Program Overview

Passionate about computing careers, but not quite ready to undertake a full honours degree? Coming to computing with no formal background in the subject? Doing a one-year computing foundation is the ideal way to learn essential programming, web design, networking and security skills before starting the three-year BSc (Hons) Software Engineering degree.

During the computing foundation year you’ll get to grips with the basics of computer programming by taking part in creative and fun practical projects. These will be carried out under the guidance of a teaching team with a wide portfolio of experience and skills.

Personal development is crucial - you will be supported in improving your academic confidence and start on the road to becoming an independent learner. We encourage teamwork and cross-discipline collaboration, both of which are highly valued by employers.

On completion of the foundation year you'll be able to join the first year of the BSc (Hons) Software Engineering undergraduate degree.

Solent’s software engineering programme offers a broad range of technical computing skills across a range of areas, preparing you for a fantastic career in the software engineering industry upon graduation.

In the first year of study you will cover a range of topics including coding, software testing, networking and security, algorithms and databases. You will also be supported to develop academic skills in writing and research, which will aid your learning throughout the course. These base-line topics will lead into more advanced areas of development in the second year, which include an introduction to artificial intelligence and mobile application development.

All of our undergraduate computing courses have an optional placement year between the second and third years of study, where you have the opportunity to work in industry, gaining valuable employment and experience.

The final year culminates in a major project where you will have the chance to showcase your skills and knowledge related to the engineering of software systems. You will also develop a deeper understanding of specialist areas through optional modules, which include popular areas such as data science and immersive technologies.

The supportive and experienced academic team will guide you in promoting yourself as a professional practitioner, through developing online profiles to showcase your skills and expertise. You will also be encouraged to engage in networking at local digital and technology events, helping you to gain invaluable real-world experience and feedback.

Our close links with industry will support you in gaining contacts, work experience opportunities, and insight into the software engineering industry. Industrial consulting is also enabled through a final year project unit which gets you industry ready to confidently go forward into the workplace.

As a graduate you will be able to pursue a wide range of career options in the digital industry, and will benefit from the continuing increasing industry demand for those with strong technical abilities in software development.