Software Design and Programming (Master's)
The Software Design and Programming master's degree concentration is offered online or on campus at the University of Denver in the evenings, or in a combination of both, to meet the needs of busy adults. Expand your knowledge of software design and programming principles, while developing the in−depth skills needed to succeed in the field with a Software Design and Programming master's degree. Current or aspiring programmers will practice OO methods and programming, with a focus on modern web-based, client-server applications and systems. You will also select from a variety of elective courses that best meet your specific career needs for IT.
Degree−seekers learn how to develop quality software programs and applications, apply Software Quality Assurance practices, use software management processes such as the Unified Software Development Process, and code in languages such as C#, Java, Python, and PHP. Skills are applied in hands−on assignments, with expert instructors guiding software degree students to identify and overcome the challenges presented by designing and programming software with various languages and development tools. With the right technical skills, combined with a strategic perspective regarding critical business needs, you'll be prepared to meet current industry demands, and positioned to meet the demands of tomorrow.
A comprehensive perspective is also provided at University College, conveying how other technology domains such as application security and database design, affect software programming. Customize your Information and Communications Technology master's degree through the innovative Professional Options Curriculum using our convenient online degree builder tool, which allows you to select courses that cater to your specific career needs.
Information and Communications Technology Outcomes
This program prepares students to:
- Assess current and emerging technologies in such areas as mobile applications, wireless networks, and cloud computing
- Define an enterprise architecture including hardware, software, databases, and communications networks and protocols
- Evaluate, select, and apply software design and development methodologies that incorporate software development, acquisition, and/or re-use
- Identify the operational and economic impact of system architecture and software applications in areas such as computer processing, data communications, network design, and software maintenance and support
- Apply best project management practices
- Apply good design processes and methods to develop production-quality systems
- Plan and evaluate, select, and apply appropriate systems and software quality assurance methods and tools
- Lead and coach others in the development of systems and software components
- Communicate effectively with technical peers, management, customers, and end-users
- Identify best practices in information assurance
Required Courses
MAS in Information And Communications Technology with a concentration in Software Design and Programming requires completion of 48 credit hours (12 courses)
Professional Foundation Courses - 12 qtr. hrsProfessional Foundations courses help students to understand the scope of activity, historical development, future direction and trends, and typical types and roles of organizations that operate within a career field.
Concentration Courses - 16 qtr. hrs (Choose 4)
Professional Concentration courses allow students to focus on a specific professional area within the larger industry sector in which they are working or wish to work, and master the skills needed to excel in that area.
Further Study - 12 qtr. hrs (Choose 3)
Further Studies Options allow students to customize their degrees to match their career needs by either choosing in-depth study in their concentration by selecting three of the following courses, or exploring other options by using our Degree Builder tool.
Customize your degree or certificate using our convenient online degree builder tool, which allows you to select courses that cater to your specific career needs.
Core Coures - 8 qtr. hrsThe Graduate Research and Writing and Capstone Project courses are required for all master's degree students. The Graduate Research and Writing course prepares students for the writing and research assignments throughout their program, including the capstone project. The Capstone Project is the culminating academic endeavor of our degree programs, in which students explore a problem or issue within their field of study.
Design Your Custom Plan
![]() |
Use the online degree builder tool to customize your degree or certificate. Through the Professional Options Curriculum, you´re able to create your own degree or certificate plan by selecting courses that cater specifically to your career needs. Using the online degree builder, you´ll select the program and courses necessary to graduate from University College. |
Start Customizing Your DegreeView the tutorial or start building your plan now. |
![]() |
Careers in Software Design and Programming
Titles
Programmer, Senior Software Design Engineer, Programming Manager, Software Integrator, Software Design Architect, Software Developer, Programming Specialist, Software Development Manager, Software Consultant, Programming Writer.
Duties
Development, programming, design, management, technical operations, research, analysis, data modeling, data architecture, design mapping.
Outlook
Through 2020, software developers are expected to be one of the fastest growing occupations at a growth rate of 30%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Industry leaders anticipate an explosive demand for software developers. Software Developer ranks as the #7 best job to have, according to the 2013 U.S. News & World Report ranking of the top 100 jobs.
Careers In Information and Communications Technology
YOU are in high demand!
One of the fastest growth rates among all occupations in the US, computer scientist and database administrator job openings are expected to grow 53% in the next ten years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Overall, the ICT career outlook is incredibly positive, with a 28% employment increase expected within the field. Whether you choose a career at a government agency, large corporation, or small organization, ICT professionals are in high demand—particularly if you have job experience and relevant education in information and communication technology under your belt.
ICT makes the grade.
The best jobs are in IT, according to U.S. News and World Report. From Information Technology Manager to Database Administrator, Software Developer to Web Developer, these jobs crack the top 10 careers on the U.S. News and World Report list of top 100 best jobs, as there is an explosive demand in the IT field. A master's degree is preferred for most positions, according to U.S. News and World Report, which also predicts that a focus on mobile application development will help professionals beat the competition.
Where are they now?
Alumni from University College who graduated with a master's degree in information and communication technology hold job titles such as Systems Administrator, Project Manager, Network Engineer, Managing Consultant, Network Architect, Lead IT Analyst, Data Engineer, and CEO in companies and organizations such as Pratt & Whitney, Ironware Technologies, iBoss Security, PayPal, Parsons Brinkerhoff, Vanguard Communication, CenturyLink, Advanced Program Group, Level 3, Verizon Wireless, IBM, IntelliDyne, Cisco Systems, Chevron, Time Warner, Harland Financial Solutions, and the United States Air Force.
Ready to Apply
It's time to gather your materials and apply to your program of choice. Remember to include:
Need More Information
Interested in attending University College, but need additional information before you make a decision? No problem−we're here to help. You may request additional information about a specific program and specialty, review and ask questions in our Frequently Asked Questions section, or contact University College directly.
- Request additional information
- Ask a question
- Email University College or call 303-871-2291 or 800-347-2042
Want to Take a Class
Even if you missed the application deadline, you can start taking courses for one quarter before you have to submit a completed application. We know how important it is to get started when you're ready, so review the class schedule or start the registration process now.
- View the class schedule
- Register for a class
















