In government job descriptions, a software engineer position requires a valid engineering degree (mechanical, electrical, civil, etc). Sometimes the focus is more on developing algorithms than actual coding. Quite a bit different than the public use of the term "Software Engineer!"

If you look at the course study for a Software Engineering degree at a major university, it is filled with courses such as: object-oriented programming, database design, software development, courses on specific langueages, etc. Sounds familiar to the typical programmer doesn't it? However, usually the student must also have a minor in an engineering field such as robotics, biomedical, civil or structural, electrical engineering, etc and has to produce a distributed system focusing on their area of study to graduate.

Now if only the employers would abide by the general guidelines in the educational field then employers would post jobs with job descriptions that actually match the discipline with the job title. Don't see that happening though. I have seen very simple programming jobs posted as software engineer positions and jobs that required a background in an engineering discipline posted as programming jobs. Go figure.



>>>When did "software engineer" become a pompous term for "programmer"? Perhaps it's semantics for you, but the terms have different connotations to me.
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>>The internationally famous hair stylist Vidal Sasoon still has "barber" on his passport. At the end of the day, he is simply a barber. If you think "software engineer" is different to "programmer", then that is clearly your prerogative. Again, without wishing to sound "cheesy", in the words of Billy Joel when referring to all of the supposedly new and different genres of music, "its still Rock n' Roll to me". Its pretty funny at my office where employees have to place their job title in their e-mail sig block. You wouldn't believe the variations - Computer Programmer, Software Engineer, Software Architect, Software Developer and the list goes on. They are all sat in the same office doing exactly the same job. Until software development evolves to that of a true engineering discipline, to me, "software engineer" remains a somewhat pompous term for a "programmer".
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>Gary;
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>The term “engineer” is an interesting one. I cannot agree that the term is used for disciplines that have nothing to do with engineering. For example:
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>Sanitation Engineer – otherwise known as a Garbage man in the U.S.A. or a Dustman in the U.K. Sometimes this refers to a man who works in the sewer.
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>Computer Science Engineer – hacker, coder, and programmer are sometimes used to describe this career.
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>As we know with time (every microsecond) the English language changes. By the way engineers in the state of California can be licensed as Professional Engineers. Basically, this is required if a company does any type of work that involves the public such as but not limited to manufacturing or construction. My background is electronics engineering and my brother is a civil engineer. We are both licensed by the state of California as professional engineers. I do not see a requirement for any term related to “software engineer” listed as a professional engineer.
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>Calling someone an “engineer” might be a matter of prestige or perhaps reality. First we have to define what in fact an “engineer” is! As for the term “computer science”, what does science have to do with computers? So if someone wants to be called a computer science engineer so be it!
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>Computer programmers and people that work with computers are looking for a sense of legitimacy. Look at how often the terms to define this discipline have changed within the last 20 years. MIS, IS, IT, and the list goes on! What profession do we work under? Who knows but next week the term might change! That is what management gives you in place of a pay rise! I feel the prestige but I would rather see it in my pay check! :)
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>Tom
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>P.S. Oh by the way I am termed a “Staff Specialist” by the company I work for. Just another way to say programmer, etc.!