Master of Software Development

Department of Computing

Learn programming fundamentals for modern app development in a hands-on program designed to launch your tech career.

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Fall 2026 Application Deadline: July 15th, 2026

Code, Create, and Transform Your Future

The Master’s of Software Development at Utah Tech University offers a fast, practical pathway into one of today’s most in-demand fields—no prior programming experience required. In just 16 months, you’ll gain industry-ready skills in coding, problem-solving, and app development through hands-on projects and collaborative learning.

Designed to complement our Master’s of User Experience Design, this program prepares you for versatile, high-growth careers that combine technical expertise with design awareness. With flexible hybrid learning, scholarship opportunities, and a curriculum built around real-world application, you’ll graduate ready to enter the workforce with confidence and a competitive edge.

PROGRAM TYPE

Graduate

DEGREE

M.S.

OFFERED AS

Hyflex: (online or in person)

COLLEGE

Science, Engineering, and Technology

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.

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Students & Learning

Our program welcomes students from all backgrounds, with no prior programming experience required. Designed for both pivot learners and upskillers, the curriculum emphasizes project-based, real-world training in modern software development tools and practices.

  • Gain practical, career-ready skills employers demand.
  • Learn from faculty with real industry experience.
  • Collaborate on cross-disciplinary projects with UX design students.
  • Finish in just 16 months with flexible in-person or remote options.

Hear from our students:

Stephen Bessey

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Brooklyn Price-Thompson

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Tucker Morin

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Nicolas Saldana

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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 utahtech.edu/apply/
  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://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

 

 

  • January 21st, 2026: Priority application deadline
  • February 14th, 2026: Scholarship application deadline
  • February 28th, 2026: Application deadline
  • July 15th, 2026: Final application deadline

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.