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The BSc (Hons) Software Engineering at the University of Stirling equips you with the knowledge and practical skills to design, develop, and deliver complex software systems across multiple industries. This program is ideal for students who enjoy logical problem-solving, teamwork, and applying creativity to real-world technology challenges.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1
In your first year, you’ll gain a strong introduction to computing and mathematics, beginning with Introduction to Computing Science (CSCU9P1) and Discrete Structures (MATU9S1). In semester two, you’ll progress to Programming and User Interface Design (CSCU9P2), while also having the flexibility to explore subjects like Introduction to Data Science (CSCU9S2), Practical Statistics (MATU9D2), or wider options such as economics, philosophy, or media studies to broaden your skills.
Year 2
Your second year focuses on building core technical expertise. You’ll study Data Structures, Objects and Algorithms (CSCU9A3) and Database Principles and Applications (CSCU9B3), as well as Programming Language Paradigms (CSCU9Y4) and Managing Information (CSCU9T4). There’s also the option to take Professional Development for Computer Scientists (CSCU9CP), which is especially useful if you’re considering a work placement in later years.
Year 3
In year three, you’ll deepen your professional skills with Software Engineering I (CSCU9E5), Software Engineering II (CSCU9P6), and UX Design (CSCU9X5). You can also choose from exciting specialist options such as Introduction to Machine Learning (CSCU9M5), Code Analysis and Performance (CSCU9A5), NoSQL Databases and Data Warehousing (CSCU9B4), or Computer Games Development (CSCU9N6). Core modules like Operating Systems Concurrency and Distribution (CSCU9V6) further expand your understanding of large-scale system design.
Year 4
Your final year allows you to apply everything you’ve learned through a major independent project (Computing Science Project, CSCU9Z7), which runs across both semesters. Alongside this, you’ll study advanced topics such as Computer Security & Networks (CSCU9Y7) and tailor your learning with options like Artificial Intelligence (CSCU9YE), Mobile App Development (CSCU9YH), Web Services (CSCU9YW), or Natural Language Processing and Computer Vision (CSCU9M6). This year is about developing specialist expertise while showcasing your ability to deliver a complete software system from concept to implementation.
Focus areas:
Solid foundation in programming and algorithms; understanding of systems and professional practice; optional deep dives into security, AI, web services, and more; culminating in a culminating software development project.
Learning outcomes:
You’ll graduate able to design and develop real-world software systems using modern practices, tackle complex problems with theoretical understanding, tailor your learning to emerging technologies, and articulate your learning through a capstone independent project.
Professional alignment (accreditation):
Accredited by the BCS (British Computer Society), fully meeting the academic requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.
Reputation (employability rankings)
Stirling ranks 2nd in Scotland and among the top 20 in the UK for Computer Science (National Student Survey 2024), reflecting strong teaching and student experience. Additionally, Stirling graduates benefit from “highly sought-after” status among employers, with the university providing prestigious industry placements and sophisticated project opportunities.
When you choose the Software Engineering (BSc Hons) at the University of Stirling, you're stepping into a degree built around practical experience, real-world relevance, and professional preparation. Unlike programs that focus solely on theory, Stirling blends hands-on labs, external placements, and modern learning tools to make sure you’re career-ready from the start.
Experiential Learning continues as follows:
Real-world placements—your work, not just coursework:
During your studies, you can take advantage of three-month summer placements or even one-year placements with local SMEs or larger companies. You'll work on real software engineering projects—designing, building, evaluating—within genuine industrial settings.
Dedicated computing labs tailored for learning and projects:
The department runs six in-person PC labs, including rooms reserved for final-year project work, plus a remote-access lab. These labs offer software, printers, and secure home-directory storage, backed up daily—perfect for both individual and team assignments. Labs are managed by the Computing Support Group for smooth, reliable use.
Strong industry links and regular guest insights:
Through its Industrial Advisory Board, Stirling collaborates with firms like IBM, HSBC, Adobe, and benefits from membership in The Data Lab—boosting industry exposure. Students also gain insights from invited speakers from MongoDB, SkyScanner, HSBC, and more.
Capstone-level final-year experience:
Your final-year project is more than academic—it’s your showcase. Supported by those dedicated labs, you'll deliver software solutions that reflect all you’ve learned. It also puts you in line for awards like the prestigious BCS Glasgow prize for Best Honours Project.
Canvas and modern academic support tools:
Learning is supported through the virtual learning environment Canvas, weekly small-group teaching, recorded lectures, and personal tutors—making sure you stay engaged and backed throughout your course.
Study abroad options for global growth:
If you're looking for international experience although not applicable to this course, the university offers study abroad opportunities—allowing you to broaden your horizons and sharpen intercultural skills.
The BSc (Hons) Software Engineering at the University of Stirling 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 systems that power our modern world.
Graduates are highly sought-after for their ability to combine creativity with logical analysis and teamwork to build complex systems. They are well-prepared to tackle real-world software design and development challenges, making them valuable assets in communications, business, entertainment, gaming, and healthcare sectors.
Typical job roles include:
The university provides a dedicated and supportive ecosystem to ensure you are career-ready upon graduation:
University Services:
You will be supported by a Careers Service ranked 2nd in the UK for making good future career contacts. The programme includes a dedicated professional development course in Year 3 to equip you with the skills to secure a placement or job. Furthermore, the active Computer Club offers additional opportunities for practical engagement and networking.
Employment Stats:
The university has an outstanding record, with 96% of graduates in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation. For computing courses, the average salary for graduates after 15 months is £29,000, rising to £44,000 after five years, demonstrating strong long-term earning potential.
Industry Partnerships:
The course is designed with input from an Industrial Advisory Board (IAB) featuring companies like IBM, HSBC, and Adobe. To build strong professional links, we offer three-month summer placements and one-year placements with local SMEs and large corporates.
Graduation Outcomes:
You will graduate with a substantial portfolio of practical work from a programme ranked in the top 20 in the UK for Computer Science and Information Systems (Guardian University Guide 2025). This includes experience from an independent software engineering project and potential prize-winning academic performance.
Further Academic Progression:
Completing your BSc (Hons) at Stirling is just the beginning. The university offers a clear pathway for further study, including specialised Master's degrees (MSc) in areas like Advanced Computing with Artificial Intelligence or Artificial Intelligence itself. The strong research culture within the division, which is part of the Scottish Informatics and Computer Science Alliance (SICSA), also provides an excellent foundation for those interested in pursuing a PhD and contributing to cutting-edge research.
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), TOEFL iBT: 78 (minimum 17 in Writing and Listening, 18 in Reading and 20 in Speaking).A Levels: BBB for Year 1 entry and ABB for Year 2 entry International Baccalaureate (IB): 28 points for Year 1 entry and 32 points for Year 2 entry GCSE: Grade 4/C in English Language and MathematicsEssential subjects for Year 2 entry: Subjects to include Computing and relevant experience of Java or other programming languages.Year 12 Grade from the following state boards: CBSE/ISC/ICSE, Metro state boards (Delhi, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal): cumulative score of 65% for Year 1 entry and 75% for Year 2 entry.USA curriculum: High School Diploma with a minimum overall average of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale, minimum B average), and one letter of reference. Test-optional, If submitting test scores: ACT composite score of 26 or above (with no individual section below 24), SAT - Post March 2016: Score 1200, Two AP tests at grade 3 or above (taken in junior or senior year of high school), or Two SAT II subject tests with 550-600 in eachSoftware DeveloperApplications DeveloperWeb DeveloperSystems AnalystIT ConsultantDevOps EngineerData EngineerCybersecurity AnalystSoftware Quality Assurance EngineerAI/ML Engineer
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University of Stirling
