Top 3 Mobile Development Programs in Georgia
Georgia Institute of Technology
Top-ranked CS program with mobile computing specialization
Kennesaw State University
Strong software engineering program with mobile focus
Georgia Southern University
Comprehensive IT program with mobile development track
- 1.Georgia Tech leads with the highest-ranked mobile development program, offering cutting-edge research opportunities and strong industry connections
- 2.Mobile app developers in Georgia earn an average starting salary of $85,000, with senior developers earning up to $130,000 annually
- 3.The mobile development job market in Georgia is projected to grow 25% through 2032, faster than the national average
- 4.Atlanta serves as a major tech hub with companies like Coca-Cola, Delta, and numerous startups hiring mobile developers
- 5.Georgia offers both traditional CS programs with mobile specializations and dedicated software engineering tracks focused on app development
Based on 15 programs from Analysis of IPEDS data, industry surveys, and program outcomes
Faculty credentials, research output, and program accreditation
Graduate employment rates, starting salaries, and job placement success
Coverage of iOS, Android, cross-platform development, and emerging technologies
Internship opportunities, corporate partnerships, and alumni network strength
Tuition costs relative to career outcomes and return on investment
Complete Rankings: Mobile Development Programs in Georgia
| Location | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Georgia Institute of Technology | Atlanta | $12,682 | 8700% | 94 |
| 2 | Kennesaw State University | Kennesaw | $7,432 | 4500% | 89 |
| 3 | Georgia Southern University | Statesboro | $7,368 | 5400% | 85 |
| 4 | University of Georgia | Athens | $12,080 | 8500% | 82 |
| 5 | Georgia State University | Atlanta | $11,258 | 5400% | 79 |
| 6 | Mercer University | Macon | $38,844 | 6600% | 76 |
| 7 | Augusta University | Augusta | $10,872 | 4100% | 73 |
| 8 | Columbus State University | Columbus | $7,284 | 3600% | 70 |
How to Choose the Right Mobile Development Program in Georgia
Georgia offers diverse pathways into mobile development, from world-class research universities to affordable regional programs. When selecting a program, consider your career goals, budget, and preferred learning environment.
Georgia Tech stands out as the clear leader, offering a computer science program ranked among the top 10 nationally. The school's mobile computing specialization covers iOS development with Swift, Android development with Kotlin, and cross-platform frameworks like React Native and Flutter. Students benefit from research opportunities in areas like mobile security, augmented reality, and machine learning on mobile devices.
For students seeking more affordable options, Kennesaw State University provides excellent value with its software engineering program. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills in mobile app development, user interface design, and software project management. KSU's location in the Atlanta metro area provides access to internships at major corporations and growing startups.
Georgia Southern University offers a comprehensive information technology program with mobile development tracks. Students can specialize in either native app development for specific platforms or cross-platform development using modern frameworks. The program also covers backend development, database design, and cloud services integration essential for mobile applications.
- Research opportunities: Georgia Tech leads in mobile computing research, followed by UGA
- Industry connections: Atlanta-area schools (GT, KSU, GSU) offer the most internship opportunities
- Cost considerations: Public universities offer significant savings over private institutions
- Specialization options: Some programs focus on native development, others emphasize cross-platform approaches
- Online availability: Several schools offer hybrid or fully online mobile development programs
Career Paths
Mobile App Developer
SOC 15-1252Design and build mobile applications for iOS and Android platforms using native and cross-platform technologies.
iOS Developer
Specialize in creating applications for Apple's ecosystem using Swift and Objective-C.
Android Developer
Focus on Android platform development using Kotlin and Java for Google Play Store applications.
UI/UX Designer for Mobile
Create user interfaces and experiences specifically optimized for mobile devices and touch interactions.
Manage mobile app deployment pipelines, continuous integration, and release management processes.
Mobile Solutions Architect
Design enterprise mobile solutions and oversee technical implementation across multiple platforms.
Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, GA • University
Program Highlights
- • 97% job placement rate within 6 months of graduation
- • Average starting salary of $115,000 for mobile development roles
- • Over 200 tech companies recruit on campus annually
- • Student-run mobile app development competitions and hackathons
Program Strengths
- Top 10 nationally ranked computer science program
- Dedicated mobile computing research labs
- Strong industry partnerships with major tech companies
- Comprehensive curriculum covering iOS, Android, and emerging platforms
- Access to startup incubators and entrepreneurship programs
Why Ranked #1
Georgia Tech's College of Computing offers the most comprehensive mobile development education in Georgia, combining rigorous computer science fundamentals with cutting-edge mobile computing research.
Student Reviews
"The mobile computing courses at Georgia Tech are incredibly hands-on. I built three different apps during my senior year and had job offers before graduation."
— CS Graduate, Class of 2024
Mobile Development Curriculum and Specializations
Mobile development programs in Georgia typically combine computer science fundamentals with specialized mobile programming courses. Core curriculum covers data structures, algorithms, software engineering principles, and database design before advancing to platform-specific development.
iOS development courses focus on Swift programming language, Xcode development environment, and Apple's development frameworks including UIKit, SwiftUI, and Core Data. Students learn to implement features like push notifications, in-app purchases, and integration with Apple services like iCloud and Apple Pay.
Android development curriculum emphasizes Kotlin as the primary language, Android Studio IDE, and Google's Android SDK. Courses cover Material Design principles, Android Architecture Components, and integration with Google services including Firebase, Google Maps, and Google Play Services.
Cross-platform development has become increasingly important, with programs teaching React Native, Flutter, and Xamarin frameworks. These technologies allow developers to create applications that run on both iOS and Android from a single codebase, significantly reducing development time and costs.
- Mobile User Interface Design: Touch-optimized interfaces and responsive design principles
- Mobile Security: Authentication, data encryption, and secure communication protocols
- Backend Integration: RESTful APIs, GraphQL, and real-time data synchronization
- Performance Optimization: Memory management, battery efficiency, and app store optimization
- Emerging Technologies: Augmented reality, machine learning on mobile devices, and IoT integration
Source: Georgia Department of Labor, 2025
Admission Requirements and Application Process
Admission requirements for mobile development programs vary significantly across Georgia institutions. Highly selective programs like Georgia Tech require strong academic credentials, while regional universities offer more accessible pathways into mobile development careers.
Georgia Tech's computer science program is highly competitive, typically requiring a minimum 3.7 GPA, SAT scores above 1400, and strong performance in advanced mathematics and science courses. The program receives over 30,000 applications annually for approximately 1,000 spots in the computer science program.
State universities like Kennesaw State and Georgia Southern have more moderate requirements, typically seeking a 3.0 GPA and SAT scores around 1200. These programs often offer conditional admission pathways for students who need additional preparation in mathematics or programming fundamentals.
Many programs require or strongly recommend prior programming experience. Students should consider taking AP Computer Science, completing online programming courses, or participating in coding bootcamps before applying. Demonstrated interest through personal projects, GitHub repositories, or mobile apps can strengthen applications significantly.
- Prerequisites: Strong foundation in mathematics through calculus, physics recommended
- Standardized tests: SAT or ACT scores, with higher scores required for competitive programs
- Portfolio: Personal coding projects, mobile apps, or GitHub contributions can enhance applications
- Essays: Programs often require statements explaining interest in mobile development and career goals
- Letters of recommendation: STEM teachers, computer science instructors, or industry professionals preferred
Student Experiences in Georgia Mobile Development Programs
"The mobile development track at KSU gave me exactly the skills I needed. I had three internship offers and landed a full-time iOS developer role at a major Atlanta company."
— Software Engineering Graduate
"Georgia Southern's IT program with mobile focus was perfect for me. The professors understood both the technical and business sides of app development."
— IT Graduate
Key Themes from Reviews
Practical Learning
Students appreciate project-based learning and building actual mobile applications
Industry Connections
Strong internship programs and recruiting relationships with tech companies
Faculty Expertise
Professors with industry experience and current mobile development knowledge
Career Support
Effective job placement assistance and career counseling services
| Factor | Georgia Tech | Kennesaw State | Georgia Southern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Program Type | CS with Mobile Specialization | Software Engineering | IT with Mobile Track |
| Annual Tuition (In-State) | $12,682 | $7,432 | $7,368 |
| Class Size | 25-30 students | 20-25 students | 15-20 students |
| Industry Connections | Excellent | Good | Moderate |
| Research Opportunities | Extensive | Limited | Moderate |
| Job Placement Rate | 97% | 89% | 85% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Next Steps: Applying to Mobile Development Programs
Research Program Requirements
Review admission requirements, prerequisites, and application deadlines for your target schools. Consider visiting campuses or attending virtual information sessions.
Build Programming Foundation
Complete introductory programming courses in Java, Python, or Swift. Create personal projects and contribute to open-source repositories to demonstrate your coding skills.
Prepare Application Materials
Write compelling personal statements explaining your interest in mobile development. Gather letters of recommendation from STEM teachers or mentors.
Apply for Financial Aid
Complete the FAFSA and research Georgia-specific scholarships for STEM students. Many programs offer merit-based aid for qualified applicants.
Plan Your Career Path
Connect with current students and alumni through LinkedIn. Research internship opportunities and start building your professional network early.
Related Programs and Resources
Sources and Methodology
Employment projections and salary data for software developers
Federal database of college costs, graduation rates, and post-graduation earnings
Comprehensive higher education data including enrollment and degree completions
State-specific employment data and job market projections for technology careers
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.