Master of Professional Studies (Web and Mobile Applications)
Hours: 30 On-Campus Online
About
The Master of Professional Studies (Web and Mobile Applications) at Fort Hays State University prepares students to thrive in the fast-paced tech industry. The program features a comprehensive curriculum that covers key areas, including user interface design, software engineering, and advanced programming. Through hands-on projects, internships, and research opportunities, students gain valuable real-world experience.
Designed for professionals seeking career advancement or a transition into technology, the program offers flexible online and on-campus course options. Graduates emerge with in-demand skills and the practical expertise needed to succeed in a wide range of roles within the tech sector.
Why pursue a Master of Professional Studies (Web and Mobile Applications) at Fort Hays State University?
Choosing the Master of Professional Studies (Web and Mobile Applications) offers students a flexible, industry-aligned education. With online and on-campus options, the program accommodates diverse schedules, allowing students to balance academic, personal, and professional commitments. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical training, preparing graduates for a variety of careers in the tech sector.
What sets this program apart is its emphasis on hands-on learning and real-world application. Through internships, capstone projects, and research collaborations, students gain valuable experience that enhances their résumés and skillsets. By focusing on current technologies and industry trends, the program ensures that graduates are prepared to meet workforce demands and excel in rapidly evolving digital environments.
Who is this program for?
This program is designed for individuals seeking to advance their careers in the technology industry. It serves a diverse range of students, including:
- Current tech professionals seeking advanced skills
- Career changers looking to enter the tech industry
- Recent graduates with a background in computer science or related fields
- Entrepreneurs aiming to develop their applications
- Professionals in related fields looking to enhance their technical skills
Real-World Applications
Students develop the skills needed to solve real-world technological challenges. Through practical coursework and hands-on projects, they learn to design and build sophisticated, user-friendly applications that meet industry standards and expectations. The program places a strong emphasis on usability and user experience to ensure intuitive, high-quality results.
Students also gain valuable real-world experience through internships and research collaborations, working alongside industry professionals. Graduates complete the program with a strong portfolio that showcases their abilities, making them highly competitive in the job market.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University positions students at the forefront of technological innovation. The curriculum is continually revised to reflect the latest industry advancements, including emerging programming languages, modern mobile development frameworks, and up-to-date web application security practices. This emphasis on current technologies ensures graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge required to thrive in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.
Faculty are actively engaged in research and industry partnerships, bringing real-world insights and cutting-edge developments directly into the classroom. This integration of academic research and practical application provides students with a well-rounded, future-focused education. By aligning the program with industry trends, graduates are thoroughly prepared to meet the demands of a dynamic and competitive field.
Hands-on Activities
The Master of Professional Studies (Web and Mobile Applications) places a strong emphasis on experiential learning through a wide range of hands-on activities. Students engage in practical projects that mirror real-world scenarios, allowing them to apply theoretical concepts in meaningful, applied contexts. These projects cover a diverse range of topics, from building foundational web applications to developing advanced mobile solutions, ensuring that students gain a comprehensive and versatile skill set.
In addition to coursework, the program includes a capstone project that serves as the culmination of students’ learning. This major project integrates the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the program, allowing students to demonstrate their proficiency and readiness for professional roles. Internships and research collaborations further enhance real-world engagement, enabling students to take on industry-relevant challenges and gain valuable, hands-on experience.
What You’ll Learn:
- User interface and experience design
- Advanced programming languages
- Mobile app development frameworks
- Web application security practices
- Project management and teamwork
How You’ll Learn:
- Flexible online and on-campus courses
- Hands-on projects and capstone experience
- Real-world internships and collaborations
- Interactive learning from expert faculty
- Advanced web and mobile programming techniques
The core curriculum provides a solid foundation in key areas, including information literacy, programming fundamentals, and software engineering principles. These foundational courses equip students with the essential skills needed for web and mobile application development, preparing them to succeed in more advanced coursework and specialized topics.
Students have an opportunity to choose from a diverse selection of electives, allowing them to tailor their education to align with their individual career goals. Elective offerings include subjects such as mobile app development, web security, user experience design, and project management. This flexible structure ensures that students receive a well-rounded and customizable education, preparing them for a wide range of roles within the tech industry.
INF 651: Front-End Web Development I
This course introduces the core concepts and practices of web development using client-side scripting languages. Students learn the syntax, structure, and foundational methods of JavaScript, as well as how these principles interact with the HTML Document Object Model (DOM). The course offers a creative and hands-on environment for students to develop and refine their programming skills. By the end of the course, students will be able to create interactive, front-end web applications.
INF 652: Database Design and Programming
This course teaches students to analyze complex business scenarios, design and create data models, and create databases using SQL. Oracle SQL Developer Data Modeler and Application Express (APEX) are utilized to provide practical, hands-on, engaging activities. By leveraging project-based learning techniques, students will create and work on projects that challenge them to design, implement, and demonstrate a database solution for a business or organization.
INF 653: Back-End Web Development I
This course focuses on the design and implementation of dynamic web applications and Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) using server-side programming languages and databases included in the LAMP (Linux, Apache, MySQL, and PHP) stack. At the end of the course, students will be able to analyze requirements, define specifications, and develop comprehensive Content Management Systems for various sectors and purposes.
Discover the full Master of Professional Studies (Web and Mobile Applications) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates will be well-prepared for various careers in the tech industry. The program's comprehensive curriculum and practical experiences ensure that graduates have the skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen field.
Web Developer
Web developers design, build, and maintain responsive, user-friendly websites using a range of programming languages and frameworks. They ensure websites are functional, visually appealing, and meet user needs.
Mobile App Developer
Mobile app developers design and build applications for iOS and Android, focusing on functionality, user experience, and the integration of modern technologies and design standards.
Software Engineer
Software engineers develop and maintain reliable, efficient software systems, using strong problem-solving skills to create solutions that meet business and user needs.
User Experience (UX) Designer
UX designers enhance product usability by researching user behavior, creating wireframes, and testing prototypes to ensure intuitive and user-friendly experiences.
Project Manager
Project managers oversee software development projects, coordinating teams, managing resources, and ensuring timely, on-budget delivery while aligning with stakeholder goals.
To be considered for the Master of Professional Studies (Web and Mobile Applications), applicants must meet specific requirements that demonstrate their readiness for the program’s rigorous coursework.
Academic Achievement
Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 in their last 60 undergraduate credit hours, demonstrating a strong academic foundation and readiness for the program’s advanced coursework.
Personal Statement
Applicants must submit a 1–2-page personal statement detailing their professional goals and motivation for pursuing the MPS degree. The statement should highlight relevant experience, aspirations in web and mobile application development, and how the program supports their career objectives.
Letters of Recommendation
Applicants must provide two letters of recommendation, one academic and one professional. These letters should attest to the applicant’s academic abilities, professional potential, and preparedness for graduate-level study.
Professional Experience
Although not required, relevant professional experience can enhance an application. Applicants are encouraged to include work history, internships, or projects related to the field in their application materials.
Application Fee
Applicants are required to submit a non-refundable application fee with their application. This fee supports the processing of applications and the maintenance of the admissions system.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,559.42* (on-campus) or $3,139.02* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the Graduate resident/regional tuition rate ($284.38/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate (348.78/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Related Programs
Students interested in the Master of Professional Studies (Web and Mobile Applications) may also explore related programs at FHSU that provide complementary skills and knowledge. These programs include:
- M.S. in Computer Science
- Master of Professional Studies (Computer Networking)
- Certificate in Full Stack Web Development
The curriculum combines core courses with specialized electives in mobile development, web security, and user experience design.
The program includes practical experiences such as internships, capstone projects, and research collaborations to provide real-world experience.
The program provides advanced skills and hands-on experience that can lead to higher-level positions and increased earning potential.
The program offers online and on-campus options, allowing students to choose the format that best fits their schedules and commitments.
Faculty and staff offer personalized support and guidance, helping students navigate their coursework and achieve their career goals.
Information about the Department of Informatics
The Department of Informatics at FHSU offers a flexible and forward-thinking education tailored to students' interests in data, analytics, and digital media. This dynamic program empowers students to customize their curriculum and develop cutting-edge skills essential for leadership in today’s technology-driven world. Whether studying on campus or online, students learn to leverage data and technology to solve real-world challenges and shape their own career paths.
As one of the fastest-growing and most in-demand fields, informatics opens the door to a wide range of high-impact, high-paying careers—from data analytics and cybersecurity to digital media and information management. FHSU equips students with expert instruction, hands-on learning opportunities, and strong industry connections to help them succeed in a profession that has quickly become vital across nearly every sector.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Cybersecurity Club: The Cybersecurity Club is dedicated to promoting awareness and understanding of evolving cybersecurity principles and techniques. Open to all students, regardless of experience or skill level, the club welcomes anyone with an interest in topics such as network security, digital forensics, penetration testing, secure coding, cryptography, reverse engineering, and more. Through hands-on activities and collaborative learning, the club provides a supportive environment for exploring the many facets of cybersecurity.
- Tiger Media Network: TMN is the student-run news outlet at FHSU, offering hands-on experience in various aspects of media production. Open to students with interests in videography, photography, news writing, journalism, and related fields, TMN provides valuable opportunities to develop practical skills while contributing to campus news and storytelling.
- Advanced Technology Student Organization: The Advanced Technology Student Organization (ATSO) offers a collaborative learning environment for students interested in exploring the ever-evolving world of technology. The organization brings together members to support one another’s educational growth while promoting innovation and technological advancement. ATSO’s primary goal is to foster knowledge-sharing and unite students in driving both the organization and FHSU's continued progress in the tech field.