Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Graduate programs in software at the University of St. Thomas are flexible, career-focused programs designed to help you build in-demand technical skills and advance in a rapidly evolving tech landscape. Whether you're an experienced developer, a career switcher entering tech, or an international student seeking a STEM-designated degree, our programs combine hands-on learning, industry relevance, with flexible evening classes that meet in person or online, to support your life and goals.

Located in the Twin Cities, home to 17 Fortune 500 companies and a growing tech sector, St. Thomas programs are designed with industry relevance and real-world application in mind.

Quick Answers About Graduate Software Programs at the University of St. Thomas

Flexible online and in-person (co-flex) course options

No GRE required for admission

STEM-designated master’s degrees (eligible for CPT and OPT)

Designed for career changers and working professionals

Strong career outcomes in information technology, and data science

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Program Overview

The University of St. Thomas offers Master of Science programs in:

Artificial Intelligence
Data Science
Software Engineering
Information Technology

The University of St. Thomas offers graduate-level certificates designed for working professionals in specialized areas. Graduate certificates are typically 4 to 5 classes that can be completed in a year. Additionally, students can use their certificate credits to earn a master’s degree with as few as 8 additional classes.

St. Thomas offers graduate certificates in the following areas:

Artificial Intelligence Foundations
Generative Artificial Intelligence
Data Engineering
Full Stack Development
Business Analysis
Data Analytics
Digital Transformation

Most students complete their graduate engineering degree in 2 to 2.5 years, depending on course load and pacing. Students can take up to 7 years to complete the program if needed.

No. The University of St. Thomas welcomes applicants from both technical and non-technical backgrounds. Foundational coursework options are available to help students build the skills needed for success.

Yes. Graduate software programs at the University of St. Thomas are designed for working professionals with flexible evening classes that meet in-person and online (co-flex options), allowing graduate students to balance full-time or part-time work while completing their graduate degree.

Students can begin graduate software programs at the University of St. Thomas in the fall, spring, or summer terms.

St. Thomas Graduate Program Benefits

Yes. Graduate programs in software at the University of St. Thomas build practical, job-ready skills in software development, cloud systems, and artificial intelligence. Graduates are prepared for roles such as software engineer, systems architect, DevOps engineer, and technical lead.

Yes. Graduate software programs at the University of St. Thomas are offered in a flexible co-flex format, allowing students to attend classes either in person or online each week. Courses are typically held in the evenings between 5:30 and 8:30 p.m., making them ideal for working professionals.

Graduate software programs at the University of St. Thomas emphasize applied learning, small class sizes, faculty mentorship, and strong connections to the Twin Cities technology industry.

Career Development

Yes. Graduate programs in software at the University of St. Thomas are designed to support career changers by providing both foundational and advanced technical training needed to enter the tech industry.

Students in software programs at the University of St. Thomas benefit from faculty mentorship, hands-on projects, and a career-focused curriculum that emphasizes real-world applications and portfolio development.

Graduates of software programs at the University of St. Thomas pursue roles such as:

Software Engineer
DevOps Engineer
Cloud Architect
AI/Machine Learning Engineer
Product Manager

Graduates with software and AI-related master’s degrees typically pursue careers with strong earning potential. While salaries vary by role and experience, many positions in software engineering, AI, and cloud computing offer competitive, above-average salaries nationally.

Yes. The University of St. Thomas has strong connections with employers in the Twin Cities. Students receive job opportunities, career support, and access to internships and on-campus employment opportunities.

Application Process

No. The University of St. Thomas does not require the GRE for admission to graduate software programs.

Yes. Applicants with a lower GPA are encouraged to apply and connect with the Graduate Admissions team (gradengineering@stthomas.edu) to discuss their background and potential fit.

There are no formal prerequisites required for graduate software programs at the University of St. Thomas. Foundational coursework may be recommended based on your background.

The University of waivers currently unless you are a St. Thomas alumni, active-duty military, or military veteran.

Yes. Through the Quick Admit for Tommies, eligible St. Thomas seniors, current graduate students or alumni can take advantage of an expedited application process including: no transcripts requests are required (we already have them on file), no application fee, and an admissions decision within 1-3 business days.

Your application may be missing required documents such as official transcripts. Contact the Graduate Admissions team at gradengineering@stthomas.edu for assistance.

You can log in to your application portal to check your status and view any missing documents. If you have questions, contact gradengineering@stthomas.edu.

Official transcripts from all institutions attended (course-by-course evaluation required for international transcripts)
Essay or personal statement
Resume or CV

No. Official transcripts must be sent directly from your college or university to the University of St. Thomas. Electronic delivery is preferred.

It typically takes 1–2 weeks for documents to be processed after submission.

After submitting your application, monitor your application portal for missing documents. Once your application is complete, you can expect an admissions decision within 1–2 weeks.

International Students

Yes. All master’s programs in software at the University of St. Thomas are STEM-designated, allowing eligible international students to apply for up to 3 years of Optional Practical Training (OPT) work authorization in the United States.

Yes. The University of St. Thomas provides dedicated support for international students, including admissions guidance, visa support, and career preparation resources.

After admission, international students work with the Office of International Students and Scholars to complete the I-20 process.

International students must provide proof of sufficient funds for at least the first year of study and demonstrate financial support for the duration of the program.

English proficiency is required, but the University of St. Thomas offers multiple ways to meet this requirement, including residency or citizenship in over 50 approved countries.

Yes. Students on various visa types, including H and L visas, may be eligible to apply. Contact oiss@stthomas.edu for guidance.

Financial Aid and Tuition

The University of St. Thomas offers financial aid options for graduate students. Many students also take advantage of employer tuition reimbursement programs.

The University of St. Thomas offers graduate students in software programs opportunities for faculty research, applied master’s projects, and on-campus student employment. These roles provide valuable hands-on experience and professional development while completing your degree.

The total cost of a software graduate degree at the University of St. Thomas is approximately $40,500 (for the 2025-2026 academic year). Tuition is $1,350 per credit for most 30-credit master’s programs. Many students use employer tuition reimbursement or financial aid to help fund their education.