Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an online option?
Yes! We are happy to announce the launch of our online program.
What’s required for admission?
To enter the Extended 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 bachelor’s degree (in any subject and from any country)
- Have a grade point average from your bachelor’s (or master’s) degree of 3.0 or higher
- Testing Requirement: Take our online math placement test OR take the GRE – MORE INFO
To join the Accelerated Track of the Master’s in Software Development, you need to:
- Become accepted to the Extended Track (see requirements above)
- Pass the JavaScript Coding Test
How long is the program?
The Extended Track program is 18 months in length, and the Accelerated Track program is 12 months in length.
What is the Accelerated Track?
The 12-month Accelerated Track is the accelerated version of the program designed for students who have a strong aptitude for programming and are fast learners. While this track does start with the fundamentals of coding, it moves into more advanced topics more quickly than the 18-month Extended Track. To see the requirements for becoming accepted to the Accelerated Track, please see the Program Requirements page.
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 on 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 can take a GRE or Math Placement Assessment for joining 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 available to help you pay for tuition, although it does not cover any housing, meals, or personal expense costs you have.
Where is the program?
On-campus programs: Fairfield, Iowa, United States
Online program: Anywhere you can find internet
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. This schedule is the same for on-campus and online programs.
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!
