BSc Hons Software Engineering

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Central Lancashire

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Software Engineering at UCLan is designed to turn your passion for technology into a career by building your skills in programming, secure systems, agile development, and large-scale software projects. It’s ideal if you enjoy problem-solving, teamwork, and want the technical depth to design reliable software solutions across industries.

Curriculum Structure

Year One
In your first year, you’ll establish the foundations of software engineering by learning core programming, systems, and database skills. Through modules like Programming, Computer Systems and Security, Introduction to Networking, and Systems Analysis and Database Design, you’ll develop essential technical knowledge, while The Computing Challenge gives you the chance to apply these skills in a team project. Optional modules such as Games Concepts or Web Technologies let you explore creative or web-focused applications.

Year Two
Your second year builds on this base with more advanced technical learning. You’ll study Advanced Programming with C++, Software Development, Cross Platform Development, Cyber Security, and Computational Thinking, while The Agile Professional ensures you can apply industry-standard team practices. This balance of programming, security, and software design prepares you for complex, real-world engineering problems.

Year Three (Final Year)
The final year focuses on higher-level application and independent research. You’ll complete a major Honours Degree Project while studying advanced subjects like Distributed Systems, Advanced Software Modelling, and Data Science. You can also tailor your learning with optional modules in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Graphics, or User Experience, giving you a specialist edge for your chosen career path.

Focus Areas
Programming, databases, systems security, C++ and cross-platform development, agile methods, distributed systems, data science, and optional specialisms in AI, graphics, or UX.

Learning Outcomes
Gain the technical and professional skills to design, build, and deliver reliable software systems, work effectively in agile teams, and specialise in emerging areas of computing.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, offering eligibility for MBCS membership and a pathway to CITP and CEng status.

Reputation (Employability Highlights)
Graduates have gone on to work with leading employers such as IBM, EA Games, HP, Intel, and GCHQ. The course is industry-informed and emphasises employability through hands-on projects, including the Computing Challenge and optional placement opportunities.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Lancashire, your BSc (Hons) Software Engineering degree isn't just about learning theory—it's about applying that knowledge in real-world settings, developing practical skills, and preparing for a successful career in the tech industry.

Experiential Learning includes:

Hands-on development across the software lifecycle:
From your first year, you'll engage in projects covering the entire development lifecycle, including design, implementation, and testing. You'll work on developing interactive applications, such as augmented reality apps, and gain experience in advanced programming and computational thinking.

Agile team-based projects:
You'll collaborate in Agile teams to develop realistic applications, simulating industry practices and enhancing your teamwork and project management skills.

Optional industry placement year:
You have the opportunity to undertake an optional placement year between your second and third years. This experience allows you to apply your learning in a professional setting, gain valuable industry experience, and boost your career prospects.

Foundation year option:
If you need to strengthen your foundational knowledge, the University offers a Foundation Year in Software Engineering. This year focuses on introductory skills in software development and builds your confidence in applying essential programming skills, preparing you for the full degree program.

Modern facilities and resources:
You'll have access to purpose-built laboratories and the University's general computer rooms, providing the environment and resources necessary for practical-based learning.

Engagement with industry competitions:
Participate in the Computing Challenge competition, where you'll work in teams to design, develop, and market your own app, simulating real-world product development and business processes.

Professional accreditation:
The course is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS), allowing graduates to become Professional members (MBCS) without further assessment, enhancing your professional credentials.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The BSc (Hons) Software Engineering at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) 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 a methodical approach to robust, error-free software design. They leave here ready to tackle complex software development challenges, making them valuable assets in a host of industries, from established tech giants to innovative start-ups.

Typical job roles include:

  • Software Engineer
  • Systems Analyst
  • Applications Developer
  • 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 the option to undertake a salaried placement year between your second and third years, enabling you to consolidate your learning and boost your career prospects. You'll also take part in the Computing Challenge competition, where you’ll work in teams to design, develop, and market your own app.

Employment Stats:
Graduates of this course have gone on to work for some of the world’s biggest companies in the digital sector, including EA Games, GCHQ, Hewlett Packard, IBM, Intel, and Nokia.

Industry Partnerships:
The course is designed with industry needs in mind. You'll have the opportunity to apply your software development skills to the challenge of developing interactive games using 3D graphics and work in Agile teams to develop realistic applications.

Graduation Outcomes:
You will graduate with a comprehensive portfolio of practical work. You'll learn to programme effectively in Java, C++, and C#, use leading database management systems, study communications and networks, and apply Agile project management skills.

Further Academic Progression:
Completing your BSc (Hons) at UCLan is just the beginning. The university offers a Foundation Year route for those who need it, providing an alternative pathway to study for this degree. The strong foundation also provides an excellent base for pursuing a Master's degree (MSc) or even a PhD in a specialised area of computer science.

Program Key Stats

£17,325
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


Eligibility Criteria

BBC - CCC
3.0
28 - 32
58

1150
23
6.0
80

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Software Developer
  • Technical Product Manager
  • DevOps Engineer
  • Sales Engineer
  • Cybersecurity Analyst
  • Site Reliability Engineer (SRE)
  • AI/ML Engineer
  • UX Designer
  • Data Scientist
  • Business Analyst

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