Bachelor's Degree

Online Bachelor's Degree in Software Development

Learn Foundational Software Development Skills for Today’s IoT Economy

Develop Software That Makes a Difference

The online Bachelor’s in Software Development degree program at DeVry University can help you to learn the contemporary languages, techniques and tools used to create software applications. In this program, you'll have the opportunity to learn how to manage and analyze data through our Tech Core curriculum, which was designed to help you build a broad foundation of interdisciplinary skills needed for today’s Internet of Things (IoT) economy.

Get To Know Our Software Development Bachelor's Degree Program

When you partner with DeVry to earn your online Bachelor’s in Software Development, you’ll explore real-world concepts and skills to guide your focus toward a specialty. Our experienced professors can help you gain a solid foundation of knowledge in operating systems, programming, hardware, security and connectivity. You can also develop your understanding of the professional, ethical, security and social responsibilities of creating and utilizing software systems.

  • Launch an in-demand career

    According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of software developers is expected to grow 25% on a national level from 2022 - 2032,1 much faster than average. This growth is projected on a national level and local growth may vary. BLS projections are not specific to DeVry University students or graduates and may include earners at all stages of their career and not just entry level.

  • Learn to manage and analyze data

    Our Tech Core curriculum is designed to help you build a foundation of interdisciplinary skills needed for today’s Internet of Things (IoT) economy.

  • Learn from experienced professors

    DeVry’s experienced faculty can help you build your understanding of operating systems, programming, hardware and connectivity.

  • Develop a deep understanding

    Explore the professional, ethical, security and social responsibilities of developing and managing software systems.

Classes start on May 5, 2025
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Program Specializations

Software Development Degree Specializations

Customize your online software development degree program with one of our three specializations:

Software Development Degree Specializations
  • Software Design and Programming

    Earn an online Bachelor’s Degree with a Specialization in Software Design and Programming from DeVry University and dive deep into the world of software development. Learn about the design and creation of new applications and software packages from our experienced professors, who will teach you methods for building and testing in a variety of operating systems. DeVry’s program is anchored with Tech Core, a curriculum designed to teach you relevant skills in operating systems, programming, hardware, connectivity and security.

  • Big Data and Analytics

    Our online Bachelor’s Degree with a Specialization in Big Data and Analytics program can help you develop the skills needed to address the complexity of examining large and varied data sets. Develop a well-rounded mastery of data acquisition, storage, interpretation and management. Build an understanding of how predictive analytic measures and machine learning tools help drive quick decision-making.

  • Web and Mobile Application Development

    With DeVry’s Bachelor’s Degree with a Specialization in Web and Mobile Application Development program, you’ll work to develop the skills and techniques used to create effective websites and mobile applications. Our faculty will teach you about cross-platform operating systems, including how to incorporate your designs and applications into wearables, IoT and smart devices. Our online Web and Mobile Application Development Specialization program is built with Tech Core, a curriculum designed to help you build a foundation of interdisciplinary skills that can help you prepare for today’s Internet of Things (IoT) economy.

Why DeVry?

Why Choose Software Development at DeVry?

Work With IoT Technologies & Systems

Immerse yourself in the Internet of Things (IoT) world and obtain hands-on experience with IoT, cloud, software and security technologies and systems.

Certification Exam Reimbursement

Several of our tech programs are designed with industry-recognized certifications in mind. Qualified students may receive up to a $300 reimbursement for the cost of one exam attempt across a wide range of certifications:

 

  • CompTIA Cloud+
  • CompTIA Linux+
  • CompTIA Network+
  • CompTIA Project+
  • CompTIA Security+ 

Other certifications may also be eligible for reimbursement. Speak to your Student Support Advisor for additional information.

Complimentary Laptop

You’ll get a complimentary laptop as part of your technology program.2 It’s our way of investing in your education — and you.

Questions for our admissions team?

This Software Development Program
  • 01 Knowledge & Skills
  • 02 Embedded Programs
  • 03 Curriculum
  • 04 FAQs
  • 05 DeVry Faculty
Knowledge & Skills

What You'll Learn

The Software Development degree program is built upon our tech-powered learning approach. This program covers the following:

  • Software Systems Analysis and Design
    Develop information system models and design system requirements to identify and solve business problems.
  • Web Distributed Systems
    Learn the principles of web architecture and connectivity, including Internet protocols such as transmission control protocol/Internet protocol (TCP/IP); domain name server (DNS); simple mail transfer protocol (smtp), hypertext transfer protocol (http) and file transfer protocol (ftp); and design of an Internet or corporate intranet infrastructure to meet specific needs.
  • Application Development
    Develop applications using skills in analysis, interface design, programming, coding and scripting, as well as database connectivity.
  • Product Life Cycle Management
    Understand product lifecycle management as related to software development. Learn to manage the development of software from analysis and design to programming, implementation, testing, deployment and troubleshooting.
  • AI and Data Foundations
    Learn how to use AI to gather and analyze data to solve problems and support decision-making.
  • Communicate Methods and Findings
    Learn to communicate the rationale behind research methods and recommendations while presenting performance objectives, issues and solutions.
  • Collaborate in Dynamic Work Environments
    Learn to collaborate with colleagues in varying locations and environments to coordinate and share information.
  • Complex Problem-Solving
    Apply critical and analytical thinking to identify complex problems, evaluate options and implement solutions.
  • Data Analysis
    Learn to draw conclusions by finding patterns and relationships in numerical data with tools used for statistical analysis. Find out how data analysis can be used to make more efficient databases.
  • Digital Literacy
    Learn to apply appropriate technologies in order to solve digital issues and problems within databases.

Accreditation and Recognition Matter

Being accredited means we’ve met rigorous quality standards and are committed to giving you the education you deserve. We're proud to be accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), www.hlcommission.org.

DeVry University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), www.hlcommission.org. The University’s Keller Graduate School of Management is included in this accreditation.

CAC of ABET

In addition, our Bachelor of Science in Software Development degree program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC) of ABET, www.abet.org, a mark of quality that is respected by employers and professional associations within this field.

Computing Accreditation Commission
Computing Accreditation Commission
Embedded Programs

Embedded Programs - Demonstrate Skills at Every Step

Acquire an additional two credentials with our unique 3-in-1 design. Courses in our Programming Essentials certificate program and Information Technology and Networking associate degree are built within our online Software Development degree program, so you can earn a certificate and an associate degree on the way to your bachelor's degree at DeVry.3

#Icon/Outlined/DeVry.edu/Bachelor
Bachelor's
120
Credit Hours*
#Icon/Outlined/DeVry.edu/Associate Degrees
Associate
60
Credit Hours*
#Icon/Outlined/DeVry.edu/dvu-icon-AllCertificates
Certificate
22
Credit Hours*

 

*The figures displayed represent the minimum credit hours required for graduation. Additional coursework may be necessary to complete program requirements.

FAQs: Software Development Degree

What software development degree specializations are available?

Our bachelor’s degree in software development offers three specializations:

How long will it take for me to complete the software development degree program?

You can earn your Bachelor’s degree in Software Development in as few as 2 years and 8 months.*

Or follow a normal schedule and complete your program in 4 years. **

*Minimum schedule does not include breaks and assumes 3 semesters of year-round, full-time enrollment in 12-18 credit hours a semester per 12-month period.
**Normal schedule does not include breaks and assumes 2 semesters of enrollment in 12-18 credit hours per semester per 12-month period.

What's the difference between a software engineer and a software developer?

A software engineer focuses on applying concepts of software engineering as well as designing, developing and maintenance. A developer designs the software that runs across different computers.

Are there software developer certifications or professional associations I should consider?

Industry certifications can help demonstrate to employers your specific skills and depth of knowledge, and professional associations can help you stay connected with others in your field for networking and development opportunities.

Learn more about software developer certifications and professional associations.

Can I earn a Bachelor's in Software Development online?

Yes! At DeVry you have a choice between a hybrid (mix of online and in-person learning)3 and online Bachelor's Degree in Software Development program. No matter which method you choose for your education, you receive the same quality of education and a degree that is identical to one earned through in-person learning.

Do the credits I earn as part of a Bachelor's in Software Development program count toward other degrees?

At DeVry, some of our programs are embedded. This means that you may be able to earn an undergraduate certificate in Programming Essentials and an Information Technology and Networking associate degree as you work towards your Bachelor's in Software Development.4

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Amanda White
Current Student - Bachelor's Degree in Software Development
I have been attending DeVry online since May of 2021 and have enjoyed the flexibility in my Software Development program as well as the communication from the school. DeVry offers many resources. I recommend DeVry University to family and friends all the time, and view what I've learned at DeVry as crucial for my future career and lifestyle.
DeVry Faculty

About Our Faculty in Software Development Program

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Rick Bird, MCS, MPM
Senior Professor

Bird has been a professor with DeVry University for nearly 30 years and has taught courses ranging from computer applications to management to computer programming. He has earned national awards, including “The PRIDE of DeVry University.” Bird earned a Master’s Degree in Project Management from DeVry University’s Keller Graduate School of Management, and a second Master’s Degree in Computer Science from the University of Illinois Springfield. Bird is a strong believer in the power of technology and the use of software tools to make employees more productive and businesses more competitive.

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Gina Cooper, Ph.D.
Faculty Chair

Cooper has been a professor with DeVry University since 1999 and currently serves as faculty chair. She earned a doctorate from Wright State University in computer science and engineering with specializations in database, math, and bioinformatics. She presented her bioinformatics research at an IEEE International Bioinformatics Conference in Taiwan and has published scientific papers related to the courses she has developed at computer science education conferences.

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Geneviève Sapijaszko, Ph.D., MISM, PEng, SMIEEE
Professor

Sapijaszko has been a professor with DeVry University since 1997 and has taught courses in electrical engineering, electronics, computer programming, web development, networking and more. She earned a doctorate in electrical engineering with a focus on artificial intelligence, neural networks and image recognition from the University of Central Florida. Sapijaszko holds a professional engineering license in the province of Alberta, Canada, is a senior member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and is a member of the engineering honor society Tau Beta Pi. In addition to enhancing the student experience in the classroom, Sapijaszko has served as a mentor to the FIRST Robotics Competition, IEEExtreme competition, and MyWorld (Women in STEM).

Academic Catalog
2023 - 2024 Academic Catalog
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Program Guides
Program Overview
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1https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm. Growth projected on a national level. Local growth may vary. BLS projections are not specific to DeVry University students or graduates and may include earners at all stages of their career and not just entry level.
2As part of this program, one complimentary laptop is provided to students enrolled in the Associate in Cybersecurity and Networking, Associate in Information Technology and Networking, Associate in Engineering Technology, Bachelor’s of Information Technology and Networking, Bachelor’s of Software Development, Bachelor’s of Engineering Technology, Bachelor’s of Cybersecurity and Networking and Bachelor’s of Computer Information Systems. The laptop is issued during the student’s second session. Certain restrictions apply.
3Program and course availability vary by location. In site-based programs, students will be required to take a substantial amount of coursework online to complete their program.
4Future programmatic changes could impact the ability to earn additional credentials en route to an eligible degree program. Refer to the academic catalog for details.
4Students who complete CARD415 instead of CARD405 apply CARD415 to fulfill this requirement.

All students enrolled in site-based programs will be required to take some coursework online and, for some programs and locations, a substantial portion of the program may be required to be completed online.