Software Engineering BEng (Hons)

Overview

Software engineering is at the heart of all modern technology, and plays a key role in every industry. It incorporates disciplines such as:

• Mathematics
• Computer science
• Cyber security

You will study subjects including:

• Software systems design and testing
• Large-scale database systems
• System security management
• Mobile applications
• Enterprise-pro
• Artificial intelligence

If you have a passion for technology, our BEng in Software Engineering will teach you to create and innovate through information technologies and computer programming. It is designed for problem-solvers, looking to address challenges in our interconnected, technology-orientated society.

You’ll first learn the principles that underpin computer science, giving you a strong technical foundation on which to build. The programme shares a common first year with our computer science programmes, enabling you to transfer between programmes at the end of the first year if interests or career aspirations emerge in other areas.

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The emphasis then moves to the design and implementation of large software engineering programmes, and you will study subjects including:

• Mobile applications
• System security management
• Software verification
• Database systems

BEng (Hons) in Software Engineering draws on our outstanding research strengths and expertise. Our Department of Computer Science is one of the longest established in the UK, and we have a strong heritage within the subject.

Programme options

We also offer a 4-year version of the BEng which includes a 'sandwich' placement year in industry. The placement year is an excellent way to develop your professional experience, build industry contacts, and gain insight into the day-to-day work of a professional engineer.

Career prospects

Career prospects for this course are exceptionally strong and you’ll have tremendous flexibility to undertake a wide variety of career paths. Software is at the heart of modern society, controlling computers and machines to accomplish a wide variety of tasks – from app development, to medical robots, to banking systems. Almost every industry in the world benefits from computing technology and approaches, and needs graduates with relevant skills to propel them forward into the future.

Recent graduates from this programme have gone on to work in many fascinating areas and industries, working at companies such as:

• IBM
• Intel
• Microsoft
• Hewlett-Packard (HP)
• Cap Gemini
• FDM Group
• Centrica
• BBC
• British Sky Broadcasting
• Rolls Royce
• JP Morgan
• NHS trusts
• GE
• Deutsche Post AG
• Goldman Sachs
• Skipton Building Society
• Societe General
• Expressbank
• Thomson Reuters

Career support

The University is committed to helping students develop and enhance employability and this is an integral part of many programmes. Specialist support is available throughout the course from Career and Employability Services including help to find part-time work while studying, placements, vacation work and graduate vacancies. Students are encouraged to access this support at an early stage and to use the extensive resources on the Careers website.

Discussing options with specialist advisers helps to clarify plans through exploring options and refining skills of job-hunting. In most of our programmes there is direct input by Career Development Advisers into the curriculum or through specially arranged workshops.