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Developing Open Source Software Products

Lead the next generation of software developers.

DOSSP is an experiential learning course where graduate students serve as Tech Leads, mentoring undergraduate teams while developing real-world open source software products. The course combines technical leadership, product stewardship, and software development. As the open source maintainer for their product, each Tech Lead defines product vision, shapes community strategy, and drives execution across the full development lifecycle.

Who Should Apply

We welcome applications from graduate students across multiple programs who have the technical foundation and leadership potential to excel in this role. While the course originated in Computer Science, we actively seek qualified candidates from:

  • MS/PhD Computer Science: Traditional pathway with strong technical foundation
  • MS Software Engineering: Applied focus with industry-relevant skills
  • MS STEM Entrepreneurship: Business acumen combined with technical understanding
  • Engineering Graduate Programs: Cross-disciplinary technical expertise
  • Other Graduate Programs: With relevant programming experience
Requirements

Minimum Requirements:

  • Strong programming skills in modern languages and frameworks
  • Ability to learn new technologies quickly
  • Graduate-level standing in a relevant program

Success Indicators:

  • Excellent grades in technical coursework
  • Prior software development experience (internships, projects, or professional)
  • Strong communication and leadership skills
  • Experience with version control, testing, and software engineering practices

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Availability for two consecutive semesters
  • Previous mentoring or coaching experience
  • Open source contribution history
  • Industry software development background
Benefits
  • Paid development opportunities: Join our bench of developers for additional short-term projects
  • Professional development: Leadership training through Building Open Leadership Toolsets workshop
  • Academic credit: Satisfies Software Engineering, Advanced Applications, or general CS elective requirements
  • Career advancement: Real leadership experience valued by employers
Time Commitment

This intensive, hands-on course requires approximately 12+ hours per week, reflecting the real-world nature of technical leadership roles. Students balance direct team interaction, code review, project planning, and mentorship responsibilities alongside their other graduate coursework.

Academic Credit Options

The course provides flexible credit options:

  • CS Students: Software Engineering requirement, Advanced Applications, or general elective
  • Software Engineering MS: Can substitute for capstone course requirement
  • Other Programs: Work with your advisor to determine how credit applies to your degree

Apply​

Seats are limited. We encourage interested students to apply early and reach out with any questions.

Complete the application form.

All selected Tech Leads must participate in the Building Open Leadership Toolsets (BOLT) workshop before the semester begins. The workshop runs daily from 12-5 p.m. across two week-long sessions. Each Tech Lead is matched with a product at the start of the workshop and uses the time to prepare fully for the role before the first day of classes.

See DOSSP Dates and Timeline for the upcoming cohort schedule.

Questions? Contact us at oss@slu.edu. If you're unsure whether your background qualifies you for this program, we encourage you to apply. We value diverse perspectives and are happy to discuss how your unique skills and experience could contribute to our teams.