Santa Clara University

What you'll study

This degree emphasises systematic software development together with multimedia technologies and human‑centred application design. Early coursework establishes foundations in programming, data structures, discrete mathematics and computer systems. Core modules typically cover software engineering, object‑oriented programming, algorithms, databases, web and mobile application development, and operating systems.

Media and applications‑focused studies introduce topics such as digital media processing (audio, image and video), computer graphics, interactive design, user experience (UX) principles, and multimedia authoring. Project work and labs are integrated throughout the curriculum, with students developing team software projects, multimedia portfolios and capstone applications that combine backend services, frontend interfaces and rich media elements.

• Programming and data structures
• Software engineering and project management
• Databases and web application development
• Mobile application development
• Computer graphics and multimedia processing
• User experience and human‑computer interaction
• Algorithms and systems programming
• Capstone team project integrating software and media

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a secondary school diploma or equivalent with strong performance in mathematics. Recommended preparatory subjects include algebra/precalculus, calculus, physics and any prior computer programming experience. Selection considers academic record, teacher recommendations and a personal statement outlining interest in software and media technologies.

For applicants with prior creative or technical work, a portfolio or links to projects (code repositories, apps, multimedia projects or websites) can strengthen an application. International students must meet the university's English proficiency requirements and submit equivalent academic documentation. Transfer applicants are considered on the basis of college transcripts and course equivalency.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of roles where software engineering intersects with multimedia and user experience. Common pathways include software developer, front‑end or full‑stack engineer, mobile application developer, UX/UI designer, multimedia application developer, game programmer, and media systems engineer. With additional experience or study, alumni also move into product management, technical design leadership, or entrepreneurship—particularly in digital media, entertainment tech and Silicon Valley startups.

The programme’s project focus and industry proximity support internship opportunities and practical experience that employers in technology, media and creative industries value.

Why study at Santa Clara University

Santa Clara University offers this programme within a school of engineering that combines a liberal arts perspective with technical training. The university’s location in Silicon Valley provides easy access to technology companies, startups and internship opportunities, helping students build industry networks and apply classroom learning to real projects.

Classes tend to be small and project‑based, allowing close mentorship from faculty and collaborative work with peers. The curriculum is designed to produce graduates who can write reliable software and also understand design, media processing and user needs—skills that are increasingly important for building engaging, modern applications.