The nine-credit Software Architecture and Design Graduate Certificate prepares you to work as a lead software designer or software architect. You'll learn to analyze, architect, design, implement, and manage the technical development aspects of large-scale software systems. 

This stackable certificate, embedded within the Master of Software Engineering, will help you master skills such as:

  • Pattern-oriented design
  • Unified Modeling Language for software system design
  • Development methodologies
  • Configuration management
  • Continuation integration and deployment
  • Automated testing

Courses

You can earn this certificate in less than one year or complete it at your own pace. All courses must be completed with a minimum grade of C or better and an overall GPA of 3.0.

Stackable Certificate or Stand-alone Credential

You may earn this certificate by itself, or you can apply the courses toward the Master of Software Engineering if you apply to the master's program (no additional application fee) and are accepted. This stackable certificate offers you a valuable credential that shows your new expertise as you progress toward your master's degree. 

Up to 15 credits earned in any of these software engineering certificate programs may be transferred to the master's degree in software engineering, subject to restrictions outlined in GCAC-309 Transfer Credit.

Once you earn your certificate, you will receive a digital badge that you can display to recognize your professional growth. After successfully completing the required coursework, please submit the Graduate Certificate Completion Form. 

Admission Requirements and How to Apply

Please follow the Graduate Certificate Application Instructions to apply. 

  • You must have earned a GPA of 3.0 or above in your junior and senior year of undergraduate studies.
  • The program requires an undergraduate degree in computer science or related fields.
  • If your degree is in another discipline, you will be considered if you have extensive work experience in software engineering and/or taken courses related to programming/software development.

Prep Courses

If you do not have a background in STEM or computer or information science, we offer low-cost, non-credit online prep modules that provide a strong practical foundation. Based on your academic experience, program advisors will recommend the most suitable modules for you.

Talk with a Program Representative

If you have any questions about this certificate and how it could support your career goals, schedule an appointment with a program representative.

Erica Dercole headshot

Erica Dercole 
Enrollment Services Specialist
Email: [email protected]
Schedule a Call with Erica

If you are a current student, please email any advising questions to [email protected].