Bachelor of Science in Software Application Development

Students presenting at the 2025 IT Expo

Students presenting at the 2025 IT Expo

Bachelor of Science in Software Application Development

Creative, integrating, and empowering

The Bachelor of Science in Software Application Development program is available both online and on campus. Its goal is to prepare students to design, build, and implement software applications and systems that enhance business operations and support personal productivity. Students will develop practical skills using contemporary programming languages, platforms, and frameworks that are in demand across the tech industry.

The curriculum emphasizes the real-world application of knowledge, culminating in a senior-year project where students develop a fully functional IT solution. Both online and on-campus students benefit from co-op experiences, working alongside industry professionals to gain valuable insights and hands-on exposure to the field of software and IT development.

Career Paths for Graduates

The Software Application Development program builds practical skills needed for a range of in-demand technology careers, including:

  • Software Developer
  • Computer Programmer
  • Software Quality Assurance Analyst and Tester
  • Web Developer
  • Web and Digital Interface Designer

Flexible Undergraduate Program Options

This program is available both online and on campus. Contact the CECH Office of Recruitment to explore which program format is right for you and learn how to begin your path toward a rewarding career in cybersecurity.


Students interested in making a difference in society through selecting, creating, securing, integrating, implementing and administering software solutions will find empowerment in this new degree.

Hazem Said Director of the School of Information Technology


Program Highlights and Outcomes

The School of Information Technology at the University of Cincinnati was the first Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) program in Ohio, and among the first ten in the nation to receive accreditation from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).

The School is home to several innovative centers that support research, hands-on learning, and real-world application:

  • Information Technology Solutions Center
  • Information Technology Analytics Center
  • Applied Machine Learning and Intelligence Lab

Skills That Set You Apart

The Software Application Development program emphasizes:

  • Problem-solving and innovation
  • Technical and hands-on proficiency
  • Communication and teamwork
  • Creating technology solutions that align with organizational and user needs

Graduates leave the program with a strong foundation in software development, valuable industry experience, and the skills needed to succeed in today’s fast-paced tech world.


$133k

Median Salary

17%

Job Growth Rate

5 yr

CO-OP Program

A Hands-On Approach 

Image of CECH IT Students at the 2025 IT EXPO

Students attending the annual 2025 IT EXPO.

The Software Application Development program offers hands-on experience in software development and IT through lab work, project-based learning, and a two-semester Senior Design project, where students collaborate on real-world IT solutions and showcase their work at the annual IT Expo.


Co-op Program: Real Industry Experience 

Image of CECH IT Students at the IT Summer Camp

Students attending the Early IT Summer Camp

In addition to classroom learning, the program requires five semesters of cooperative education (co-op). Starting in their sophomore year, students alternate between academic semesters and full-time, paid positions in the IT industry. By graduation, students typically have over a year of professional experience, giving them a competitive edge in the job market. The University of Cincinnati’s co-op program offers placement opportunities locally, nationally, and internationally, preparing students for careers in diverse professional environments.

The University of Cincinnati is ranked #5 in the nation for co-ops and internships. 

(U.S. News Best Colleges 2025)


News

1

Cincinnati CIO Roundtable and UC's School of Information Technology announce a new partnership

February 26, 2026

The University of Cincinnati’s School of Information Technology (SoIT) is preparing to announce a historic collaborative partnership with the Cincinnati CIO Roundtable, a unique and collegial forum for chief information officers in the region's largest organizations. The official announcement, which includes a formal signing, will take place on March 4th, 2026, at the University of Cincinnati Teachers Dyer Complex, room 407 (Annie Laws) at 11:30 a.m. The goal of the collaboration, says SoIT director Hazem Said, is to close the gap between the classroom and the boardroom.

2

UC Digital Futures and Cincinnati Fire Museum launch educational video game

February 17, 2026

A new collaboration between the University of Cincinnati's Digital Performance Lab (DP Lab), CCM Acting, UC's School of Information Technology, and the Cincinnati Fire Museum is using gaming technology to bring essential fire safety education to children. The project titled Fire Escape is an interactive video game designed to teach K-12 students how to respond safely during a house fire. It was developed through Digital Futures research support, student game development, and guidance from local fire safety professionals.

3

University of Cincinnati recognized with 16 rankings in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Programs

January 29, 2026

U.S. News and World Report (the global authority in education rankings) published its 2026 Best Online Programs rankings on January 27, 2026, recognizing the University of Cincinnati with 16 spots in the list of degree-granting university programs that affordably serve the educational needs of distance learners in a reasonable timeframe. Programs within the College of Education, Criminal Justice, Human Services, and Information Technology (CECH) represent seven of these rankings.


Start Your Software Application Development Journey

Contact the CECH Office of Recruitment to learn more about the on-campus program and how to begin your path toward a career in software application development.