Back view of two students using a computer, one pointing something out on the monitor to the other
BSc (Hons) Placement year available

Software Development

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

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.

Course options

Course options

Key facts

Looking for different course options?

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.

Careers

A degree in Software Development can prepare you for a range of careers, from software developer to data analyst to database administrator.

As a software developer, you would be responsible for designing and building software applications using various programming languages. You could specialise in front-end development, working on user interfaces and designing user experiences, or back-end development, working on the behind-the-scenes infrastructure that supports software applications.

You could also consider pursuing a career in mobile app development, game development, or web development.

As a data analyst, you would analyse large sets of data to identify patterns, trends, and insights that can inform business decisions.

As a database administrator, you would be responsible for managing and maintaining databases, ensuring they operate efficiently and securely.

You could also consider pursuing a career in cybersecurity, working to protect software applications from security threats and breaches.

These are just a few of the many potential career paths available to software development graduates. With the increasing importance of software in our digital world, a degree in software development can open up a range of exciting career opportunities.

Graduation doesn’t have to be the end of your time with us. You might decide to stay at ARU and study for a Masters. We’re planning a range of postgraduate degrees at ARU Peterborough, and there is a selection of existing courses in Cambridge and Chelmsford.

Employability and personal career development

Informed by employers, our courses support an integrated approach to employability. You’ll have opportunities to develop the skills and abilities they are looking for and gain a deeper understanding of how your academic learning relates to the world of work through Live Briefs and Ruskin Modules.

To amplify your career ambition, you will need to actively dedicate time outside of your studies, whether you choose to explore placements, internships or volunteering. Or you could make a social impact by collaborating with our partner organisations through our volunteer scheme Students at the Heart of Knowledge Exchange (SHoKE). These all give you an edge, providing you with experience that you will be able to evidence on your CV and talk about in interviews.

Our Employability and Careers Service offers a range of expert advice and support to build your unique professional profile, including tailored career appointments, advice on writing your CV, and help to complete job applications. You’ll have 24/7 access to the Careers Centre, our comprehensive online digital resource, which empowers you to start building a Personal Career Development Plan from the very start. Design your future at ARU.

ARU Peterborough Software Development student Kazim

Kazim

“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

BSc (Hons) Software Development student

Entry Requirements

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Fees and Paying for University

Apply for Software Development

UK students

Visit UCAS to apply

International students

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Key Theatre Peterborough

Life in Peterborough

Study in the heart of Peterborough, a historic yet thriving city that's a great home for students. ARU Peterborough is easily accessible by public transport, making it ideal for you to live and study locally.

Get to know Peterborough
Engineering student Nadanum

Placement year available

You have the option to take a placement year as part of this course. It’s a great chance to get hands-on experience in the industry you want to work in.

Your guide to placements