BS Software Engineering
Program Overview
The BS in Software Engineering at NIT is designed for students who want to design, build, secure, and scale complex software systems. Developed using Arizona State University’s (ASU) curriculum, the program prepares graduates for enterprise-level software development in rapidly evolving technology environments.
Built on a strong foundation in programming, data structures, discrete mathematics, and software engineering principles, the curriculum emphasizes systematic design, quality assurance, scalability, and security. Students learn how large-scale software systems are architected, tested, deployed, and maintained across diverse platforms.
The program integrates advanced areas such as database management, operating systems, distributed systems, system security, and software process management, ensuring graduates understand both technical depth and organizational realities. Strong emphasis is placed on engineering discipline, reliability, and lifecycle management, bridging theory with real-world application.
Hands-on learning is central to the program. Students gain practical experience through labs, enterprise-focused projects, and a final-year capstone, with exposure to web applications, embedded systems, cybersecurity, DevOps, and human–computer interaction. Complementary coursework in ethics, sustainability, communication, and management develops well-rounded engineering professionals.
Graduates of the BS in Software Engineering are equipped for technical, architectural, and leadership roles across global technology industries, as well as for postgraduate study, research, or entrepreneurial ventures.
Accelerated Master’s Degree (4+1 Pathway):
High-performing students in the BS Software Engineering program may pursue a 4+1 Accelerated Master’s Pathway, earning both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in five years. Students complete four years of undergraduate study at NIT, followed by one year of postgraduate education at the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering at Arizona State University (ASU).
Students may choose from two advanced master’s options:
- The Master of Engineering Science (Software Engineering) (MSE) delivered fully online
- The Master of Software Engineering (MS) offered on campus
These programs provide advanced training in both fundamental and applied software engineering. These programs are designed to uniquely position you for leadership roles in today’s technology-driven workplaces. Throughout your courses, you’ll develop expertise in software design, various development methodologies, code-based testing and proficiency in multiple programming languages. Additionally, you’ll acquire a comprehensive skill set encompassing cutting-edge technologies, such as:
- Artificial intelligence.
- Big data processing
- Cloud computing
- Software architecture and design
- Software integration
Career Pathways:
Graduates of the Bachelor’s in Software Development are prepared for technical, architectural, and leadership roles across technology-driven industries. The program equips students to design, build, secure, and scale software systems in enterprise and startup environments.
- Software Engineer
- Full-Stack Developer
- Systems Engineer
- Web Developer
- Cloud Engineer
- Software Quality Assurance Engineer
- Cybersecurity Engineer
- Embedded Systems Engineer
- Human-Computer Interaction Designer
- IT Project Manager
- Database Administrator
- DevOps Engineer
- Software Architect
- Application Security Engineer
NIT Admission Criteria:
The National Institute of Technology (NIT) seeks to admit academically prepared, motivated, and intellectually curious students who demonstrate the potential to contribute positively to the university’s learning environment and to society. Meeting the minimum eligibility requirements qualifies an applicant for admission evaluation but does not guarantee admission. Applicants may apply if they meet any one of the minimum criteria outlined below:
- Matriculation/Intermediate Requirements:
- 12 years of formal education with a minimum of 60% marks (no specific subject requirements).
- Cambridge International (O & A Levels):
- O Level: Eight subjects (English, Mathematics, Urdu, Islamiat, Pakistan Studies + 3 electives), with an average of grade C. (Additional Mathematics does not count as an elective)
- A Level: Three principal subjects with an average of grade C. (Further Mathematics and General Paper are excluded.)
- International Baccalaureate (IB):
- Minimum 30/45 points.
- English is compulsory; CAS and TOK must be completed.
- Students must also pass Urdu, Islamiat and Pakistan Studies (via O-Level/SSC/IB).
- High School Diploma (HSD):
- Minimum 60% overall.
- English is required, along with four principal electives in grades 9–12.
- Students must also pass Urdu, Islamiat and Pakistan Studies (via O-Level/SSC/HSD)
ASU Admission Criteria:
NIT undergraduate program diploma + official transcripts from every college or institution attended, including NIT’s. Must submit original transcripts and English translated transcripts.
Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = “A”) in the last 60 credit hours of their first bachelor’s degree program, or applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = “A”) in the last 12 units of the postbaccalaureate transcript.
Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer engineering, software engineering or a related field.
Proof of English proficiency: TOEFL>90 iBT, IELTS>7.0, Pearson Test of English>68, Duolingo>115, all taken within the last two years from start date.
Calculus and GPA Requirements: CALC I & II and Discrete Math with a grade of ‘C’ or better prior to applying to the program.
Deficiency Courses: Please see below for a list of the current Deficiency Courses required for admission. A flowchart showing the progression of coursework is also available. At the time of application there should be no more than three deficiency courses pending.
- SER 222: Design and Analysis of Data Structures and Algorithms
- SER 334: Operating Systems and Networks
Fee Structure For The Academic Year 2025-26 (PKR)
One-time Admission Fee: 145,000
One-time Security Fee: 50,000
Semester Registration Fee: 40,000 per semester
Tuition Fee:
Fall semester: 547,500
Spring semester: 657,000
Total tuition fee for the Academic year 2025-26: 1,479,500
Program Plan
Year One
| Spring Semester 1 | Credits |
|---|---|
PSE 100: Introduction to Engineering | 3 Credits |
CSE 110: Principles of Programming | 3 Credits |
MAT 265: Calculus for Engineers 1 | 3 Credits |
CEE 181: Technological, Social, & Sustainable System | 3 Credits |
PHI 105: Intro to Ethics | 3 Credits |
| Total Credits | 15 Credits |
| Summer Semester 2 (Summer Session IV) | Credits |
|---|---|
CSE 205: Object-Oriented Programming and Data Structures | 3 Credits |
MAT 266: Calculus for Engineers II | 3 Credits |
CHM 107: Chemistry and Society | 3 Credits |
CHM 108: Chemistry and Society Laboratory | 3 Credits |
EEL 120: Digital Design Fundamentals | 3 Credits |
MGT 302: Principles of International Business | 3 Credits |
PAK 101: Islamic Studies | 3 Credits |
| Total Credits | 21 Credits |
Year Two
| Spring Semester 1 | Credits |
|---|---|
ENG 101: English Composition 1 | 3 Credits |
CSE 240: Introduction to Programming Languages | 3 Credits |
MAT 263: Discrete Mathematical Structures | 3 Credits |
PHY 221: Calculus for Engineers III | 3 Credits |
PHY 131: University Physics II: Electricity and Magnetism | 3 Credits |
| PHY 132: University Physics Laboratory II | 3 Credits |
| PAK 102: History and Culture of Pakistan | 3 Credits |
| Total Credits | 21 Credits |
| Summer Semester 2 (Summer Session IV) | Credits |
|---|---|
ENG 102: English Composition II | 3 Credits |
CSE 230: Computer Organization and Assembly Language Programming | 3 Credits |
CSE 310: Data Structures and Algorithms | 3 Credits |
FIS 201: Innovation in Society | 3 Credits |
PHY 131: University Physics II: Electricity and Magnetism | 3 Credits |
PHY 132: University Physics Laboratory II | 3 Credits |
| Total Credits | 18 Credits |
Year Three
| Spring Semester 1 | Credits |
|---|---|
CSE 355: Introduction to Theoretical Computer Science | 3 Credits |
CSE 301: Computing Ethics | 3 Credits |
CSE 360: Introduction to Software Engineering | 3 Credits |
CSE 365: Information Assurance | 3 Credits |
IEE 380: Probability and statistics for Engineering Problem Solving | 3 Credits |
PSY 101: Introduction to Psychology | 3 Credits |
| Total Credits | 21 Credits |
| Summer Semester 2 (Summer Session IV) | Credits |
|---|---|
CSE 345: Principles of Programming Languages | 3 Credits |
CSE 330: Operating Systems | 3 Credits |
CSE 445: Distributed Software Development | 3 Credits |
CSE 455: Database Management | 3 Credits |
MAT 343: Applied Linear Algebra | 3 Credits |
COM 225: Public Speaking | |
CSE 412: Database Management | 3 Credits |
| Total Credits | 18 Credits |
Year Four
| Spring Semester 1 | Credits |
|---|---|
CSE 498: Computer Science Capstone Project I | 3 Credits |
CSE 420: Computer Architecture I | 3 Credits |
CSE 434: Computer Networks | 3 Credits |
CSE 478: Foundation of Data Visualization | 3 Credits |
Elective | 3 Credits |
| Total Credits | 21 Credits |
| Summer Semester 2 (Summer Session IV) | Credits |
|---|---|
| CSE 498: Computer Science Capstone Project II | 3 Credits |
| CSE 469: Introduction to Human-Computer Interaction | 3 Credits |
| CSE 471: Introduction to Artificial Intelligence | 3 Credits |
| Elective | 3 Credits |
| Elective | 3 Credits |
| Electives: MGT 380: Management and Strategy CSE 407: Digital Signal Processing CSE 476: Introduction to Natural Language Processing CSE 565: Software Verification, Validation, and Testing CSE 566: Software Project, Process, and Quality Management CSE 543: Information Assurance and Security | 3 Credits |
| Total Credits | 18 Credits |