Frequently Asked Questions
What’s required for admission?
To enter the Standard Track of the Master’s in Software Development, you need to:
- Be a US Citizen, permanent resident, or have a different status permitting work and study in the United States
- Have a US equivalent bachelor’s degree (in any subject and from any country)
- Testing Requirement: Take our online math placement test – MORE INFO
To join the Accelerated Track of the Master’s in Software Development, you need to:
- Become accepted to the Standard Track (see requirements above)
- Pass the JavaScript Coding Test
How long is the program?
The Standard Track is 18 months in length, and the Accelerated Track is 12 months in length.
What is the Accelerated Track?
The 12-month Accelerated Track consists of the final 12 months of the MSD program. This track is designed for students who have experience in software development or a strong aptitude for programming. While this track does start with the fundamentals of coding, it moves quickly into more advanced topics in software development. It is only open to those who pass the JavaScript test offered after passing the math test when first applying to the program. To see the requirements for becoming accepted to the Accelerated Track, please see the Program Requirements page.
Is there an online option?
Not currently. We will likely offer this option in the future.
What if my bachelor’s degree is from another country? Does it transfer?
Yes! Once you apply, our admissions team will review your transcripts. If for some reason your degree doesn’t qualify as a US-equivalent bachelor’s degree, you may request a refund on your application fee.
What are the next steps to becoming accepted?
- Fill out the online application.
- Submit your transcripts, resume, letter of recommendation, and statement of purpose.
- Schedule your online math test. We will send you a link to schedule after you apply.
Why is there an entrance exam if the program is for people with no prior experience?
No prior experience means that you don’t need to have previously studied or worked in the software field. Students need to take our Math Placement Assessment for applying to the program.
OPTIONAL: If you wish to join the Accelerated Track., you will need to learn the basics of JavaScript in order to pass our JavaScript Coding Test.
Does this program qualify for federal student loans?
Yes! Once you apply to the program and submit your FAFSA, our financial aid office will determine if you qualify for federal student loans. Most of our applicants qualify for federal student loans.
What if I don’t qualify for federal student loans?
After you submit your FAFSA application, our financial aid office will review your application and determine if you qualify for federal student loans or not (the large majority of our applicants do qualify). If you don’t qualify for federal student loans, we have a special arrangement that you may qualify for to defer your tuition costs.
Where is the program?
Fairfield, Iowa, United States
What is the daily schedule?
Class is weekdays from 10:00 – 3:30 (with a one hour break for lunch) and Saturdays from 10:00 – 12:30. Plan on 3-6 hours of homework every day in addition to time spent in class.
How many entries are there into the program?
There are 2 entries each year. One in February and one in August.
What are the steps to becoming enrolled?
To see the sequence of steps for becoming enrolled in our program, please see our Admissions Checklist.
Have more questions?
Feel free to contact us with any additional questions you have!
