Program Overview

Digital and Software Technology

Overview

This DipHE programme addresses a skills shortage in the general area of ‘digital’ and software technology. The programme will provide you with a broad set of skills suitable for technical roles in which you can implement software solutions that enable businesses to develop new products and services, and increase productivity using selected digital technologies.

Introduction

This DipHE programme addresses a skills shortage in the general area of ‘digital’ and software technology. The programme will provide you with a broad set of skills suitable for technical roles in the digital and software sectors. Successful students will be able to implement software solutions that enable businesses to develop new products and services and increase productivity using selected digital and software technologies.

What is a 'DipHE'?

A Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE) at Level 5 is awarded after two years of full-time study at university. Our DipHE programmes are hands-on and practical, with flexible learning options available so you can choose to study full or part time.

Course Details

Year One

• Agile Methods, Software Technologies and Operations
• Computer System Fundamentals
• Introduction to Business Intelligence
• Introduction to Networking
• Programming with Python
• Web Technologies and Databases

Year Two

• Data Analysis
• DevOps
• Digital Leadership and Management
• Digital Technologies, System Design and Management
• Introduction to Cyber Security
• Agile Design Group Project

Teaching

• Lectures are used to cover the basic technical principles that underpin the core content of each module.
• Practical workshops are used to enable you to put theory into practice and develop your technical practical skills in configuring and managing industry-standard broadcast and network technology.
• Computer laboratories are to teach software development (programming) using an integrated programming environment.
• A group project is used to apply software development processes to build a software solution.
• Industry seminars supplement the academic teaching with external industry-based speakers who explain how what is being studied has a real-world application within the industry.

Assessment

A variety of assessments are used within this programme including:

• Practical assessments
• Written assignments
• Oral presentations
• Examinations

Employment and Stats

This course will lend you the skills required to access roles in a breadth of digital roles, for example:

• IT Technician
• Software Developer
• Business Analyst
• Cyber Security Specialist
• Data Analyst
• Solution Architect
• Operations Manager

Requirements

Applicant Profile

You will have a keen interest, curiosity and passion for technology, especially related to the technical aspects of digital and software products and services. You will have an enthusiasm for computer programming, and probably have good IT skills, as well as an interest in understanding how things work at a technical level. You might already have experience of working in industry in another sector or be coming directly from school or college.

English Language Requirements

International applicants will be required to show a proficiency in English. An IELTS score of 6.0 (with no element below 5.5) is proof of this. If you need to improve your written and spoken English, you might be interested in our English language courses.

Standard Entry Requirements

• GCSE: English Language and Mathematics at grade C/level 4 or above (or equivalent).
• UCAS tariff points: 72 points
• A level: 72 points (DDD) - must include A-level Computer Science
• BTEC National Diploma: MMP in Computing or IT-related subject. Other engineering or science-related subjects may be accepted with distinctions in the Mathematics units.
• BTEC Higher National Diploma: Merit / Merit in Computing or IT-related subject
• Access to HE: 72 points in Access to HE Computing
• Scottish Highers: 72 points - must include Computer Science
• Irish Leaving Certificate: 72 points - must include Computer Science
• European Baccalaureate: Please contact our Admissions team
• International Baccalaureate: Please contact our Admissions team

Accreditation of Prior Learning

An applicant who does not possess one of the qualifications which satisfies the General Academic Entry Requirement may be considered through the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) (both Certified Prior Learning and/or one Prior Experiential Learning) as per the University’s Admissions and Retention Policy.

Alternative Entry Requirements

Salford Alternative Entry Scheme (SAES)

We positively welcome applications from students who may not meet the stated entry criteria but who can demonstrate their ability to successfully pursue a programme of study in higher education.

Tuition Fees

• Full-time home: £9,535 per year (2025/26)
• Part-time: Part time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis

Additional Costs

You should consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general sustenance on trips and visits.