Associate's Mobile Development Programs in Florida
Valencia College — Orlando, FL
Hakia Insight: Valencia College's 2.0 GPA requirement and orientation toward Orlando's tech ecosystem means the barrier to entry is genuinely open, yet top employers recruiting from the program (JPMorgan Chase, enterprise software firms) suggests the program's practical curriculum delivers workforce-ready developers despite its accessibility model.
At the associate's level, valencia College, serving the greater Orlando area, offers comprehensive computer science and information technology programs with significant mobile and web development components. As one of Florida's larger community colleges, Valencia maintains robust transfer partnerships with University of Central Florida and other state universities, while also supporting direct workforce entry through industry-aligned curriculum. The college emphasizes hands-on learning with modern development tools and technologies relevant to mobile platforms. Valencia's location in Florida's tech corridor provides strong local employer connections with companies in software development, digital media, and IT services.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Mobile Development — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Mobile Development — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Tech companies in Orlando, Software development firms, Digital media companies.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.0.
Requirements: COP 1000C or COP 2334, CGS 2545C or COP 1540C, CTS 1134C or CET 2179C or CTS 1650, MAC 1105, MGF 1130, STA 2023 or higher level math
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Central Florida
- University of Florida
- Florida State University
- University of South Florida
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Developer
- Junior Mobile Developer
- IT Support Specialist
- Web Developer Assistant
- QA Test Technician
Location Advantages:
Santa Fe College — Gainesville, FL
Key Distinction: Santa Fe College offers comprehensive Mobile Development programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Santa Fe College's Gainesville location outside major metro corridors may seem geographically limiting, but the program's accessibility and lower cost position it as a smart stepping stone for students planning to transfer to University of Florida's computer science program or relocate to Tampa/Miami tech hubs after earning the associate degree.
Santa Fe College offers Mobile Development programs in Gainesville, FL. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Broward College — Fort Lauderdale, FL
Hakia Insight: Broward College's integration with South Florida's AutoNation IT division and regional healthcare vendors means students have direct pipelines to stable, non-startup employment—a practical advantage over associate programs in oversaturated startup corridors where entry-level competition is intense.
At the associate's level, broward College's mobile development program emphasizes practical, industry-aligned skills that prepare students for immediate workforce entry in South Florida's growing tech sector. The curriculum balances native and cross-platform development frameworks, with particular strength in iOS and Android application design. Students engage in capstone projects that often partner with local businesses, creating real-world applications rather than theoretical exercises. The program benefits from faculty with active industry experience, ensuring that course content reflects current development practices and emerging technologies like React Native and Flutter. A distinctive feature is the integration of user experience (UX) design principles alongside coding fundamentals—students learn that successful mobile apps require both technical excellence and intuitive interface design. Internship opportunities within the Miami-Fort Lauderdale region connect students directly with tech companies, startups, and enterprises seeking mobile developers. The college's location provides access to a vibrant business community and growing demand for mobile talent. Graduates typically move into junior developer roles, technical support positions, or pursue further education at four-year institutions. The program also serves working professionals through flexible scheduling options, recognizing that many students balance education with employment. Career services specifically support mobile developers, helping students build portfolios that showcase completed projects to potential employers. Peer collaboration is woven throughout coursework, mirroring the team-based environment of professional development shops. The institution's commitment to affordable education means students graduate without the debt burden common at private tech bootcamps, while still acquiring market-ready skills.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Mobile Development — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Mobile Development — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Tech startups in Fort Lauderdale corridor, AutoNation (IT division), Broward County government IT, Regional healthcare mobile app vendors.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- Microsoft Technology Associate
- Mobile App Development
Top Transfer Destinations
- Florida Atlantic University
- University of Florida
- Florida International University
- University of South Florida
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Mobile Developer
- Android Application Developer
- Mobile App QA Analyst
- Junior iOS Developer
- Mobile Tech Support Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Google Associate Android Developer
- Oracle Java Associate
Location Advantages:
St Petersburg College — St. Petersburg, FL
Hakia Insight: St. Petersburg College's capstone model requiring students to ship real applications by graduation gives them a resume artifact that single-handedly solves the entry-level credibility problem—when interviewing at Tampa Bay fintech firms, a deployed app carries more weight than coursework.
At the associate's level, st Petersburg College's mobile development program emphasizes a hands-on capstone model where students ship real applications by graduation—a competitive edge when interviewing. The curriculum integrates cloud services (AWS, Firebase) early, reflecting industry demand for backend-connected mobile solutions. Strong ties to Tampa Bay's growing tech ecosystem and Pinellas County employers create immediate job placement pathways; many graduates land internships that convert to full-time offers. The college's focus on agile development practices and code collaboration tools (Git, CI/CD pipelines) accelerates time-to-productivity for employers.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Mobile Development — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Mobile Development — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Tech companies in Tampa Bay region, Pinellas County schools IT, Regional fintech startups, Insurance & healthcare mobile app firms.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- Java Programming
- Mobile App Development
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of South Florida (USF)
- University of Florida
- Florida State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Mobile Application Developer
- Mobile Developer Associate
- App QA Engineer
- Junior Full-Stack Mobile Developer
- Mobile Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- Google Associate Android Developer
Location Advantages:
Miami Dade College — Miami, FL
Hakia Insight: Miami Dade's explicit focus on Java and Swift fundamentals combined with top employers like Ultimate Software and Citrix Systems (both local) creates a tightly integrated talent pipeline; graduates often skip the standard junior developer waiting period and land mid-level roles at companies already familiar with the program's output.
At the associate's level, miami Dade's mobile development program emphasizes real-world application development across iOS and Android platforms, with a strong focus on Java and Swift fundamentals. The college benefits from its location in South Florida's growing tech corridor, with direct connections to local fintech, healthcare, and hospitality companies actively recruiting graduates. Students work in hands-on labs building portfolio projects that mirror industry standards, and the program's advisory board includes developers from major regional employers. Transfer pathways to FIU and Florida Atlantic University are established, allowing students to stack an AS into a bachelor's degree without losing credits.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Mobile Development — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Mobile Development — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Ultimate Software, Citrix Systems, JPMorgan Chase (Miami office), Local healthcare IT vendors, Tourism & hospitality tech firms.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Florida International University (FIU)
- Florida Atlantic University (FAU)
- University of Florida
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Mobile Application Developer
- Android Developer Associate
- iOS Developer Support
- Mobile QA Tester
- Tech Support Specialist (Mobile)
Included Certifications
- Oracle Associate Java Programmer
- CompTIA A+
- Google Associate Android Developer
Location Advantages:
Palm Beach State College — Lake Worth, FL
Key Distinction: Palm Beach State College offers comprehensive Mobile Development programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Palm Beach State College's Lake Worth location bridges underserved talent markets between Miami's saturation and Tampa's growth, positioning graduates as sought-after candidates in less-competitive local hiring processes while maintaining access to South Florida's broader tech industry.
Palm Beach State College offers Mobile Development programs in Lake Worth, FL. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Hillsborough Community College — Tampa, FL
Hakia Insight: Hillsborough Community College's explicit pathway from entry-level developer to team lead roles signals a program designed around career progression metrics—in Tampa Bay's startup-heavy ecosystem, HCC graduates often advance to senior roles faster than peers from programs that prioritize technical depth over leadership preparation.
At the associate's level, HCC serves Tampa Bay's booming tech sector with a mobile development program that explicitly prepares students for career advancement into senior developer and team lead roles—not just entry-level positions. The curriculum includes software architecture and team collaboration practices alongside coding. Partnerships with major Tampa Bay tech employers create co-op opportunities where students work on actual production applications. The program's alumni have measurably high advancement rates within their first three years post-graduation, reflecting both strong training and ongoing alumni support networks.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Mobile Development — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Mobile Development — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Tampa Bay tech startups, Enterprise software companies, Healthcare IT providers, Financial technology firms.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of South Florida
- University of Tampa
- Florida Polytechnic University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Mobile Application Developer
- Junior Software Engineer
- Mobile QA Analyst
- Technical Developer
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
Location Advantages:
Seminole State College of Florida — Sanford, FL
Hakia Insight: Seminole State's location in Orlando puts you inside an active hiring market rather than near one—top employers like Enterprise and healthcare IT firms actively recruit from campus, compressing the typical job search timeline from months to weeks.
At the associate's level, seminole State's proximity to Orlando's thriving tech scene and the college's strong industry partnerships mean you're learning mobile development in a community actively hiring graduates. The program emphasizes both technical depth (iOS, Android, frameworks) and professional development—communication skills, agile methodology familiarity, and portfolio building are baked into coursework. You'll work on projects for actual businesses through capstone courses, so employers see real-world problem-solving experience on your résumé. Transfer pathways to UCF and UF are streamlined, and many graduates find jobs without transferring because the local demand is that strong.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Mobile Development — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Mobile Development — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Orlando tech startups and established firms, Enterprise software companies, Healthcare IT, Financial services technology.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Central Florida
- University of Florida
- Florida State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Mobile Developer
- iOS Developer Associate
- Android Developer Associate
- QA Automation Tester
Included Certifications
- Google Associate Android Developer
- CompTIA A+
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
Location Advantages:
Pasco-Hernando State College — New Port Richey, FL
Key Distinction: Pasco-Hernando State College offers comprehensive Mobile Development programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Pasco-Hernando's New Port Richey location sits between Tampa Bay's established tech corridor and Orlando's startup density, positioning graduates for both corporate stability and growth-stage opportunities without the tuition premium of either hub.
Pasco-Hernando State College offers Mobile Development programs in New Port Richey, FL. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Florida SouthWestern State College — Fort Myers, FL
Hakia Insight: Florida SouthWestern's Fort Myers-based program captures a regional tech expansion that hasn't yet saturated the graduate market—healthcare software and insurance tech companies are actively scaling there, creating less competition for entry-level roles than coastal Florida markets.
At the associate's level, southwest Florida's tech corridor is growing, and Florida SouthWestern positions you right in the middle of it. The mobile development program here balances iOS and Android development with exposure to cross-platform frameworks like React Native and Flutter—increasingly what employers actually want to hire. You'll complete capstone projects that go into your portfolio immediately, and the college maintains active partnerships with regional employers in the Fort Myers area who often hire graduates before graduation. Internship opportunities are woven into the curriculum, so you're not just learning theory; you're building professional contacts.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Mobile Development — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Mobile Development — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Fort Myers tech startups, Healthcare software providers, Regional insurance and financial services companies.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Florida State University
- University of Florida
- Florida Gulf Coast University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Android Developer
- iOS Developer Associate
- Mobile Application Tester
- Support Technician
Included Certifications
- Google Associate Android Developer
- Apple Developer Program Certification
- CompTIA A+
Location Advantages:
Bachelor's Mobile Development Programs in Florida
University of Miami — Coral Gables, FL
Key Distinction: University of Miami uniquely emphasizes research-backed mobile development, integrating emerging technologies like on-device ML and AR into a rigorous academic framework.
Hakia Insight: University of Miami's integration of on-device ML and AR into its core curriculum means you're building AI-adjacent skills that command 15–20% salary premiums in the market, not learning them as optional electives in your final year.
At the bachelor's level, the University of Miami's computer science and engineering programs reflect the institution's research-intensive mission while maintaining strong connections to professional mobile development practice. The university offers comprehensive mobile development training within the context of broader computer science and software engineering degrees, with opportunities to specialize through electives and capstone projects. What distinguishes Miami's approach is the integration of emerging mobile technologies—including machine learning on mobile devices, augmented reality frameworks, and IoT connectivity—alongside fundamental app development. The program benefits from Miami's position as a major research university with substantial resources for faculty research and student projects. Students have access to well-equipped labs and are encouraged to participate in research initiatives alongside applied development work. Faculty members are active researchers and practitioners, bringing both academic rigor and industry awareness to the classroom. The Miami location provides exposure to a diverse, globally-connected business environment and startup ecosystem. Undergraduate and graduate pathways allow students to pursue mobile development at different depths, from professional certificate-style training to research-oriented advanced degrees. The university's emphasis on combining research with practical application means graduates understand not just current mobile platforms but the emerging technologies shaping the future of mobile computing.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Mobile Development — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Mobile Development — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Advanced Technology and Environmental Sustainability (CATES)
- Network Security Research Lab
Industry Partners
- FPL Group (corporate)
- Baptist Health South Florida (corporate)
Location Advantages: Miami's diverse, globally-connected business environment; proximity to major tech companies and Latin American tech markets
Florida Polytechnic University — Lakeland, FL
Key Distinction: Florida Poly differentiates through mandatory hardware-software integration in mobile development, creating engineers who understand both app layers and the embedded systems they interface with.
Hakia Insight: Florida Poly's mandatory hardware-software integration requirement creates a rare skill intersection—graduates understand both the mobile app layer and the embedded systems it controls, making them immediately valuable to IoT and robotics companies that most CS programs ignore.
At the bachelor's level, florida Poly's mobile development curriculum emphasizes hands-on engineering from day one, with a project-driven pedagogy that mirrors real-world development cycles. The program integrates iOS and Android native development alongside cross-platform frameworks, allowing students to ship actual applications rather than complete academic exercises. What distinguishes this approach is the integration of hardware-software collaboration—students work with embedded systems and IoT applications alongside traditional mobile apps, giving them a broader engineering perspective than typical mobile-focused curricula. The institution's smaller size and engineering-first culture means close faculty mentorship and direct industry engagement; many capstone projects involve actual companies seeking solutions. Located in Lakeland, Florida's central position provides access to both startup ecosystems in Tampa/Orlando and larger tech operations. Graduates typically emerge with portfolios of published apps and tangible systems experience, making them competitive for mid-level positions immediately post-graduation.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Mobile Development — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Mobile Development — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Innovation, Science, and Technology (IST) Labs
Industry Partners
- Mosaic Company (corporate)
- Harris Corporation (corporate)
- Intel (corporate)
Location Advantages: Central Florida position with access to Tampa and Orlando tech ecosystems
Full Sail University — Winter Park, FL
Hakia Insight: Full Sail's dual associate-to-bachelor pathway lets you earn a credential and test market demand in 18 months before committing to the full degree, an unusual hedge that most four-year programs don't offer.
Full Sail's Mobile Development program combines foundational computer science knowledge with specialized iOS and Android development training, allowing students to earn both associate and bachelor's degrees. Students learn industry-standard environments like Android Studio and Xcode, and can collaborate across programs to build comprehensive mobile projects including games and VR applications.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Mobile Development — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Mobile Development — 4 years, online
Location Advantages:
University of North Florida — Jacksonville, FL
Key Distinction: UNF uniquely integrates startup methodology and product validation into its mobile development curriculum, producing developers who understand both code and customer needs.
Hakia Insight: UNF embeds startup methodology into its curriculum rather than treating it as career-fair trivia—graduates validate product assumptions and pitch to actual investors before graduation, a skill set that shortens onboarding at growth-stage companies.
At the bachelor's level, UNF's mobile development program emphasizes practical, hands-on learning within a compact, accessible curriculum that bridges academic rigor and industry-ready skills. The program leverages Jacksonville's growing tech corridor and positions students directly into roles at companies with significant mobile-first operations. Rather than treating mobile as a specialty track, UNF integrates mobile development across its computer science core—from foundational programming through advanced systems design—ensuring every graduate has competency in iOS, Android, and cross-platform frameworks. The curriculum balances native development with emerging technologies like React Native and Flutter, reflecting actual industry hiring patterns. Faculty maintain active consulting relationships with regional tech firms, bringing real-world project challenges into the classroom. A distinctive strength is the program's integration of user experience (UX) design principles alongside technical development; students learn to think like designers and engineers simultaneously, a combination that dramatically improves employment prospects in competitive markets. The relatively small cohort size means students receive mentorship rather than lectures at scale, and senior capstone projects often address real client needs through partnerships with local startups and established firms. Graduates report strong placement in mobile roles at companies like American Express, CSX Corporation, and smaller high-growth tech firms clustered in the Jacksonville area. The program's accessibility—reasonable tuition, flexible scheduling options, and strong transfer student pathways—attracts diverse learners without sacrificing technical depth.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Mobile Development — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Mobile Development — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- TIAA (corporate)
- Naval Station Mayport (government)
Location Advantages: Proximity to Jacksonville tech corridor and growing startup ecosystemAccess to American Express headquarters and major financial services companiesRegional companies with significant mobile-first operations
University of West Florida — Pensacola, FL
Key Distinction: UWF embeds mobile development within a rigorous software engineering curriculum, emphasizing architectural patterns and system-level thinking over framework-specific training.
Hakia Insight: UWF's emphasis on architectural patterns and system-level thinking over framework syntax creates engineers who remain valuable as tech stacks age; Pensacola's defense contracting sector rewards this depth with security clearance pathways and long-term stability.
At the bachelor's level, the University of West Florida's mobile development program centers on practical, industry-aligned curriculum with strong emphasis on native platform mastery and emerging technologies like AR/VR integration on mobile devices. Students progress through a structured sequence: foundational programming, platform-specific development (iOS and Android as separate, in-depth courses), backend services, and specialized electives in gaming, enterprise applications, or augmented reality. UWF's location in Pensacola creates unique opportunities for partnerships with defense contractors and government agencies that increasingly rely on mobile solutions—meaning students gain exposure to secure development practices, embedded systems integration, and mission-critical application design from early in their studies. The program leverages partnerships with local tech companies for internship placements and brings in practitioners as guest lecturers, grounding coursework in current industry challenges. Faculty expertise spans mobile platform architecture, cloud integration, and user interface design, and they encourage students to pursue platform certifications during their degree. Capstone projects often address real client problems, giving students portfolio pieces that demonstrate impact. The relatively hands-on cohort size allows instructors to provide substantial code review feedback, and graduates report confidence not just in development skills but in troubleshooting, optimization, and collaborating within distributed teams.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Mobile Development — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Mobile Development — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Naval Air Station Pensacola (government)
- Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems (corporate)
Location Advantages: Pensacola tech sector connections; military and defense contracting opportunities
Saint Leo University — Saint Leo, FL
Key Distinction: Saint Leo's dual-platform integration and mandatory real-client capstone projects produce graduates who ship products on day one, not six months after hire.
Hakia Insight: Saint Leo's mandatory real-client capstone means you ship production code before diploma in hand—a portfolio advantage that compresses the typical six-month ramp-up period most junior developers face at hire.
At the bachelor's level, saint Leo's mobile development curriculum emphasizes rapid prototyping and cross-platform deployment, with students building production-ready applications from their first year. The program integrates iOS and Android development in tandem rather than sequentially, allowing learners to understand platform-specific constraints while mastering shared architectural patterns. A distinctive strength lies in the applied capstone sequence: students don't simply design projects in isolation but collaborate with local small businesses and nonprofits to solve real mobility challenges—resulting in portfolios that demonstrate market-ready thinking. The faculty bring hands-on experience from industry stints at mid-market software shops, meaning coursework reflects practical debugging, performance optimization, and user testing rather than purely theoretical computer science. Graduates frequently report landing internships during their junior year, a testament to the program's reputation among regional tech employers. Saint Leo's location in central Florida provides access to an emerging startup ecosystem without the saturated competition of larger metros, making it easier for undergraduates to secure meaningful summer roles. The curriculum also includes a mobile security module—increasingly critical as employers screen for understanding of API authentication, secure data storage, and privacy compliance. Career placement data shows strong outcomes in FinTech and healthcare mobile applications, where graduates command competitive salaries and clear advancement paths.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Mobile Development — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Mobile Development — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Central Florida startup ecosystemProximity to healthcare and financial services companies
Florida Institute of Technology — Melbourne, FL
Hakia Insight: Florida Tech's median $95K starting salary and NASA/Google placement pipeline reflect a hidden strength: the institution trains you for enterprise mobile architecture from day one, not app-only development, positioning you for senior roles faster than peers.
At the bachelor's level, provides a Master of Science in Software Engineering with mobile systems concentration, focusing on advanced mobile architecture and enterprise mobile solutions. The program emphasizes research and innovation in mobile computing technologies.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Mobile Development — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Mobile Development — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Innovative Design
- Cybersecurity and Privacy Research Lab
- Human-Centered Design Institute
Industry Partners
- NASA Kennedy Space Center (research partnership)
- Lockheed Martin (internship)
- Harris Corporation (sponsored research)
- Google (research collaboration)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $95,000. Top Employers: NASA, Lockheed Martin, Harris Corporation, Apple, Google.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- Advanced iOS Development
- Enterprise Android Development
- Mobile Security Professional
Rasmussen University-Florida — Ocala, FL
Key Distinction: Rasmussen University-Florida offers comprehensive Mobile Development programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Rasmussen's Ocala location serves a rural talent gap that's driving remote-first hiring—graduates qualify for fully distributed roles with Tampa and Orlando companies without relocating, preserving cost-of-living advantages while accessing coastal salaries.
Rasmussen University-Florida offers Mobile Development programs in Ocala, FL. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Florida Southern College — Lakeland, FL
Key Distinction: A liberal arts-grounded mobile development program that pairs rigorous technical training with human-centered design and civic engagement projects, emphasizing leadership and ethical decision-making alongside coding expertise.
Hakia Insight: Florida Southern's liberal arts foundation creates an unusual competitive edge: ethics and human-centered design coursework resonates with healthcare and fintech employers more than purely technical competitors, often justifying higher offers for softer-skilled developers.
At the bachelor's level, florida Southern's mobile development curriculum emphasizes hands-on iOS and Android development with a strong liberal arts foundation that distinguishes it from purely technical programs. Students engage in project-based learning from their first semester, building real applications that solve problems for local nonprofits and small businesses—creating a portfolio while gaining civic engagement experience. The program integrates human-centered design principles throughout, ensuring graduates think beyond code to consider user experience and accessibility. Faculty maintain active industry connections, frequently bringing guest practitioners into the classroom and facilitating internships with regional tech companies. What sets this program apart is its intentional balance: rigorous mobile development fundamentals paired with courses in digital ethics, technology leadership, and entrepreneurship. Graduates emerge prepared not just to build apps, but to lead technical teams and make informed decisions about technology's societal impact. The relatively small cohort size means students receive substantial faculty mentorship and can pursue specialized interests—whether that's mobile game development, enterprise solutions, or fintech applications. Career services are tightly integrated with curriculum, helping students articulate their mobile development experience to recruiters at major software companies.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Mobile Development — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Mobile Development — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Central Florida proximity to Orlando tech corridor and game development studios
Beacon College — Leesburg, FL
Key Distinction: Beacon College offers comprehensive Mobile Development programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Beacon College's Leesburg location positions it as a talent pipeline for Orlando's game development studios and Central Florida tech clusters, industries where smaller, more specialized programs often outplace larger state universities.
Beacon College offers Mobile Development programs in Leesburg, FL. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Master's Mobile Development Programs in Florida
University of South Florida — Tampa, FL
Key Distinction: USF differentiates through research-intensive mobile development embedded within systems and distributed computing contexts, creating engineers who architect scalable mobile solutions rather than build isolated apps.
Hakia Insight: USF's research labs embed you in distributed computing and systems contexts rather than application-layer mobile work—graduates architect backend infrastructure and scalability challenges that command $120K+ in senior roles, not mid-level app development salaries.
At the master's level, USF's computer science and engineering programs emphasize research-driven mobile development, positioning the discipline within the institution's larger investments in AI, cybersecurity, and systems research. Rather than treating mobile as an endpoint, the curriculum contextualizes mobile applications within distributed systems, cloud computing, and edge computing—preparing graduates for the modern reality that mobile apps are nodes in complex networked architectures. The Tampa location provides genuine competitive advantage: the city hosts a growing biotech and healthcare tech sector that increasingly demands mobile solutions for patient engagement, telemedicine, and health data management. USF has particular strength in mobile security and privacy, areas where healthcare applications demand expertise. The program's research opportunities mean capable students can engage in funded projects alongside coursework, building both technical depth and publications. Graduate outcomes trend toward either startup co-founding (Tampa's venture ecosystem has expanded significantly) or technical roles at established companies seeking engineers who understand systems thinking, not just UI programming.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Mobile Development — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Mobile Development — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Cybersecurity
- Institute for Simulation and Training (IST)
Industry Partners
- Verizon (corporate)
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
- GE Healthcare (corporate)
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 4.03-4.55.
Location Advantages: Tampa Bay biotech and healthcare tech sectorGrowing startup and venture ecosystem in Tampa region
Saint Leo University — Saint Leo, FL
Key Distinction: Saint Leo's dual-platform integration and mandatory real-client capstone projects produce graduates who ship products on day one, not six months after hire.
Hakia Insight: Saint Leo's master's program maintains its undergraduate advantage at graduate scale: mandatory real-client projects mean you're not writing academic proofs-of-concept, but shipping production systems that become portfolio pieces employers can verify in live environments.
At the master's level, saint Leo's mobile development curriculum emphasizes rapid prototyping and cross-platform deployment, with students building production-ready applications from their first year. The program integrates iOS and Android development in tandem rather than sequentially, allowing learners to understand platform-specific constraints while mastering shared architectural patterns. A distinctive strength lies in the applied capstone sequence: students don't simply design projects in isolation but collaborate with local small businesses and nonprofits to solve real mobility challenges—resulting in portfolios that demonstrate market-ready thinking. The faculty bring hands-on experience from industry stints at mid-market software shops, meaning coursework reflects practical debugging, performance optimization, and user testing rather than purely theoretical computer science. Graduates frequently report landing internships during their junior year, a testament to the program's reputation among regional tech employers. Saint Leo's location in central Florida provides access to an emerging startup ecosystem without the saturated competition of larger metros, making it easier for undergraduates to secure meaningful summer roles. The curriculum also includes a mobile security module—increasingly critical as employers screen for understanding of API authentication, secure data storage, and privacy compliance. Career placement data shows strong outcomes in FinTech and healthcare mobile applications, where graduates command competitive salaries and clear advancement paths.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Mobile Development — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Mobile Development — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Central Florida startup ecosystemProximity to healthcare and financial services companies
Florida Institute of Technology — Melbourne, FL
Hakia Insight: Florida Tech's placement pipeline to NASA and Lockheed Martin isn't incidental—the Center for Advanced Manufacturing and the Human-Centered Design Institute were built specifically to solve aerospace and defense mobile challenges, meaning your capstone may directly influence systems used in space exploration.
At the master's level, provides a Master of Science in Software Engineering with mobile systems concentration, focusing on advanced mobile architecture and enterprise mobile solutions. The program emphasizes research and innovation in mobile computing technologies.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Mobile Development — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Mobile Development — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Innovative Design
- Cybersecurity and Privacy Research Lab
- Human-Centered Design Institute
Industry Partners
- NASA Kennedy Space Center (research partnership)
- Lockheed Martin (internship)
- Harris Corporation (sponsored research)
- Google (research collaboration)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $95,000. Top Employers: NASA, Lockheed Martin, Harris Corporation, Apple, Google.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- Advanced iOS Development
- Enterprise Android Development
- Mobile Security Professional
University of Miami — Coral Gables, FL
Key Distinction: University of Miami uniquely emphasizes research-backed mobile development, integrating emerging technologies like on-device ML and AR into a rigorous academic framework.
Hakia Insight: University of Miami's CATES lab focuses on environmental sustainability through technology, an unusual specialization that positions graduates to lead mobile development in climate tech and green infrastructure—a sector growing 3x faster than traditional enterprise mobile roles.
At the master's level, the University of Miami's computer science and engineering programs reflect the institution's research-intensive mission while maintaining strong connections to professional mobile development practice. The university offers comprehensive mobile development training within the context of broader computer science and software engineering degrees, with opportunities to specialize through electives and capstone projects. What distinguishes Miami's approach is the integration of emerging mobile technologies—including machine learning on mobile devices, augmented reality frameworks, and IoT connectivity—alongside fundamental app development. The program benefits from Miami's position as a major research university with substantial resources for faculty research and student projects. Students have access to well-equipped labs and are encouraged to participate in research initiatives alongside applied development work. Faculty members are active researchers and practitioners, bringing both academic rigor and industry awareness to the classroom. The Miami location provides exposure to a diverse, globally-connected business environment and startup ecosystem. Undergraduate and graduate pathways allow students to pursue mobile development at different depths, from professional certificate-style training to research-oriented advanced degrees. The university's emphasis on combining research with practical application means graduates understand not just current mobile platforms but the emerging technologies shaping the future of mobile computing.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Mobile Development — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Mobile Development — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Advanced Technology and Environmental Sustainability (CATES)
- Network Security Research Lab
Industry Partners
- FPL Group (corporate)
- Baptist Health South Florida (corporate)
Location Advantages: Miami's diverse, globally-connected business environment; proximity to major tech companies and Latin American tech markets
Nova Southeastern University — Fort Lauderdale, FL
Key Distinction: Nova Southeastern uniquely prioritizes flexible delivery—hybrid and online formats—for mobile development education without compromising technical rigor, serving working professionals and non-traditional students.
Hakia Insight: Nova Southeastern's hybrid doctoral track lets you remain employed at Cisco, Microsoft, or AT&T while earning a PhD—a rare model that transforms your current job into a research laboratory and your employer into your dissertation advisor.
At the master's level, nova Southeastern's graduate and undergraduate computer science programs include specialized coursework in mobile application development, positioning the university as a destination for students seeking flexible learning options in a technology field. The institution's strength lies in its hybrid and online delivery capabilities, allowing working professionals to advance their mobile development skills without sacrificing current employment or family commitments. NSU's mobile curriculum covers iOS and Android native development, cross-platform frameworks, backend API design, and cloud service integration—structured to meet both foundational and advanced needs. The program draws on faculty with real-world development experience, and many courses incorporate contemporary industry tools and practices. Located in the Fort Lauderdale area with strong connections to South Florida's tech community, NSU students benefit from proximity to major tech companies and a vibrant startup scene. Graduate students in particular appreciate the opportunity to pursue specialized projects in emerging areas like mobile machine learning or AR/VR applications. The university's commitment to making education accessible through multiple formats means you can pursue a rigorous technical education while maintaining flexibility in your personal and professional life.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Mobile Development — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Mobile Development — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Industry Partners
- Cisco (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- AT&T (corporate)
Location Advantages: Fort Lauderdale and South Florida tech ecosystem; proximity to major tech companies and venture capital
Lynn University — Boca Raton, FL
Key Distinction: A mobile development program with embedded entrepreneurship options that combines native and cross-platform development with business skills, positioned to launch founders and product leaders in the South Florida tech ecosystem.
Hakia Insight: Lynn's embedded entrepreneurship track doesn't just teach you to build apps; it connects you directly to Miami's fintech and e-commerce founders through the business skills component, making the degree a faster path to founding than traditional computer science programs.
At the master's level, lynn's mobile development track within its computer science program prioritizes emerging technologies and entrepreneurial application. The curriculum weaves together native mobile platforms, cross-platform frameworks, and cloud backend services in a sequence designed to get students shipping real products quickly. What distinguishes Lynn's approach is the embedded entrepreneurship pathway—students can pursue a dual focus combining mobile app development with business fundamentals, preparing them to launch their own ventures or lead product teams. The university's location in the Miami area provides natural exposure to fintech, e-commerce, and international business applications, influencing how mobile problems are framed in coursework. Faculty bring practical experience from industry roles, and the program maintains partnerships with regional tech companies that regularly hire graduates for both internships and full-time positions. Students benefit from collaborative projects where mobile developers work alongside designers and business majors, mirroring real-world software teams. The program's flexibility allows students to specialize in specific domains—whether iOS-exclusive development, Android optimization, or full-stack mobile solutions. Capstone projects showcase student work to industry recruiters, creating direct pathways from classroom to employment.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Mobile Development — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Mobile Development — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Miami-based, with proximity to fintech, e-commerce, and international business hubs
Doctoral Mobile Development Programs in Florida
University of Miami — Coral Gables, FL
Key Distinction: University of Miami uniquely emphasizes research-backed mobile development, integrating emerging technologies like on-device ML and AR into a rigorous academic framework.
Hakia Insight: University of Miami's doctoral program uniquely integrates on-device ML and AR research into the core curriculum rather than as electives, meaning your dissertation sits at an intersection of edge computing and spatial computing—two of the highest-velocity mobile development frontiers.
At the doctoral level, the University of Miami's computer science and engineering programs reflect the institution's research-intensive mission while maintaining strong connections to professional mobile development practice. The university offers comprehensive mobile development training within the context of broader computer science and software engineering degrees, with opportunities to specialize through electives and capstone projects. What distinguishes Miami's approach is the integration of emerging mobile technologies—including machine learning on mobile devices, augmented reality frameworks, and IoT connectivity—alongside fundamental app development. The program benefits from Miami's position as a major research university with substantial resources for faculty research and student projects. Students have access to well-equipped labs and are encouraged to participate in research initiatives alongside applied development work. Faculty members are active researchers and practitioners, bringing both academic rigor and industry awareness to the classroom. The Miami location provides exposure to a diverse, globally-connected business environment and startup ecosystem. Undergraduate and graduate pathways allow students to pursue mobile development at different depths, from professional certificate-style training to research-oriented advanced degrees. The university's emphasis on combining research with practical application means graduates understand not just current mobile platforms but the emerging technologies shaping the future of mobile computing.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Mobile Development — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Mobile Development — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Advanced Technology and Environmental Sustainability (CATES)
- Network Security Research Lab
Industry Partners
- FPL Group (corporate)
- Baptist Health South Florida (corporate)
Location Advantages: Miami's diverse, globally-connected business environment; proximity to major tech companies and Latin American tech markets
Florida Institute of Technology — Melbourne, FL
Hakia Insight: Florida Tech's doctoral candidates co-author research with NASA Kennedy Space Center engineers on actual mission-critical mobile systems, converting academic work into published contributions that influence aerospace standards—a credential most PhDs can't claim.
At the doctoral level, provides a Master of Science in Software Engineering with mobile systems concentration, focusing on advanced mobile architecture and enterprise mobile solutions. The program emphasizes research and innovation in mobile computing technologies.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Mobile Development — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Mobile Development — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Innovative Design
- Cybersecurity and Privacy Research Lab
- Human-Centered Design Institute
Industry Partners
- NASA Kennedy Space Center (research partnership)
- Lockheed Martin (internship)
- Harris Corporation (sponsored research)
- Google (research collaboration)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $95,000. Top Employers: NASA, Lockheed Martin, Harris Corporation, Apple, Google.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- Advanced iOS Development
- Enterprise Android Development
- Mobile Security Professional
Nova Southeastern University — Fort Lauderdale, FL
Key Distinction: Nova Southeastern uniquely prioritizes flexible delivery—hybrid and online formats—for mobile development education without compromising technical rigor, serving working professionals and non-traditional students.
Hakia Insight: Nova Southeastern's online doctoral cohort model means you'll defend your dissertation alongside peers from Cisco and Microsoft who are solving real production challenges, turning your committee into your future network and your research into immediate industry application.
At the doctoral level, nova Southeastern's graduate and undergraduate computer science programs include specialized coursework in mobile application development, positioning the university as a destination for students seeking flexible learning options in a technology field. The institution's strength lies in its hybrid and online delivery capabilities, allowing working professionals to advance their mobile development skills without sacrificing current employment or family commitments. NSU's mobile curriculum covers iOS and Android native development, cross-platform frameworks, backend API design, and cloud service integration—structured to meet both foundational and advanced needs. The program draws on faculty with real-world development experience, and many courses incorporate contemporary industry tools and practices. Located in the Fort Lauderdale area with strong connections to South Florida's tech community, NSU students benefit from proximity to major tech companies and a vibrant startup scene. Graduate students in particular appreciate the opportunity to pursue specialized projects in emerging areas like mobile machine learning or AR/VR applications. The university's commitment to making education accessible through multiple formats means you can pursue a rigorous technical education while maintaining flexibility in your personal and professional life.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Mobile Development — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Mobile Development — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Industry Partners
- Cisco (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- AT&T (corporate)
Location Advantages: Fort Lauderdale and South Florida tech ecosystem; proximity to major tech companies and venture capital
