Elevate your career with a Doctorate in Software Development
Advanced education for software innovators. Go from seasoned professional to visionary leader in the tech-driven world.
DEAC AccreditedFrom seasoned professional to visionary leader.
This is where you transition from industry professional to tech visionary. Apply your seasoned skills to uncharted technological territory, tackle real-world challenges with projects designed around tangible solutions, and graduate equipped to lead and inspire as a pillar of the industry.
What makes our DSD different
A program for professionals, taught by professionals.
Interdisciplinary expertise
Step into a program where software development intersects with emerging tech domains, and build the knowledge base to pioneer advancements in the field.
Research & development focused
Engage in research that disrupts and reshapes software engineering — where theory meets practice for innovative, real-world problem-solving.
Industry-integrated experience
Benefit from immersive projects and over 630 hours of collaboration with tech leaders — hands-on learning that builds versatility and expertise.
Courses are conducted online with an instructor who guides you through the material.
62 credit hours to complete your Doctorate in Software Development.
Fit more learning into your busy life with shorter, yet comprehensive classes.
The job market for software developers is expected to grow by 25% between 2022 and 2032.
DSD program at a glance
Study fully online or blended, at any of our three locations.
Doctorate in Software Development
Most students complete this program in 3–5 years.
- Credits62 credit hours
- LengthMost finish in 3–5 years
- DeliveryFull distance or blended
- LocationsSalem, VA · Louisville, KY · Orlando, FL
- Open toU.S. and F1 visa students at all locations
What our students say
Each course gives you enough time to delve deeper…it allows you to put out your thought process, accompanied with research. It makes you a well-versed, independent researcher.
Dr. Monica BansalCurrent StudentThat’s a big yes, I will recommend students, especially international students, to UoF because I think it’s a wonderful opportunity to get a terminal degree. There’s a lot of flexibility and [they’re] very accommodating.
Dr. Rayfurd Thompson2024 GraduateEntry requirements
We look for experienced professionals with a strong academic foundation. Professional experience is evaluated by the Chief Academic Officer to ensure relevancy.
Master’s degree
From a regionally or nationally accredited institution, or an appropriately certified foreign institution with relevant academic experience.
3+ years of experience
A minimum of 3 years (preferably 5) of relevant professional experience.
3.0 GPA
Minimum 3.0 on a 4.0 scale at the master’s level.
Additional requirements may apply for non-native English speaking students.
Accreditation, aid & transfer credit
Accredited
University of Fairfax is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency and recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Scholarships & aid
Our Financial Services Team will sit down with you to identify sources of financial assistance — we’re committed to finding solutions for those who qualify. Please note: Federal Financial Aid is not yet available to students of University of Fairfax.
Transfer credits
Up to 9 semester credits equivalent to our courses in content, credit and level may be transferred into the doctoral program.
Up to 9 credits →Ready to shape the future of software?
Talk with an admissions advisor about the DSD, your eligibility and how to pay for it.