The Higher Diploma in Science (Software Development) is a one-year programme for graduates with degrees in ANY subject giving them a practical introduction to software development including programming, software design and testing, team project work. It is designed to give students practical skills for use in the software industry as programmers, software designers and testers and to bring students to the standard for industrial accreditation as programmers.

Course Structure

Teaching and learning will be through lectures, practical lab sessions, and directed reading as required for the different subjects. Module delivery is not just a scheduled series of topics, but rather balanced to meet the needs and progression rates of the students. The course places a balance between learning the fundamentals of the subject, and applying them in practice.

Assessment is handled in a similar manner, with most modules having a combination of practical assessment during the delivery of the module, and an examination at the end of the semester. Typically module material is also made available through eLearning tools (primarily Moodle) allowing students to revise at their own pace. Additional tutorials are used, where required, to assist students who may have problems with particular aspects of a module.

Career Options

The course is designed to give students practical skills for use in the software industry as programmers, software designers and testers and to bring students to the standard for industrial accreditation as programmers.