BSc (Hons) Software Engineering

What you will study

YEAR 1 (LEVEL 4) 

In your first year, you’ll build essential skills in software and web development through hands-on projects and case studies. Learn programming, use agile methodology and industry tools while enhancing teamwork, problem-solving, and professionalism.

MODULES

• Programming Fundamentals: This module introduces fundamental programming concepts using a contemporary programming language. Upon completion, you will understand programming's role, syntax, and logic within your subject area and apply fundamental techniques to solve contextual problems effectively.
• Computer Systems and Architecture: This module provides a comprehensive understanding of computer systems and their architecture. It covers hardware, software, and their interactions, providing you with a strong foundation in computer architecture and the practical knowledge of system components and functionalities.
• Information Security and Governance: This module equips you with the knowledge, skills, and professional mindset to address complex information security challenges, ensure governance, and protect organisational information assets. It emphasises regulatory frameworks and their implementation through policies and procedures in a digital context.
• Applied Computational Methods: This module introduces the computational and mathematical concepts essential for applications in computer science, software engineering, and cybersecurity. It emphasises the relevance of these concepts in computing and the broader digital industries, aiming to enhance both cognitive and practical skills related to the field of computing.
• Software Development Methodologies: This module provides a comprehensive introduction to fundamental software development methodologies and their significance in software projects. It covers the software development life cycle (SDLC), its phases, and agile approaches, while analysing the characteristics, advantages, and limitations of various methodologies. Additionally, the module equips you to evaluate the suitability of different methodologies for specific project types and organisational contexts.
• Database Systems: This module provides comprehensive knowledge and skills for designing and implementing efficient database schemas and structures using SQL, with a strong emphasis on ensuring data security and integrity. It also develops proficiency in leveraging advanced SQL techniques to perform complex queries, enabling effective data retrieval, manipulation, and data management within database systems. 

YEAR 2 (LEVEL 5) 

In Year 2, you'll deepen your programming skills and tackle advanced software and web development projects. Learn large-scale software methodologies, project management, and agile teamwork while addressing ethical, social, and sustainability challenges. Refine employability skills like communication and organisation, preparing you to deliver innovative, professional solutions in the digital industries.

MODULES

• Group Project: This module offers essential industry-simulated experience, equipping you to manage tasks, challenges, and scenarios encountered in real-world, group-based digital projects. You will develop skills in organisation, communication, and coordination while focusing on the design, development, and implementation of a digital product aligned with professional methodologies and real-world contexts.
• Systems Engineering and Project Management: This module explores the concepts and practices essential for managing complex digital projects, emphasising the application of systems engineering principles.
• Cloud, Distributed Architecture: This module introduces the concepts, principles, and technologies underpinning cloud computing, distributed architectures, and security.
• Secure Software Development: This module equips you with a deep understanding of software security fundamentals and its critical role in modern applications. You will identify risks and consequences of insecure development practices while familiarising yourself with industry-standard methodologies for secure software development. Key topics include secure coding practices, design principles, SDLC models, and security testing techniques such as penetration testing and vulnerability scanning 
• Full-Stack Development
• User Experience Design 

YEAR 3 (LEVEL 6) 

In your final year, you’ll showcase your expertise through innovative projects, solving real-world challenges with cutting-edge tools. Develop advanced technical, design, and problem-solving skills, while tackling ethical, social, and sustainability issues. With industry-aligned training and hands-on experience, you’ll graduate ready to lead and thrive in the ever-evolving tech world. 

MODULES

• Project: The project module is designed to prepare you for the tasks and challenges that you may encounter in the workplace after your graduation. Its objectives are to equip you with the skills to independently plan, manage, and report on a substantial, long-term project, apply theoretical knowledge from taught modules to practical, real-world problems, and critically evaluate diverse and often conflicting information from manuals, books, and research journals. The project offers an opportunity to specialise in an area aligned with your personal interests and degree program, enhancing your expertise and career readiness.
• Cryptography and Defensive Systems: This module provides a comprehensive understanding of cryptography and defensive systems, blending theoretical foundations with practical applications. You will explore core principles and techniques, including encryption algorithms, cryptographic protocols, and key management. Additionally, the module covers advanced defensive strategies to safeguard sensitive information and secure communication channels.
• Emergent Technologies: This module equips you with a deep understanding of emerging technologies and their transformative impact on the field of computing. It examines cutting-edge innovations, their foundational principles, and real-world applications. You will develop the skills to critically evaluate and effectively apply these technologies in practical contexts.
• Software Development and Optimisation: This module equips you with programming skills in widely used software development languages, fostering the ability to create efficient, maintainable, and scalable code. It offers a comprehensive understanding of the software development lifecycle, from requirements analysis to maintenance, while covering optimisation techniques, algorithms, and data structures. You will master debugging, troubleshooting, and performance enhancement to deliver high-quality software solutions.
• DevOps: This module focuses on DevOps, a modern approach that unites software development and IT operations to streamline and enhance software delivery. You will explore key DevOps stages, including planning, coding, building, testing, deployment, operation, and monitoring, all within the context of software product development.

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal academic framework review, so may be subject to change.

Entry requirements & applying

The academic requirements for the course are 96-112 UCAS tariff points at GCE A-level or equivalent, including IT, computing, maths or physics. 

Applicants who do not meet the criteria above will be assessed on an individual basis by interview.

Teaching & Assessment

Teaching 

This course leverages cutting-edge industry tools and software, paired with innovative teaching methods, to equip students with industry-relevant skills and empower them to excel. Staff fully embrace the Active Learning Framework (ALF), enhancing the teaching and learning experience through diverse, dynamic methods.

The programme integrates core project modules simulating cross-disciplinary industry practices with subject-specific modules, offering theoretical and practical expertise. Students engage in active learning sessions, industry talks, workshops, and practical exercises while exploring emerging technologies and industry best practices.

Most undergraduate modules, apart from the 40-credit final-year project, are 20 credits. Each 20-credit module requires 200 hours of learning, consisting of a small proportion of timetabled sessions, including lectures, labs, workshops, and tutorials, alongside a significant proportion of guided independent study. Staff operate an Open-Door policy, providing flexible support beyond scheduled hours.

Assessment 

Aligned with the Active Learning Framework (ALF), the programmes employ innovative, context-driven assessment strategies that integrate portfolio-building exercises to enhance student achievement and employability. Cloud-based systems track and manage student progress in projects, ensuring transparency in group work and simulating an industry environment to deepen professional awareness.

Assessments focus on mastery of skills and knowledge, adopting a tailored approach supported by formative activities such as self-reflection, peer assessments, and targeted feedback. For coursework and portfolio-based modules, milestone reviews provide personalised feedback, keeping students on track to meet learning outcomes and deliverables.

Modules with embedded industry certifications include preparatory coursework submissions for feedback, ensuring readiness for final assessments. These assessments align with certification requirements and may involve remote proctored in-class evaluations, bridging academic and industry standards to strengthen student employability.

Assessments encompass a diverse range of methods, including: 

• Coursework and Projects: Assignments and projects provide hands-on experience, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. This may include software development projects, research papers, or problem-solving tasks. 
• Coding Assignments: Practical coding assignments assess your programming skills, logical reasoning, and ability to develop efficient and effective code. 
• Group Projects: Collaborative projects evaluate teamwork, communication, and the ability to work in diverse teams, reflecting the collaborative nature of the tech industry. 
• Presentations: You may be required to present your findings, solutions, or project outcomes, enhancing your communication and presentation skills. 
• Laboratory Work: Practical sessions in computer labs assess your ability to apply concepts, troubleshoot issues, and work with various tools and technologies. 
• Problem-solving Exercises: These exercises challenge you to solve complex problems, encouraging critical thinking and analytical skills. 
• Reports and Documentation: Writing reports or documenting project processes assesses your ability to communicate technical information clearly and concisely. 

Personalised Support      

The department follows a well-established open-door approach, actively interacting with students, alumni, and industry stakeholders. Essential information and communication avenues are facilitated through tools like Teams and Moodle. Additionally, every student is assigned a personal tutor, fostering regular meetings, while additional personalised support is extended to part-time students through the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). 

Career prospects

Our dedicated Careers and Employability team is committed to helping you achieve your professional goals. They provide personalised advice, useful resources, and extracurricular employability events to prepare you for the job market.

Graduates of this course can pursue careers in: 

• Software Engineer
• Applications Engineer
• Information Systems Manager
• Software Architect
• Systems Analyst
• Data Analyst
• Web Developer
• Mobile App Developer
• IT Consultant
• IT Project Manager
• DevOps Engineer

Additionally, you may choose to further your expertise through postgraduate studies. Explore our postgraduate courses for more information.

Fees & funding

You do not have to pay your tuition fees upfront.

The fees you pay and the support available will depend on a number of different factors. Full information can be found on our fees & finance pages. You will also find information about what your fees include in the fee FAQs.

All fees are subject to any changes in government policy, view our undergraduate fees.

For international students looking to study this course please see our international fees.

Programme specification

Accommodation

At Wrexham University, we offer on-campus en-suite rooms within our Wrexham Student Village. These private, fully furnished spaces are conveniently located, providing easy access to campus facilities, study areas, and social spaces. Plus, you’re just a 10-minute walk from the city centre!

With all bills included, free Wi-Fi, 24/7 security, and large social areas, you’ll find everything you need for a great student experience.

Explore our student accommodation options to find your perfect home away from home.

International

If you are applying as an European / International Student, and live outside of the UK, you should make your application through our online application system, Centurus.

For information about the university’s entry requirements for EU/international students, please visit our international section.