Two paths, one degree.
Apply to the BAS Software Development program and start your bachelor’s in tech. Applications are open now. The Fall 2026 deadline is September 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM CST.
Bachelor of Applied Science in Software Development
Two paths. One bachelor’s degree. Your future in software starts here.
Choose the route that fits your goals, Direct Path or Foundation Path, and build advanced technical skills through hands-on coursework in machine learning, secure software development, cloud technologies, databases, and programming. Graduate with the skills and credentials to build secure, scalable software and advance your career in tech.
Questions about the BAS – Software Development degree?
Contact the Program Coordinator: Erica Cepeda ([email protected])
Your Path to the Bachelor of Applied Science in Software Development
Four steps. That’s it. Here’s your path from first click to graduation.
Helpful Dates:
Fall 2026 Deadline: September 30, 2026, 5:00 PM CST
Decision Sent: October 5, 2026 (admitted students start Spring 2027)
Spring 2027 Spring Registration: Monday, October 12, 2026
Spring 2027 Session: January 19, 2027 – May 16, 2027
Helpful Links:
BAS Software Development Award Plan
BAS Software Development Program Map
Step 1: Learn About the Program & Choose Your Path
- Watch the on-demand info session and schedule a 1:1 appointment with the Program Coordinator.
- New to ACC? Start with the Steps to Enroll page first.
There are two ways in. Pick the one that fits where you’re starting from:
Direct Path
- Best for: returning students, transfer students, and anyone who is TSI Complete and is ready for upper-division coursework that has prerequisites.
- First step: Submit a completed BAS application once you are TSI Complete. The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) is a state-required assessment of reading, writing, and math skills that helps ensure students are prepared for college-level coursework.
Foundation Path
- Best for: Recent graduates and career changers.
- First step: recent high school grads, career-changers, or students who want a stronger foundation before upper-division work.
Recommended Course Sequence (Both Paths)
OSA Computer Programming or OSA Networking → Java Certificate → AAS Computer Programming → BAS Software Development
Preferred BAS electives:
- COSC 1336
- COSC 1337
- ITSE 2309
- ITSE 2321ITSE 1302
- ITSE 2317
- ITSE 1345
- ITSE 2264 or any programming elective (COSC 2436 preferred)
Step 2: Apply to BAS
Fall 2026 Admissions Cycle
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- Application semester: Fall 2026
- Application deadline: September 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM CST
- Decision sent: October 5, 2026
- Starting semester (if admitted): Spring 2027
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Note: BAS application dates and deadlines are subject to change. Applicants are encouraged to check the program website regularly for the most up-to-date information.
Spring and Fall 2027 Admissions Cycle – Coming soon!
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Committee Reviews Your Application: Reviewed once per admissions cycle, after the deadline closes.
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Get Your Decision: You’ll be notified by email, with next steps if admitted.
Step 3: Register & Complete Your Degree
The degree plan includes:
- General Core: 42-45 hrs
- Foundational IT Core: 27 hrs
- Electives: 18-19 hrs
- Upper-Division IT: 33 hrs
Upper-division (3000/4000-level) courses are restricted to officially admitted BAS students.
Most upper-division courses meet in person, typically in the evening at Highland Campus.
Maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA to stay in good standing and graduate.
Step 4: Career & Graduate Options
Software Developer skills:
- Programming languages such as Java, C++, Python
- Knowledge of development, testing, and secure design
- Awareness of consumer market and client needs
- Analytical and problem solving ability
- Able to stay on task, meet deadlines, and work in teams
$132,500 median salary in Austin · top employers include Amazon, Apple, AMD, IBM, PayPal.
Helpful links:
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Lightcast
- O*Net
- PayScale.com
- Jobs Y’all
- Austin Chamber of Commerce Job Postings Report
Direct pipeline to Texas A&M–Central Texas in Killeen for an online Master’s in Information Systems. Graduates have also gone to UT Austin, Rice, and Texas State.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to commonly asked questions
Do I need an Associate degree to apply for the BAS program?
No. Under Simplified Admission, you can apply directly to the BAS if you’re TSI Complete, no Associate degree required first (that’s the Direct Path). If you’d rather build up gradually, starting with an AAS is also a great option (the Foundation Path). See “Your Path to the BAS” above for both routes.
Can I transfer in credits from another institution?
Yes, up to 90 credit hours of coursework may be accepted upon review of transcript.
Prior degree attainment must be from an institute accredited by one of the following:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SOCSCOC)
- Middle State Commission on Higher Education
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges
- Higher Learning Commission
- Northwest Commission on College and Schools
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges
For more information, please visit ACCs Transcript Evaluation page.
Is the tuition rate for the BAS degree more than other ACC credit courses?
Where can I find ACC's tuition rates? Free Tuition?
You may access ACC’s tuition table to view current tuition rates. ACC also offers free tution to eligible students. To check eligibility, visit the Free Tuition website.