Master of Software Development

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 expect a workload of 40 hours a week for much of the year. You’ll need to be on site and in class for at least 26 hours of this.

Make sure you take this into account if you’re balancing other commitments.

Future careers

The Master of Software Development (MSwDev) will give you the training and experience you need to launch a career in the exciting world of software development.

With input from industry professionals and opportunities for direct industry experience, you’ll gain strong practical experience and be able to hit the ground running in your new career.

Future jobs

Your study may lead to a career as a:

• software developer
• web developer
• mobile app developer
• business analyst
• software tester.

Potential employers

Recent Master of Software Development graduates work for employers such as:

• tech companies—Accenture, Catalyst IT, Capgemini, Datacom, DataTorque, F5, Provoke Solutions, Silverstripe, Trade Me
• government and public sector organisations—LINZ, Worksafe
• banks and financial companies—ANZ, BNZ, FNZ, Securitease, Thankyou Payroll
• other major companies, consulting firms, and startups—Avenir, Contact Energy, Deloitte, Hazard Co, Merkle, Mevo, OSPRI, Quotable Value, Sentify, Signify, Snapper, Trove, Z Energy.

At the heart of the tech sector

Wellington is at the heart of New Zealand’s thriving software industry. Learn from professionals in the field through guest lectures and seminars, and make valuable industry connections.

Scholarships

You may be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies.

We have postgraduate and doctoral scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas.

• Postgraduate and doctoral scholarships
• Search scholarships.

Financial support

You can get support to stay on top of your finances by downloading our money management resources or by meeting with one of our student finance advisers.

We can show you how to manage your student loan or allowance, and help you sort out your budget. For students facing financial difficulties, we can help you apply for support from the Hardship Fund. Depending on your situation, you might also be able to get government or community support. Talk to a student finance adviser Financing your study

Join our postgraduate community

Postgraduate study at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington will help you build valuable relationships and networks with peers, University staff, and future colleagues.

You’ll have opportunities to attend events, seminars, workshops, and social functions.