Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

This programme combines core computer science theory with hands-on software engineering practice. Across the course you will study programming and data structures, software design and architecture, databases, web and mobile development, software testing and quality assurance, systems engineering, and professional and project management skills. Typical modules include introductory and advanced programming, algorithms and data structures, object-oriented design, software engineering lifecycle and requirements engineering, database systems, web technologies, software testing and verification, secure systems and an individual or group final-year project that integrates design, implementation and evaluation.

The course emphasises collaborative, project-based learning: you will work in teams on real-world briefs, use industry-standard tools and development methods (such as version control, continuous integration and agile approaches), and present technical work to both technical and non-technical audiences. There are also opportunities to take optional topics such as machine learning, cloud computing, human–computer interaction, and mobile application development depending on availability and student choice.

The programme is structured around progressive development of technical and professional skills over three years, with many students able to take an additional placement or industrial project year to gain practical experience in a workplace setting.

Entry requirements

Typical entry requires a secondary school qualification equivalent to A-levels and demonstrable competence in mathematics. An A-level in mathematics (or a strong mathematical component in a related qualification) is usually preferred. Relevant vocational qualifications such as a BTEC in Computing/IT are considered where they include substantial programming and mathematical content.

Applicants should also have GCSE-level passes in English and Mathematics (or equivalent). International applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary qualification equivalent to UK entry requirements and to demonstrate English language ability through an approved qualification or recognised test at the level required for undergraduate study.

Nottingham Trent University welcomes mature applicants and those with non-standard backgrounds; applicants with relevant work experience or portfolio evidence of programming and software development may be considered. Selection is based on academic qualifications, personal statement and, where requested, interview or portfolio submission.

Career prospects

Graduates from the programme are well placed for roles across the software and technology sector. Typical career destinations include software developer/engineer, full-stack or front-end developer, back-end engineer, mobile app developer, systems analyst, test and QA engineer, DevOps engineer, and software consultant. With further experience or study, graduates can move into technical leadership, architecture, product management or specialist roles in areas such as cybersecurity, data engineering and machine learning.

The course is designed to develop employability through practical projects, professional skills workshops, guest lectures from industry and support from the University’s careers and enterprise services. Students who take a placement year often use that experience as a springboard into graduate roles or to shape their specialist interests.

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University offers an applied, career-focused software engineering education within its dedicated computing and digital schools. Students benefit from modern computing labs, access to current development tools and cloud platforms, and teaching staff with both academic and industry experience. The university’s emphasis on real-world projects and employer engagement gives students opportunities to work on live briefs and to build industry-relevant portfolios.

NTU also provides strong student support through academic tutoring, career services and enterprise initiatives that help students transfer academic skills into employment. The campus and the city of Nottingham provide a vibrant environment for tech-focused study, with a growing local tech scene and frequent networking and placement opportunities with regional and national employers.