BS in Software Development: Mobile App Development Emphasis

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Degree Level

Bachelor's

Class Setting

Campus

Area of Study

Science

Program

BS in Software Development: Mobile App Development

Current Education Level

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High School Graduation Year

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High School Name

Country

United States

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Overview

Gain Experience in Mobile App Development

The Bachelor of Science in Software Development with an Emphasis in Mobile App Development at Grand Canyon University is designed to provide students with hands-on experience using the tools and technologies that shape our digital world. Whether you want to create engaging user experiences or develop mobile applications, this degree program can help you explore key mobile and software development areas.

This program teaches technical skills and essential professional competencies like communication, teamwork and initiative. With its focus on mobile technologies, the program aims to equip you with the skills to develop mobile-first solutions and build a strong foundation for careers in this field.

Bachelor of Science in Software Development with an Emphasis in Mobile App Development

Offered By

College of Engineering and Technology

Class Settings

Campus

Tuition Rate

Campus: $8,250 per semester [More Info]

Cost of Attendance

Course Information

Credits: 120

Campus: 15 weeks

Online: 8 weeks

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Transfer Credits

Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division

Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)

16+ years old
High School Graduate
3.0+ Unweighted GPA

OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and

ACT: 19
SAT: 1000*

Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).

Why GCU

Achieve Expertise in Mobile App Innovation and Software Development

GCU’s BS in Software Development with an Emphasis in Mobile App Development is offered both on campus and online, providing flexibility for students. The program blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on learning, guiding students through the entire mobile app lifecycle from concept to deployment. Key topics include UI/UX design, agile development, API integration and mobile deployment, with opportunities for practical coding assignments and collaborative projects.

The curriculum emphasizes ethical decision-making, purpose-driven innovation and responsible technology use. Experienced faculty help students develop critical thinking and effective communication skills while approaching mobile development with creativity and integrity. This program can equip students to understand and influence the mobile technology field.

The BS in Software Development focusing on Mobile App Development offers a flexible online learning experience, enabling students to balance their education with busy schedules. Students can collaborate in a virtual environment through discussion forums and have access to instructors, fostering growth in technical communication and problem-solving skills.

GCU students learn with a framework of a Christian worldview, integrating ethical reflection into the study of modern technology. The program emphasizes the intersection of innovation and responsibility, promoting thoughtful decision-making in the tech industry. We encourage students to consider how their skills can serve others personally and professionally.

Coursework

Master the Tools of Mobile Innovation

The Bachelor of Science in Software Development with an Emphasis in Mobile App Development introduces students to core technical concepts while encouraging hands-on experience with relevant platforms and tools. Students are taught to build, test and refine software solutions for mobile and web-based applications through immersive coursework and collaborative projects.

The curriculum in our bachelor’s in software development and mobile app development emphasis program also offers professional skills such as effective communication, adaptive programming techniques and the use of modern development environments to help you prepare for hands-on tech roles.

Students in the program will be taught competencies across key technical and professional domains, including:

Multi-language programming
Implementing algorithms and data structures
Designing relational databases
Creating secure, scalable mobile applications
Enhancing user experiences through UI/UX principles
Building cross-platform applications with mobile frameworks
Utilizing cloud technologies for deployment and integration
Using web technologies like HTML, CSS and JavaScript
Addressing application security and data protection
Full-stack development
Capstone projects focused on practical software challenges

Careers

Career Paths for Software Development Graduates

This Bachelor of Science in Software Development mobile app emphasis offers students the knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to enter technology-driven fields. As the use of mobile technology grows, the need for professionals who can build secure, user-friendly and scalable software solutions also increases.^1,2

With a solid foundation in programming, cloud computing, mobile application frameworks and technical communication, graduates can pursue various roles in both established tech companies and emerging startups. This knowledge can be applied across multiple sectors including business, education, healthcare, government and nonprofit organizations.

Careers that align with this bachelor’s in software development program include:

Software or mobile application developer

Web developer

Computer programmer

Software quality assurance analyst or tester

Computer systems analyst

Full-stack developer

API integration specialist

Computer network support specialist

Computer and information systems manager

Computer and information research scientist

$133,080

Estimated median annual wage for software developers in May 2024³

17%

Estimated job growth for software developers, quality assurance analysts and testers from 2023 to 2033²

FAQ

FAQs

If you are looking to specialize in mobile app development, review our frequently asked questions and answers to learn more about this degree program.

Many aspiring mobile app developers pursue a bachelor’s degree in software development, computer science or a related IT discipline.⁴ A degree in one of these areas can demonstrate that you have acquired essential skills in programming, UI/UX design, mobile application frameworks and software architecture.

This program has no special prerequisites beyond meeting GCU’s general admission requirements. Once enrolled, students begin with foundational courses that introduce core software development principles before advancing to more complex topics in mobile app development.

Although not every role in software development requires extensive math knowledge, a basic understanding of math can be beneficial. The level of math involved may vary depending on specific projects and focus areas. Many students find math useful for problem-solving and building logical, functional applications.

Courses

Course List

Credit Summary

General Education Requirements34-40 credits

Major72 credits

Open Elective Credits8-14 credits

Degree Requirements120 credits

General Education Requirements

General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.

Competency

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.

Competency

9-12 Total Credits

Competency

4 Total Credits

Competency

11-12 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.

Competency

6-8 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.

Core Courses

CST-120

4 Total Credits

CST-105

4 Total Credits

CST-150

4 Total Credits

CST-239

4 Total Credits

CST-250

4 Total Credits

CST-345

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course provides students with the technical skills required to design and implement a database solution using both relational and non-relational databases. Students use data definition language (DDL) to create and delete database objects, and data manipulation language (DML) to access and manipulate those objects. Students gain hands-on experience with database design, data normalization, SQL sub-queries, creating and using views, understanding and working with data dictionaries, and loading and unloading databases. The laboratory reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture. Hands-on activities focus on writing code that implements concepts discussed in the lecture course, specifically creating databases and SQL queries. Prerequisite: CST-105 or CST-150.

CST-339

4 Total Credits

CST-201

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course covers classical algorithms and data structures, with an emphasis on implementation and application in solving real-world computational problems. The course focuses on algorithms for sorting, searching, string processing, and graphs. Students learn basic strategies to evaluate divide-and-conquer, recursive backtracking, and algorithm efficiency. Hands-on activities focus on writing code that implements concepts and algorithm implementation techniques. Prerequisite: CST-210 or CST-239 or CST-135 or CST-250 or CST-227.

CST-321

4 Total Credits

CST-350

4 Total Credits

CST-391

4 Total Credits

CST-351

4 Total Credits

CST-323

4 Total Credits

CST-326

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course focuses on gathering User Stories and decomposing them into a requirements document, design specifications, and technically managing activities associated with software development. Topics cover the managerial aspect of the software development life cycle, delivery, and integration. Hands-on activities focus on communication using professional Agile-based project management software to implement a system for planning, tracking, and auditing the use of resources within the context of a software project. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisite: CST-239 or CST-135 or CST-250 or CST-227.

CST-353

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course offers a comprehensive and hands-on learning experience for students interested in building mobile applications that work across multiple platforms. Through this course, students will gain expertise in leveraging a cross-platform framework to write code once and deploy it across various platforms. From understanding the fundamentals of cross-platform app architecture to implementing platform-specific features, students will learn how to create visually captivating, high-performance, versatile, and efficient cross-platform apps. Prerequisite: CST-239 or CST-250.

CST-451

2 Total Credits

Course Description

The first capstone course provides students the opportunity to work in teams to tackle real world applied research and design projects in their chosen area of interest. Students develop a project proposal, conduct a feasibility study, learn to protect intellectual property, develop teamwork skills, budgets, and a schedule for completing the project. Students conduct extensive research, integrate information from multiple sources, and work with a mentor through multiple cycles of feedback and revisions. Students use this course to further develop technical writing and business presentation skills. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisite: CST-339 or CST-341 or CST-235 or CST-350 or CST-247 or CST-391.

CST-407

4 Total Credits

CST-355

4 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course, students expand their skills and delve into the intricacies of building cutting-edge mobile applications. This course delves into advanced topics such as incorporating emerging technologies, cloud integration, advanced user interface (UI) design, and optimizing app performance. Students will learn how to leverage cutting-edge technologies to create immersive user experiences, integrate cloud services for enhanced functionality, and optimize app performance for optimal speed and efficiency. By the end of this course, students will possess the expertise to develop innovative and feature-rich mobile apps that leverage the latest technologies and provide exceptional user experiences. Prerequisite: CST-353.

CST-452

2 Total Credits

Course Description

The second capstone course provides students the opportunity to implement and present the applied research project designed, planned, and started in the first capstone course. The capstone project is a culmination of the learning experiences while a student in the Computer Science program. Students conduct extensive research, integrate information from multiple sources, and work with a mentor through multiple cycles of feedback and revision. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisite: Successful completion of CST-451 with a grade of C or better.

GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change

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Shape the Future of Mobile App Development

Build your future in mobile app development — gain the skills to launch your software career today!

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Grand View Research. (2018-23). Mobile Computer Market Size & Trends. Retrieved May 19, 2025.
COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2024, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers, retrieved May 6, 2025.
The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (“BLS”), Software Developers as of May 2023, retrieved May 6, 2025. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as software developers, nor does it reflect earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc., against a pool of candidates.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, April 18). How To Become a Software Developer, Quality Assurance Analyst, or Tester. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved May 8, 2025.

BS in Software Development: Mobile App Development Emphasis

BS in Software Development: Mobile App Development Emphasis

Gain Experience in Mobile App Development

Bachelor of Science in Software Development with an Emphasis in Mobile App Development

Achieve Expertise in Mobile App Innovation and Software Development

Master the Tools of Mobile Innovation

Career Paths for Software Development Graduates

$133,080

17%

Pursue Your Bachelor’s From an Accredited University

FAQs

Course List

Shape the Future of Mobile App Development

Course List

Bachelor of Science in Software Development with an Emphasis in Mobile App Development