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Applied Software Development
Overview
Are you passionate about technology and driven to create innovative software solutions? The Applied Software Development programme is your launchpad into the dynamic world of software development.
This isn't just about lines of code; it's about problem-solving, creativity, and building the digital world of tomorrow. This programme blends theoretical foundations with hands-on practical experience, providing you with the skills and knowledge to thrive in this exciting and ever-evolving field.
Throughout the programme, students will gain skills to build websites, mobile apps, and user-friendly applications using modern programming languages. They work in development environments and learn about databases, which are crucial for storing and organising information. The course also teaches how to set up and manage operational infrastructure, including the systems and networks needed to run these applications.
Objectives
- Mastering in programming languages and software development.
- Develop problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Gain practical experience through real-world projects and internships.
- Build a portfolio for future employers.
- Prepare for a rewarding career in software development.
Prerequisites
- A keen interest in Math or Computing-related subjects.
- Meeting the specific entry requirements of the chosen university.
- Strong academic background in Physics, English, and Computer Science (essential).
- Potential standardized test scores for international students.
Curriculum Outline
- Programming Fundamentals Part 1 (Python)
- Programming Fundamentals Part 2 (Java)
- Programming Fundamentals Part 3 (Object Design)
- Business Analysis and Systems Design
- Procedural Programming with C
- Agile Scrum Methods
- Application Development with Java
- Application Development with C#
- Application Development with C++
- Quality Assurance and Software Testing
- iOS Mobile Application Development
- Advanced C++ Application Development
Teaching Method
- Lectures
- Tutorials
- Seminars
- Group work activities
- Guest lectures
- Workshops
- Practical work
- Independent study
- Video Conference
- Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)
Modules
- Principles of programming
- Applied algorithms and data structures
- Creativity through design patterns
- Continuous development and integration
- Databases
- Data languages
- Multiplatform development
- Software services
- Software architecture
- Software quality assurance
- Data transformation
- Data as a service
- Industrial software design
- User experience design
- Releasing a minimum viable product
- Software release management
- Insight from data
- Data-led decision making
- Large software challenge
- Long tail of the software lifecycle
- Enterprise transformation
- Applied research
Assessment Methods
- Automated coding tests
- Realistic scenario simulations
- Presentations (technical concepts)
- Written exam (theoretical concepts)
- Projects
- Placement portfolios
Course Duration
The course duration of this programme may vary depending on the country and universities but in the UK, it takes about 04 years to complete.
Facilities
Typically, all the universities provide excellent facilities to support student learning and practical experience. These facilities may include:
Specialised labs and studios:
- Computer Labs
- Software Development Studios
- Networking Labs
- Mobile Development Labs
- Cybersecurity Labs
- VR/AR Labs
- Games Development Labs
Technology and resources:
- High-Speed Internet Access
- Cloud Computing Platforms
- Software and Tools
- Online Learning Platforms
Learning and support:
- Libraries
- Study Spaces
- Technical Support
- Academic Support
- Career Services
Other facilities:
- Student Hubs
- Maker Spaces
- Meeting Rooms
Career Pathways
Mainly, the programme “Applied Software Development BA (Hons)” opens doors to a wide range of rewarding careers globally. But this programme from a UK university opens doors to advanced careers focused on improving the lives of individuals and communities, such as:
- Software Developer
- Web Developer
- Mobile App Developer
- Front-End Developer
- Back-End Developer
- Full-Stack Developer
- Games Developer
- Database Administrator
- System Analyst
- Software Tester
- QA Engineer
- DevOps Engineer
- Cloud Computing Engineer
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Embedded Systems Developer
- IT Consultant
- IT Delivery Manager
- Lead Data Analyst
- Technical Support Specialist
- Business Analyst
- Data Analyst
- Data Scientist
- Project Manager (IT/Software)
- Senior Information Technology Business Analyst
- Senior Project Management Coordinator
- Senior Technical Consultant
- Support Center Software Technician
- SVP; Enterprise Risk
- Vice President Information Technology
- Technical Writer
Fees and Fundings
- In the UK, the tuition fees range between £7,000 to £12,000 per year and may vary depending on the institution.
- Scholarships, grants, and financial opportunities are available.
- Government loan aid is available.
Entry Requirements
- HSC, A-level, or Equivalent.
- 5 GCSEs graded including Maths and English at Grade 4/C
- IELTS Grade 6.0 with no element below 5.5.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- A strong academic record.
Field Work and Internships
- Industrial internships: These are structured periods of work experience within a company or organisation, lasting from a few weeks to a full year (often called a "sandwich year").
- Undertake placements at software companies: Working for established software development companies, ranging from small startups to large multinational corporations.
- Volunteering on open-source projects: Contributing to open-source software can provide valuable experience and build a portfolio.
Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft Certified (Azure Fundamentals)
- Microsoft Certifications (various)
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
- Oracle Certified Java Programmer
- Python Institute Certifications (PCEP, PCAP, PCPP)
- CIW Web Development Professional
- Front-End Web Developer Nanodegree (Udacity)
- Back-End Web Developer Nanodegree (Udacity)
- Oracle Database Certifications
- Microsoft SQL Server Certifications
- Certified Scrum Master (CSM)
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
- ISTQB Certified Tester
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
- ITIL Foundation Certification
- Cloud Security Certifications (CCSP, CCSK)
- DevOps Certifications (DevOps Foundation)
Intakes
Typically, in the UK, the intakes takes twice a year (fall and spring), but may vary like:
- Fall (September/October)
- Spring (January/February)
- Summer (May/June)
Student Testimony
"One of the crucial aspects of this learning format is that I get to practice working and engaging as if I was in a real software development team. Using current industry practices and frameworks, such as Agile. This experience is crucial to enable my transition into the industry." Says - Martin, BSc Applied Software Development, University of the Highlands and Islands."
Frequently asked questions
Applied Software Development focuses on the practical application of software development principles and techniques to build real-world software solutions. It emphasizes hands-on coding, problem-solving, and teamwork.