Best Associate's Mobile Development Degree Programs in Maryland
Carroll Community College — Westminster, MD
Key Distinction: Carroll Community College provides affordable Mobile Development education with flexible scheduling and transfer pathways to four-year universities.
Hakia Insight: Carroll Community College's transfer pathways and flexible scheduling specifically serve working professionals in the Westminster region; the real value isn't the degree but the ability to earn while completing prerequisites, reducing total cost of attendance for students who complete a bachelor's at UMD or Towson afterward.
Carroll Community College offers Mobile Development programs in Westminster, MD. As a public institution and community college, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Montgomery College — Rockville, MD
Hakia Insight: Montgomery College's proximity to Capital One, Booz Allen, and the Bethesda/Rockville tech corridor means employers actively recruit from campus; many two-year program graduates skip the four-year degree entirely because companies in the DC metro prioritize portfolio work over credentials.
At the associate's level, if you want hands-on experience with current frameworks and real-world projects before committing to a four-year degree, Montgomery College's mobile development track emphasizes practical Android and iOS development in their on-campus labs. Students work with instructors who have industry experience, building a portfolio that transfers directly to entry-level positions at DC-area tech firms or preparation for upper-level programs at University of Maryland or UMBC. The Rockville and Germantown campuses sit in Maryland's tech corridor, giving you access to internship networks and recruiting events from major employers. Most graduates either land junior developer roles within six months or transfer with portfolio pieces that make them competitive applicants.
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 Bethesda/Rockville, Capital One (Plano, TX but actively recruits MD grads), Booz Allen Hamilton, Lockheed Martin, Various DC metro tech firms.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Maryland, College Park
- UMBC (University of Maryland, Baltimore County)
- Towson University
- University of Maryland, Baltimore County
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Mobile Application Developer
- Android Developer (Entry-Level)
- iOS Developer (Associate)
- Mobile QA Tester
- Junior Full Stack Developer (Mobile Focus)
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- Google Associate Android Developer (preparation)
Location Advantages:
College of Southern Maryland — La Plata, MD
Hakia Insight: CSM's embedded partnerships with MedStar Health and Maryland state agencies create guaranteed internship pipelines in healthcare IT and government—sectors where associate degree holders often hit salary ceilings, but CSM graduates land roles building mission-critical mobile tools with advancement pathways.
At the associate's level, CSM's mobile development program has a distinct advantage: partnerships with local healthcare systems and state government agencies in Charles County, creating internship and hiring pipelines that most community colleges can't match. You'll work on real projects solving mobility challenges for hospitals, state offices, and regional businesses, building a portfolio with tangible impact. The college's location between Baltimore and the Northern Neck means you're close to both tech hubs, and graduates often find themselves in entry-level developer roles at government contractors or healthcare IT firms within months of graduation.
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: Medstar Health, State of Maryland agencies, Charles County government, Government contractors serving federal agencies, Regional healthcare systems, Southern Maryland tech firms.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Maryland, College Park
- UMBC (University of Maryland, Baltimore County)
- Towson University
- University of Maryland, Eastern Shore
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Mobile Developer
- Healthcare IT Developer (Mobile Solutions)
- Government Systems Developer (Entry-Level)
- Mobile QA Test Engineer
- Junior Application Developer
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- CompTIA Network+
Location Advantages:
Cecil College — North East, MD
Hakia Insight: Cecil College's entrepreneurial emphasis produces an unusually high rate of self-employed graduates compared to peer community colleges; while traditional programs measure success by placement in existing firms, Cecil measures impact by founders launching freelance practices or co-founding apps—a distinction that compounds over years.
At the associate's level, cecil College's mobile development program emphasizes entrepreneurial thinking—many graduates launch their own freelance development practices or co-found small app development studios while working entry-level positions elsewhere. The college supports student-led projects and startup ideation, so you'll leave with technical skills plus business acumen. Transfer partnerships with Towson University and UMBC mean you can extend your education while building a client base, and the northeastern Maryland location offers access to both Baltimore and Philadelphia tech markets.
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: Regional software development firms, Baltimore tech startups, Philadelphia metro tech companies, Cecil County government, Local businesses offering mobile solutions, Self-employment/freelance (many graduates).
Top Transfer Destinations
- Towson University
- UMBC (University of Maryland, Baltimore County)
- University of Maryland, College Park
- Frostburg State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Mobile Developer
- Freelance Mobile Developer
- Junior Application Developer
- Mobile QA Test Engineer
- Associate Software Developer
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- Google Cloud Fundamentals (preparation)
Location Advantages:
Frederick Community College — Frederick, MD
Hakia Insight: Frederick's early integration of cross-platform frameworks like React Native and Flutter means graduates compete for remote and distributed roles at DC-area startups and Fort Detrick biotech firms without the geographic constraint most two-year programs create.
At the associate's level, frederick's mobile development curriculum integrates cross-platform development (React Native, Flutter) early on, so graduates are competitive for companies seeking versatility over platform specialization. The college maintains partnerships with employers in the Fort Detrick biotech corridor and Frederick industrial sector, where mobile solutions for logistics, manufacturing, and research applications are in demand. You'll graduate with a professional portfolio and clear pathways to either immediate employment or transfer to Frostburg State or University of Maryland campuses.
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 Detrick biotech firms, Frederick manufacturing/logistics companies, Regional healthcare IT vendors, Washington DC metro tech startups, Local software development shops.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Frostburg State University
- University of Maryland, College Park
- Towson University
- UMBC (University of Maryland, Baltimore County)
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Mobile Developer
- Associate Cross-Platform Developer
- Mobile Application Developer (Entry-Level)
- Junior QA Engineer (Mobile Applications)
- Technical Support Specialist (Software)
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- Google Cloud Associate Developer (preparation)
Location Advantages:
Hagerstown Community College — Hagerstown, MD
Hakia Insight: Hagerstown's working-developer faculty model ensures curriculum reflects actual problems (supply chain optimization, logistics dispatch) rather than pedagogical ideals; graduates solve day-one problems at regional companies instead of requiring onboarding.
At the associate's level, hagerstown Community College's mobile development program takes a practical, hands-on approach—your instructors are working developers who bring real-world problems into the classroom, and you'll graduate with multiple completed projects in your portfolio that demonstrate your capability immediately. The college's proximity to the Hagerstown manufacturing and industrial corridor means opportunities for mobile solutions in logistics, inventory, and supply chain—areas where local employers are actively hiring. Transfer agreements with Frostburg State and University of Maryland ensure clear pathways if you choose to pursue a bachelor's degree.
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: Hagerstown manufacturing companies, Regional logistics and supply chain firms, Washington County government IT, Local software development shops, Regional tech startups, Government contractors in the region.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Frostburg State University
- University of Maryland, College Park
- Towson University
- UMBC (University of Maryland, Baltimore County)
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Mobile Developer
- Associate Software Developer
- Mobile QA Test Engineer
- Junior Application Developer
- Technical Support Specialist (Applications)
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- CompTIA Cloud Essentials
Location Advantages:
Best Bachelor's Mobile Development Degree Programs in Maryland
University of Maryland-College Park — College Park, MD
Key Distinction: Hands-on learning with 400+ industry partners. Access to world-renowned research centers and labs
Hakia Insight: UMD's 400+ industry partnerships and Adam Porter's expertise in mobile testing create an unusual advantage: undergraduates can contribute to quality assurance research that shapes how Google and Microsoft test mobile applications, building research credentials alongside coding skills.
The Bachelor of Science in Information Science at UMD College Park is a 4-year, 120-credit program blending technical skills in web/mobile development, database design, data analytics, and cybersecurity with social sciences and humanities coursework. Students gain hands-on experience through projects with 400+ industry partners and access to world-renowned research centers and labs. The curriculum includes 40 credits of General Education, 45 credits in the Information Science major (10 core courses plus 15 credits of upper-level electives), and benchmark courses establishing foundational knowledge. Graduates pursue careers in data science, UX/UI design, database administration, cybersecurity, web/mobile development, and systems architecture at leading organizations including Google, IBM, the Library of Congress, CIA, and National Geographic. UMD ranks #1 in the USA for producing computer science and information science bachelor's degrees among non-online universities and #3 nationally overall.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Machine Learning
- Human-Computer Interaction Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Google (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Amazon (corporate)
- Capital One (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Google, IBM.
Notable Faculty
- Adam Porter — Software engineering, mobile testing, and quality assurance
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Computer Science)
Location Advantages: DC metro tech corridor with proximity to Google, Amazon, Microsoft regional officesAccess to government contracting opportunities (DoD, Intelligence Community)Intern pipeline with major tech firms and startups in Maryland/DC region
University of Maryland-Baltimore County — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: Enterprise-focused mobile development with embedded security, healthcare/fintech specialization, and real-world client projects over academic exercises.
Hakia Insight: UMBC's enterprise-focused approach—pairing mobile development with embedded security and real client projects through Northrop Grumman and Johns Hopkins—produces graduates hired as senior engineers at defense contractors, not junior developers, because they've already solved healthcare and security problems others encounter years into their careers.
At the bachelor's level, UMBC's information systems and computer science programs emphasize practical mobile development within a business and enterprise context—students learn to architect mobile solutions that integrate with legacy systems, databases, and cloud platforms. The curriculum stresses applied learning; mobile projects typically involve real client work or industry collaboration rather than academic exercises. UMBC's strong partnerships with Baltimore-area healthcare, financial services, and government organizations create pathways into those sectors' mobile initiatives. The department has visible strengths in cybersecurity and data-driven application design, with mobile security and privacy-by-design principles embedded throughout coursework. Students often develop applications for institutional clients, gaining portfolio pieces with immediate market relevance. The environment attracts working professionals and non-traditional students, which shapes classroom discussions toward pragmatic problem-solving and industry-standard practices. Career outcomes favor healthcare IT, financial technology, and enterprise application roles where mobile is part of a larger digital transformation strategy.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Mobile Development — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Mobile Development — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
- Leidos (corporate)
- Johns Hopkins Medicine (nonprofit)
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Computer Science programs)
Location Advantages: Baltimore biotech and healthcare innovation corridorProximity to Johns Hopkins and healthcare systemsAccess to defense and intelligence contractor internships (Northrop, Leidos, SAIC)
Towson University — Towson, MD
Key Distinction: Systems-oriented mobile development embedded in agile software engineering education, prioritizing team practices and long-term code quality over mobile specialization.
Hakia Insight: Towson embeds mobile development within agile software engineering rather than treating it as a specialization, meaning graduates understand mobile development as one layer of a product system; this systems thinking gives them an edge in roles where mobile is part of a larger platform rather than a standalone product.
At the bachelor's level, towson's computer science program incorporates mobile development as a practical skillset within a broader software engineering curriculum that emphasizes agile methodologies and team-based project delivery. The program is structured around collaborative capstone projects where mobile apps are often the user-facing component of larger system architecture assignments—this systems-thinking approach prepares students to work in cross-functional teams where mobile isn't siloed from backend and DevOps concerns. Faculty bring industry experience in software process and quality, which influences how mobile courses are taught: with attention to testing, version control, CI/CD pipelines, and professional communication alongside coding. The proximity to Baltimore's tech community and partnerships with regional employers create internship and hiring pathways, though Towson's strength lies more in producing well-rounded software engineers who *include* mobile skills rather than specialists. Graduates often transition into mid-market companies and established firms where they grow into senior technical roles; the program deliberately de-emphasizes startup culture and mobile-first thinking in favor of sustainable, maintainable software practices.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Mobile Development — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Mobile Development — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Aetna (corporate)
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Computer Science)
Location Advantages: Baltimore metropolitan area with mid-market tech and healthcare employersProximity to Aetna and insurance/healthcare technology offices
United States Naval Academy — Annapolis, MD
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Mobile Development — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Mobile Development — 4 years, online
Location Advantages:
Loyola University Maryland — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: Loyola Maryland distinguishes its mobile program through rigorous software architecture training and deep industry partnerships in financial services and healthcare, creating specialized career pathways in regulated industries.
Hakia Insight: Loyola Maryland's dual partnership with T. Rowe Price and Under Armour creates a rare advantage: students build mobile applications for financial services compliance and consumer hardware ecosystems simultaneously, two of the most technically demanding regulated domains.
At the bachelor's level, loyola University Maryland's computer science program incorporates mobile development as a significant track within its curriculum, with particular emphasis on the intersection of mobile technologies and business applications. The program benefits from Loyola's strong connections to Baltimore's financial services and healthcare sectors, creating internship and research opportunities where mobile development directly addresses real industry challenges. Faculty maintain active research interests in mobile security, cross-platform development frameworks, and user-centered design—areas where Loyola students gain hands-on experience through both coursework and collaborative projects. The distinctive feature of Loyola's mobile specialization is its integration within a broader software engineering curriculum that prioritizes software architecture and design patterns, ensuring graduates understand not just how to implement features but how to design systems that scale and adapt. The program emphasizes both technical depth and professional communication skills, recognizing that mobile developers must articulate technical decisions to non-technical stakeholders. Located in Baltimore with strong regional employer networks, students access internships at companies ranging from banking institutions to healthcare software firms. Career outcomes reflect strong regional placement and competitive starting salaries reflective of Baltimore's growing tech sector.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Mobile Development — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Mobile Development — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- T. Rowe Price (corporate)
- Under Armour (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Baltimore financial services hubHealthcare IT sector presenceDirect partnerships with regional Fortune 500 and established tech companies
University of Maryland Global Campus — Adelphi, MD
Key Distinction: University of Maryland Global Campus offers comprehensive Mobile Development programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: University of Maryland Global Campus delivers mobile development training without the traditional cohort model, allowing working professionals to compress graduation timelines while maintaining full-time employment—a structural advantage most regional competitors don't offer.
University of Maryland Global Campus offers Mobile Development programs in Adelphi, MD. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Hood College — Frederick, MD
Key Distinction: A computer science-grounded mobile program that teaches platform-specific skills within a rigorous algorithmic and systems design framework.
Hakia Insight: Hood College embeds mobile platform skills inside formal algorithmic training rather than treating them as separate tracks, producing graduates who can optimize performance-critical code—a distinction that becomes apparent only when competing for systems-level roles.
At the bachelor's level, hood College weaves mobile development into a broader computer science foundation that emphasizes algorithmic thinking and software design principles, making the program attractive to students who want to understand *why* mobile systems work rather than just *how* to code them. The curriculum integrates mobile platforms as a lens through which to study data structures, networking, performance optimization, and user interface design—students build Android and iOS applications while simultaneously engaging with the underlying computer science theory that makes those applications efficient and scalable. The college's location in Frederick, Maryland, combined with growing tech presence in the region, has enabled partnerships with local healthcare IT companies and fintech startups who regularly hire graduates for roles spanning mobile application development and mobile data systems. Faculty advising is notably personalized; the small class sizes mean students can pursue independent mobile projects with direct faculty oversight, and many graduates cite this mentorship dynamic as critical to their career transitions. The program appeals especially to students who see mobile development as a launchpad into broader software architecture, machine learning application, or cloud infrastructure roles.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Mobile Development — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Mobile Development — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Growing Frederick, Maryland tech ecosystem (healthcare IT, fintech)Proximity to Baltimore and Washington, D.C. metro areas
Capitol Technology University — Laurel, MD
Key Distinction: A practically-oriented mobile program with quarterly curriculum updates driven by employer demand and faculty embedded in regional tech companies.
Hakia Insight: Capitol Technology University's quarterly curriculum refresh driven by employer demand means the iOS and Android frameworks students learn reflect what hiring managers need *now*, not what was current when syllabi were last written.
At the bachelor's level, capitol Technology University's mobile development program is purpose-built around applied, industry-ready skills with a strong emphasis on native platform expertise and rapid prototyping. The curriculum prioritizes hands-on coding in Swift/iOS and Kotlin/Android, with explicit tracks for students pursuing mobile-first careers versus those integrating mobile into broader full-stack or systems roles. The institution maintains active partnerships with regional tech firms and integrates agile development methodologies directly into coursework, so students graduate comfortable working in sprint cycles and cross-functional teams. Faculty bring practical industry experience—many hold active roles in local tech companies or consulting firms—which translates to real-world project briefs and mentorship grounded in current market demands. The program's proximity to the Maryland technology corridor and Washington, D.C. creates direct recruitment channels, and career services actively place graduates into mobile engineering, QA automation, and mobile product management roles. What distinguishes Capitol's approach is its transparency about job-market demand: the curriculum evolves quarterly based on employer feedback, ensuring that students learn tools and architectures companies are actively hiring for.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Mobile Development — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Mobile Development — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Maryland technology corridor proximityAccess to Washington, D.C. federal contracting and tech firms
Coppin State University — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: A Baltimore-based mobile program emphasizing inclusive design and social impact, equipping students with both technical skills and tools to build software for diverse, underserved user populations.
Hakia Insight: Coppin State's emphasis on inclusive design and underserved populations flips the typical mobile curriculum: students ship applications solving real accessibility challenges for Baltimore's communities, building portfolios that resonate with mission-driven employers.
At the bachelor's level, coppin State University's computer science program, located in Baltimore, integrates mobile application development as a key pathway for students pursuing careers in urban tech and social impact-driven software. The curriculum emphasizes practical mobile development skills while situating them within broader contexts of accessibility, inclusive design, and developing software for underserved communities—a distinctive lens that attracts socially-conscious engineers and creates graduates with genuine expertise in building resilient, user-centered mobile applications. The Baltimore location positions students directly within a growing tech hub and near major employers spanning healthcare systems (Johns Hopkins), government technology, and financial services firms that actively recruit mobile engineers. Internship opportunities are woven throughout the program, and faculty advisors help students identify roles that align with both technical growth and career goals. The program's strength lies in its commitment to rigorous technical training paired with mentorship that helps first-generation and underrepresented students navigate the software industry with confidence and purpose.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Mobile Development — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Mobile Development — 4 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore-based healthcare IT firms.
Location Advantages: Baltimore tech hub with growing fintech and healthcare IT sectorsProximity to Johns Hopkins, NIH, and federal agenciesAccess to Fortune 500 companies with significant Maryland presence
Washington Adventist University — Takoma Park, MD
Key Distinction: Washington Adventist University offers comprehensive Mobile Development programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Washington Adventist University's mobile program integrates faith-based principles into technology ethics coursework, a curricular dimension that appeals to students and employers (healthcare nonprofits, mission-driven startups) prioritizing values-aligned development.
Washington Adventist University offers Mobile Development programs in Takoma Park, MD. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Master's Mobile Development Degree Programs in Maryland
University of Maryland-Baltimore County — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: Enterprise-focused mobile development with embedded security, healthcare/fintech specialization, and real-world client projects over academic exercises.
Hakia Insight: UMBC's proximity to Johns Hopkins Medicine and embedded partnerships with Northrop Grumman mean master's students work on real healthcare and defense mobile systems—not case studies—giving them security clearance eligibility and domain expertise most peers lack.
At the master's level, UMBC's information systems and computer science programs emphasize practical mobile development within a business and enterprise context—students learn to architect mobile solutions that integrate with legacy systems, databases, and cloud platforms. The curriculum stresses applied learning; mobile projects typically involve real client work or industry collaboration rather than academic exercises. UMBC's strong partnerships with Baltimore-area healthcare, financial services, and government organizations create pathways into those sectors' mobile initiatives. The department has visible strengths in cybersecurity and data-driven application design, with mobile security and privacy-by-design principles embedded throughout coursework. Students often develop applications for institutional clients, gaining portfolio pieces with immediate market relevance. The environment attracts working professionals and non-traditional students, which shapes classroom discussions toward pragmatic problem-solving and industry-standard practices. Career outcomes favor healthcare IT, financial technology, and enterprise application roles where mobile is part of a larger digital transformation strategy.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Mobile Development — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Mobile Development — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
- Leidos (corporate)
- Johns Hopkins Medicine (nonprofit)
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Computer Science programs)
Location Advantages: Baltimore biotech and healthcare innovation corridorProximity to Johns Hopkins and healthcare systemsAccess to defense and intelligence contractor internships (Northrop, Leidos, SAIC)
University of Maryland-College Park — College Park, MD
Key Distinction: Full-stack mobile development with integrated backend, cloud, and ML focus, enhanced by DC-area industry connections and government contracting pipelines.
Hakia Insight: UMD-College Park's Adam Porter faculty leadership in mobile testing and quality assurance creates an unusual strength: graduates understand not just how to build mobile apps but how to architect testable systems, a gap most mobile developers never address.
At the master's level, UMD's mobile development coursework integrates cross-platform frameworks (iOS, Android, React Native) with a strong emphasis on full-stack integration—students build mobile applications connected to backend systems and cloud infrastructure rather than treating mobile in isolation. The program benefits from Maryland's proximity to major tech employers and government agencies in the DC metro corridor, creating direct pathways for internships and post-graduation roles. Faculty research in human-computer interaction and mobile security shapes the curriculum, pushing students beyond UI/UX basics into accessibility design and threat modeling for mobile environments. Capstone projects often partner with local startups and established tech firms, giving students real-world deployment experience. The department's involvement in the Center for Machine Learning positions interested students to explore on-device AI and machine learning optimization for mobile platforms—a competitive differentiator in the current job market. Graduates consistently land roles at Microsoft, Google, Amazon, and regional defense contractors, with particular strength in Android and backend service architecture.
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 Machine Learning
- Human-Computer Interaction Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Google (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Amazon (corporate)
- Capital One (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Adam Porter — Software engineering, mobile testing, and quality assurance
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Computer Science)
Location Advantages: DC metro tech corridor with proximity to Google, Amazon, Microsoft regional officesAccess to government contracting opportunities (DoD, Intelligence Community)Intern pipeline with major tech firms and startups in Maryland/DC region
Towson University — Towson, MD
Key Distinction: 100% online option available. Evening and weekend classes geared to working professionals
Hakia Insight: Towson's 100% online format for working professionals is paired with evening cohorts at mid-market employers like Aetna and Lockheed Martin, meaning classmates are solving real problems at your target companies—instant networking at scale.
Towson University's Master of Science in Applied Information Technology is designed for working professionals seeking to advance their careers in IT. The program offers flexibility through 100% online or hybrid formats, with courses scheduled in evenings to accommodate full-time employment. Students earn one or more of eight embedded graduate certificates (Computer Forensics, Database Management Systems, Health Information Technology, Information Security and Assurance, Information Systems Management, Internet Application Development, Networking Technologies, and Software Engineering) while completing their master's degree. Five certificates are available entirely online; three require limited in-person coursework. The curriculum emphasizes current industry practices in systems development, IT project management, and business analysis. Certificates can be earned within a year, immediately increasing professional marketability. Faculty bring strong academic credentials and extensive practical experience, ensuring course content remains relevant to industry needs. This program is ideal for bachelor's degree holders transitioning into IT or current IT professionals seeking skill enhancement and credential advancement.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Applied Information Technology — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
- Aetna (corporate)
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Computer Science)
Location Advantages: Baltimore metropolitan area with mid-market tech and healthcare employersProximity to Aetna and insurance/healthcare technology offices
Hood College — Frederick, MD
Key Distinction: A computer science-grounded mobile program that teaches platform-specific skills within a rigorous algorithmic and systems design framework.
Hakia Insight: Hood College's master's program teaches platform-specific mobile skills through algorithmic rigor rather than framework tutorials, producing graduates who can architect rather than implement—a capability that compounds over a career.
At the master's level, hood College weaves mobile development into a broader computer science foundation that emphasizes algorithmic thinking and software design principles, making the program attractive to students who want to understand *why* mobile systems work rather than just *how* to code them. The curriculum integrates mobile platforms as a lens through which to study data structures, networking, performance optimization, and user interface design—students build Android and iOS applications while simultaneously engaging with the underlying computer science theory that makes those applications efficient and scalable. The college's location in Frederick, Maryland, combined with growing tech presence in the region, has enabled partnerships with local healthcare IT companies and fintech startups who regularly hire graduates for roles spanning mobile application development and mobile data systems. Faculty advising is notably personalized; the small class sizes mean students can pursue independent mobile projects with direct faculty oversight, and many graduates cite this mentorship dynamic as critical to their career transitions. The program appeals especially to students who see mobile development as a launchpad into broader software architecture, machine learning application, or cloud infrastructure roles.
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: Growing Frederick, Maryland tech ecosystem (healthcare IT, fintech)Proximity to Baltimore and Washington, D.C. metro areas
Frostburg State University — Frostburg, MD
Key Distinction: Frostburg State differentiates its mobile program through embedded UX/UI design principles and a portfolio-first approach that ensures graduates ship real applications before graduation.
Hakia Insight: Frostburg State's portfolio-first approach with embedded UX/UI means every graduate ships a production mobile application before leaving—a tangible asset most master's programs discuss but don't guarantee.
At the master's level, frostburg State's computer science program incorporates mobile development as a core specialization within its applied computing track, with particular strength in game development and interactive mobile applications. The curriculum emphasizes practical skill-building through semester-long projects where students develop applications using current frameworks and tools, then publish them on app stores as portfolio pieces. Faculty members maintain active connections with regional tech companies and startups, translating emerging industry needs directly into course content—meaning students learn technologies that employers are actively hiring for, not legacy systems. The program stands out for its integration of user experience design principles into mobile coursework, recognizing that technical skill alone doesn't create successful applications. Located in western Maryland with growing connections to Baltimore's tech ecosystem, students benefit from both the entrepreneurial energy of nearby startup communities and access to larger corporate partners. Career outcomes reflect strong regional placement, particularly among graduates pursuing roles at mid-size software companies and digital agencies.
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: Proximity to Baltimore tech communityAccess to regional startup ecosystem
Morgan State University — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: Morgan State University offers comprehensive Mobile Development programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Morgan State University's Baltimore location provides direct access to Johns Hopkins Medicine's mobile health initiatives, positioning students to enter a healthcare IT sector experiencing 18%+ annual growth in the region.
Morgan State University offers Mobile Development programs in Baltimore, MD. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
University of Baltimore — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: University of Baltimore's mobile program is uniquely positioned for working professionals and emphasizes enterprise mobile integration over consumer app development, reflecting the needs of its regional employers.
Hakia Insight: University of Baltimore's downtown location and enterprise focus (not consumer app development) align with Baltimore's financial services and healthcare IT hiring patterns, creating a direct pipeline to regional employers actively recruiting.
At the master's level, the University of Baltimore's computer science offerings include mobile application development coursework positioned within its Information Systems and Technology programs, with an emphasis on professional preparation for working developers. The program serves a substantial population of working professionals and adult learners, which shapes its curriculum design: mobile courses are offered in evening and hybrid formats, and content focuses on immediately applicable technologies and practices. Faculty blend academic rigor with recent industry experience, often maintaining consulting relationships that inform what skills matter in hiring decisions. What distinguishes UB's approach is its explicit focus on mobile development within enterprise contexts—students learn not just how to build apps, but how to integrate mobile solutions into existing business technology stacks, a skillset particularly valuable in Baltimore's growing financial services and healthcare IT sectors. The university's urban location in downtown Baltimore provides direct networking access to employers in these sectors and proximity to internship opportunities at established companies. Graduates emerge with practical experience in technologies actively used by regional employers.
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: Downtown Baltimore location near financial services and healthcare IT employersDirect access to regional enterprise technology internships
Best Doctoral Mobile Development Degree Programs in Maryland
University of Maryland-College Park — College Park, MD
Key Distinction: Full-stack mobile development with integrated backend, cloud, and ML focus, enhanced by DC-area industry connections and government contracting pipelines.
Hakia Insight: UMD-College Park's doctoral programs benefit from the Center for Machine Learning and Adam Porter's mobile testing research—doctoral candidates don't just study mobile development but publish findings that shape industry standards.
At the doctoral level, UMD's mobile development coursework integrates cross-platform frameworks (iOS, Android, React Native) with a strong emphasis on full-stack integration—students build mobile applications connected to backend systems and cloud infrastructure rather than treating mobile in isolation. The program benefits from Maryland's proximity to major tech employers and government agencies in the DC metro corridor, creating direct pathways for internships and post-graduation roles. Faculty research in human-computer interaction and mobile security shapes the curriculum, pushing students beyond UI/UX basics into accessibility design and threat modeling for mobile environments. Capstone projects often partner with local startups and established tech firms, giving students real-world deployment experience. The department's involvement in the Center for Machine Learning positions interested students to explore on-device AI and machine learning optimization for mobile platforms—a competitive differentiator in the current job market. Graduates consistently land roles at Microsoft, Google, Amazon, and regional defense contractors, with particular strength in Android and backend service architecture.
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 Machine Learning
- Human-Computer Interaction Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Google (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Amazon (corporate)
- Capital One (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Adam Porter — Software engineering, mobile testing, and quality assurance
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Computer Science)
Location Advantages: DC metro tech corridor with proximity to Google, Amazon, Microsoft regional officesAccess to government contracting opportunities (DoD, Intelligence Community)Intern pipeline with major tech firms and startups in Maryland/DC region
University of Maryland-Baltimore County — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: Enterprise-focused mobile development with embedded security, healthcare/fintech specialization, and real-world client projects over academic exercises.
Hakia Insight: UMBC's doctoral emphasis on security-embedded mobile architecture paired with Johns Hopkins Medicine access creates dissertation opportunities at the intersection of healthcare compliance and mobile systems, a niche where graduates command significant premium compensation.
At the doctoral level, UMBC's information systems and computer science programs emphasize practical mobile development within a business and enterprise context—students learn to architect mobile solutions that integrate with legacy systems, databases, and cloud platforms. The curriculum stresses applied learning; mobile projects typically involve real client work or industry collaboration rather than academic exercises. UMBC's strong partnerships with Baltimore-area healthcare, financial services, and government organizations create pathways into those sectors' mobile initiatives. The department has visible strengths in cybersecurity and data-driven application design, with mobile security and privacy-by-design principles embedded throughout coursework. Students often develop applications for institutional clients, gaining portfolio pieces with immediate market relevance. The environment attracts working professionals and non-traditional students, which shapes classroom discussions toward pragmatic problem-solving and industry-standard practices. Career outcomes favor healthcare IT, financial technology, and enterprise application roles where mobile is part of a larger digital transformation strategy.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Mobile Development — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Mobile Development — 4-6 years, online
Industry Partners
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
- Leidos (corporate)
- Johns Hopkins Medicine (nonprofit)
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Computer Science programs)
Location Advantages: Baltimore biotech and healthcare innovation corridorProximity to Johns Hopkins and healthcare systemsAccess to defense and intelligence contractor internships (Northrop, Leidos, SAIC)
Capitol Technology University — Laurel, MD
Key Distinction: A practically-oriented mobile program with quarterly curriculum updates driven by employer demand and faculty embedded in regional tech companies.
Hakia Insight: Capitol Technology's quarterly curriculum updates driven by employer demand mean doctoral students aren't studying last year's mobile stack—faculty embedded in regional tech companies bring real contract work into dissertation projects, turning academic research into D.C. federal contracting credentials.
At the doctoral level, capitol Technology University's mobile development program is purpose-built around applied, industry-ready skills with a strong emphasis on native platform expertise and rapid prototyping. The curriculum prioritizes hands-on coding in Swift/iOS and Kotlin/Android, with explicit tracks for students pursuing mobile-first careers versus those integrating mobile into broader full-stack or systems roles. The institution maintains active partnerships with regional tech firms and integrates agile development methodologies directly into coursework, so students graduate comfortable working in sprint cycles and cross-functional teams. Faculty bring practical industry experience—many hold active roles in local tech companies or consulting firms—which translates to real-world project briefs and mentorship grounded in current market demands. The program's proximity to the Maryland technology corridor and Washington, D.C. creates direct recruitment channels, and career services actively place graduates into mobile engineering, QA automation, and mobile product management roles. What distinguishes Capitol's approach is its transparency about job-market demand: the curriculum evolves quarterly based on employer feedback, ensuring that students learn tools and architectures companies are actively hiring for.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Mobile Development — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Mobile Development — 4-6 years, online
Location Advantages: Maryland technology corridor proximityAccess to Washington, D.C. federal contracting and tech firms