2011-2012 University Catalog 
  
2011-2012 University Catalog

Software Architecture Graduate Certificate


Banner Code: VS-CERG-SWA

School:  Volgenau School of Engineering 

Department:  Computer Science 

This graduate certificate program provides knowledge, tools, and techniques to those who are working or planning to work in software architecture but do not want to complete the requirements for a master’s degree in the field. The certificate may be pursued concurrently with any of the graduate degree programs in the Volgenau School.

Software architecture is an essential part of a software system and can be considered the backbone for such a system. Many industrial organizations recognize the important role of software architecture and have requested specific courses and graduate certification in this area. This proposed graduate certificate program addresses this industrial need. Mason is well-positioned to address this need because the university already offers several relevant courses and has the faculty with the necessary expertise to teach them.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution and have earned a GPA of 3.00 or higher in the last 60 credits. In addition, applicants must complete a self-assessment form, which can be obtained from the department. This form provides summary information concerning background and preparation for the program.

Applicants must possess knowledge equivalent to the following undergraduate courses: structured programming in a modern programming language, data structures, discrete mathematics, and machine organization. The level of knowledge may also be achieved by taking the following foundation courses at Mason: INFS 501 Discrete and Logical Structures for Information Systems, SWE 510 Object-Oriented Programming in Java, INFS 515 Computer Organization, and INFS 519 Program Design and Data Structures. In addition, it is desirable, but not necessary, for applicants to have at least one year of appropriate work experience in building or modifying software systems.

Applicants must submit a one- to two-page statement of educational and work experience in the computing field that includes a statement of career goals in software engineering. Students not enrolled in a Mason graduate degree program should apply for the certificate program through the Volgenau School Graduate Admissions Office. Students enrolled in a Mason graduate degree program should apply to the Computer Science office for admission into the certificate program. Admission into the certificate program does not guarantee acceptance into any MS program.

Certificate Requirements


Students must complete four courses with an average grade of B or better for a total of 12 credits of graduate study.

Total: 12 credits