Master of Software Development

Summary

Change direction and start a new career in software development with this industry-focused degree.

Kick-start a new career

Pivot into a career in the thriving tech industry. With the Master of Software Development (MSwDev), you’ll develop the knowledge and experience to develop web, mobile, and other software applications.

The MSwDev is an intensive 12-month programme that starts in July (Trimester 2). It teaches you core programming concepts and essential software development skills that you can apply in the industry.

You’ll build strong foundational programming skills using industry-standard programming languages. You’ll develop the ability to work confidently across a range of technologies. By the time you graduate, you’ll be equipped to thrive in a variety of professional environments.

What you’ll learn

Study for a MSwDev to learn about:

• web development
• testing
• mobile apps
• cloud computing
• agile development methodologies
• security
• data structures
• version control
• networking
• databases
• web systems
• user experience design
• software and design patterns.

Find out more

Sign up now to find out more about what the Master of Software Development can offer.

Scholarships for international students

We are currently offering a NZ$10,000 VUW Postgraduate International Scholarship to all eligible international students enrolling in a Master’s degree or Postgraduate Diploma programme. Your scholarship will be processed automatically when your programme application is accepted, and the amount will be deducted from your tuition fees.

Who should apply

The Master of Software Development is designed for people who want to build a career as a software developer but don’t have a tech background. If you have a degree with at least a B average in a different subject and want to change careers, we’ll teach you what you need to know to make the move.

Before you start this programme, it’s helpful to have some familiarity with coding. You might have done some basic programming at high school or followed some introductory online coding tutorials.

If you already have a strong technical programming background, the MSwDev is unlikely to be the right degree for you. One of our other postgraduate programmes might be a better fit. You could choose one of our coursework-based Master’s degrees:

• Master of Artificial Intelligence
• Master of Computer Science
• Master of Engineering Practice.

Or, if you want to do your own independent research or progress towards doctoral study, you could choose one of our research-based Master’s degrees:

• Master of Engineering
• Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, or Computer Graphics.

What you’ll study

The MSwDev is a full-time 180-point Master’s programme that starts in July (Trimester 2). You’ll complete this qualification in three consecutive trimesters over 12 months.

Coursework (July to February)

In the first two trimesters of your degree, you’ll master core programming skills, concepts, and techniques. You’ll learn about fundamental control structures, programming commands, data structures, object orientation, and fundamental algorithms. The programme covers a range of topics in software development and computer science.

You’ll also work on a variety of industry-relevant group projects where you’ll develop your teamwork, professional practice, and communication skills. You’ll also attend industry seminars from industry professionals on a range of topics.

You’ll explore topics like:

• web development
• testing
• mobile apps
• cloud computing
• artificial intelligence
• agile development
• programming languages
• security.

The group work, practical exercises, and teaching will be done in the same physical space, allowing for flexible timing of the more formal components of the course.

Industry research and development project (March to June)

In your final trimester (March to June), you’ll work on a substantial software research and development project.

Generally you’ll complete this project as a placement in a local ICT business, but it can also be an industry-related project done within the school. The project involves supervision by one of our teachers and by the industry supervisor. You’ll report on your work and give presentations.

Duration and workload

The Master of Software Development takes 12 months of full-time study to complete, starting in July (Trimester 2).

Studying full time, you can e...