Software engineering in theory and practice: experiences of former students of the University of Stuttgart

Abstract

Universities have one of the goals to prepare students for their work life. But in the last years, employers, as well as the graduates, have reported a skill gap between acquired and required skills. The University of Stuttgart offers the study topic Softwaretechnik, which contains a mix of theory and practice with concepts and practices of use and in use, in the industry. To balance this, the university requires feedback. This sample study analyzes how bachelor alumni perceived their early work life with the knowledge they gained from the university. For this, seven graduates were interviewed, and the data then analyzed using Straussian Grounded Theory. The results show that the graduates felt not prepared due to missing skills and practice, and required a student job to counter this. But they saw the advantage of the degree and reported to have acquired a broad knowledge as well as metaskills helping them in their first job. The study emphasizes to include additional smaller projects in the Softwaretechnik study and spread awareness among students and graduates for the feedback system.