Enter OTP
At Northampton, the BSc (Hons) Software Engineering gives you a hands-on, real-world journey through design, development, deployment, and maintenance of software systems—all while receiving strong support and professional guidance. It’s the ideal path for resourceful, creative problem-solvers ready to grow their technical depth and graduate with practical, employer-valued experience.
Curriculum Structure
Stage 1 (Year 1)
You’ll start with a solid software foundation, exploring Problem Solving and Programming (CSY1020), Software Engineering Fundamentals (CSY1064), Web Development (CSY1063), Computer Systems (CSY1061), Computer Communications (CSY1062), and Database Design and Development (CSY1065). These modules equip you with core skills in coding, systems architecture, web, networking, and data management.
Stage 2 (Year 2)
In your second year, learning elevates as you take Data Structures and Algorithms (CSY2087), tackle teamwork in the Group Project (CSY2088), dive deeper into Web Programming (CSY2089), Object-Relational Databases (CSY2093), Systems Design and Development (CSY2094), and build mobile apps in Mobile Application Development (CSY2091). These modules expand your technical breadth, design insight, and collaboration skills.
Optional Placement Year
After Stage 2, you can choose to step into a designated placement year via Learning Through Work (WBL) (CSY2036)—a chance to apply your developing expertise in a real-world setting and make professional connections early.
Stage 3 (Final Year)
Your final year is all about specialization and independence. You’ll conduct your Computing Project Dissertation (CSY4022), while studying Contemporary Approaches to Software Development (CSY3065), Modern Databases (CSY3059), AI Concepts and Applications (CSY3081), and Development Operations and Software Testing (CSY3056). This stage ensures your skills are current, testing is thorough, and you graduate ready to lead complex projects.
Focus areas
Core systems and programming foundations, web and database development, mobile and group-based design, placement experience, advanced operations, AI, and capstone dissertation.
Learning outcomes
You’ll graduate able to design and deliver robust software systems, lead collaborative projects, specialize in modern technologies like AI and DevOps, and present a substantial, thesis-based computing project.
Professional alignment (accreditation)
The course is rooted in employability, with strong industry links and a focus on professional readiness—although explicit accreditation like with BCS was not specified in the official material.
Reputation & employability highlights
At the University of Northampton, the Software Engineering degree is focused on doing, not just reading. From day one, you’ll tackle real-world software problems through individual projects, teamwork, and internships. You’ll build your technical expertise in purpose-built computing suites and labs, gaining the confidence and practical skills needed to step into the industry.
Key Learning Experiences
Internships and Work Placement Opportunities: Students are encouraged to undertake an industry-based internship between their second and third years, with university guidance on finding and securing placements. This hands-on experience enhances both technical skills and employability.
IEEE Student Branch Involvement: As a Software Engineering student, you can join the University’s IEEE Student Branch at a reduced rate, connecting with peers and professionals worldwide while building a strong professional network.
UON IoT Workshop: This annual event features industry guest speakers and workshops on Internet of Things technologies, offering opportunities to collaborate across year groups and engage with real-world practitioners.
Tailored Learning Modules: Core and modern topics such as mobile app development, object-oriented programming, software design, interface design, AI, testing, and evaluation are taught through practical, real-world scenarios.
Specialist Computing Lab Access: Students have unlimited access to specialist computing labs equipped with course software, with support available for installing required tools on personal laptops for seamless learning on and off campus.
Strategic Campus Facilities:
Creative Hub’s Computing Suites: Industry-ready labs including gaming and Mac labs, ideal for coding, design, and creative software projects.
Learning Hub: Open 24/7 with flexible learning areas, digital support, and collaborative zones for brainstorming and teamwork.
The Software Engineering BSc (Hons) at the University of Northampton is an excellent choice for students passionate about the creative and problem-solving aspects of technology who aspire to build a career developing robust, high-quality systems that power our modern world. Graduates are highly sought-after for their ability to combine strong technical skills with a methodical approach to reliable, error-free software design. They leave equipped to tackle complex development challenges and add value across industries—from established tech giants to innovative start-ups.
Typical job roles include:
The university provides a dedicated and supportive ecosystem, closely integrated with industry, to ensure you are career-ready upon graduation:
University Services:
Students benefit from the university’s Guaranteed Paid Internship scheme through the Northampton Employment Promise and receive a free HP laptop pre-loaded with all essential course software (terms and conditions apply). Teaching is delivered in small groups with one-to-one academic support, and each student is assigned a dedicated Personal Academic Tutor.
Employment Support:
Northampton is so confident in graduates’ employability that it offers the Northampton Employment Promise—if you graduate with at least a 2:2, complete the employability programme, and do not secure full-time employment within 12 months, the university will guarantee a 3–6 month paid internship or provide support to progress into postgraduate study.
Industry Partnerships:
The course features strong industry connections, with opportunities to work on real-world projects for companies such as Barclays, KPMG, and Triad Digital Solutions during industry challenge events. Students can also join the UON IEEE Student Branch and attend the annual IoT Workshop featuring guest speakers and practical collaboration.
Graduation Outcomes:
Graduates leave with a substantial portfolio of practical work, including a major second-year group project where students collaborate in design teams to deliver innovative solutions to real-world challenges. The programme covers a wide range of technologies, including UML, Java, C++, JavaScript, PHP, Android, Oracle, and mobile application development.
Further Academic Progression:
Completion of the BSc (Hons) is just the start. Students can progress to a specialised MSc in Computing (Software Engineering), exploring areas such as object-oriented design, agile methodology, and undertaking an individual thesis. The strong foundation also provides an excellent basis for pursuing a PhD and contributing to cutting-edge research. For those who need additional preparation, a Foundation Year route is available.
UCAS Application • Official High School Transcripts • Personal Statement • Educational Resume • Letter of Recommendation by School TeacherEnglish test results: IELTS 6.0 (no band below 5.5)A Levels: BCCGCSE: Grade 4/C in English Language and MathematicsSoftware DeveloperTechnical Product ManagerDevOps EngineerSales EngineerCybersecurity AnalystSite Reliability Engineer (SRE)AI/ML EngineerUX DesignerData ScientistBusiness Analyst
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
The University of Northampton
