CS Marketplace for UW students

CS Marketplace connects UW-Madison computer science students with real coding projects from campus organizations. You’ll work on actual software that gets used by researchers, departments, and student organizations while earning money and building your portfolio.

Currently, the program is open to undergraduate students only who have completed CS 506. You should have solid programming fundamentals and be comfortable working independently on a coding project. Experience with version control (Git) and relevant programming languages is helpful.

To ensure you have adequate time to commit to this work, students who will be enrolled in CS620 or completing an internship during the same semester should not apply.

You’ll earn $17/hour for working 10-15 hours per week on your project for a 15-week semester. This works out to roughly 150-200 hours of work total.

Hourly payments are handled by the university through payroll.

Yes! Your earnings will be processed through HR Payroll.

1. Fill out the application to be considered for a matching role
2. We screen applications and recommend qualified candidates to project sponsors
3. Interview with sponsors if selected as a finalist
4. Get matched if the sponsor selects you

You’ll have input throughout the process and can decline a match if it doesn’t feel like the right fit.

Projects vary widely, including:

• Web applications and websites
• Data analysis tools and pipelines
• Machine learning models
• Mobile apps
• Research software
• Database systems
• Automation scripts
• Dashboards and visualization tools

At a later date, you’ll be able to check the marketplace to see current postings!

It depends on the project! Common technologies include Python, JavaScript, React, Java, SQL, R, and various frameworks and tools. Each project listing will specify the required and preferred technical skills.

Our first cohort officially begins in Fall 2026, but some projects may start Summer 2026. After the pilot semester, new projects will start each semester (Fall, Spring, and potentially Summer).

CS Marketplace staff will provide mentorship and project management support throughout the semester. We’ll also connect you with faculty mentors who can provide technical guidance. 

We conduct bi-weekly check-ins to monitor progress and address issues early. If you’re struggling, we’ll provide additional support, adjust scope if needed, or help problem-solve. Communication is key — let us know if you’re having trouble, and we’ll work together to find a solution.

Some projects involving sensitive data may require a confidentiality agreement (NDA). We’ll let you know upfront if this is required, and we’ll provide standard templates. This is common in professional development work.

If you can’t commit to an entire semester, do not apply. However, we understand that emergencies happen. If you need to withdraw, communicate with your project sponsor and CS Marketplace staff as early as possible so we can make alternative arrangements. Withdrawals may affect your eligibility for future projects.

Absolutely! If you complete a project successfully, you’re welcome to apply for another project in a future semester. Some students may work on several projects throughout their time at UW-Madison.

For Summer or Fall 2026 projects, applications are open now and matches will be made as soon as projects arrive, so apply early. The final deadline for applications for fall is August 15, 2026 or earlier if we receive a lot of early applications. After the pilot semester, we’ll accept applications on a rolling basis. Apply early for the best selection of projects!

• Clear, specific technical skills listed with proficiency levels
• Relevant experience highlighted (coursework, personal projects, internships)
• Well-organized resume that’s easy to scan
• Honest assessment of your availability and commitment
• Genuine interest in the types of projects you’re applying for

You’ll work 10-15 hours per week throughout the semester (approximately 15 weeks). You can set your own schedule within reason, as long as you’re making steady progress and attending regular check-ins with your sponsor.

You’ll work independently on your project for most of the week, similar to how you’d work on a long-term class project. Every 1-3 weeks, you’ll meet with your project sponsor to:

• Demo new features you’ve built
• Get feedback on your work
• Ask questions and clarify requirements
• Plan the next sprint

You’ll also have access to CS Marketplace staff and faculty mentors if you need technical guidance or project management support.

Most projects are individual, but some larger projects may involve small teams of 2-3 students. The project posting will specify if it’s a team project.

Typically, the organization sponsoring the project will own the code since they’re paying for it. However, you can still:

• List the project on your resume and portfolio
• Discuss the project in interviews
• Include it in your GitHub (with sponsor permission)

Specific ownership terms will be clarified before you start.

Not at this time.

This program gives you:

• Real-world experience with actual users and stakeholders
• Portfolio projects that demonstrate your skills to employers
• Professional development experience working with clients, managing timelines, and delivering production code
• Networking opportunities with faculty, researchers, and campus organizations
• Paid work that helps fund your education

Many employers value hands-on project experience as much as or more than GPA.

Include:

• Programming languages you’re proficient in
• Relevant frameworks and tools you’ve used
• Course projects that demonstrate your abilities
• Any previous internships or work experience
• Specific areas of interest (web dev, machine learning, data science, etc.)
• Soft skills like communication, time management, and problem-solving

For our pilot cohort, we’re starting with 5-12 projects, so spots will be limited. We’ll expand in future semesters. Strong applications that clearly demonstrate relevant skills and genuine interest will stand out.

Email Amber Field at afield@wisc.edu. We’re here to help you find the right project and succeed!