Bachelor of Science
Software Development Degree
Develop in-demand software design and coding skills in this online degree program.
Best Online Bachelor's in Software Engineering Degrees – OnlineU
Software Development Degree
Apply your tech skills and graduate as a software developer with hands-on experience.
Degree completion at Bellevue University is about career application—especially in our skills-focused online Bachelor of Science in Software Development degree program. In every course—from introduction to programming through database design—you’ll get hands-on experience in projects that will build your expertise and help you close the gap between foundational computer science theory and a portfolio of work that will set you apart when you’re making your next career move.
Choose an accelerated software development cohort degree, or a more traditional course path.
As a cohort program, the online software development degree allows you to simplify your study experience with a course load that’s more manageable for busy students. You’ll register for classes once at the beginning of the program and take courses with the same group of peers online—allowing for more collaborative experiences. The traditional course schedule allows you to set your pace term by term.
Software development skills. Leadership potential.
With an online software development degree, you’ll gain the hard skills and a managerial mindset that readies you for long-term career growth. Here are examples of skills you’ll learn:
- Relational and non-relational database structures for software developers.
- Problem solving and computer programming using Python.
- Basics of Java programming language syntax using Object-Oriented (OO) programming techniques and advanced Java programming concepts.
- Programming with HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP server-side scripting language.
- Programming for the Web using Java Enterprise Edition (JEE) specifications.
- As part of a team, complete a realistic full-stack development project.
Courses
What You’ll Learn
- Develop software applications by writing code that meets specifications.
- Apply best practices for application design and development following coding standards.
- Evaluate software quality through verification and validation techniques.
- Demonstrate effective teamwork and software application development.
Software Development Degree Courses
Current students please login to BRUIN and select “Academic Progress” for your curriculum requirements.
Requirements (36 credit hours)
Speak to your Student Coach for more information about cohort vs. traditional schedules.
- Students on the cohort schedule take all courses in order, two per session.
- Students on the traditional schedule will map out a path that fits their priorities.
(Click a course name below to view course details)
This course prepares a software developer for effectively navigating the software development process to include business skills, proposal management, user requirements, analysis and design, and communication techniques. Additional topics include sizing and estimation approaches, Agile software development and the Scrum process framework, requirement elicitation techniques and tools, responsive design considerations, and accessibility.
This course introduces problem solving and computer programming using the Python language. Students will analyze problems, design and implement solutions, debug their code, and assess the results. Topics include fundamental programming constructs such as variables, expressions, functions, control structures and lists. Students will be introduced to using Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) for developing applications. Emphasis is placed on structured programming approaches.
This course introduces the concepts of relational and non-relational database structures from a software developer perspective. Topics include defining key/value pairs, building table structures, manipulating records, using data types, and implementing access controls. The Structured Query Language (SQL) will be used to manipulate the models. Students will prepare a small application using a relational database management system.
This course introduces students to a variety of advanced Python topics. Students will model, design, and implement solutions for both ASCII based, form based, and web based assignments. Topics include incorporating python built-in dictionary and date-time modules, integrating third party library modules, utilizing APIs, designing and completing code testing, building GUI interfaces, and exploring Django web services. Prerequisites: CSD 205 OR CIS 245
This course examines the fundamentals specific to web development. Topics will include web standards, accessibility/usability, and the markup languages, which serve as the foundation for web development: Hypertext Markup Language 5 (HTML5), Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), and Extensible Markup Language (XML). Students work with these languages at a basic level, learning the essential structures, coding conventions, and best practices associated with the effective use of HTML5 and CSS in modern web-development environments.
This course introduces the concepts of programming using Java 10. This course will cover the basics of the Java programming language syntax. Additional topics covered will be elementary data structures, input/output statements, selection, iteration, methods, and arrays, principles of Object-Oriented (OO). Topics include the language syntax, OO concepts, and advanced features of the Java programming language. Additional topics are inheritance, polymorphisms, abstracts, exception handling, and basic input and output. Students will write programs using all the above-mentioned topics. Prerequisites: CSD 325
This course focuses on providing student with an introduction to the secure software development lifecycle. Topics include current threat landscape, requirements definition, secure design, software implementation, software testing, lifecycle management, deployment, operations, and maintenance. Emphasis is placed on team-based and discovery-based learning methods.
This course builds on previous Java programming experience and focuses on advanced programming concepts. Topics include threading, graphics, Java Database Connectivity (JDBC), and Model View Controller (MVC). Students will continue developing skills in using agile development techniques. Students will be introduced to the MySQL database management system (DBMS). Prerequisites: CSD 402 and CSD 310
This course introduces students to a set of DevOps (Development Operations) tools and best practices that emphasizes the collaboration and automation of approaches to the development of software. Principles of release management, configuration management, orchestration, virtualization, containerization, and monitoring are examined to improve collaboration and communication. Students will gain experience with unit testing, writing test plans, functional testing, and code reviews. Students will gain an understanding of how continuous delivery improves software quality. Prerequisite: CSD 325
This course introduces principles of programming for the World Wide Web (WWW) using Java technologies. This course will focus on Spring to make Java web development quicker, easier, and more secure for developers. We will be using the framework provided with Spring which will reduce the amount of code needed to be written. This web development will include documents, such as HTML, XML, and Java. Prerequisites: CSD 340 and CSD 420
This course examines the PHP Server-side scripting language. Topics include cookies and sessions, objects and methods, collections, data types, and security coding techniques. In addition, students will be introduced to Linux command line methods to navigate and set variables in a Linux environment. Prerequisite: CSD 310, CSD 205 or CIS 245, CSD 340
This final course is designed to employ all the skills previously developed in Java programming. This course will pull together different strategies for successful software development for today’s highly demanding business environment. Topics include client and server-side development, and database development and use. Students will complete a real-world, complex, Java project using separate development environments to promote software through development, QA, and production. Prerequisites: CSD 430 and CSD 380
Kirkpatrick Signature Series Requirements (9 credit hours)
(In addition to the Major Requirements, all Bellevue University students must complete the Kirkpatrick Signature Series)
This course focuses on the political and philosophical traditions of the American republic, especially as embedded in the ideals, values, traditions, founding documents, and institutions of the United States , and considers how these traditions relate to individual citizenship and global society. Prerequisite: 60 Credit Hours
This course focuses on the creative tensions that exist between the forces of tradition and change as the country undergoes social, cultural, and political change. It considers the manner in which change can renew the vitality of a republic. Prerequisite: 60 Credit Hours
This course examines civic engagement in relation to individual freedoms and responsibilities. It fosters engaged citizens, empowered to effect positive change. Prerequisite: 60 Credit Hours
Integrative General Education Credits
Major Requirements Credits
Elective Credits
= 127 Total Credits*
General Education Courses
Take general education courses that do more than fill a requirement. At Bellevue University, these courses build foundational skills that apply to any career—critical thinking, qualitative reasoning, and ethical leadership. And, you can take courses individually or in course clusters, which connect three courses around one theme, building skills as you go.
Elective Courses
Our broad selection of electives allows you to select courses related to your major or expand your perspective in other areas of interest.
University Accreditation
Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).
Whether a college, university, or program is accredited is important to students with financial aid, employers who provide tuition assistance, donors, and the federal government.
This program is considered a non-licensure degree/certificate program and is not intended for those seeking licensure or the practice of licensed profession. This program may be relevant to multiple occupations that do not require licensure and was not designed to meet educational requirements for any specific professional license or certification.
*Consult with an admissions counselor to determine your eligible credits, as well as to verify minimum graduation requirements for this degree. Transfer credits must be from a regionally accredited college or university. Bellevue University makes no promises to prospective students regarding the acceptance of credit awarded by examination, credit for prior learning, or credit for transfer until an evaluation has been conducted.
Get credit for what you’ve earned.
Accelerate your path to earning a degree.
Thanks to our generous credit transfer policy, you can avoid retaking the classes you’ve already completed, and chip away at the credit requirements you need to complete your degree.
- Already have an associate degree? You could accelerate your bachelor's degree completion. Transfer your full associate degree or even your A.A.S.*
- You may be able to get credit for your military experience and training.
Finish Faster
*Acceptance of transfer credits is always subject to official transfer credit evaluation by Bellevue University.
Format
Expert faculty who integrate hands-on applied learning with development theory.
To be competitive in today’s job market, software developers need to not only execute on projects, but also be equipped to problem solve through complex challenges. That’s why our online software development degree gives you both—so you can prepare for a field that requires an innovative mindset and an ability to evolve your technology solutions.
100% Online learning that works for your life and your goals.
Our flexible online courses are designed to bring quality learning into a format that fits your schedule, without sacrificing meaningful faculty feedback and collaboration with peers across the country. Stay on track with the help of your Student Coach — with you from day one to graduation.
Graduate with a built-in network.
Get to know a consistent group of peers as you earn your software developer degree online. The accelerated cohort path will allow you to share expertise from your varied backgrounds and gain knowledge that makes you a better professional.
Put your goals within reach. Earn your software developer degree online.
Tuition & Financial Aid
It’s more affordable than you think.
Earning a degree is an investment in yourself, and we want to help you make sure it’s a wise one with a generous credit transfer policy and competitive tuition rates.
2024 / 2025 Academic Year
$449 Online Cost Per Credit $250 Military Preferred Cost Per Credit
(Additional fees may apply to individual courses within your major requirements)
2024 / 2025 Academic Year
$449 Online Cost Per Credit $250 Military Preferred Cost Per Credit
(Additional fees may apply to individual courses within your major requirements)
Only pay for the credits you need.
Talk to us about our generous credit transfer policy so you can make more of the credits you’ve already earned count toward your degree.
Get help with financial aid.
Our counselors will guide you to find a financial aid plan that works for you. Explore all the ways to help pay for your degree.
Military Preferred (Active Duty and Spouses Only)
Degree-seeking active-duty members of the U.S. Military, National Guard, Reserve, and Coast Guard, and their spouses, with proof of status, are eligible for a special tuition rate of $250 per credit hour for all undergraduate, certificate, and certificate of completion programs as they work towards their degree. Not able to be combined with other special rates, Guild or Campus@Work funding.
We'll help you find an affordable path to your online software development degree.
Admissions
Removing barriers to the education you deserve.
College is challenging, but getting in shouldn’t be. We have simplified our requirements for admission and we do not require entrance exam scores like the ACT or SAT—so you can get on track to achieving your goals. Here’s how it will go:
Prior to beginning the cohort-based online Software Development Degree, you must possess an associate degree or 60 semester hours completed with a grade of "C-" or higher from an accredited institution of higher learning. If you do not meet this requirement, speak with admissions about how you can build your credits directly with Bellevue University.
To be admitted to Bellevue University, provide proof of high school completion. We accept the following forms of documentation:
- Official high school transcript
- GED certificate
- Homeschool letter of completion
- Certificate demonstrating that the student has passed a state authorized examination recognized by the state in which it is awarded — equivalent to a high school diploma.
- Self-certification on application.
You’ll just need to complete the application and submit the following:
- Official high school transcripts or proof of high school completion
- If applicable, official transcripts from any college or university you previously attended
- A one-time $50 application fee
- Note:
- International students must provide a few extra documents. See international student bachelor admissions details.
- Students applying for a cohort-based major must possess an associate degree or 60 semester hours completed with a grade of "C-" or higher from an accredited institution of higher learning. If you do not meet this requirement, you can build your credits directly with Bellevue University.
Short on time? You can start the application and save your progress as you go. Start your application >
You'll just need to create an account and complete a pre-application to Bellevue University through Guild. Once you receive confirmation that your pre-application to Bellevue University has been approved, you'll need to complete the required steps to get fully accepted and registered. These include:
- Submitting transcripts from past institutions
- Completing the FAFSA, per your employer's benefit requirement
If you’re transferring from another institution of higher education, you must submit an official transcript from each accredited institution you previously attended. Here are a few details to note:
- A transcript can be emailed securely to [email protected] or by mail. It is required to be sent directly from the issuing institution to Bellevue University's Office of the Registrar to be considered an official document. Please check with previous institution for available sending options.
- Applicants who submit an official transcript which reflects a two-year degree from a regionally accredited postsecondary institution are not required to show proof of high school completion.
- Transcripts must be submitted even if credits were not earned at the previous institution or if transfer credit is not granted.
Traditional Degree Schedule—No Additional Admission Requirements.
Map out a degree path that fits with your priorities.
Cohort Degree Specific Admission Requirements
(in addition to the Bellevue University requirements for admission)
- Associate degree, OR
- Minimum 60 credit hours, OR
- 1 year of computer programming experience
Ready to get started?
Reach out to admissions.
- Get your questions answered about the Software Development Degree
- Understand your financial aid and scholarship options
- Map out a schedule that fits with your priorities
