Anyone, from high school students to adults, looking to get a taste of software development can start their learning with this introductory certificate.

student using CSS and HTML to build a webpage
IT-Introduction to Software Development
Program Number: 9015214CER
Your Degree: Certificate
Estimated Time to Complete: 6 Credits | Finish in 1 semester
Delivery Method: 100% In Person, 100% Online, Some Online/Some In Person
Area of Study: Information Technology
Estimated Program Cost: $1,061.22
Use our Net Price Calculator to estimate your tuition costs.
  • Program Overview

    The Intro to Software Development certificate is designed for people who want to explore potential future careers as a web developer, internet developer, application developer, web programmer or web analyst.

    Get a jump-start on developing your web software developer knowledge and skills in HTML, CSS, SQL and JavaScript.

    Attend classes part-time at our Madison Truax campus. 

    Your Credits Ladder Up!

    If you wish to continue your studies and earn an associate degree, the credits you earn will count towards the Web Software Developer.

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    Whether you want to start a career in information technology or are already in the field and need additional training or certification, we have a program for you.

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  • Program Courses

    Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester. 

    Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.

    Required Courses
    10-152-119
    Introduction to Programming with JavaScript
    This hands-on programming course introduces fundamental software development practices using JavaScript. You’ll learn to think like a developer—designing algorithms, writing clean, modular code, testing thoroughly, and debugging effectively—while adhering to industry standards and best practices. Through a mix of design documentation, coding assignments, code reviews, and self-reflection, you’ll build from simple functions and variable management up to complete programs that solve real-world problems.
    3 credits
    10-152-120
    Website Development
    Introduces HTML, CSS, and essential web development techniques. Learn to create well-structured HTML documents and apply CSS styling to enhance the visual appearance of web pages. Through hands-on exercises, develop proficiency in building and styling web content, including text formatting, image integration, and form design. Emphasis is placed on debugging techniques and adherence to web accessibility standards to ensure the creation of accessible and standards-compliant websites. By the end of the course, students will have the skills to create web pages while adhering to industry best practices. Prerequisite: working knowledge of Microsoft Windows (computer literacy, proficiency with a mouse, File Explorer, and file/folder management), good reading and problem-solving skills.
    3 credits
  • How to Apply

    Earning a certificate is a great way to expand your skill set and add professionalism to your resume. Applications are always open, so apply today!

    If you are an international student and want to apply to Madison College, or transfer your F-1 student visa here, check program availability and then complete the International Admission Process.

    Apply Now – Secure Your Spot!

    This certificate has a limited number of seats available. We encourage early applications to secure your spot, but the certificate has not historically reached full capacity. 

    Application Dates

    Fall 2026

    • Application open
    • Application completion deadline is August 31, 2026

    Spring 2027

    • Application open
    • Application completion deadline is January 15, 2027

    Fall 2027

    • Application available on October 15, 2026
    • Application completion deadline is August 31, 2027

    Admission Requirements

    All materials must be submitted by the application deadline.

    1. Admission Application

    The online application allows you to save your work as you complete it and ensures fast, secure delivery to our office.

    2. Education Completion

    Submit official transcripts from the institutions you attended that indicate one of the following:

    • High school completion (current high school seniors may submit an in-progress transcript)
    • GED/HSED completion
    • College transcript or Madison College experience showing:
      • Completion of an associate degree or higher, or
      • At least 30 credits completed with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4-point scale
        • The credits must be completed at a single college and cannot be combined with other transcripts
        • Any transfer credit listed on a transcript does not count toward the 30-credit minimum
        • Credits completed at Madison College are evaluated and do not require a transcript

    All high school and/or college transcripts are recommended to be submitted for Credit for Prior Learning evaluation.

    Additional Notes

    Certificate programs are not eligible for financial aid.

    Individual courses may have prerequisites to enroll. Admission into a certificate does not guarantee eligibility to enroll in courses. See the Curriculum section for the list of courses for the certificate. 

    Questions?

    Contact the Enrollment Center at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.

    apply for admission

    Get Started!

    Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your IT-Introduction to Software Development career.

    It's Free to Apply

Ready to take the next step?
If you are interested in seeking an associate degree, diploma or certificate, your first step is to apply to Madison College. It's easy and free to apply!
School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics

Madison Truax Campus
Main Building, C2433

1701 Wright Street
Madison, Wisconsin 53704

schoolofstem@madisoncollege.edu
608.246.6990

Hours

  • Monday – Thursday: 8 am - 4:30 pm
  • Friday: 8 am - 4:30 pm (Phone and email only.)