- 1.Mobile Developers earn a median salary of $132,270 with 25% projected job growth through 2032 (BLS OES 2024)
- 2.Top-ranked Mobile Development programs include Carnegie Mellon University, Purdue University-Main Campus, DePaul University based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
- 3.Best value: Purdue University-Main Campus offers mobile development education at $9,718/year with 83% graduation rate
- 4.18 accredited Mobile Development programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data
Best Mobile Development Programs - Top 10 Master's
Carnegie Mellon University
CMU ranks #1 in the nation for mobile/web applications and is the birthplace of artificial intelligence, giving students access to the researchers and labs that invented many foundational technologies powering modern mobile devices.
Program Overview
Carnegie Mellon University does not offer a standalone Mobile Development program, but rather integrates mobile development into several world-class computing programs. The Information Systems program, a joint offering between Heinz College and Dietrich College, provides strong technical foundations including Application Design and Development coursework, while the School of Computer Science ranks #1 nationally in mobile/web applications according to recent rankings. Students can pursue mobile development through the Computer Science program's software systems electives, Human-Computer Interaction specializations, or through the Information Systems program's technology-focused curriculum that emphasizes real-world system solutions.
What sets CMU apart is its pioneering role in computing innovation - the university created the world's first AI program, first machine learning department, and first robotics PhD program. Students have access to cutting-edge research labs like the Human-Computer Interaction Institute and can work with faculty who literally invented many of the technologies powering today's mobile applications. The flexible curriculum allows students to combine mobile development skills with AI, robotics, or cybersecurity through interdisciplinary coursework.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
User interface design, mobile interaction, and accessibility research
Software architecture, mobile security, and development methodologies
Mobile robotics platforms and embedded systems development
Industry Partners
Admissions
Purdue University-Main Campus
Purdue integrates Google Career Certificates directly into its technology degree programs and operates one of the largest networks of university research centers with 135+ institutes, including cutting-edge facilities like the Birck Nanotechnology Center.
Program Overview
Based on the available sources, Purdue University's mobile development capabilities span across multiple technology programs rather than a single dedicated mobile development program. The university offers comprehensive Information Technology programs through both its main campus and Purdue Global, with degrees in Applied Computer Science, Cloud Computing, and Cybersecurity that encompass mobile technologies. Purdue's Information Technology offerings include Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Associate of Applied Science degrees, with ExcelTrack options for accelerated completion. The programs integrate Google Career Certificates in IT Support, UX Design, and Project Management, providing students with industry-recognized credentials alongside their degrees. Purdue Global specifically targets working adults with 100% online options and frequent start dates, while the main campus provides traditional on-campus experiences with access to world-class research facilities.
Purdue's technology education is enhanced by its extensive research infrastructure, including the Birck Nanotechnology Center and over 135 university-approved institutes and centers focused on emerging technologies. The university's commitment to practical, skills-based learning is evident through partnerships with major technology companies and integration of industry certifications directly into degree pathways.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Nanotechnology research with cleanroom facilities and specialized laboratories for advanced computing
Industry Partners
Admissions
DePaul University
DePaul's computing programs are uniquely positioned in Chicago's Loop Campus technology district, where many CDM faculty serve as active industry consultants and working professionals, providing students direct connections to Chicago's tech ecosystem.
Program Overview
DePaul University offers mobile development education primarily through its broader Computer Science and Software Engineering programs housed within the Jarvis College of Computing and Digital Media (CDM) in Chicago's Loop Campus. While there isn't a standalone "Mobile Development" degree, students can pursue mobile systems education through the B.S. in Computer Science program, which includes coursework in mobile systems, game development, and software architecture. The MS in Software Engineering provides advanced training in software development methodologies with concentrations in AI in Software Engineering, Real-Time Software and Game Systems, and Software Development & Architecture. The college benefits from its downtown Chicago location in the heart of the city's technology district, providing direct access to industry partnerships and internships. Faculty members are often working professionals and industry consultants, bringing real-world experience into the classroom.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Data mining, predictive analytics, machine learning applications in business intelligence and healthcare
Visual computing applications in medical field research led by Professor Daniela Stan Raicu
Technology innovation and university-corporate partnerships, directed by Associate Professor Yele Adelakun
Industry Partners
Admissions
Texas A & M University-College Station
Based on the available sources, I cannot verify the existence of a specific Mobile Development program at Texas A&M University-College Station.
Marist College
Marist College maintains a distinctive partnership with IBM through the Marist/IBM Joint Study program, providing students with access to enterprise-level computing resources and real-world industry experience.
Clemson University
No dedicated Mobile Development program could be identified at Clemson University based on the available source materials.
Rhode Island School of Design
18 mobile development graduates annually
University of Michigan-Dearborn
13 mobile development graduates annually
Maharishi International University
42 mobile development graduates annually
University of Detroit Mercy
29 mobile development graduates annually
Best Mobile Development Programs - Compare Top 5 Master's
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Carnegie Mellon University | Pittsburgh, PA | Private | $62,260 | 98% | 99.9/100 |
| #2 Purdue University-Main Campus | West Lafayette, IN | Public | $9,718 | 83% | 76.5/100 |
| #3 DePaul University | Chicago, IL | Private | $43,379 | 86% | 74.1/100 |
| #4 Texas A & M University-College Station | College Station, TX | Public | $9,003 | 84% | 67.9/100 |
| #5 Marist College | Poughkeepsie, NY | Private | $45,330 | 1% | 64.8/100 |
Complete Mobile Development Master's Programs Rankings 2026
| Location | Program Name | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | — | Pittsburgh, PA | — | $62,260 | 98% | 99.9 |
| 2 | — | West Lafayette, IN | — | $9,718 | 83% | 76.5 |
| 3 | — | Chicago, IL | — | $43,379 | 86% | 74.1 |
| 4 | — | College Station, TX | — | $9,003 | 84% | 67.9 |
| 5 | — | Poughkeepsie, NY | — | $45,330 | 100% | 64.8 |
| 6 | — | Clemson, SC | — | $14,038 | 81% | 63.1 |
| 7 | — | Providence, RI | — | $58,690 | 89% | 58.3 |
| 8 | — | Dearborn, MI | — | $14,544 | 94% | 56.2 |
| 9 | — | Fairfield, IA | — | $16,000 | 55% | 50.8 |
| 10 | — | Detroit, MI | — | $32,300 | — | 49.3 |
| 11 | — | Manhattan, KS | — | $9,964 | — | 47.1 |
| 12 | — | Youngstown, OH | — | $9,611 | — | 46.4 |
| 13 | — | New York, NY | — | $49,140 | 100% | 44.6 |
| 14 | — | Old Westbury, NY | — | $41,960 | — | 44 |
| 15 | — | Saint Charles, MO | — | $19,900 | — | 43.5 |
| 16 | — | San Francisco, CA | — | $27,024 | — | 39.2 |
| 17 | — | Phoenix, AZ | — | $6,210 | — | 31.1 |
| 18 | — | Phoenix, AZ | — | $16,390 | 34% | 29.8 |
Career Paths
Mobile App Developer
SOC 15-1252Design and build mobile applications for iOS, Android, and cross-platform deployment using native and hybrid frameworks
Mobile UI/UX Designer
SOC 15-1255Create user-centered mobile interfaces and optimize user experience across different mobile devices and platforms
Mobile Security Engineer
SOC 15-1212Implement security protocols and conduct vulnerability assessments for mobile applications and enterprise mobility solutions
DevOps Engineer - Mobile
SOC 15-1253Manage mobile application deployment pipelines, automated testing, and cloud infrastructure for mobile backends
Mobile Product Manager
SOC 11-3021Lead mobile product strategy, coordinate development teams, and analyze user data to drive mobile product decisions
How to Choose the Right Mobile Development Master's Program
Selecting the optimal mobile development master's program requires careful consideration of your career goals, technical interests, and financial situation. Students planning to enter industry immediately should prioritize programs with strong internship partnerships and practical, project-based curricula. Those interested in research careers or PhD studies should focus on programs with active mobile computing research labs and thesis requirements.
Geographic location significantly impacts both educational experience and job opportunities. West Coast programs like Stanford and UC San Diego offer proximity to major tech companies and startup ecosystems, facilitating internships and networking. East Coast programs such as Carnegie Mellon and MIT provide access to different industry segments, including financial technology and enterprise mobile solutions.
Specialization options should align with your interests within mobile development. Programs offering cybersecurity tracks prepare students for mobile security roles, while those with game development components open paths to mobile gaming companies. Cross-platform development focus suits students interested in consulting or startups requiring broad technical versatility.
Financial considerations include not only tuition costs but also living expenses and opportunity costs. Public universities like Georgia Tech offer lower tuition rates, particularly for in-state students, while private institutions may provide more generous research assistantships. Consider programs offering industry internships, as these often lead to full-time offers that can offset educational investments. Many students also explore employer tuition reimbursement programs to reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Choose Your Program Type Based on Your Goals
- You want to pursue a PhD in computer science or related field
- You're interested in mobile computing research and academic publications
- You prefer theoretical depth over immediate industry application
- You have time for a 2-year program with thesis requirements
- You want immediate entry into mobile development careers
- You prefer hands-on projects over theoretical research
- You need to minimize time out of the workforce
- You want direct access to industry internships and job placement
- You want flexibility between industry and research career paths
- You're interested in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills
- You want options for thesis or non-thesis completion
- You value diverse networking opportunities in academia and industry
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on 50 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Degree completions (sqrt normalized, capped at 500)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
State-specific salary data from BLS OES 2024
Admission rate (lower = more selective)
Institution type (R1/R2 research bonus)
CAE-CD designation, curator bonuses
Data completeness proxy
Reporting completeness
Data Sources and Methodology
Employment projections and salary data for software developers and mobile application developers
University graduation rates, tuition costs, and program enrollment data
Industry salary data and compensation trends for mobile developers
Developer preferences, technology trends, and career satisfaction data
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.