BSc (Hons) Software Engineering (with foundation year)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Nottingham Trent University

Program Overview

This four-year Software Engineering (with Foundation Year) BSc (Hons) at Nottingham Trent University gives you a strong, practical footing in programming, mathematics, and engineering fundamentals before progressing into advanced software design and development. It’s perfect for determined students who want to build industry-ready skills from Day 1 and grow into confident, work-ready software engineers.

Curriculum Structure

Foundation Year
In your foundation year, you'll build essential skills to thrive in the full degree program. You'll study Introductory Mathematics (20 credits) to sharpen your algebra, trigonometry, vectors, and statistics; Computational Mathematics (20 credits) using tools like Excel and Matlab; Introduction to Programming (20 credits) covering Python basics and math libraries like pandas and matplotlib; Foundation Engineering (20 credits), which introduces electrical, electronic, and mechanical engineering concepts; and Practical and Professional Skills (40 credits) to develop coursework mastery, referencing, exam techniques, and professional growth—all designed to set you up for success in Year One.

Year One
You’ll begin with a shared first year across Computing disciplines—offering flexibility to explore before committing to your path. Key modules include Foundations of Computer Programming, which introduces programming fundamentals through real-world problem-solving; Foundations of Computer Technology and Mathematics, covering core hardware and mathematical reasoning; Computer Science Programming, focusing on industrial-scale programming languages; Systems Analysis and Design, teaching methodologies, tools, and techniques; and Academic and Professional Development, which enhances your employability by exploring industry standards and professional awareness.

Year Two
After the common year, you’ll move into dedicated Software Engineering studies. Core modules include Information and Database Engineering, where you'll delve into database management and administration; Internet Application Programming, where you’ll build dynamic websites for desktop and mobile; Practical Project Management and Professional Development, aimed at improving your project, presentation, and reporting skills; Software Design and Implementation, focusing on secure, maintainable software development; Software Engineering, developing teamwork, structuring, and robust system development techniques; and Systems Software, covering operating system theory, networks, and distributed systems design.

Optional Placement (Sandwich Year)
You have the option to take a year-long paid industrial placement after Year Two. This hands-on experience enhances your real-world readiness and employability, and successful completion can earn you a Diploma in Professional Practice.

Year Three (Final Year)
In your final year (or Year Three post-placement), you’ll engage in advanced practice and specialization. Project modules let you investigate computing problems, implement solutions, and develop communication and self-management skills. Advanced Analysis and Design deepens your object-oriented development expertise, while Advanced Software Engineering hones your ability to architect, test, and evaluate sophisticated software systems. You’ll also choose from optional modules like Mobile Platform Applications, Distributed Database Engineering, Service-centric and Cloud Computing, Information Systems Management, or Information Security, tailoring your learning toward emerging tech domains.

Focus areas:
Core programming, systems design, databases, web applications, software architecture, advanced specialization, professional development, optional placement.

Learning outcomes:
Design, implement, and evaluate software systems; apply theory to real-world projects; master modern tools and methodologies; build professional resilience and adaptability.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
Accredited by the BCS (British Computer Society) toward Chartered Engineer (CEng) and Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Reputation (employability rankings):

  • 98% of BSc Software Engineering students were positive about the teaching on their course (National Student Survey 2025).
  • Graduates have secured roles at major companies like American Express, Experian, Asda Stores Ltd, Jaguar Land Rover, and Nottingham City Council in positions such as Software Developer, Business Analyst, and Software Engineer.
  • The university's computing research is internationally recognized, with 80% of NTU's Computer Science submission assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Studying Software Engineering BSc (Hons) at NTU means you're in for a truly hands-on, career-ready education. You'll learn in industry-standard labs, tackle real-world placements, work on cutting-edge projects, and graduate with a professional edge.

Experiential Learning continues as follows:

Industry-standard facilities that spark innovation:
You’ll learn in Clifton Campus’s ISTeC building, with dedicated labs like the Games Development Lab, Robotics Lab, and a High-Performance Computing Suite to bring your designs and prototypes to life.

Plus, access to 350 workstations across 10 specialist labs, featuring Windows and Linux systems, plus tools for mobiles, forensics, graphics, VR, human-interaction tech, and AI—think Unreal Engine, 3D StudioMax, Adobe Creative Suite, EnCase, and more.

Short and long work placements to build real-world skills:
Every student engages in at least eight weeks of assessed, work-like experience, embedded within your course. Going further? You can take a year-long paid “sandwich” placement—some students work with companies like GE Consumer Finance and IBM—and earn a Diploma in Professional Practice upon completion.

Supportive employability and entrepreneurship environment:
NTU’s Employability team helps you find and navigate placement opportunities through tools like MyEmployability, plus CV and interview coaching, and peer support. The NTU Enterprise Centre also helps you turn your ideas into real businesses.

Cutting-edge software, hardware, and resource access:
You’ll get 24/7 access to computing facilities, complete with technician support. Software available to you includes developer tools and creative suites: Microsoft Academic Alliance, Oracle Academic Initiative, 3D Studio Max, Adobe Master Collection, plus training in Java, JavaScript, HTML5, Flash, and more.

Research-driven teaching and accredited curriculum:
The course is BCS-accredited, aligning with Chartered Engineer (CEng) and IT Professional (CITP) status. Your learning is shaped by world-class research—80% of NTU’s Computer Science outputs in REF 2021 were rated “world-leading” or “internationally excellent.”

Rich learning methods with real project focus:
You’ll learn through a balanced mix of lectures, seminars, practical sessions, workshops, and “clinic-style” surgeries with teaching staff. Assessment methods include group and individual projects, case studies, presentations, and your own dissertation project.

Global and collaborative exposure:
You can broaden your horizons with study abroad, gaining international experience and a global perspective on software engineering.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Software Engineering BSc (Hons) at Nottingham Trent University (NTU) is a fantastic choice for students who are passionate about the creative and problem-solving aspects of technology and want to build a career developing the robust, high-quality systems that power our modern world. Graduates are highly sought-after for their ability to combine strong technical skills with an understanding of real-world industry needs. They are well-prepared to tackle complex software design and development challenges, making them valuable assets in a host of industries, from finance and healthcare to entertainment and beyond.

Typical job roles include:

  • Software Engineer
  • Systems Analyst
  • Applications Developer
  • Software Architect

The university provides a dedicated and supportive ecosystem, deeply integrated with industry, to ensure you are career-ready upon graduation:

University Services
You will benefit from the option to undertake a salaried placement year, gaining invaluable professional experience and significantly enhancing your employability. NTU's strong industry connections help facilitate these opportunities, and the university provides dedicated support to strengthen your CV and interview techniques.

Employment Stats
NTU is one of the most employment-focused universities. The industry-focused nature of this degree ensures that you stand out from the crowd when it comes to job applications and pursuing your future career, with graduates highly sought after by employers such as Siemens Communications and major players in the finance and banking sector.

Industry Partnerships
The course is designed with input from industry, and students have the opportunity to undertake a year-long paid work placement with prestigious companies such as IBM, GE Consumer Finance, and ENSEK, securing roles like Software Engineer, Systems Integration Engineer, and Cloud Operations Engineer.

Graduation Outcomes
You will graduate with a comprehensive portfolio of practical work. A key feature is the common first year shared with other Computer Science degrees, offering you the flexibility to transfer to BSc (Hons) Computer Science or BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Games Technology) after your first year if you discover a specific interest in a related area.

Further Academic Progression
Completing your BSc (Hons) at NTU is just the beginning. The university offers a clear pathway for further study, including a specialised Software Engineering MSc, which is a great fast-track conversion course for graduates from disciplines unrelated to IT and computing. The strong research culture at NTU, where 80% of Computer Science research was assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent in the REF 2021, also provides an excellent foundation for those interested in pursuing a PhD

Program Key Stats

£17,500
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


Eligibility Criteria

DDD
3.0
24 - 26
50

1090
23
6.0
73

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Software Developer
  • Applications Developer
  • Web Developer
  • Systems Analyst
  • IT Consultant
  • DevOps Engineer
  • Data Engineer
  • Cybersecurity Analyst
  • Software Quality Assurance Engineer
  • AI/ML Engineer

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