WHAT IS A SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT DEGREE ONLINE PROGRAM?
An online software development degree program teaches how to design and build software. That includes everything from being able to understand user needs to how to test finished software. You’ll study topics like how to program, interface design, and security.
Software developers may have a few paths when it comes to earning a degree. For instance, they could study computer science (CS), computer engineering, or a related area. What may matter most is knowing the theory and practice of how to create software. If you enjoy solving problems and want to create new programs that do so, this field might be ideal!
TYPES OF ONLINE SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT DEGREE PROGRAMS
A.S. in Software Development
The Associate’s degree is designed to build foundations in software development. Intro course work in areas like computer systems, networks, and programming show students the basics of the field. Related courses like project management offer a glimpse of professional skill areas.
Course Examples:
- Relational Database Design & SQL
- C++ Programming
- Data Structures and Algorithms
B.S. in CS – Software Development
This Bachelor’s in Computer Science has a focus in Software Development. Students take intro courses in CS and learn how to program. They also embark on courses in their focus, and apply their knowledge to the field of software development.
Course Examples:
- System Design
- Computer Organization and Architecture
- Intro to Programming
MS in IT – Software App Development
This Master’s program focuses on the IT skill areas needed to build applications. That includes understanding user needs and designing, building, and testing the app. Plus, core courses in IT help build the foundations students need to explore further.
Course Examples:
- Software Design and Modeling
- Object Oriented App Development
- Operating Systems
Online Software Development Degree Programs
Online software development degree programs cover how to create the apps that keep the world running smoothly. Topics covered can include how to design, code, and maintain software. Most programs also cover an overview of C.S. and I.T. For example, you could study networking, IT security, and other concerns that factor into developers’ work.
Curious about similar programs? Check out software engineer degree programs here.
Undergraduate Software Developer Programs
Most software developers need at least a Bachelor’s degree. In undergrad programs, you’ll lay the ground work to build effective software. That includes working on your coding abilities. Even though coding is not the main duty for developers, they must still have a back ground in this area. So, expect to study programming languages like Java, C#, C++, Python, and SQL.
You’ll also discover the many concepts and moving parts that go into how to build software. For instance, you could study the user experience, and how to design programs. You could learn to build data bases that make it easy for users to search information. And, you could take a critical look at security, across areas like cloud computing and operating systems.
Finally, your program could include courses in IT business. Software developers often work as part of a team, and manage projects and other professionals. So, areas like project management and financial accounting may be important.
Look for programs like:
- Associate’s in Software App Development
- BS in Software Development
- BS in CS – Software Development
Graduate Software Developer Programs
In some cases, employers may prefer software developers with advanced education – like a Master’s degrees. A grad program, such as a Master’s, may build on your past learning in the C.S. field. (In some cases, applicants may not need to have prior education in software development.)
Programs often cover advanced topics in how to design and build software. For instance, you could study agile development, a method for how to work on software more efficiently. You could study more complex programming techniques. You could even delve into machine learning and AI.
Look for programs like:
- Master of Science (MS) in Software Development
- MS in IT – Software App Development
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Southern New Hampshire University
- Take advantage of some of the nation’s most affordable tuition rates, while earning a degree from a private, nonprofit, NEASC accredited university
- Qualified students with 2.5 GPA and up may receive up to $20K in grants & scholarships
- Multiple term start dates throughout the year. 24/7 online classroom access.
Popular Programs
Business Administration, Psychology, Information Technology, Human Services…
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University of Arizona Global Campus
- 99% of University of Arizona Global Campus students study online
- University of Arizona Global Campus offers affordable tuition, so college is accessible to many students.
- he University of Arizona Global Campus (formerly Ashford University) is accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Available Programs
Accounting and Finance, Information Technology, Political Science…
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Western Governors University
- Award-winning programs created to help you succeed.
- A quality education doesn’t have to be expensive. Earn an accredited degree for less.
- Programs start monthly – Apply free this week!
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What Do Software Development Online Degree Courses Look Like?
You’ll take course work across skill areas like software design and architecture, how to program, and more.
Some common courses include:
Introduction to Programming Using Java: Knowing how to code is critical for developers. A course like this introduces you to the basics of how to program. You’ll study programming language syntax – in this case, Java. You’ll also learn how to code, document, debug, and more.
Data Structures and Algorithms: Data structures and algorithms are key to being able to create functional software. So, in this course, you’ll learn how to design, analyze, and use them. You’ll study abstract data types, plus algorithms for searching, sorting, and more.
Data base Design and Implementation: Databases are accessible data sets. This course covers how to design them, so that they are useful in settings like business. You’ll also study the relational and object relational tools and techniques you need to build data bases.
Project Management: Software developers often need to juggle many areas of a project. This course covers concepts that make that possible. For instance, you could learn how to create a work break down structure and task plan. And, you may study management and communication techniques that help everyone work as a team.
How Long Does It Take to Earn a Software Development Degree Online?
An Associate’s degree program may take around two years to earn. A Bachelor’s degree can take at least four years to earn. And, earning a Master’s degree can take around two years. That said, length can vary by program and other factors. That includes whether you study part time or full time.
Software Development Online Degree Program Examples
| School | Degree Level | # of Credits Required | Start Dates | Minimum Months to Complete |
| Rasmussen College | Associate’s | 90 | Multiple | 18 |
| Boston U | Master’s | 32 | Multiple | 16 |
| Maryville U | Master’s | 30 | 3 (Spring, Summer, Fall) | 12 |
The Cost of an Online Software Development Degree Program
According to NCES, the average annual cost of attending a public, four year school is $26,000. Average tuition was higher for private and for profit schools, at $32,900. Compare tuition for these schools that offer software development degree programs:
| School | Degree Level | # of Credits Required | Cost Per Credit | Total Tuition Cost |
| Bellevue U | Bachelor’s | 127 | $425 | $53,975 |
| Champlain College Online | Bachelor’s | 120 | $318 | $38,160 |
| University of Maryland | Bachelor’s | 120 | $499 | $59,880 |
Top Schools That Offer Software Developer Degree Programs
NCES lists 823 schools with Computer Software & Media Applications programs. From those schools, students were awarded 14,312 degrees in 2022. The most common degree awarded in this field was the Bachelor’s.
| School | 2022 Degrees awarded | 2023/24 Tuition (out of state unless *) |
| Academy of Art University | 351 | $28,024* |
| Western Governors University | 799 | $8,300* |
| The New School | 286 | $56,386* |
| DeVry University Illinois | 101 | $17,488* |
| Rochester Institute of Technology | 224 | $57,016* |
| Valencia College | 315 | $9,383 |
| Atlantic University College | 141 | $8,280 |
| Purdue University Main Campus | 251 | $28,794 |
| Bellevue College | 70 | $10,183 |
Top 25 Colleges that Offer Software Development Degree Programs
You can find Software Development degree programs online and in campus at many schools. Some of these programs go by different names. Like, Software Engineering programs. The most important thing is that they teach the skills you need to pursue your career goals in software development. To help you get started, we’ve listed the top 25 schools with Software Development programs. We ranked the schools by the number of students who graduated with a degree or certificate in Health and Wellness for the 2022 / 2023 school year with 2023 data compiled from the NCES. We’ve also included related programs these schools offer.
Choosing an Accredited Software Developer Degree Program
Finding an accredited software developer degree program can help ensure your program meets industry standards. That said, it’s not always required. What may be more important is making sure your school is regionally accredited. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) recognizes seven agencies that accredit schools at the regional level.
Finding an accredited software developer degree program can help ensure your program meets industry standards. That said, it’s not necessarily required. What may be more important is making sure your school is regionally accredited. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) recognizes seven agencies that accredit schools at the regional level.