engineering with additional specialist study and project work in aerospace and aviation. Refer to separate Software Systems & Aerospace plan entry.