HND Computing (Software Engineering)

Program Overview

This HND Computing (Software Engineering) program at Bradford College equips students with foundational software engineering knowledge and practical skills. The curriculum emphasizes transferable skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability. It prepares graduates for careers in software development, data analytics, and other related fields, with opportunities for vendor-accredited certifications. The program includes industry events and visits, connecting students with potential career paths.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This HND Computing (Software Engineering) (HTQ) course at Bradford College provides a broad introduction to software engineering. The program aims to equip students with a sound knowledge of foundational computer network concepts, including hands-on practical experience. Students will develop skills in accurate and appropriate communication, and cultivate qualities necessary for employment requiring personal responsibility. Beyond technical skills, the course emphasizes transferable skills such as effective teamwork, independent initiative, problem-solving, adaptability, resilience under pressure, and meeting challenging targets. The curriculum prepares graduates for careers in software engineering, data analytics, security, intelligent systems, applications development, and testing. Opportunities to achieve vendor-accredited certifications are also available. The program includes a series of events featuring industry experts and visiting academics, as well as "Tech Talks" with industry specialists and an annual Student Conference with presentations from successful alumni.

Outline:

The program covers principles and practices of the contemporary global computing environment; organizational structures and operations; CPD, staff development, leadership, and reflective practice; computing and computer applications; software development, networking, and media systems; technology interrelation and communication; programming and coding skills; and client relationship management. Specific modules include:

• Programming
• Networking
• Professional Practice
• Database Design and Development
• Security
• Planning a Computing Project
• Software Development Lifecycles
• Website Design and Development
• Computing Research Project
• Business Process Support
• Data Structures and Algorithms
• Applied Programming and Design Principles
• User Experience and Interface Design
• Database Management Systems
The course duration is two academic years, and it's a full-time, Level 5 Higher Education program.

Assessment:

Careers:

The program prepares students for careers as Programmers and Software Development Professionals. These professionals design, develop, test, implement, and maintain software systems across various platforms to meet business objectives. They also design and develop specialized software (e.g., for computer games). The text indicates that with experience, graduates can expect to earn around £41,788 per year or £23.14 per hour. In Bradford, there are approximately 1,543 people in this profession, with around 52 expected vacancies annually. The Computing team plans visits to various conferences, seminars, and events, including IPExpo in Manchester, Leeds Tech User Group, Tech Huddle in Manchester, Leeds Digital Job Fair, UK World Skills, and JISC Digifest. These trips aim to connect theory with practice and expose students to potential career paths. A programme specification document is available for download (PDF, 421KB).