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Software Development


Program Description

Software Development is the study of the principles, tools, and techniques for developing modern software. Software developers create the web, mobile, and desktop applications that we use every day. They typically work as full stack developers, writing and maintaining the secure front end and back end code that turns a specification into a real-world, functioning system.
 

Student Experience The Software Development major at the University of Utah offers students numerous opportunities to enhance their academic learning with hands-on experience. Students are encouraged to get involved in student organizations such as the Software Development Club. Additionally, the program emphasizes gaining real-world experience through internships and undergraduate research projects, allowing students to dive deeper into their specific areas of interest while developing critical technical and professional skills. These experiences are designed to help students build a strong foundation for their careers in software development.

Career Opportunities Graduates of the Software Development major at the University of Utah are well-equipped to pursue a variety of career paths in the tech industry. They can enter the workforce as software developers, software engineers, cybersecurity analysts, mobile app developers, or web designers/developers. Additionally, graduates can find opportunities in industries such as healthcare, finance, and entertainment, where their expertise in developing scalable and efficient software solutions is in high demand.

 

The Student Experience

To supplement your academic coursework, students can consider gaining work experience as a teaching assistant or tutor. Students also have the opportunity to take part in a variety of clubs in the department such as Women in Computing, Cybersecurity Club, Software Development Club, Technical Coding Club, or Association of Computing Machinery Club. Students are also encouraged to advance their programming and professional skills by seeking an internship experience.

Career Opportunities

Students who complete the Software Development degree can pursue careers as a Software Developer, Applications Developer, Games Developer, Web Designer/Developer, Software Tester, Software Engineer, Cybersecurity Analyst, IT Consultant, or a Mobile Developer.

More Info

Catalog

Exploratory Classes

  • CS 1400 - Intro to Computer Programming
  • CS 1420 - Accelerated Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming
  • CS 1810 - Intro to Computing Systems

Last Updated: 8/28/25