Trending
from apps and websites to large-scale platforms, networks and emerging technologies like AI and robotics. If you enjoy problem-solving, working with logic, and want to help build the future through technology, Software Engineering could be the perfect degree for you.
It’s a practical, hands-on subject with strong links to both computer science and engineering. You’ll learn not only how to write code, but how to build reliable, efficient and secure systems that people use every day.
What Is Software Engineering Like at University?
At university, Software Engineering teaches you how to design software systems in a structured and scalable way. While Computer Science often focuses more on the theory of computing, Software Engineering is usually more applied, with an emphasis on systems architecture, team projects and the engineering process of planning, developing, testing and maintaining software.
You’ll gain experience with different programming languages, learn how to work in development teams, and build everything from small applications to complex systems. It’s ideal for students who are organised, collaborative and interested in both the logic of code and the practical side of how software is used in real life.
What Will You Study?
While exact modules vary by university, most Software Engineering degrees cover a mix of technical, theoretical and practical topics. These often include:
Programming and Software Development
You’ll learn to write code in languages like Python, Java, C++, C#, or JavaScript. You’ll develop small apps, tools and larger systems using industry-standard tools and frameworks.
Software Design and Architecture
You’ll explore how large systems are structured, how components interact, and how to design scalable and maintainable software.
Algorithms and Data Structures
Understanding how to make your code efficient is key. You’ll learn how to handle data, use search and sort algorithms, and optimise performance.
Databases and Information Systems
You’ll learn how to store, retrieve and manage data using relational and non-relational databases, as well as how back-end systems work.
Software Testing and Quality Assurance
You’ll explore methods to test software for bugs, performance issues and security risks, essential for building reliable and professional-level code.
Project Management and Agile Development
Software is often built in teams using frameworks like Agile or Scrum. You’ll learn how to work collaboratively, manage time and communicate within technical teams.
Cybersecurity and Secure Coding
You’ll be introduced to security threats and how to protect systems against them through encryption, secure development practices and threat modelling.
Optional Modules
These may include artificial intelligence, web and mobile app development, game development, cloud computing, machine learning or human-computer interaction.
Many courses include a capstone project or team-based software engineering challenge in the final year, where you’ll build a real product from start to finish.
How Long Does It Take and What Are the Options?
In the UK, Software Engineering is usually offered as a three-year BEng or BSc degree, or a four-year MEng for those wanting a master’s-level qualification. Many universities also offer a year in industry (also known as a “sandwich year”), or a year studying abroad. Scottish degrees are typically four years (or five for an integrated MEng).
Some universities offer Software Engineering as a specialised pathway within a broader Computer Science degree, while others offer it as a stand-alone course focused on professional development and system design.
How Will You Be Taught and Assessed?
You’ll be taught through a mix of lectures, coding labs, tutorials and project-based learning. Assessment is often based on practical assignments, individual and group projects, presentations, and exams. Expect a lot of hands-on time coding, solving problems and building real software — both independently and with others.
What A Levels or Subjects Do You Need?
Mathematics – essential or strongly preferred at most universities
Computer Science – useful but not always required
Further Mathematics or Physics – helpful, especially for more technical or AI-heavy courses
Some universities offer foundation years for students who don’t have a computing background but show potential in maths or science. Coding experience outside school (e.g. self-taught or via online platforms) can also be beneficial when applying.
What Skills Will You Develop?
A Software Engineering degree equips you with both technical and transferable skills, such as:
Coding fluency in multiple programming languages
System design and problem-solving
Software development lifecycle knowledge
Teamwork, version control and agile workflows
Debugging, testing and quality assurance
Project planning and documentation
Communication and collaboration in tech teams
These skills are in extremely high demand in today’s digital economy.
What Can You Do With a Software Engineering Degree?
Software Engineering graduates have excellent career prospects. The demand for skilled software developers is growing worldwide. You could work in:
Software development or systems engineering
App and web development
Cybersecurity and secure systems
Cloud and DevOps engineering
Data science or machine learning
Game development or immersive tech
AI and robotics
Finance, healthcare or government tech roles
IT consulting or digital project management
Many graduates also launch startups or freelance in the tech space. Others go on to postgraduate study in areas like computer science, AI, human-computer interaction or software design.
Studying Software Engineering Abroad
Software Engineering is a global subject, and many universities around the world offer excellent programmes in English. Here’s what to expect in a few key regions:
USA
In the US, Software Engineering is often offered as a major within a four-year Bachelor of Science degree, sometimes under Computer Science or Engineering. You’ll combine your major with general education courses in humanities, writing and social science. Internships and co-op programmes are common, and top universities like MIT, Stanford, Carnegie Mellon and UC Berkeley have world-leading software and computing departments. Expect strong industry connections and exposure to cutting-edge research.
Canada
Canada offers highly regarded Software Engineering and Computer Science programmes, many with co-op options (paid work placements during the degree). Institutions like the University of Waterloo, UBC, McGill and the University of Toronto are known for their tech programmes. Waterloo in particular has one of the strongest reputations for Software Engineering globally, with close links to Silicon Valley and Canadian tech companies.
European Union
Many EU countries offer Software Engineering degrees taught in English, especially in the Netherlands, Sweden, Germany and Finland. These degrees often focus on both theoretical computing and applied software development, and many include internships or group projects with local industry. Universities like TU Delft (Netherlands), Aalto University (Finland) and RWTH Aachen (Germany) offer English-taught tech degrees with a strong focus on innovation and research.
Australia
In Australia, Software Engineering is usually offered as a four-year Bachelor of Engineering (Software) or as part of a Bachelor of IT or Computer Science. Universities like the University of Melbourne, UNSW and Monash are known for their strong tech offerings. Courses typically include a professional engineering focus and offer chances to work on real-world projects with companies through internships or industry-linked units.
New Zealand
New Zealand offers Software Engineering through institutions like the University of Auckland, University of Canterbury and Victoria University of Wellington. Degrees are usually part of a Bachelor of Engineering or Bachelor of Science. Courses often highlight project-based learning, modern technologies and practical problem-solving, with a supportive and collaborative study environment.
Studying abroad can give you exposure to different programming standards, development practices and international teams, all of which are hugely valuable in global tech careers.
Is Software Engineering the Right Course for You?
If you enjoy logical thinking, coding, and want to create tools and systems that make people’s lives easier, Software Engineering could be a great fit. It’s ideal for students who like solving problems, working both independently and in teams, and who want to build things that actually work in the real world.
