Overview

Building large, reliable software systems takes more than just programming ability, it requires professional engineering discipline applied to how systems are designed, tested and maintained. The BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Software Engineering) at the University of Hertfordshire builds a broad computer science foundation before specialising in software architecture, quality and industry-standard development practices, with teaching shaped by real industry collaboration. Based in Spectra, the university's new home for physics, engineering and computer science, the course is accredited by BCS and offers strong ties to major technology employers alongside optional work placements or study abroad. It suits students who want deep technical expertise in software engineering, with the flexibility to switch to a related computer science pathway after the first year.

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What You'll Learn

• Programming, discrete structures and the mathematical foundations of computer science

• Algorithms, data structures and large-scale, object-oriented software development

• Databases, operating systems, networks and computer architecture

• Industry-standard tools and techniques, including version control and software testing

• Software architecture and design patterns for building complex systems

• Software quality, measurement and how to evaluate code against defined standards

• Advanced programming paradigms across multiple languages

• An individual final-year project addressing a real software engineering challenge

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Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to apply professional software engineering principles to analyse, design, develop and evaluate complex computer-based systems. They will be equipped to use industry-standard tools and techniques, including version control, testing and software quality metrics, to build reliable, maintainable software. Through team-based projects and an individual final-year project, students will develop strong technical, problem-solving and professional skills mirroring real software engineering practice. Graduates will leave with a BCS-accredited, industry-relevant skill set, well prepared for careers as software engineers, systems designers or project managers across a wide range of sectors.