The Certificate in Web and Mobile Applications Development provides students with the specialized knowledge that is important in the development of web and mobile computer applications. Students will study and gain experience with the languages and frameworks that are most commonly used in developing these applications, with the design of user interfaces and software systems, and with associated topics such as networking, hosting infrastructure, and security. They will also learn the fundamental principles on which these topics are based, so that they will be prepared for the new technologies that are constantly being developed.

Applications Accepted for:
Spring 2025: June 1 - Sept. 30, 2024

How to Apply

Register Courses

Click here to view upcoming application and document submission due dates.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, all in-person components of this program have either been paused, rescheduled, or moved into a virtual format until further notice.

Please email outreach.global@sdsu.edu or call (619) 594-7700 to learn how these changes affect your program. SDSU will continue to monitor the situation and follow the guidance of our local and federal health agencies.

 

Meet the growing demand for experienced full-stack developers by earning an Advanced Certificate in Web and Mobile Applications Development from San Diego State University.

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About the program

According to 2020 estimates, there are over 3.5 billion smartphone users in the world today. Nearly all of them use web and mobile applications to perform all sorts of tasks on a daily basis. From online banking and shopping to gaming and posting on social media, web and mobile apps are an essential part of our modern digital culture, and they’re not going away anytime soon. Employment opportunities for software developers are projected to grow by an astounding 22% over the next decade.

Estimated CostTotal Estimated Cost
$5,244
$437 Total Cost/Unit
Completion Time Completion Time
As short as 2 Semesters
Course Format Course Format
Online

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Whether you’re new to the application development industry, or you’re a developer looking to optimize your résumé and learn about the latest technologies and industry trends, earning an Advanced Certificate in Web and Mobile Applications Development from San Diego State University will place you at the forefront of this high-demand, high-paying industry in as little as one academic year.

We’ve created this web and mobile application certificate program in collaboration with SDSU’s Department of Computer Science, which means that you’ll also be able to earn up to 12 units of graduate-level credit and prepare for a master’s program in computer science while learning what it takes to become a forward-thinking full-stack developer.

What Do Our Students Have to Say?

“I now work as an iOS and Android developer at Yahoo! I recommend these courses to anyone who is really passionate about technology and wants to learn technologies that currently drive the software industry.”

- Harsh Shah, Software Developer Engineer, Yahoo!

Is This Program Right for Me?

Our academic community is made up of career-driven web and mobile application development professionals who are passionate about developing the applications of today and contributing to the direction of our field. If you’re interested in a career that combines creativity with technology, you’re the type of student we’re looking for.

Whether you’re interested in earning a promotion, changing your role in the web and mobile application development industry, preparing for a graduate program, or you’re just adding some new tools to your toolbox, earning an Advanced Certificate in Web and Mobile Applications Development can help you achieve your professional goals.

At just $395 per unit, our web and mobile application development courses are a great way to optimize your skill set at a low cost. There are also many financial aid options available to SDSU students. And because all courses are offered in an online format, you can work towards your certificate on your schedule, without putting your professional life on hold.

What Do Our Students Have to Say?

“I was recruited as an intern at SDG&E to develop their Android mobile app. I was selected because of the knowledge I gained from these courses.”

- Vanya Goel, Software Developer, San Diego Gas & Electric

What Can I Learn?

With a timely curriculum designed by experts with years of experience, you’ll focus on the skills that matter in application development. Our courses cover essential client-side and server-side skills, including:

  1. Programming and scripting languages (XHTML, CSS, Javascript, AJAX)
  2. iOS and Android
  3. Networking
  4. Databases (SQL)
  5. Hosting infrastructure
  6. Frameworks (Bootstrap, SASS, jQuery)
  7. Security
  8. Multi-platform development
  9. Serverless and microservices architecture (AWS)
  10. User experience

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The curriculum also focuses on the methodology behind the tools and technologies that create some of the most popular applications in use today. By understanding the why and how of application development, you’ll attain a science-based, dynamic, and data-driven approach to the field that will allow you to understand new technologies as they continue to roll out.

Through advanced online web and mobile application development courses designed and delivered by experts from SDSU’s Department of Computer Science, you’ll learn the skills you need to launch your career as a full-stack developer. With ten unique courses to choose from, you’ll also be able to customize your curriculum and focus your studies to better meet your career goals.

This dynamic approach to web and mobile application development will help you become the type of developer that can succeed today — and grow tomorrow.

What Do Our Students Have to Say?

“Regardless of what type of computer systems development one does, knowing and understanding the mobile and web software stacks is crucial to a successful career.”

- Justin Boseant, Production Engineering Manager, Facebook

Career Outcomes

Labor Analysis
Web Developers & Digital Designers — Nationwide

Job Postings
Job Postings
Number of Jobs, 2020
199,400

Projected Growth
Projected Growth
Over 10 years
+13%

Salary Range
Salary Range
Average
$77,200


Source: BLS & Burning Glass Technologies, 2020

 

In 2020, the median annual wage for web developers and digital designers was $77,200. Annual wages ranged from less than $41,000 for the lowest 10% to more than $145,000 for the highest 10% of earners. The industry is also projected to grow much faster than average, with growth indicating 25,500 new jobs across the nation over the next decade.

The numbers in California are even brighter. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, web developers and digital interface designers earn a median salary of nearly $90,000 per year. Jobs in California are expected to grow by 17% over the next decade as well.

Top Job Titles

  • Technology Applications Engineer
  • Web Architect
  • Web Design Specialist
  • Web Designer
  • Web Developer
  • Webmaster
  • Web and Digital Interface Designer

Top Employers of Web Developers

Self-employed workers

18%

Computer systems design and related services

15%

Publishing industries (except Internet)

9%

Management, scientific, and technical consulting services

5%

Advertising, public relations, and related services

4%

Number of Jobs by Industry, 2019

Computer Systems Design and Related Services

472,180

Software Publishers

122,320

Management of Companies and Enterprises

69,940

Data Processing, Hosting, and Related Services

48,050

Other Information Services

40,670

 

What Do Our Students Have to Say?

“It's not like other programs offered; it lets you have a peek at emerging technologies.”

- Prashanth Govindaraj, iOS Senior Software Engineer, Reputation.com

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Why Should You Choose Us?

Innovation

As someone who’s interested in building a career in web and mobile app development, you need to stay up-to-date on the latest tools and trends in the web and mobile app industry. Our curriculum focuses on the science behind applications, so you’ll be better prepared to use the latest technological advancements to develop the web and mobile applications of tomorrow.

Reputation

When you choose to earn an Advanced Certificate in Web and Mobile Application Development from SDSU, you’re choosing a program developed by one of the top public universities in the country. Our expert instructors turn the virtual classroom into a forum for growth and collaboration, and they re-enforce every lesson with their extensive professional experience.

Accessibility

Many of today’s students have to handle a variety of personal and professional commitments, which can make getting an education difficult. Our programs are designed to make education more accessible. At just under $395 per unit, our application development program is affordable and accessible to all learners, no matter where you are in your career. We also have many opportunities for you to receive financial aid.

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Click here for information about our drop policy.

In order to earn the certificate, you’ll need to complete at least four courses (12 units) that you’ll select with the help of your program advisor. You’ll need to complete at least two 600-level courses, and you should pass all courses with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Each course is three (3) units and costs $1,311.

Click the course names below to view course descriptions.

Courses Course Dates Registration Closes
CS 0545 Introduction to Web Application Development 8/26-12/11 9/4/24
CS 0546 Human Computer Interfaces    
CS 0547 Programming and Scripting Languages for Web Applications    
CS 0645 Advanced Web Application Development    
CS 0646 Android Mobile Application Development    
CS 0648 Advanced Topics in Web and Mobile Applications 8/26-12/11 9/4/24
CS 0648.01 Modern Web Development Frameworks    

Dates and fees subject to change.

Registration

You can take any of our courses without applying to the program. Click the Enroll button below to begin the registration process for open courses.

Enroll

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Please note that if you want to earn the Advanced Certificate (meaning it will appear on your SDSU transcript), you must submit an application and be accepted into the program. Students taking only open courses will not receive an Advanced Certificate.

If you plan on applying to the program, only two open courses can be retroactively applied to your transcript. You’ll need to complete the other two courses after you’re admitted. Courses taken before you’re admitted will count as special session credits and are not eligible for financial aid. Only courses taken after you are accepted and matriculated are financial aid eligible.

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How to Register for Open Courses

Starting in the spring 2023 semester, SDSU Global Campus is using a new registration process for open courses. Please follow the instructions below to successfully enroll in courses.

  1. Once you’ve chosen your courses, click the Enroll button below to begin the registration process. Please indicate on the form that you’d like to register for courses.

    Enroll

    Enroll Coming Soon!

  2. Once you’ve filled out the Enrollment form, you’ll receive a confirmation email from SDSU Global Campus within 2-3 business days with the next steps to complete your enrollment.

  3. Once registration opens for your courses, you can register in the my.SDSU portal.

  4. Complete your full payment in my.SDSU after your registration has been submitted. You will need to submit your full payment within 48 hours from the date you registered for your course.  If you do not submit your payment within the specified time frame, you will be dropped from your classes.

Click here for more details on registration

How to Apply

Attend an Application Workshop for tips on successfully applying to SDSU Global Campus.

Upcoming Workshops

Out-of-State Applicants
While we welcome out-of-state students, SDSU Global Campus currently cannot accept applications from students residing in some specific states. Please check back often, as this list of approved states does change. View the list of authorized states here.

International Applicants
Please click here for detailed guidance on how to submit your transcripts.

Admission Requirements

This program consists of graduate-level courses and results in a post-baccalaureate certificate. This means that you’ll need to have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a closely related field in order to apply for the program.

If you have a bachelor's degree in an unrelated field, but you possess an equivalent knowledge of the background materials through work or self-study, you may be accepted into this program at the discretion of the program director.

We understand that every student's academic journey is unique, and we encourage you to contact one of our Student Service Representatives to find out what you'll need to successfully apply to the program.

For more information, please contact:

Ph: (619) 594-7700
Email: outreach.global@sdsu.edu

Application Instructions

To apply for the Advanced Certificate in Web and Mobile Applications Development program from outside SDSU, you should:

  1. Submit an application to the University through Cal State Apply
  2. Submit Official Documents and Test Scores to SDSU Graduate Admissions:
    • Official transcripts reflecting the last 60 semester (90 quarter) units attempted sent in sealed envelopes (issued by the school) from all postsecondary schools attended. Do not send transcripts before submitting the Cal State Apply application as this may result in processing delays
    • If you’re an international student, you should submit the following:
      • One official original-language record of all academic coursework and proof of degree sent directly from your school, including a certified literal English translation.
      • TOEFL test scores (if post-secondary instruction is in a language other than English)
    • You should send all transcripts and relevant test scores to the following address:

      Graduate Admissions 
      San Diego State University
      5500 Campanile Drive
      San Diego CA 92182-8225

After submitting the online Cal State Apply application, you will receive an email from San Diego State University that includes your SDSUid, which is needed to log into my.SDSU. You can use my.SDSU to check your application status, update your contact information, access your financial aid, and more. Please check back frequently to make sure all of the required materials have been received — you’re responsible for ensuring that all supporting materials are submitted by the deadline.

Financial Aid

Important Note: Courses taken before acceptance are not eligible for financial aid. Once you are accepted or matriculated, the courses are financial aid eligible.

This program is approved for financial aid. To begin the financial aid process, visit the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships website. There, you'll be able to access the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

We encourage you to apply for financial aid as soon as possible.

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Contact Information

Courses

2023 Fall2024 Winter2024 Spring2024 Summer2024 Fall
CS 0545 Introduction to Web Application Development
World Wide Web application development. Fundamentals of XHTML, CSS, Javascript, client-side and server-side scripting, PHP and CGI programming with Perl. Application integration with SQL database systems.

Prerequisites: CS 310

Format: Online

Course Date(s)

Inquire
CS 0547 Programming & Scripting Languages for Web Applications
Principles and practice of dynamic and scripting and functional languages used in web applications. Basic language concepts, data structures in dynamic languages, code structure, code quality, testing, string manipulation, dynamic code generation.

Prerequisites: Computer Science 310 and 320.

Format: Online

Course Date(s)


Register
Inquire
CS 0645 Advanced Web Application Development
Continue to advance your skills with the Advanced Web Application Development course. On the client side, you will learn advanced XHTML, CSS, Javascript, and AJAX. Server side topics include developing applications using Java Web Services (servlets and JSP), integration with SQL database systems, and common frameworks for rapid development and deployment. A major emphasis is on high-performance platforms, and application architectures suitable for large, complex projects.

Prerequisites: CS 310

Recommended: CS 545

Format: Online

Course Date(s)


Register
Inquire
CS 0646.01 Android Mobile Application Development
Design and implementation of applications for smart mobile phones and mobile devices. GUI programming, application structure, network, database, video, GPS sen

Prerequisites: CS 310 and CS 320

Format: Online

sors, and multi-touch in applications. GUI design for multi-touch screens, usability testing.
Course Date(s)

Register
Inquire
CS 0648 Web and Mobile Database Development
Explore emerging technologies in web and mobile software development. Understand the issues and concepts underlying new technology through hands-on experience, and become prepared for future developments in this quickly evolving field. This course may be repeated with new content.

Prerequisites: CS 545

Format: Online

Course Date(s)

Register
Inquire
CS 0648.01 Modern Web Development Frameworks
Web frameworks are software solutions for streamlining development time, and are an essential tool for modern developers. In this course, you'll explore frameworks like Bootstrap, SASS, and jQuery to take your development skills to the next level. JavaScript-based frameworks for managing packages, bundling web applications, task automation, and version control - including NPM, Webpack, Gulp, and GitHub - will also be covered. Major emphasis will be placed on frameworks that aid in streamlining application architecture including React, Node.js, Express.js, and Mongoose.

Prerequisites: CS 545

Format: Online

Course Date(s)

Inquire
CS 0648.02 Modern Full-Stack Web Development
React and Node are a popular combination for building robust full-stack web applications that power a host of modern websites including Netflix, Walmart, LinkedIn, Uber, PayPal, and more. In this course, you will learn full-stack JavaScript development with MongoDB, Express, React, and Node.js (MERN). In all, you will learn how to build data-driven applications using React and Node, work with data using MongoDB and Express, and test, secure, and deploy your applications. This course also covers many other complementary tools including React Router, GraphQL, React-Bootstrap, Babel, and Webpack.

Format: Online

Course Date(s)

Register
Inquire
CS 0648.03 Serverless and Microservices
Microservices are becoming common as backend for web apps, mobile apps and Data Science applications. In this course we will look at the advantages and drawbacks of microservices and how to decompose monolithic applications into microservices. Students will implement microservices on Amazon's AWS using serverless (lambda). We will also utilize GraphQL and streaming services like Kafka.

Format: Online

Course Date(s)

Register
Inquire
CS 0696 Multi-Platform Mobile App Development
Native app development on Android and iOS require different languages and completely different API's. The goal of multi-platform mobile app development is to have one code base run on both platforms. This course will look at Flutter and React Native. Flutter is Googles attempt at cross-platform development. Flutter runs on iOS, Android and in beta form on the Web. React native is Facebook's cross-platform development platform. It runs on Android, iOS and Web. These are the two most popular multi-platform mobile app development framework. You can use either a Mac or a PC to develop Flutter and React native applications. No prior knowledge of Flutter or React Native is needed for the course.

Format: Online

Course Date(s)

Register
Inquire

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