Computing (Software Engineering) (Full-time) (HND)
Our Higher National Diploma (HND) in Software Engineering offers a practical, industry-focused education designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in today’s technology-driven world. The programme focuses on providing a solid foundation in software development, programming, and system design, while also preparing you to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving software engineering landscape.
Led by a team of academics with extensive industry experience, this course combines theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. You will benefit from their expertise and insights, gaining a comprehensive understanding of current industry trends, tools, and practices. From the very beginning, you will learn in a hands-on environment using specialist labs and industry-standard software development tools.
Throughout the course, you will develop essential computing and programming skills, starting with a broad foundation before progressing into more specialized areas of software engineering. You’ll master key principles in software design, development methodologies, and project management, enabling you to design and implement complex software systems. The curriculum also integrates full-stack development, database management, and software architecture to ensure you’re equipped with the full range of skills necessary for the modern workplace.
Our HND is designed to foster employability through a focus on practical, project-based learning. You will work on real-world projects that simulate industry challenges, providing hands-on experience with technologies used in today’s software companies. These practical assignments, combined with an emphasis on teamwork and problem-solving, will ensure you graduate with the confidence and skills needed to thrive in the software engineering industry.
Upon completion of the programme, you will be ready to pursue various career opportunities in software development, system design, and project management, or progress to a higher level of study. Whether you aim to enter the workforce immediately or continue your academic journey, the HND in Software Engineering will provide the technical expertise and practical experience to set you up for success.
Course details
- On-campus
- Full-time
- English
- Bilingual
Tuition Fees 24/25
Home (Full-time): £9,000 per year
Overseas (Full-time): £13,500 per year
Why choose this course?
What you will learn
We believe in hands-on, practical learning combined with strong theoretical foundations. Our teaching approach ensures you gain industry-relevant skills, preparing you to excel in real-world environments.
In your first year, you will learn the basics of programming languages, software development techniques, and software engineering principles. You will develop foundational problem-solving skills and gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies.
Compulsory
(20 credits)
(20 credits)
(20 credits)
(20 credits)
(20 credits)
(20 credits)
Your second year will focus on advanced data security and compliance and software engineering principles and testing. You will delve into operating systems and advanced software development, enhancing your ability to develop and manage complex software systems.
Compulsory
(20 credits)
(20 credits)
(20 credits)
(20 credits)
(20 credits)
(20 credits)
Course Disclaimer
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We listen to student feedback and insights from industry and from professionals to ensure that course content is high-quality and up-to-date, and that it offers the best possible preparation for your future career or study goals.
For this reason, there might be modifications to the content of your course over time, to keep up to date with changes in the subject area or in the sector. If a module is no longer running, we’ll make sure to keep you informed, and work with you to choose a different suitable module.
testimonial
Staff
Our People
You will be taught and supported by a wide range of professional staff and teams here to help you get the university experience you are looking for. Our teaching staff were ranked 2nd in Wales for Teaching, Assessment and Feedback and Academic Support (NSS 2024) meaning that the support and feedback you get will help you learn and develop strong academic skills. Our students have placed us 1st in Wales for Learning Opportunities and Student Voice (NSS 2024) meaning that there are a wide range of opportunities available to enhance your studies and that students play an active role in shaping their learning experiences. Our commitment to your learning has seen our students place us as 1st in Wales and joint 3rd in the UK for student satisfaction (Times Higher Education, 2024, ‘Overall Positivity’ measure). Find out more about our academic staff who teach across our courses.
Further information
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48 UCAS tariff points (previously 120) to include:
- A-C grade at A-Level/AVCE; or
- BTEC National Diploma/Certificate/Award - Pass; or
- NVQ Level 3 - Pass.
Subjects at Advanced Level should include Maths, ICT, Physics or similar.
GCSE Maths grade C or above is preferred.Grades are important; however, our offers are not solely based on academic results. We are interested in creative people that demonstrate a strong commitment to their chosen subject area and therefore we welcome applications from individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. To assess student suitability for their chosen course we normally arrange interviews for all applicants at which your skills, achievements and life experience will be considered as well as your qualifications.
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The School of Applied Computing aims to produce graduates that help shape the future of software engineering. The course content is contemporary and shaped for employability through close links with local and national employers.
Students are assessed through a combination of worksheets, practicals, presentations, projects and examinations. Module assessment is often by assignment, or assignment and examination. The final mark for some modules may include one or more pieces of coursework set and completed during the module. Project work is assessed by a written report and presentation.
Students are encouraged to use our links with Software Alliance Wales and Go Wales to work on commercial schemes for their Major Project module. Go Wales provides the opportunity of paid work placements with local businesses.
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It is possible to complete this programme of study without any additional costs.
Students may wish to purchase materials for modules, such as Major Project but this is not a requirement and will have no bearing on the final grade.
Placement
There will be an additional fee of £1800 for students who choose to study the programme with the optional year in industry placement.
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You may be eligible for funding to help support your study. To find out about scholarships, bursaries and other funding opportunities that are available, please visit our Bursaries and Scholarships section.
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Our graduates have excellent employment prospects in the computing, teaching, lecturing and ICT industry, as well as in other areas of the economy. Recent statistics show that the vast majority are following their chosen career paths within six months of graduating.
Graduates would seek positions as, for example, Physics Programmer, Software Engineer, Software Developer, Software Tester and IT Build Manager.