Software Engineering (with a year in industry) BSc (Hons)

Program Overview

Liverpool Hope University's Software Engineering program equips students with the knowledge and skills to design, develop, and maintain complex software systems. Through a rigorous curriculum, hands-on projects, and a year-long industrial placement, graduates gain a comprehensive understanding of software engineering principles and practices, preparing them for successful careers in the field. The program emphasizes teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, ensuring graduates are well-rounded professionals ready to meet the demands of the industry.

Program Outline

Software Engineering (with a year in industry) BSc (Hons) at Liverpool Hope University

Degree Overview

Overview

This Software Engineering program at Liverpool Hope University provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to design, develop, and maintain complex software systems. With a strong emphasis on practical experience and industry relevance, the program prepares graduates for rewarding careers in the software engineering field.

Objectives

The program aims to:

• Equip students with a comprehensive understanding of software engineering principles and practices.
• Develop strong programming skills in multiple languages including Python, C++, Java, and Lua.
• Introduce students to various software development methodologies, such as Agile and traditional approaches.
• Foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical abilities.
• Emphasize teamwork and communication skills, essential for success in collaborative software projects.
The Software Engineering program at Liverpool Hope University offers a rigorous and engaging curriculum covering theoretical and practical aspects of the field. Students gain hands-on experience through individual and group projects, allowing them to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios. The program also features a dedicated year-long industrial placement, offering practical experience and industry networking opportunities. This immersive experience equips students with valuable professional skills and industry insights, enhancing their career prospects.

Outline

Content and Structure

The program consists of a four-year curriculum divided into clear stages:

• Year 1: Introduces the fundamentals of computer science, including programming principles, structured problem solving, basic web development, and computer systems architecture.
• Year 3: Students embark on a year-long industrial placement, working within a professional software development environment and gaining valuable industry experience.
• Year 4: Focuses on advanced topics such as cybersecurity, web innovations, IoT and mobile development, advanced database technologies, software management, software architecture, cloud computing, and dissertation research.

Course Schedule

The program features a balanced schedule of lectures, seminars, and tutorials, with a typical teaching volume of 12 hours per week in the first year. The remaining years see a slightly reduced workload of around 10 weekly teaching hours. This allows students ample time for independent study, group project work, and industry placement activities.

Individual Modules

Each year of the program is composed of specific modules that delve into various aspects of software engineering. Here is a breakdown:

Year 1:

• Professional Skills
• Structured Problem Solving
• Database Technology
• Python Programming
• Computer Systems Foundations

Year 2:

• Object-Oriented Programming with C++
• Professional Skills
• Software Engineering
• Algorithm Analysis and Design
• Networks
• Human-computer Interaction
• Graphics with C++

Year 3:

• Industry Placement

Year 4:

• Web Innovations
• IoT and Mobile Development
• Advanced Database
• Managing Software Deployment
• Software Management
• Software Architecture
• Cloud Computing
• Cybersecurity

Assessment

Assessment Methods:

The program utilizes various assessment methods to gauge student understanding and application of knowledge. These methods include:

• Written examinations
• Portfolios of tasks and activities
• Practical coursework
• Dissertation research project
• Industry placement reports

Assessment Criteria:

Assessments are evaluated based on set criteria that evaluate students' ability to:

• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of relevant concepts and principles.
• Apply their knowledge effectively to solve practical problems.
• Communicate their ideas clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing.
• Work effectively in collaborative settings.
• Display critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills.

Teaching

Teaching Methods:

The program incorporates various teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and ensure comprehensive understanding. These methods include:

• Interactive lectures: Delivered by experienced faculty members with extensive industry experience.
• Engaging seminars: Encourage active participation, discussion, and clarification of complex topics.
• Industry placement supervision: Provides personalized feedback and mentorship during the year-long placement experience.

Faculty:

The program boasts a diverse and experienced faculty with extensive expertise in various software engineering sub-fields. Many faculty members actively engage in industry and research activities, ensuring that the curriculum is current and reflects the latest industry trends.

Unique Approaches:

The program features a unique approach to software engineering education:

• Year-long industrial placement: Allows students to gain valuable professional experience and develop industry-relevant skills.
• Industry-focused curriculum: Covers current tools, technologies, and methodologies used within the software engineering industry.
• Emphasis on problem-solving: Students engage in real-world problems and project scenarios throughout the program.
• Strong focus on teamwork and communication: Prepares graduates for collaborative working environments.

Careers

Career Paths

Graduates of the Software Engineering program are well-equipped to pursue diverse and rewarding careers in the software industry. Potential career paths include:

• Software Engineer
• Software Developer
• Applications Developer
• Web Developer
• Mobile App Developer
• Data Scientist
• Systems Analyst
• Database Administrator

Career Opportunities

Graduates are highly sought-after by various organizations, including:

• Large IT corporations
• Software development startups
• Government agencies
• Financial institutions
• Healthcare organizations

Career Outcomes

The program boasts a high graduate employment rate, with most graduates securing relevant positions within the software engineering industry. The program's strong industry connections and year-long placement experience equip graduates with a competitive edge and enhance their job prospects.

Other

Service and Leadership Award (SALA)

This extra-curricular program supplements the academic experience by engaging students in service activities, developing leadership skills, and preparing them for the rapidly changing professional landscape.

• The tuition fees for the 2024/25 academic year are £9,250 for full-time undergraduate courses.
• If you are a student from the Isle of Man or the Channel Islands, your tuition fees will also be £9,250.
• The University reserves the right to increase Home and EU Undergraduate and PGCE tuition fees in line with any inflationary or other increase authorised by the Secretary of State for future years of study.
• The International Tuition fees for 2024/25 are £12,500.