Program Overview
The value of learning mobile application development goes beyond writing code. Students also need to understand users, design clear interfaces and turn technical work into a usable product. Algonquin College’s two-year Mobile Application Design and Development diploma brings these areas together through full-stack web development, progressive web applications, native and cross-platform development, UI and UX design, responsive web design, and introductory business and marketing skills.
The program emphasizes hands-on projects. Students begin with mobile design tools, web design, JavaScript and essential development environments before moving into object-oriented programming, frontend and API development, Android, iOS, multi-platform applications and user experience design. In the final level, Applied Industry Projects gives teams the opportunity to work on a practical solution for a real-world client and participate in analysis, design, implementation, testing and deployment.
This program may suit students who enjoy both creative design and technical problem-solving, are willing to keep learning new tools, and can manage the pace of team-based projects. Previous programming experience is not an admission requirement, although basic computer skills are necessary. Applicants should also budget for the required equipment: Algonquin specifies a MacBook Pro and recommends headphones, an external monitor, a wireless mouse and a relatively recent Android phone or iPhone. Beginners can start with the foundations, but consistent practice in coding, troubleshooting, communication and project organization remains important.