21/03/2024
At IE University, we work tirelessly to develop up-to-date curriculums for our programs. The Master in Software Engineering is no different. Conchita Díaz, the academic director of the program, dives into the opportunities and benefits at hand.
“The Master in Software Engineering integrates the humanities and social sciences, preparing participants to lead projects and work in this ever-changing environment,” explains Concepción “Conchita” Díaz Cantarero, academic director of the program at IE University. With its practical methodologies and cutting-edge curriculum, this master’s program gives students the opportunity to learn from leading professionals in the industry, obtain in-demand certifications and gain the skills necessary to succeed in today’s rapidly shifting digital world.
Conchita is the head of AI Training for Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) at Google Cloud. Passionate about artificial intelligence and its power, she is thrilled to be part of the new, exciting Master in Software Engineering. We recently sat down with Conchita to hear her insights on the program and where it can take students.
What makes the Master in Software Engineering different from other programs?
IE University fosters an entrepreneurial mindset. Students learn to code but also develop a vision for business, learning to identify market opportunities and design products with a user-centric approach. These factors give them a significant edge as they enter the world of work, especially if they envision going beyond a development role.
Next, the IE Community is exceptionally international, attracting faculty and students from over 140 countries. This gives unparalleled exposure to multiple perspectives and unique approaches to problem-solving. Plus, collaborating with peers from diverse cultures and backgrounds prepares our students for the globalized nature of the tech industry and allows them to build a global network.
Unlike purely technical programs, the Master in Software Engineering uses a hands-on approach and cutting-edge teaching methodologies delivered by leaders in the industry. This helps students become well-rounded software engineers capable of understanding the broader context in which technology operates, tackling ethical considerations and communicating effectively with non-technical stakeholders.
What’s more, our Venture Lab program gives teams hands-on experience in the world of entrepreneurship, prepping them to launch startup projects.
How does the program integrate hands-on experience and real-world projects into its curriculum?
We prioritize hands-on learning with our project-based curriculum. Students don’t just learn concepts, they directly apply them to solve specific challenges presented by actual businesses.
Students participate in labs and software development assignments using relevant, industry-standard tools. The program culminates in a final project or research thesis. Our students are often encouraged to partner with external organizations for their capstone projects.
Finally, we facilitate internship opportunities during the program. This offers focused, real-world experience within a company setting.
Internships allow students to contribute to ongoing projects, gain mentorship and build industry connections that can translate to future employment.
In what ways does the program position graduates for success in the rapidly evolving software engineering sector?
We place adaptability and continuous learning at the heart of what we do. The Master in Software Engineering focuses on real-world projects, cutting-edge technologies and agile methodologies, which promotes a mindset of ongoing learning. Our graduates understand that the tech landscape is constantly evolving and they’re equipped with the tools and curiosity to remain up-to-date and adapt their skills throughout their careers.
Whether joining established companies or launching their own ventures, our graduates will have an innovator’s mindset. We prepare them to recognize market opportunities, develop software products that can generate impact and think strategically for business value. This entrepreneurial spirit clearly sets our graduates apart in the job market.
How does the Master in Software Engineering curriculum address the latest trends and technologies in the field?
We work very closely with industry leaders to ensure the program is designed with today’s needs and evolving technologies in mind. The program offers specializations in in-demand fields like AI, cloud computing, gaming and cybersecurity, equipping students with skills highly relevant to current market needs.
As professionals in the field, our faculty has firsthand knowledge of the ever-changing world of software and tech.
Our professors come from industry backgrounds and are engaged in interesting current developments. To that end, the curriculum undergoes frequent updates to ensure that what we are teaching aligns with current best practices and relevant technologies. This agility keeps our students ahead of the curve.
What industry partnerships does the program have and how do they enhance the learning experience?
“We have agreements with different companies and industries like Google, Microsoft, AWS, BMC Software and more.”
These companies send senior engineers, product managers or tech leaders to give talks, run hands-on workshops, participate in panel discussions and present internship or job opportunities.
Additionally, IE University co-hosts hackathons and tech competitions in collaboration with leading organizations, offering students an opportunity to showcase their skills, network and even land internships.
These companies often provide feedback on the current curriculum and suggest emerging technologies or skill sets to include. This allows the program to stay relevant to industry needs.
In what ways does the Master in Software Engineering foster innovation and creativity?
The program is designed to go beyond technical skills. Our courses incorporate business strategy, product development and market analysis. This encourages students to see software not just as code, but as a tool for creating impactful solutions.
They are also given the chance to work with startups or on entrepreneurial ventures from day one. This hands-on approach to learning shows them how to identify problems and design innovative technology to solve them.
Plus, integrating the humanities and social sciences into the program encourages students to look beyond technology in isolation. It helps them understand human behavior, the impact of technology and the importance of ethical design. This broader context gives them the tools to spot opportunities for innovation that align with wider societal needs.
How does IE University support program graduates in securing internships, job placements or entrepreneurial opportunities?
IE University offers dedicated career services that include personalized coaching, resume and interview prep workshops, and guidance on networking strategies. We also host recruitment events and career fairs and share exclusive job postings with our students. IE Talent & Careers offers an online job portal that acts as a bridge connecting students directly with potential employers. And finally, IE Alumni include tech industry professionals worldwide, allowing students to expand their networks and increase their chances for a successful job search.
A program built for success
The Master in Software Engineering is continuously updating its curriculum to ensure students are set up for success. Discover more about the Master in Software Engineering and see where you can take your career.
