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Software Engineering with Foundation Year at Buckinghamshire New University - UCAS

Course options

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. In the Foundation Year of this four-year course, you’ll build essential academic study skills. This year will help you gain confidence in your abilities. You’ll also identify your strengths and areas for development. Together, these will prepare you for progression to the undergraduate degree. Why study Software Engineering at BNU? Hands on learning At BNU, you'll dive into practical sessions that mirror real-world software development practices. This isn't just about writing code; you'll tackle projects that simulate challenges you’d face in the industry, providing a real taste of the tech world. By the time you graduate, you'll have a a broad range of experiences that can showcase your abilities to future employers. Industry relevant education We focus on equipping you with skills that are in high demand, such as software design, development, and delivery. You'll learn to work with modern programming languages, frameworks, and tools, preparing you to hit the ground running in any tech environment. Whether it's designing apps, building web platforms, or managing data systems, you'll gain expertise that employers value. You'll also take part in career workshops, mock interviews, and CV-building sessions to prepare for your job hunt. With this well-rounded preparation, you’ll graduate ready to make an immediate impact in the workplace. Expert faculty Learn from lecturers who bring a wealth of industry experience and academic expertise. They’re passionate about their field and dedicated to helping you succeed, often drawing on their professional backgrounds to provide real-world context. Their mentorship will guide you through your studies and inspire confidence in your abilities. Modern facilities You’ll have access to large labs equipped with dual-screen, dual boot (Windows and Linux) systems, the latest industry-standard software, virtual server technology and VR headsets. From high-performance computers to collaborative workspaces, our facilities are designed to support your learning and creativity. You’ll have everything you need to turn your ideas into reality. Industry Connections BNU maintains close ties with industry professionals, providing opportunities for networking, internships, and real-world projects. Guest lectures and career events offer insights into the latest industry trends and connect you directly with potential employers. These connections open doors to internships and placements, giving you a head start in the competitive tech job market. 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.

Modules

Foundation Year Core Preparing for Success Knowledge and Creativity Preparing for Success Self-development and Responsibility Inquiry Based Learning Digital Media Computing Essentials 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 like to 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

Application codes

Course code:
LL30
Institution code:
B94
Campus name:
High Wycombe Campus
Campus code:
-

Points of entry

The following entry points are available for this course:

  • Foundation

International applicants

Visit bnu.ac.uk/international to find out more about applying to BNU as an international student!

Entry requirements

Qualification requirements

Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course

https://bucks.ac.uk/applying-to-bucks/general-entry-requirements


English language requirements

TestGradeAdditional details
IELTS (Academic)6We 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

https://www.bnu.ac.uk/study/general-entry-requirements


Student Outcomes

Operated by the Office for Students
65%
Employment after 15 months (Most common jobs)
80%
Go onto work and study

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

Buckinghamshire New University tuition fees cover the cost of instruction, assessment, and core academic materials. However, additional costs may be incurred for course-related items or requirements, such as, but not limited to: - Text books and supplementary reading materials - Specialised equipment or resources required for specific courses - Field trips, placements, or external activities - Printing, photocopying, and binding - Accommodation, travel, and living expenses Additional costs will vary by course. It is your responsibility as a student to budget for any additional expenses associated with your studies. For further details on what is included in your tuition fees, please check bnu.ac.uk/fees-and-funding

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.

Software Engineering with Foundation Year at Buckinghamshire New University - UCAS