FdSc Software Engineering
About the course
This Foundation degree will prepare the student for a specialist role as a Software Engineer, On successful completion the candidate may progress to Level 6 BSc (Hons) in Digital & Technology Solutions (subject to validation).
At level 4, Modules will cover the main areas of computer science and information technology, including programming, security, maths and systems design, giving the student a breadth of experience which is shared with students entering at level 4, who will go on to study specialist pathways at Level 5.
This specialist pathway will include design build and test of software solutions, application of engineering principles to all stages of the software development process, including security robustness. Students will undertake analysis and design to create artefacts, perform actions and tests to improve quality and efficiency, and produce tools for configuration management, version control and software build. The student will also learn how to work in teams and collaborate with others, having significant responsibility for elements of software projects in their role.
Students will learn about a wide range of professional and transferable skills, including professional behaviours needed in the workplace, as well as application of academic skills to the workplace. To this end the programme structure includes modules of work based learning at level four and a project module at level five that is also work based, allowing students to connect to real life, real work situations and opportunities to enhance their understanding and professional competence, making them valuable employees.
The course will benefit from links to the professional workplace including guest speakers.
This course sits within a suite of four Foundation Degrees, all designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and professional behaviours to enter or progress in the field of professional computing.
Assessments will include a range of work including, portfolios, artefacts, presentations as well as reports and open book exams to support students in providing many forms of evidence for academic and professional development, and these assessment methods are reflective of real work situations. Students will gain further understanding of the importance of effective communication both with external clients and within a team situation, and will be encouraged to practice these skills throughout the course.
YEAR 1 Titles of Modules:
DT4001 Computers and Security
DT4002 Principles of Programming
DT4003 Maths for Data Science
DT4004 Systems Design & Development
DT4005 Independent Work-Based Project
YEAR 2 Titles of Modules:
DT5010 Professional Issues
DT5011 Managing the Security of Information
DT5012 Agile Development
DT5013 Further Programming
DT5014 Supervised Professional Work Experience
DT5020 Object-orientated Software Engineering
DT5021 Algorithms and Data Structures
Entry requirements
Extended Diploma or other Full equivalent Level 3 qualification, in a discipline related to IT Engineering, with a minimum grade of DMM.
OR
Three A Level passes at Grades BBC or above, in a relevant subject such as Computer Science, Maths or I.T.
PLUS
A minimum of three GCSE passes (grades 4 or above) to include Mathematics at grade 5 or equivalent and English Language.
Where next?
On completion of the Foundation Degree, students may wish to enter into a variety of computing roles where a Network Engineering qualification is desirable.
Those already in professional roles may progress into more senior positions. Students may also wish to progress into further study at level 6, gaining a full BSc degree in a computing discipline (subject to individual providers entry criteria)
What additional resources will I need?
Additional costs may include students own electronic storage devices, books, subscriptions or memberships other than those available through the college library.
Fees information
Find Student Finance Information on the Government website.
Contact
If you would like any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us by emailing HEAdmissions@newcollege.ac.uk