Department of Computing

Master of Software Development

Application Info
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Fall 2025 Priority Application Deadline: May 15, 2025

Program Introduction

The Department of Computing introduces a new Master’s of Software Development program that provides a practical pathway toward learning a current, in-demand skill set with no significant programming experience required.

Our program adopts a hands-on, practical approach to software development, equipping students with industry-ready competencies in coding, problem-solving, and collaboration. It covers programming fundamentals to modern app development practices, all in four semesters from start to finish. Upskill to become qualified for career opportunities in software development that offer increased flexibility, job security, higher income potential, and genuine job satisfaction.

The Master’s of Software Development program is uniquely tailored to complement our new Master’s of User Experience Design program, offering graduates a comprehensive skill set encompassing both development proficiency and design awareness. This interdisciplinary synergy empowers graduates to excel in multifaceted roles, seamlessly integrating design principles with technical implementation. Throughout the program, students engage in collaborative projects and coursework alongside peers from both disciplines.

With a total of 30 credits distributed across four semesters, students can complete the program in a condensed time frame of just 16 months. Additionally, our program stands out for its affordability and accessibility, featuring scholarship opportunities and a hybrid learning model that accommodates both in-person and remote synchronous participation.

Hy-Flex

Flexibility for Learners: HyFlex combines the terms “hybrid” and “flexible.” In a HyFlex course, students have the freedom to choose how they participate and can enroll in one of two modalities:

  • Attend face-to-face synchronous class sessions in person (in a classroom).
  • Participate in face-to-face class sessions via video conference.

Collaboration

Bridge the gap between development & design. Our Master’s of Software Development (MSD) program is designed to integrate and work closely with our Master’s of UX Design (MUXD) program through both coursework and real-work projects.

Learn More About MUXD

Students & Learning

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and skill levels. Our program is structured to embrace pivot learners and individuals seeking to transition into software development from other disciplines.

Our curriculum is focused on teaching project-based, real-world tools and practices that are in high demand across the software industry. Students will gain proficiency in modern technologies and methodologies that are mainstream in the software development field.

  • Bring the skills you have—no significant programming experience is required.
  • Become career-ready by learning the practical skills employers want.
  • Upskill within your current field or pivot into software development.
  • Learn from faculty with extensive industry experience.
  • Collaborate with other graduate students in our UX design program on real-world projects.
  • Qualify for competitive career opportunities in software development.
  • Complete your degree in four semesters over 16 months, in-person or remote.

Curriculum & Faculty

Meet our faculty members to find out who you could mentor with.

View Our Faculty

Application info

Acceptance into the Master’s of Software Development program will be based on the number of seats available and an evaluation of the following:

  • B.S. or B.A. from a regionally-accredited institution, or equivalent for international students, with corresponding undergraduate transcript(s).
  • 2–3 confidential letters of recommendation.
  • Curriculum vitae/resume.
  • Video submission.

The CV/resume should provide the admissions committee with information about any experiences or skills you have supporting your candidacy for the Software Development graduate program. List your academic and professional work history, any skills related to programming and software development, applicable research methodologies, and technical projects.

As part of the application process, you will be asked to record and submit a 3–4 minute video narrative addressing the following questions to help us learn more about you and your interest in the Master’s of Software Development program.

  1. Why do you want to study Software Development?
  2. What makes you interested in studying at Utah Tech University?
  3. What are your short term and long term career plans?
  4. What personal strengths would you bring to the program?
  5. Share your experience in programming or software development (if any).
  1. Apply through the main Utah Tech University Admissions Application at apply.utahtech.edu
  2. Apply for graduate school through the Utah Tech University website by clicking on “Apply for Admissions” at the right-hand side of the main page or https://apply.utahtech.edu/apply/
  3. Create an account if you are a first-time user, or log in if you attended UT in the past two years.
  4. On the new page, click on “Graduate Student Application (Master’s Degrees)” or “Start New Application”
  5. Fill out the appropriate year you plan to begin attending and fill everything out until the page gives you the chance to submit the following forms as a part of the application.
  6. Request official transcripts for all undergraduate and graduate coursework. Utah Tech/DSU undergraduates may request the registrar upload their transcript free of charge by emailing records@utahtech.edu.
  7. Upload required documents

 

 

International Students

All international students and any applicants educated outside the United States must demonstrate proficiency in Standard American English. The following link lists additional information needed to supplement an international application.

INTERNATIONAL GRADUATE STUDENT ADMISSIONS

FAQs

Tuition & Fees

The 30-credit-hour program spread over four semesters totals $12,600. See the Tuition & Fees table for additional information.

Are scholarships available?

A limited number of 1-year scholarships will be available for accepted program applicants. Application details will be sent following program acceptance.

Graduation Requirements

You must complete 30 credits of Software Development coursework. To graduate, you must earn a B- or better in each class, with a cumulative 3.0 GPA. You must also fulfill institutional requirements, such as applying for graduation.

What are the required courses?
  • Fundamentals of App Programming (3 credits)
  • Introduction to UI/UX (3 credits)
  • Multitier App Development I (3 credits)
  • Multitier App Development II (3 credits)
  • Mobile App Development (3 credits)
  • Advanced Topics in App Development (3 credits)
  • Software Development Practices (3 credits)
  • Software Quality and Testing (3 credits)
  • Tech Entrepreneurship (3 credits)
  • Graduate Capstone (3 credits)

Are classes offered remotely?

Courses will be offered in-person with a remote option available. Students attending in-person or remotely will meet synchronously—at a set time—typically once or twice per week.

Does the program require a master's thesis?

No. The master’s degree requires a capstone project course that serves as the project-based outcome requirement.

Does the program require a GRE or similar graduate readiness exam?

No. You are not required to submit a standardized exam score.

Contact

Joe Francom

Department Chair, Computing

Email: joe.francom@utahtech.edu

Phone: 435-652-7732

Office: BNO 237