BSc (Hons) in Applied Software Development

What is special about this course?

Did you know that artificial intelligence and data analytics are being used by IBM to support rhino conservation in Africa? Or that IBM Blockchain is used to trace products through a supply chain, from farm to fork, reducing the risk of food-borne illness and fraud? Do you want to be involved in creating software that helps solve a range of global challenges just like this?

In collaboration with IBM, we have created this innovative BSc (Hons) Applied Software Development degree to help you develop the skills, knowledge, creativity and confidence to be successful within this field. Replicating modern software development practices, you will work in teams throughout the programme. Set entirely online, a typical day will begin with a short meeting to set the team’s priorities, allowing you to manage your time between practical work, directed learning and scheduled tutorials. You will work to develop a portfolio that will be attractive to employers; this will be used by your tutors to assess your individual contribution to each project. Team work will be supported by an annual boot camp delivered at the start of each academic year. You will have access to world-class technical input from professional mentors and guest speakers, and be encouraged to develop individual expertise and industry contacts.

Special features

• Access the latest technologies, supported by IBM, one of the largest technology consulting companies in the world

• A programme of guest speakers, industry mentors from around the globe and enhanced IBM Cloud access will complement your learning

• Learn how to apply software to real-world challenges across a wide range of industries and communities

Content

Year 1 - CertHE
You will work with projects, building your foundational skills and introducing you to Agile practices.

Core concepts covered:

• Principles of programming

• Applied algorithms and data structures

• Creativity through patterns

• Continuous development and integration

• Databases

• Data languages

Year 2 - DipHE
You will work on industry-related projects and develop your portfolio of work.

Core concepts covered:

• Multiplatform development

• Software services

• Software architecture

• Software quality assurance

• Data transformation

• Data as a service

Year 3 - BSc
You will explore the start and end of the software development lifecycle, looking at lean methodologies, and how businesses use data to inform their actions.

Core concepts covered:

• Industrial software design

• User experience design

• Releasing a minimum viable product

• Software release management

• Insight from data

• Data-led decision making

Year 4 - BSc (Hons)
You will work on a single product, looking at a project and technical considerations including business planning and finding investors.

Core concepts covered:

• Large software challenge

• Long-tail of the software lifecycle

• Enterprise transformation

• Applied research

What can I do on completion of my course?

Once you have successfully completed BSc (Hons) Applied Software Development, you may wish to pursue a career in the following fields:

• Software developer
• Games developer
• Software testing
• Web development
• Database administrator
• Technical project manager
• Start-up founder