Software Design and Programming
Design, program, and develop effective web-based applications and software using best practices in security and quality assurance. Whether working in a traditional client-server architecture or more contemporary cloud-based architecture, you'll learn how the fundamental client-side and server-side constructs apply. Build skills in generating program code, creating database queries, and comparing integrated development environments.
At a Glance
Free Application
University College is committed to educational access, and given the difficult circumstances currently impacting millions of people, we are waiving application fees.
Skills You'll Learn
Assess the role of frameworks in software design and development to lay the groundwork for full-stack development
Design applications using object-oriented methodologies, models, and design patterns
Generate software code in languages such as Java, Python, C#, JavaScript, and PHP using current integrated development environments
Curriculum
Master of Science in Information and Communications Technology with a concentration in Software Design and Programming requires completion of 48 credit hours (12 courses).
All students are required to complete a zero-credit Student Success Course.
Elective courses may be chosen from among non core and concentration courses in the Information and Communications Technology program, and you may also select courses in other University College graduate programs.
Your academic advisor will help you select electives that align with your career and personal goals.
Sample Schedule
Plan out your schedule and determine your preferred timeline for completing your master's degree—finish in as few as 18 months or take up to five years.
| Year 1 | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classes | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Year 2 | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classes | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Year 1 | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classes | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 |
| Year 2 | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classes | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 |
Interested in a graduate certificate?
Explore our four and six course graduate certificates in Software Design and Programming.
Take a Course Before You Apply
We know how important it is to get started when you're ready and that's why you can enroll in a course before you officially apply.
Career Outcomes
Predicted outcomes for graduates of Software Design and Programming
Job growth for software developers is expected to grow much faster than the national average over the next decade. Growth in the software development field is projected to be around 22% through 2030, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The healthcare industry may see a higher demand for software developers as insurance and reinsurance carriers will need innovative software to manage new healthcare policy enrollments and administer existing policies.
Job Titles
Software Developers Salary: National Average
Get Ahead with Career Services
One-on-one career coaching and mock interviews
Job database dedicated to DU students and alumni
Résumé and cover letter guidance
Hear from Our Students
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"That master's degree had been on my bucket list for more than 20 years and I just started thinking now’s the time, I'm not going to procrastinate anymore!" —Carolyn Hinkley, graduate.
Flexible Online Classes
We understand the demands of balancing work, friends and family, and school can be challenging. That's why at University College, you can complete your program entirely online. Our online learning platform makes it easy to work anywhere at any time.
Advisory Board
Our programs are developed and updated with the input of advisory boards composed of industry leaders and employers. This ensures that you'll learn what employers are looking for, and gain the most current information with a view to future industry trends, connecting you to future success.
Featured Instructors
Accreditation & Associations
University College programs maintain the highest level of accreditation offered by The Higher Learning Commission, one of the regional accrediting bodies recognized by the federal government. The University of Denver and all of its academic programs are regionally accredited by this commission, and regional accreditation is the highest standard for universities in the United States.
The Colorado Technology Association represents technology leaders, professionals, companies, IT departments, government and legislative leaders, and industry advisors. CTA provides members with community, insight, connections and advocacy. Our industry development work spans public policy to education to leadership.
As a Registered Education Provider, University College has designed its Project Management courses to parallel the Project Management Institute's (PMI®) "Project Management Body of Knowledge" (PMBOK® Guide).