Course summary
If you are looking to make an impression in the fast-paced IT world, studying a degree that provides you with a strong foundation in computing and an in-depth specialised knowledge in software engineering, this is a great place to start. Software is an essential part in controlling computers, it can be a creative way to develop solutions to communication, financial, business, entertainment and healthcare problems. Working in the computing industry developing software is an exciting career that challenges you to use both analytical and creative skills and be at the forefront of the latest technological advances. Why study at Buckinghamshire New University? This programme offers you the opportunity to gain a broader understanding and expertise in a range of areas. You’ll focus on the three key disciplines of large-scale software design, development, and delivery based on the up-to-date tools, techniques, and methodologies. You’ll explore all aspects of the software lifecycle, covering both the technical aspects addressing the activities of procurement, requirements capture, design, testing and maintenance, and the nontechnical aspects of project management, quality management and configuration management. Within this course, you will see how the successful combination of these essential elements will impact upon the current software crisis, by producing quality software systems on-time, within budget and fulfilling the customer’s needs. This exciting course allows you to explore the diversity of modern software engineering, gaining the integral skills required for today’s industry workplace. We do not just teach in the classroom; you will increase your knowledge through involvement on real-life projects and gain hands-on experience of working either individually or in a software development team. 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. Facilities BNU has invested in our facilities to ensure that you can learn on industry standard systems and software, meaning that you can make an easy transition from education into employment. We have a range of large labs, most filled with dual-screen, dual boot (Windows and Linux) systems. Latest industry standard software is also included on devices to allow you to develop your skills to what is needed in the workplace. Hands-on experience is what we are all about. We have numerous devices that will provide the basis for various supervised projects you will carry out across the programme. These include but are not limited to Virtual Reality headsets, 3D printers, Raspberry Pi microcomputers, EEG headsets. What will I study? During this course you will acquire skills in programming, building secure web and mobile applications and work on team-based software projects; whilst exploiting an agile development approach. You’ll learn how to develop highly dependable and reliable systems, within an object-oriented design approach, using a number of industry standard approaches, such as UML. In addition, you will gain an understanding of the process involved in managing the development of large-scale software projects. Furthermore, specialist modules allow you to explore the areas of artificial intelligence, media programming, real-time systems, cloud computing and security. This course is also offered as four-year programmes, 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.
Modules
Year one Core Programming Concepts Computer Architecture Networks Web Computational Fundamentals Year two Core Software Engineering Object Orientated Analysis and Design Research Methods Optional Object Orientated Programme Agile Project Management Algorithms and Data Structures Data Essentials Real-time Systems Web Application Development Computer Science Year three Core Advanced Programming Extended Independent work Optional Software Testing and QA Design Patterns Digital Innovation Cloud Computing Advanced Mobile Critical Systems Data Science Network Security
Assessment method
At Buckinghamshire New University we like to foster an interactive and student-focused teaching style where we have a combination of formal lectures, tutorials, practical lab sessions, seminars and guest speakers to enhance the learning experience. We design our course to reflect the workplace so you will have the opportunity to carry out independent study, supported through distance learning technologies such as Blackboard, our Virtual Learning Environment. We will also provide reading lists and suggested resources to enhance independent study. Assessment will be through a variety of forms, including projects, written exams, written assignments, workshops, and presentations. You are more than a number at BNU, and we are here to support you through your education journey. We have in place regular contact hours with our tutors and provide you with informal feedback throughout the programme of study. Over the years of your course you will be assessed and graded in a multitude of ways to allow you to develop and expand on your abilities and skills. Assessments for the various modules will mostly take the form of practical coursework, lab test and written exams. However, the main focus being on testing the practical application of the various concepts and techniques being conveyed.
How to apply
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
- Course code:
- I300
- Institution code:
- B94
- Campus name:
- High Wycombe Campus
- Campus code:
- -
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
International applicants
Visit bnu.ac.uk/international to find out more about applying to BNU as an international student!
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
UCAS Tariff - 88 - 112 points
A level - BCC - CCD
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) - DMM - MMP
Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course
English language requirements
Test | Grade | Additional details |
---|---|---|
IELTS (Academic) | 6 | We require an IELTS score of 6.0 (with no element lower that 5.5) or a recognised equivalent. |
If English is not your first language or if you have studied in a non-majority English-speaking country, then you will typically be required to demonstrate your English language ability (speaking, listening, reading & writing) by way of a test such as IELTS.
BNU English Language Requirements
Student Outcomes
The number of student respondents and response rates can be important in interpreting the data – it is important to note your experience may be different from theirs. This data will be based on the subject area rather than the specific course. Read more about this data on the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
England | £9535 | Year 1 |
Northern Ireland | £9535 | Year 1 |
Scotland | £9535 | Year 1 |
Wales | £9535 | Year 1 |
Channel Islands | £9535 | Year 1 |
Republic of Ireland | £9535 | Year 1 |
EU | £15150 | Year 1 |
International | £15150 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Sponsorship information
There are several ways you can fund your studies, including sponsorship and student loans. You may be able to use ELCAS credits for some of our courses. We also have scholarships and bursaries to help support our students.
Provider information
Buckinghamshire New University
Queen Alexandra Road
High Wycombe
HP11 2JZ