Having a Master’s Degree in Mobile Development opens up many lucrative career possibilities in software engineering, game development, and web design. Depending on the mobile development master’s degree program you choose, you can learn about network security, user experience, software testing, or data analytics.
In this article, you’ll find some of the best mobile development master’s degrees offered both on campus and online. Additionally, we’ve compiled a list of some of the top jobs you would qualify for with one of the best Master’s Degrees in Mobile Development.
What Is Mobile Development?
Mobile development is a fast-growing technology field that focuses on the development, design, and maintenance of mobile applications. Some common job duties in this field include software testing, user experience design, and software engineering.
Where Can I Get a Master’s Degree in Mobile Development?
You can get a Master’s Degree in Mobile Development from top college programs at the University of California at Berkeley, New York University, and Arizona State University. Mobile development master’s degree programs are available across the US, with some even offering fully online programs. This means a great mobile development master’s program can be found near you.
What Schools Offer the Best Mobile Development Master’s Degrees?
- University of California at Berkeley
- New York University
- Arizona State University
- University of Michigan- Dearborn
- Florida Institute of Technology
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Master’s Degree in Mobile Development?
The admissions requirements for a Master’s in Mobile Development typically include an undergraduate degree in a relevant field and a minimum GPA of 3.0. You may also be required to submit letters of recommendation and sit for an admissions test.
Other common admissions requirements include writing a personal statement or essay describing your educational and career goals. Applicants are also often required to submit their current resume with relevant work experience.
Mobile Development Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Relevant undergraduate degree
- Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal essay
- Resume and relevant work experience
How to Get a Master’s Degree in Mobile Development
You can get a mobile development master’s degree by first earning a bachelor’s degree in the same or a similar field of study. Then, you must enroll in a master’s degree program and complete all required courses and credit hours with at least a C or equivalent grade in each course. You will also likely need to complete a capstone project or thesis paper to graduate.
The best way to get a mobile development master’s degree is to prepare as much as possible prior to beginning the graduate program. Research the course curricula while you are still pursuing your undergraduate degree and ensure you complete all necessary prerequisites. Take as many elective courses related to your field of study as possible, and work hard to earn good grades.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Master’s Degree in Mobile Development?
You need 30 to 40 credits for a Master’s in Mobile Development. The average amount of credits that must be completed for this degree is 36, but it varies from program to program. Most programs that require upwards of 40 credits operate on a quarterly schedule rather than semesterly, meaning the program should not take any longer than average to complete.
Mobile Development Degree Requirements
- C grades or better in all courses
- Lower-level courses such as
- Higher-level courses such as
- Approximately 36 credit hours
- Capstone project or thesis paper
Best Mobile Development Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Brown University | Master of Science in Computer Science | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Carnegie Mellon University | Master of Science in Software Engineering | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Florida Institute of Technology | Master of Science in Software Engineering | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| New Jersey Institute of Technology | Master of Science in Software Engineering | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| New York University | Master in Computer Science | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| San Diego State University | Master of Computer Science | WASC Senior College and University Commission |
| University of California at Berkeley | Master of Science in Computer Science | WASC Senior College and University Commission |
| University of Denver | Master of Science in Computer Science | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of Houston | Master of Science in Computer Science | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| University of Tulsa | Master of Science in Computer Science | Higher Learning Commission |
Best Schools for Mobile Development: Top Mobile Development Master’s Degree Programs
The best schools for a mobile development master’s degree can be studied on campus or online. If you are someone who learns best in a traditional learning environment with rigid scheduling and due dates, an on-campus program is probably best for you. The above table contains 10 of the best on-campus Master’s in Mobile Development programs.
Listed below are the details of the programs from the table above. When choosing which program is best for you, it’s important to consider the location, financing options, and benefits that are unique to each individual institution.
Best Online Mobile Development Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Master of Science in Engineering in Software Engineering | Higher Learning Commission |
| Boston University | Master of Science in Software Development | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Fort Hays State University | Master of Professional Studies in Web and Mobile Application Development | Higher Learning Commission |
| Kennesaw State University | Master of Science in Software Engineering | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Maryville University of Saint Louis | Master’s in Software Development | Higher Learning Commission |
| Northcentral University | Master of Science in Computer Science | WASC Senior College and University Commission |
| Nova Southeastern University | Master of Science in Computer Science | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| University of Michigan- Dearborn | Master of Science in Software Engineering | Higher Learning Commission |
| Touro University | Master of Science in Web and Application Development | WASC Senior College and University Commission |
| Virginia Tech | Master of Information Technology in Software Development | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Best Colleges for Mobile Development: Top Online Mobile Development Master’s Degree Programs
An online mobile master’s degree from one of the best colleges might be the ideal option for you. Online courses allow you to further your education while maintaining flexibility and work-life balance. Below, the above table has been expanded with details of the top online master’s degree programs.
What Is a Mobile Development Master’s Degree?
A mobile development master’s degree is a two-year graduate program that covers advanced software development concepts related to mobile development, such as software maintenance, computer security, software architecture, software design, and software testing.
Students will also learn programming languages like Swift, Python, C++, and Java. While enrolled in a mobile development master’s degree program, students gain valuable mobile development skills, like how to create a functional and appealing user interface design.
How Important Is a Master’s Degree in Mobile Development?
It is very important to have a Master’s Degree in Mobile Development if your primary goals are work stability and high pay. You can likely find employment in this field without a master’s degree, but having one improves your employability and will almost guarantee a higher base salary.
The main reasons why a mobile development master’s degree is important are:
- Improved employability
- Increased annual salary
- Qualified for many tech jobs
What Types of Master’s Degree Can You Get in Mobile Development?
You can get the following types of master’s degrees for mobile development:
- Master’s degree
- Master of Science (MS)
- Master of Professional Studies (MPS)
Is It Better to Get a Master of Science or Master of Professional Studies in Mobile Development?
It is better to get a Master of Science (MS) in Mobile Development if you want to focus on research and theories as an MS degree provides more hands-on research opportunities. This path is ideal for someone who wishes to pursue further education in the field in the form of a doctorate degree.
A Master of Professional Studies in Mobile Development provides a career-based education with more opportunities for internships and hands-on career training. This is why a Master of Professional Studies in Mobile Development can be better for getting you a job.
What Is the Difference Between a Mobile Development Master’s Degree and a Mobile Development Certificate?
The difference between a mobile development master’s degree and a certificate in mobile development is the curriculum. In a master’s program, you have to complete a variety of core courses and elective courses of your choosing. In a certificate program, you complete only core courses that are predetermined.
You should get a mobile development master’s degree instead of a certificate because it will likely earn you a higher annual salary. It will also allow you to customize your education by choosing elective courses not offered in certificate programs.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Master’s Degree in Mobile Development?
A mobile development master’s degree costs $19,792 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. This amount, however, can vary substantially depending on your program as well as the type of institution you choose to attend.
There are several ways to finance your mobile application development master’s degree. Common options are grants, federal and private loans, and scholarships. Some schools may also offer flexible payment plans. You may even be able to get your employer to pay for your degree as part of a sponsorship program.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Mobile Development Master’s Degree?
It takes one to two years to get a Master’s Degree in Mobile Development. The accelerated programs, most commonly offered online, typically take around one to one and half years to complete. The longer on-campus programs typically take two years, and at the most, three years to complete.
The length of your program is dependent on a few things. A program’s curriculum is a big determinant, as well as your enrollment status (full-time or part-time), and if the program offers accelerated options. You can work with an advisor to determine the best options for you.
How Hard Is It to Get a Master’s Degree in Mobile Development?
A Master’s Degree in Mobile Development is hard to get because of the technical nature of the degree. Not only will you have to take courses in advanced programming and software, but you will also have to complete a capstone project or thesis paper on the same challenging subject material.
Why Should You Get a Mobile Development Master’s Degree?
The benefits of getting a Master’s Degree in Mobile Development are:
- Improved employability
- Increased salary
- Gain valuable skills
- Prepares you for a wide variety of tech jobs
- Provides experience in the field via hands-on projects
What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Master’s Degree Program in Mobile Development?
The required courses for a mobile development master’s degree are a variety of advanced technical courses. Below, we dive into five courses commonly required for mobile development master’s degree programs.
Programming Languages
This course focuses on honing in your programming skills using various languages. These languages often include Java, JavaScript, PHP, and Python.
Software Design and Patterns
In a Software Design and Patterns course students learn about the many different software designs and patterns that can be utilized in the mobile development process.
Mobile Application Development
The Mobile Application Development course focuses solely on the development of mobile applications. It typically involves many labs to help students develop their own applications during the course.
Human-Computer Interactions
In this course, students study how people interact with computers and devices. This provides important research for user experience and user interface (UX/UI) work, which is a key component of mobile development.
Mobile Web Development
In this course, students focus on developing web applications and pages for mobile devices. This allows users to access the same features of a website or web application on their cell phones as they would on a computer or laptop.
Continuing Education Paths for Mobile Development Master’s Degree Graduates
After graduating with a master’s degree, you can continue your education with a PhD in mobile development. There are specializations in Android OS, Apple’s iOS, and others to suit your education or career goals. You can also opt for graduate certificates, which provide more specialized training, or certificates and certifications available on learning platforms such as Coursera.
Related Mobile Development Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Mobile Development Master’s Degree Programs
The best mobile development master’s degree programs have accreditation, great faculty, and an innovative curriculum. You can expect experienced faculty and good class sizes from a mobile development master’s degree program. Below are five things to consider when learning how to choose a mobile development master’s program.
Accreditation
Accreditation is the proof that a school or program adheres to predetermined educational standards. This is important when choosing a mobile development master’s program because accreditation ensures you receive an education that is up to industry standards.
Faculty Credentials
Faculty credentials are the proof of experience and expertise faculty members have in the field in which they are teaching. Since the tech world is always advancing, finding a mobile development program with faculty who have great credentials is important. This allows you to learn the inner workings of the field as part of your education.
Curricular Content
Curricular content is what you will study while enrolled in a program. Finding a program with good curricular content is crucial to earning a relevant degree. A good curriculum will be regularly updated to keep up with the evergrowing tech industry, and will focus on new technologies that can be utilized for mobile development.
Student:Faculty Ratio
The student-to-faculty ratio is how many students there are, on average, per each faculty member. This is most typically measured in individual courses, by keeping track of how many students are enrolled in each course compared to the one instructor teaching. Having a smaller student-to-faculty ratio is important as it allows you more time for one-on-one learning.
Accelerated Options
Accelerated options are schedule offerings that allow you to finish the program earlier than usual. While this may not be something all students are interested in, being able to complete your degree in as little as one year can allow you to join the workforce sooner, or be qualified for career advancement.
What Is the Most Affordable Mobile Development Master’s Degree?
The most affordable Master’s Degree in Mobile Development on our list is a Master of Science in Computer Science from the University of Houston. This degree costs $3,795 per semester for in-state students, and $8,367 per semester for out-of-state students.
Salary and Job Outlook for Mobile Development Master’s Degree Graduates
After graduating with a Master’s in Mobile Development, lucrative and in-demand jobs await you. In this section we explore the top 10 Master’s Degree in Mobile Development jobs, their salaries, and the career outlooks for these jobs.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Mobile Development Master’s Degree?
It is relatively easy to get a job with a mobile development master’s degree. This is because many mobile development jobs do not even require a degree, and those that do typically don’t require more than an undergraduate degree. Having a master’s degree puts you ahead of the competition and make you a more desirable candidate on the job market.
What’s the Average Mobile Development Master’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with a Master’s Degree in Mobile Development is around $90,000 per year, according to PayScale. This salary significantly increases for senior-level positions, most of which are open to master’s degree holders. It’s important to note that salaries also change depending on the location.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Mobile Development Master’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with a mobile development master’s degree include application developer, mobile engineer, computer programmer, and IT support specialist. The knowledge you gain during a mobile development master’s degree equips you with the knowledge to perform well in these roles.
Mobile Development Degree Jobs
- Application Developer
- Mobile Engineer
- Software Quality Assurance Engineer
- Computer Programmer
- IT Support Specialist
Potential Careers With an Mobile Development Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Master’s Degree in Mobile Development?
You can make between $70,000 and $111,000 with a Master’s in Mobile Development. To earn the highest possible salary, earning a master’s degree is the right way to go. Besides the degree, a few other factors that impact your pay include location, job title, and experience.
To get the most out of your degree, try to complete an internship while studying to earn more work experience. If you aren’t sold on a specific job title, try to go for one of the top-paying titles. You can also consider moving to one of the highest-paying states for your job. These will all help increase your annual pay.
Highest-Paying Mobile Development Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Mobile Development Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Software Developer | $110,140 |
| Mobile Engineer | $95,474 |
| iOS Developer | $94,375 |
| Android Developer | $90,756 |
| Software Engineer | $88,659 |
| Java Developer | $78,604 |
| Web Developer | $77,200 |
| Mobile Applications Developer | $75,603 |
| Software Quality Assurance Engineer | $74,022 |
| Application Developer | $71,958 |
Best Jobs for Mobile Development Master’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for mobile development master’s degree grads are high-paying and in high demand. Many of these jobs pay nearly $100,000 per year, and all are easy to get with a Master’s in Mobile Development.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Mobile Development Bootcamp vs Mobile Development Master’s Degree: Which Is Better?
A coding bootcamp is better if you’re looking for a short but intensive program that can make you job-ready in a flexible format. Bootcamps are all about giving the student the hands-on experience they need to enter the workforce as quickly as possible. There are bootcamps programs for the most in-demand fields in tech.
When it comes to the mobile development field, both master’s degrees and coding bootcamps are excellent educational avenues. They both have advantages and drawbacks and cater to different types of students. If you are on the fence about which education option to pursue, continue reading to learn more about their benefits.
Benefits of a Mobile Development Master’s Degree
- Reputation. Master’s degrees are highly reputable and widely accepted across all fields and industries. Having a master’s degree boosts your appeal to employers.
- More career opportunities. A master’s degree is one of the highest educational accomplishments. This means that earning a master’s degree unlocks a host of high-level career opportunities.
- Higher salary. Having a master’s degree qualifies you for senior-level positions, which come with better pay. If you are currently employed and earn an advanced degree, your employer may increase your salary because you’ll be able to bring more value to the company.
- Preparation for a PhD. Getting a Master’s Degree in Computer Science or Mobile Development can be a stepping stone to a tech-related doctoral degree. This is great if you are interested in research or would like to teach at a university.
- Always relevant. Even in a fast-changing industry like tech, a master’s degree is a credential that doesn’t lose its relevance. Having a master’s degree will always improve your resume and make you a more attractive candidate.
Benefits of a Mobile Development Bootcamp
- Affordable education. Bootcamp programs have a very affordable tuition rate when compared to universities. According to a Career Karma report, the average cost of a bootcamp is $11,727. A master’s degree, by comparison, costs nearly $20,000 a year, on average.
- Short duration. Most bootcamps can be completed in a matter of months, making them a quick and effective educational route. They are an ideal option for bachelor’s degree holders who are interested in advancing their education or career but don’t want to pursue a master’s degree.
- Flexibility. Bootcamp programs come in a variety of formats, tailoring to different needs. You can often enroll in a bootcamp full-time as well as part-time. Likewise, you will find online, on-site, hybrid, self-paced, and instructor-led options, to name a few.
- Career support. Aside from hands-on training, the best mobile development bootcamps provide extensive career services to help students land a job shortly after the program. These services include interview practice, resume guidance, and opportunities to meet potential employers.
- Ease of payment. Most bootcamp programs offer several payment options, including private loans, installment plans, scholarships, and income share agreements (ISAs).
Is a Master’s Degree in Mobile Development Worth It?
Yes, a Master’s Degree in Mobile Development is worth it if you want to pursue a lucrative career in this field of study. This degree provides access to some of the best jobs in the tech industry, with great salaries and high job satisfaction rates.
However, whether or not you should get a mobile development master’s degree depends on you and your goals. When it comes to mobile development, an advanced degree will grant you access to senior positions, increase your salary potential, and boost your appeal to employers in this exciting field.
Additional Reading About Mobile Development
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Mobile Development Master’s Degree FAQ
You can become a mobile developer by first earning an undergraduate degree in mobile development. Then, to pursue higher job positions and better annual salaries, you should earn a mobile development master’s degree. These degrees can also be complimented by certificates and certifications to best suit your personal career goals.
Yes, you can get an Master’s Degree in Mobile Development online. Many well-known universities offer online degrees in computer science, web development, and software engineering. Top schools offering online degrees in mobile development are Arizona State University, Boston University, Fort Hays State University, and Kennesaw State University.
No, you do not need a master’s degree to become a mobile app developer. The standard requirement is a Bachelor’s Degree in Software Development or Computer Science. However, if you’re interested in working for a top company or landing a senior-level position, having a master’s degree will likely be required.
Some of the best master’s degree programs for a career in mobile development are a Master of Science in Software Engineering and a Master of Science in Computer Engineering. Some of the universities known for these programs are Florida State University, Boston University, University of California Berkeley, and the University of San Diego.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
