If you like working with technology, experimenting, and inventing creative solutions to complicated problems, software development may be the career path for you. At SPSCC, you’ll be a part of a program developed with input from hiring managers and former students. Information technology is one of the strongest industries in the Puget Sound. You'll learn the skills that help you get the employment you need, all at a fraction of the cost of a programming “boot camp” or private institution.
We focus on the technologies demanded by local industries and government agencies, rather than abstract or theoretical teaching approaches. Employers recognize our students for having a solid foundation in both procedural and declarative programming, and for working on business support activities. In addition to technical skills, you will learn critical thinking and collaboration to understand the roles of developers and quickly move into the workplace as an effective employee.
The AAS in Software Development is for students interested in designing, building, and supporting software solutions to business problems. The degree covers local and web-based applications, as well as basic cloud-based deployment in languages like C# and JavaScript. This includes fundamental skills for working with web sites, database connectivity, and cybersecurity concepts. Students create a foundation for further training and will be able to use industry standard tools to gather and convey information.
Typical duties include some or all of the following: analysis of business needs and problems, design and/or coding of software solutions, application of industry standard tools and techniques for software development, and keeping businesses informed of current cybersecurity issues and alerts.
Career Opportunities
Career opportunities typically begin as a computer programmer or web developer with possible future promotion to systems analyst and software engineer. Software development is a field with good opportunities for qualified persons in both government and private business.
Software Developer
Software Quality Assurance Analyst and Tester
Web and Digital Interface Designer
South Puget Sound Community College believes that all students need to develop a broad range of abilities that will not only make them more effective in their professional pursuits but will enhance their capacity to relate well to others in their daily lives.
After completing the Software Development program, the successful student will be able to:
Plan, create, modify, and debug software solutions to problems using industry standard tools
Present technical information to diverse audiences both orally and in writing
Evaluate and apply technical information from a variety of sources
Collaborate with diverse groups and individuals
Describe information technology’s role within an organization
Explain general principles of the software development process
Identify basic cybersecurity concepts
Evaluate quantitative and symbolic data in translating user and organization needs into applications
The SPSCC college-wide abilities are embedded into each program:
Effective Communication
Information Literacy
Analytical Reasoning
Multicultural Awareness
Social Responsibility
Students who place into precollege math should take AMATH 097 in quarter two to be ready for CIS 145 and 160. Students who place directly into MATH& 146 or PHIL& 120 and take it in quarter 2 will not need AMATH 097.
For 2024-2025, courses are on a modified schedule while we switch completely over to teaching the new course sequence. For 2024-2025 only, the following courses are offered: CIS 166 Spring only, CIS 185 Summer only, CIS 282 Spring only, CIS 169 Winter only, CIS 287 Spring only.
South Puget Sound Community College has provided pathways and associated recommended courses for ease of student selection based upon a student’s career interest. Please review the pathway maps for required and recommended courses.
