Back view of two students using a computer, one pointing something out on the monitor to the other
BSc (Hons) Available in Clearing

Software Development

Learn to design and build software applications, websites and mobile apps using a variety of programming languages.

Start date
September 2025
Location
Peterborough
Duration
3 years
UCAS course code
I303

Start date
September 2025
Location
Peterborough
Duration
4 years with foundation
UCAS course code
I305

Start date
September 2025
Location
Peterborough
Duration
4 years with placement
UCAS course code
I304

It’s possible to combine placement and foundation year options. Contact us to discuss what you can do, or choose your preferred option when you apply.

1st

in the East of England for undergraduates employed as managers, directors or senior officials.

Source: GOS

Explore various areas of software development, including software architecture, user interface design, software testing and quality assurance, and database management, and gain hands-on experience through team-based projects, placements, and industry-partner Live Briefs.

You’ll develop skills in problem-solving, critical thinking and collaboration while working on industry-standard equipment and software, which will help open doors to a range of career opportunities upon graduation.

Why ARU?
  • Study in Peterborough, a globally recognised ‘smart city’ with a gigabit network

  • Work in dedicated computing labs, using industry-standard kit

  • Choose a degree that’s been co-created with employers so you graduate with in-demand skills

  • Build practical experience thrugh Live Briefs from industry partners

  • Benefit from small class sizes, so we’ll know you and understand how to support you

Logo: THE Awards 2023
 

Study at an award-winning university

We were named Times Higher Education University of the Year 2023. We've also been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework – a reflection of the outstanding education we offer our students.

Careers

Kazim Raffiq-Fazal sitting in a computer lab, facing the camera

The Software Development degree has allowed me to embrace my passion for software engineering and iterate my skills so that I am confident in finding employment in this field.

Kazim Raffiq-Fazal, BSc (Hons) Software Development graduate

A degree in software development can open up a range of exciting career opportunities, from software developer to data analyst to database administrator.

We co-created this course with employers, so you can be confident that you’ll graduate with the skills they need. Peterborough is a globally recognised ‘smart city’ with a gigabit network, located in Cambridgeshire, the home of ‘Silicon Fen’ – a centre for high-tech companies. What better place to kick-start your career in the IT sector?

Teaching and modules

You’ll start the course by getting to grips with the essentials of software development, database design, computer networking and web design.

In Year 2, you'll step up to applying these methods and principles by analysing, designing, and implementing software solutions.

At the same time, you’ll learn methodologies such as agile and DevOps, and explore machine learning and algorithms.

In your final year, you’ll complete a major research project on a relevant topic that interests you, while continuing to gain knowledge and skills that will future-proof your career.

Modules are subject to change and availability, and may vary by location. If you have the choice of optional modules, these are indicated with a *.

Year 1
  • Programming Fundamentals
  • Relational Database Development Fundamentals
  • Computer Systems and Networking Fundamentals
  • Web Development Fundamentals
  • Into ARU
Year 2
  • Object Oriented Programming Design and Development
  • Becoming an IT Professional
  • Ruskin Module (15 credits)
  • Internet Programming Design and Development
  • Algorithms, Data Structures and Advanced Programming
  • Team Based Project
Year 3
  • Future Tech and Development
  • Developing Legacy Software Systems
  • Full Stack Software Development
  • Development on Cloud Platforms
  • Computing Major Project
Module details

To prepare you for university study, you can take a foundation year at the start of this course. Find out more about foundation years.

Year 1
  • Contemporary Issues
  • Extended Project
  • Literacies in Higher Education
  • Into ARU
Module details

You can choose to take an optional placement year as part of this course. Placements typically happen in Year 3, and your course will take four years overall. Find out more about placement years.

Year 1
  • Programming Fundamentals
  • Relational Database Development Fundamentals
  • Computer Systems and Networking Fundamentals
  • Web Development Fundamentals
  • Into ARU
Module details

It’s possible to combine placement and foundation year options. Contact us to discuss what you can do, or choose your preferred option when you apply.

Read profiles of teaching and research staff on this course.

Facilities

You’ll learn in some of the newest university facilities in the country, at the stunning, purpose-built ARU Peterborough campus, at the heart of the city.

Using industry-standard equipment and software, you’ll spend lots of time in our dedicated computing labs.

Take a guided tour and meet our students.

Entry requirements

Fees and funding

Apply for Software Development

UK students

Clearing places available in Peterborough, apply online

UK students

Call our Clearing line

01245 686868

UK students

Apply through UCAS for 2026

International students

Apply direct