BSc Hons Software Engineering

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

De Montfort University

Program Overview

The Software Engineering BSc (Hons) at De Montfort University is a specialist track within Computer Science, carefully crafted to equip you with the skills to design and build software for modern devices and systems—from web environments to mobile and embedded platforms. The course integrates modular “block teaching,” giving you focused, immersive study experiences, and it blends theoretical learning with professional and ethical computing awareness.

Year 1
In your first year, you’ll establish strong fundamentals through modules delivered in block format: Database Design and Implementation (designing and querying relational databases), Fundamental Concepts of Computer Science (introducing algorithmic logic, software modelling, lifecycle, requirements gathering, UI design, and ethics), Computer Programming (designing trustworthy software with sound practices and unit testing), and Operating Systems and Networks (system architecture, OS concepts, networking, and security).

Year 2
Your second year builds on this foundation with modules such as Object-Oriented Design and Development, Data Structures and Algorithms, Web Application Development, and a Software Engineering Team Project—providing hands-on experience building complex applications collaboratively, using modern programming standards and tools.

Year 3
In your final year, you'll tackle advanced engineering modules: Software Development: Methods and Standards (covering development methodologies and quality practices), Mobile App Development and Big Data (exploring mobile software and data-intensive processing), and a significant Development Project where you apply your skills to a real-world problem. You’ll also pick one optional module from functional programming, advanced web development, or embedded systems/IoT to specialize further.

Placement Year Option
This course offers an optional placement year, allowing you to gain hands-on industry experience between Years 2 and 3. Previous placements have included leading tech employers like IBM, Arm Ltd, Gigaclear, Next, and SAP—building employability and real-world relevance.

Focus Areas
From foundational computing—databases, algorithms, programming, systems, and ethics—to full-stack web development, object-oriented design, mobile and big data systems, alongside collaborative project delivery and optional industry placement.

Learning Outcomes
You’ll be proficient in designing secure, reliable software systems; applying industry-standard development methodologies; adapting to emerging technologies like big data and mobile platforms; working effectively within teams; and delivering a capstone project simulating real-world engineering.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation & Industry Ties)
The degree is accredited by the BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, satisfying the academic benchmarks for achieving Chartered IT Professional (CITP) recognition. Its alignment with professional bodies and industry through project work and placement underlines its real-world applicability.

Reputation & Teaching Excellence
DMU holds a Silver rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework, reflecting excellence in teaching and student experience. The block teaching method, combined with robust student support and industry engagement, ensures that students benefit from enhanced focus, timely assessments, and a strong sense of community and belonging. According to the National Student Survey, student satisfaction rates are consistently high 

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

As a Software Engineering student at DMU, your journey is built around learning by doing from the very start. The course is designed to be career-focused and hands-on, offering real-world placements, innovative teaching methods, and student-led experiences—all crafted to help you develop both technical mastery and professional confidence.

Experiential Learning continues as follows:

Full-time “sandwich” placement year between Years 2 and 3:
You have the opportunity to take a full 12-month placement in industry, supported by DMU's dedicated placement team. Over 400 students usually take up these placements each year, with employers ranging from Rolls-Royce, Airbus, IBM, EA Games, to The Walt Disney Company. These placements significantly boost employability—95% of students completing them secure high-skilled graduate jobs within six months.

Alternative Enterprise Placement Year to develop your own startup idea:
Rather than working for a company, you can choose to spend a year launching your own business idea. DMU offers mentoring, workshops, financial support, and practical tools to guide your entrepreneurial journey.

Major self-directed Development Project in Year 3:
In your final year, you’ll take on a capstone project that lets you innovate from start to finish—with guidance from an academic supervisor. It’s your chance to showcase creativity, technical skill, and analytical depth.

Course content rooted in real methodologies and modern tools:
Modules like Software Development: Methods and Standards train you in Agile (Scrum, DevOps), security standards (ISO27001, ISO27005), and project tools like Jira and ClickUp. You’ll also build expertise in mobile app development, big data, functional programming, advanced web development, and Embedded Systems & IoT.

Block teaching model for immersive learning:
Rather than spreading multiple modules across a term, DMU uses a block teaching approach—you study one module intensely at a time. It allows deeper focus, steady assessments, and stronger bonds with classmates and tutors.

Strong professional accreditation and career pathways:
The Software Engineering degree is BCS-accredited, aligning with the standards for Chartered IT Professional (CITP). Graduates have gone on to work with companies such as Oracle, Royal Bank of Scotland, Sainsbury’s—and local employers like Lorien and MISCO.

Active clubs and societies to broaden your learning:
Outside of classrooms and labs, you can join the Games Society, Robotics Club, or Google’s Developer Student Club—great for building practical experience, networking, and collaborating on creative projects.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Software Engineering BSc (Hons) at De Montfort University (DMU)  programme 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 tech giants to finance and healthcare.

Typical job roles include:

  • Software Engineer
  • Applications Developer
  • Systems Analyst
  • Web Developer

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 DMU's innovative block teaching approach, where you study one module at a time for deeper focus. The university was named the UK’s Best University for Work Experience (RateMyPlacement 2024 & 2025), offering personalised careers support and an optional salaried placement year with companies like IBM, Arm Ltd, and SAP.

Employment Stats:
The course has a strong employment focus, with DMU ranking 16th best for employability (Uni Compare). Graduates have gone on to work for major companies like Oracle, Royal Bank of Scotland, and Sainsbury’s. For all Computer Science graduates from DMU, average earnings after 15 months are £30,000, rising to £34,000 after five years.

Industry Partnerships:
The course features strong industry connections, with placement opportunities at companies like IBM, Arm Ltd, Gigaclear, Next, and SAP. You'll also have the chance to network internationally through the #DMUglobal programme, with previous trips to software companies in Berlin and tech entrepreneurs in San Francisco.

Graduation Outcomes:
You will graduate with a substantial portfolio of practical work. The course includes a Software Engineering Team Project in your second year, where you'll engage in a workplace simulation using agile development methods. In your final year, you can tailor your degree with optional modules like Functional Programming, Advanced Web Development, and Embedded Systems & IoT.

Further Academic Progression:
Completing your BSc (Hons) at DMU is just the beginning. The strong foundation in software engineering principles provides an excellent platform for pursuing a specialised Master's degree (MSc) in a more advanced area of computing. The university's research-active staff and excellent facilities also provide a clear pathway for those interested in pursuing a PhD and contributing to cutting-edge research in the field.

Program Key Stats

£16,750
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


Eligibility Criteria

BBC
3.0
26
65

NA
NA
6.0
NA

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

Book Free Session with Our Admission Experts

Admission Experts