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Overview
Software development is a broad term for the process of creating software tools in a methodical way. This process can include writing code, preparing requirements and objectives, documenting, and testing. The Software Development program provides a solid foundation in the development of client and server-side applications using .NET and open-source technologies. A business without a website is rare these days, and every website requires a skilled technician to make it functional. This program emphasizes proven programming principles, critical-thinking skills, and practical experience while preparing students to obtain industry-recognized certifications.
Your pursuit of a Software Development degree or certificate at CWI will prepare you for a wide range of in-demand career opportunities.
With multiple starts each year, the Software Development program provides you the opportunity to start when it works for you. Get started today by completing your CWI Application
Mission
The mission of the software development program is to provide quality education in both the theoretical and experiential foundations of computer programming. Our goal is to guide students to effectively apply this education to solve real world problems, equip them to be lifelong learners, and give them a competitive advantage in the everchanging global work environment of the 21st Century.
Why This Program
The Web drives the world; software drives the Web. This program will prepare you with the knowledge and skills to become a competent developer. You will learn design and development essentials and database design fundamentals and will be introduced to several programming languages. Upon graduation you will be able to develop robust, database-driven applications.
What You Will Learn to Do
- Learn open source and .NET technologies including HTML, JavaScript, C#, and SQL.
- Design and implement websites including online portfolio.
- Explore dynamic websites focusing on client-side and server-side scripting languages/frameworks.
- Learn agile design and development skills that prepare you for workforce entry.
- Languages and Technologies: C#, HTML/CSS, Sass, Bootstrap; Git/Version Control; Responsive/Mobile Design; JavaScript; JavaScript Frameworks (Vue, AngularJS, React, Phaser; Amazon Web Services (AWS); .NET Framework, PHP, SQL; Unity.
Clubs

College of Western Idaho's Gaming Club is for anyone who plays video games, board games, tabletop, or even card games! Join us as we build and establish the gaming community on campus and connect and build friendships with fellow gamers. Check...

College of Western Idaho is proud to compete in SkillsUSA, a nationwide organization seeking to improve the quality of our nation's future skilled workforce through personal, workplace, and technical skills training. Students join thousands from...
Additional Opportunities
Industry certifications that students can earn:
- HTML5
- Application Development Fundamentals (HTML5, CSS, JavaScript)
- Database Fundamentals (MS SQL Server Administration, DDL, DML)
- Software Development Fundamentals (C#, ASP.Net, SQL)
Most Software Development Program credits transfer to Idaho public universities and can apply towards a Bachelor of Applied Science degree.
Cyber Defense Center
College of Western Idaho's Cyber Defense Center offers cybersecurity awareness, best practices, news, events, and activities for Idaho communities, businesses, partners, and students while striving to advance U.S. Federal Government, State of Idaho, and industry initiatives in cyber defense.
Requirements and Costs
Degrees and Certificates
Software Development - Associate of Applied Science Degree
2
YEARSAAS
Software Development - Intermediate Technical Certificate
1
YEARITC
Explore the resources below for information, dates, and deadlines related to admissions, financial aid, registration, and next steps.
Dates & Deadlines for Credit Programs | Summer 2023 | Fall 2023 | Spring 2024 |
---|---|---|---|
Priority Registration Begins 1 | N/A | Apr 10 | Nov 13 (2023) |
Open Registration Begins | Feb 27 | Apr 17 | Nov 20 (2023) |
Financial Aid Priority Deadline | May 13 | Jul 29 | Dec 16 (2023) |
Admission Deadline 2 | May 27 | Aug 12 | Jan 6 |
Last Day to Register for Classes | Jun 2 | Aug 18 | Jan 12 |
Tuition and Fees Due | Jun 2 | Aug 18 | Jan 12 |
Classes Begin 3 | Jun 5 | Aug 21 | Jan 16 |
1 Priority registration is limited to continuing students. Students are assigned a registration time based on their cumulative credits earned. Students should check myCWI and their CWI email to learn their assigned registration time. Students may register online anytime on or after their assigned registration time.
2 The Admission Deadline for international students is earlier than the deadline for non-international students and is only available during the fall and spring semesters. Please consult the Academic Calendar for the international student admission deadlines.
3 Classes in shorter sessions (including 4-, 5-, and 8-week sessions) may begin before or after this date. Please refer to the specific class session sections beneath the full Academic Calendar for more information.
Skills, Traits, and Prep Classes
- General computer skills
- Ability to learn
- Basic understanding of how computers work is helpful
- Good communication and writing skills are helpful
- Ability to troubleshoot complex problems is helpful
Advising
Navigating your way through college can be confusing, especially if you try to go it alone. CWI offers advising assistance to help in deciding which courses you need to take to reach your education and career goals. Visit Advising or contact One Stop Student Services for more information.
The Software Development Program utilizes and supports the Windows 10 operating system only. Therefore, familiarity with navigating the Windows environment, working with File Explorer to access and save files, knowledge about how to install new programs, and how to work with common applications such as Word and Excel are necessary skills.
Students will find that having a personal desktop or laptop computer using the Windows 10 operating system at home will be beneficial. The CWI Library has Dell laptop computers, headphones, and other hardware available for student checkout as supply permits.
Financial Aid Available
Did you know that as a student in this program you may be eligible for financial aid? Through grants, scholarships, and loans, more than 60 percent of first-time, full-time CWI students receive some form of financial assistance. To learn more about financial aid options and whether you may be eligible, visit Financial Aid.
Tuition and Fees
Tuition for a full-time CWI student averages half the cost of a state university and a third of the cost of a private college. Tuition and fees vary based on program and residence. Visit Tuition and Fees for more information.
Career Info
Professions
- Database Analysts / Administrators
- Programmers
- Software Developers
- Web Developers
Locations
Instructors
Program Department Chair
Instructor(s)
Respectful Community
College of Western Idaho is committed to maintaining a Respectful Community by providing equal opportunity for all individuals and does not discriminate in services, benefits, or activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability status, veteran status, age, or any other legally protected status. More on Title IX
News and Blogs

Congratulations to Student Success Advisor, Jessica Chapple, named College of Western Idaho’s Staff of the Month for January 2022.

Congratulations to Stacy Hardy, College of Western Idaho’s Staff of the Month for May 2020.

Congratulations to Jenny Wokersien, College of Western Idaho’s Faculty of Distinction for March 2020.

“Because of CWI, I can provide for my family. Flexible class schedules allowed me to earn a degree and work toward my future simultaneously.”

Annual STEM Out! event introduces students to STEM careers through hands-on workshops presented by CWI faculty and students.
Career & Technical Education
- Administrative Specialist
- Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology
- Automotive Technology
- Bookkeeping and Accounting
- Cisco Networking and Security Technologies
- Collision Repair Technology
- Computer Support Specialist
- Cybersecurity
- Dental Assisting
- Drafting Technology
- Education, Early Childhood
- Fire Service Management
- Fire Service Technology
- Heavy Duty Truck Technician
- Heavy Equipment Technician
- Horticulture Technology
- Law Enforcement
- Machine Tool Technology
- Marketing Communications
- Medical Administrative Support
- Medical Assistant - Credit
- Network and System Administration
- Nursing, Practical
- Occupational Therapy Assistant
- Physical Therapist Assistant
- Powersports and Small Engine Repair Technology
- Software Development
- Surgical Technology
- Swift Programming
- Unmanned Aerial Systems
- Welding and Metals Fabrication
- Wildland Fire Management