BSc (Hons) Software Engineering with Foundation Year

Why study this subject?

Does the idea of creating valuable new applications and software excite you? In a world where most countries depend on complex computer-based systems there's an ever increasing demand for people with the skills to update, maintain and enhance the software essential for the functioning of national and international economies. 

This course is for those who have an interest in approaching problems with an analytical mind and will prepare you for working in the fast-moving software industry.

Studying Software Engineering will open up career opportunities in a whole variety of different sectors, including commercial, environmental, government, health, education and defence. With such a rare and valuable set of skills, you’ll soon discover that the possibilities are endless, and the opportunities are rewarding.

This was my best experience of education in my whole academic career. The classes were very interactive and helpful. The learning experience was excellent.

I would like to commend the efforts of the staff and lecturers who give more than 100 % in helping a student. Thanks to the course I learned and explored the horizons of technology and beyond. Without the experience I would not have had the self-confidence and knowledge that has led me to proceed in my professional career.

Nick Rose

Why study at Buckinghamshire New University?

Does the idea of creating valuable new applications and software excite you? This course is for those who have an interest in approaching problems with an analytical mind. You will look at life-critical systems, such as pacemakers and fire alarm systems, as well as software and apps for a variety of practical and social uses.

We are looking for analytical students who have an interest in taking a systems engineering approach to software solutions. You will learn and develop the skills needed for a career in this industry and gain a firm grasp of modern software engineering techniques.

Throughout the Software Engineering course, you’ll gain a broad spectrum of expertise including management, costing and project delivery. These valuable skills play a fundamental role in producing well-rounded and efficient software engineers and enable you to approach projects in the most productive and analytical way.

You’ll be able to apply your new-found skills and knowledge to develop a substantial software product of your choice.  Your final project can be presented in support of applications to potential employers.

In a rapidly changing and evolving industry, we continue to develop our course, employing new and improved technologies along the way. Our strong computing team includes lecturers with vast experience in their respective fields.

Thanks to our close involvement with the sector, you can be sure we’ll help you develop the skills employers are looking for. You will also get opportunities to expand your knowledge both inside and outside of the lecture theatre. Students have previously visited sites of historical importance, including Bletchley Park, to learn more about the history of computing and how it impacted the world.

What facilities can I use?  

We’ve invested in a range of state-of-the-art facilities across our campuses to support your learning.

Our computing facilities are packed with the latest equipment. We regularly upgrade our computer hardware and software, so you have the equipment and facilities to truly excel.

Our library is the perfect place to find the resources you need and a quiet place to study, filled with four floors of books, journals, computer suites and study rooms. Or, if you’d rather work off campus, e-Journals and resources are only a few clicks away using our Virtual Learning Environment.

What will I study?

We design our modules to reflect the latest issues in the constantly changing area of computing.

Beyond core computing topics, you’ll also study a number of development technologies and tools. We’ll look at how users interact with systems, known as user experience, or UX, and develop skills for communication, planning and problem solving. In your first year, you’ll focus on these fundamentals, which are regarded as essential by future employers.

During this course you’ll acquire skills in programming, building secure web and mobile applications, and working on team-based software projects. You’ll learn about Agile development and how to develop highly dependable systems using the industry standard UML. In addition, you will gain an understanding of the process involved in managing the development of large-scale software projects.

Specialist optional modules allow you to explore artificial intelligence, media programming, real-time systems, cloud computing and security.

How will I be taught and assessed?

This course is offered as a four-year programme, including an initial Foundation Year. The Foundation Year will allow you to develop your academic study skills and build confidence in your abilities, identifying your own strengths and development needs for progression onto an undergraduate degree.

We have a strong computing department at the University, with a dedicated team of academics and professionals delivering industry-relevant courses in a suite of well-equipped computer labs.

You’ll benefit from small class sizes that give you a chance to develop close working relationships with the tutors and other students. You will also benefit from guest speakers and valuable networking opportunities.

Course assignments reflect real-life problems because we believe that’s the best way to learn – and it’s more fun!

Close links with local Industry provides the potential for possible internships. This gives you the opportunity to develop your skills in a work background.

Our modules and teaching expertise will help you become more independent as a learner and more certain of your discipline expertise.

Placements Plus

BNU is a Placements Plus university. So, whatever degree you do, you can be sure there’ll be plenty of industry-relevant opportunities on offer, to help you get into your chosen field.

We’ll also prepare you for work beforehand, with special skills for work training, further boosting your CV, and building skills employers will value. In recognition of the value we place on these skills we have incorporated this experience into your study time.

Placements Plus is all about helping you get some valuable experience under your belt while you’re a student, to increase your choices later, and help you get the graduate-level job you want.