Online degree BSc (Hons) Software Development

• Software engineering principles

  Delve into the technical and theoretical foundations of software engineering, understanding everything from the structure of computer systems to common challenges in developing enterprise information systems. Get acquainted with software lifecycle phases, process models, and programming paradigms, equipping yourself to navigate complex software development landscapes.

• Introduction to programming with Python

  Develop a foundational understanding of the Python programming language. Learn about Python's role in data science-related programming and advanced programming concepts like variables, data types, and statements.

• Object-oriented programming with Java

  Study the key elements of Java, applying Java courses to solve concrete problems. Develop an understanding of basic object-oriented concepts and how they differ from one another.

• Database modelling and database systems

  Our society relies on stored data. So that data needs to be retrieved and processed quickly when it's needed. Discover the database tools and techniques that the modern world depends on, including SQL and NoSQL.

• Collaborative work
  Build key interdisciplinary competency to develop connections and navigate networking opportunities. Learn about:

  • collaborative learning and working practices

  • constructive cooperation with others

  • creative thinking

  • empathy

  • emotional intelligence.

• Requirements engineering

  Defining the technical requirements for an IT system is one of the major steps in software development. Explore the techniques in documenting procedures and learn to apply them in business.

• Software quality assurance

  Learn how to ensure high-quality software from the get-go, exploring quality management, crucial methods for conducting software tests, and techniques for both constructive and analytical quality management. This course arms you with skills to navigate and apply quality assurance methods across various parts of the software process, ensuring your work meets the highest standards.

• Data structures and Java class library

  Develop your object-oriented programming knowledge with a deeper understanding of data structures and their application in the Java language. On this module you'll apply and compare various objects in Java, explore the functionality of character strings and calendar objects, and understand how streams in Java are used.

• Programming with C/C++
  Get familiar with C and C++ languages and use them in a variety of applications. Gain an in-depth understanding of programming tools, and harness your knowledge for robust user interfaces and cutting-edge robotic systems.

• Introduction to academic work for IT and technology

  Develop an understanding of scientific thinking and academic work, with a focus on how to apply theories, methods, and models related to IT, and how to produce independent academic papers by analysing and classifying different sources of literature.

• Algorithms, data structures, and programming languages

  Delve into the core of programming – selecting appropriate algorithms and data structures to complete specific tasks and translating them into efficient program code. Broaden your understanding of different programming languages, paradigms, and how they interact with these core elements.

• Web application development

  Get to know your HTML from your CSS and your PHP from your XML You'll begin by writing and designing simple, static web pages and progress to implementing more dynamic ones with JavaScript.

• Project: AI excellence with creative prompting techniques
  Learn key prompting techniques, using hands-on exercises to create and evaluate unique AI-generated content. Apply innovative thinking and ethical considerations to address complex real-world problems.

• Augmented, mixed and virtual reality
  Dive into the technical world of augmented, mixed, and virtual reality, learning how human perception significantly impacts these tech experiences. Explore their unique characteristics, hands-on development processes, and future applications.

• Ethics and sustainability in IT

  Dive into the intersection of ethics, sustainability, and information technology, understanding the motives and challenges of achieving sustainable IT. Learn to incorporate social and environmental considerations into your tech solutions, grasp the key ethical issues linked with technologies including AI, and evaluate the social, environmental and ethical challenges in the realm of IT. This module is your guide to creating more responsible, sustainable tech solutions for tomorrow.

• Elective A (see Electives A section below)

• Elective A (see Electives A section below)

• Project: agile software engineering

  Build on your knowledge of Agile software development by working on your own project with supervision. You'll tackle a specific problem, researching the tools and techniques needed and documenting your results.

• Seminar: software engineering

  Develop your research skills by exploring a current software engineering topic. As you progress, look for key points and connections and present your independent findings in a written paper.

• Elective B (see Electives B section below)

• Elective B (see Electives B section below)

• Elective C (see Electives C section below)

• Elective C (see Electives C section below)

• Undergraduate (bachelor) thesis
  Apply the subject-specific and methodological competencies learned throughout your course to present an academic dissertation. You’ll also learn how to tackle a practical-empirical or theoretical-scientific problem.

• Crypto and blockchain
  Consider the growth of crypto and blockchain and the evolution of money, from coins to fiat currencies, plastic, and crypto assets. Develop an understanding of the current state of the market and its principles.

• Fintech
  There has been a huge increase in the number of technological finance solutions in recent years. Uncover the main sectors targeted by Fintech companies. Learn about the current state of the market, technological solutions, and its future direction.

• Mobile software engineering I

  Take the exciting leap into the world of mobile software engineering, exploring the unique aspects of developing apps for mobile systems. With a specific focus on the Android platform, learn to navigate the challenges of app development and create solutions that make devices come alive.

• Web user interface design

  Explore the art of user interface design, applying key concepts to craft intuitive and engaging web and mobile layouts. From forming information architectures and designing responsive interfaces, to ensuring usability and accessibility, this course prepares you to create user experiences that truly shine.

• DevOps and continuous delivery

  Immerse yourself in the dynamic world of DevOps and continuous delivery, getting to grips with the pivotal aspects of DevOps culture and hands-on techniques. Learn how to organise microservice infrastructures using Platform-as-a-Service techniques, create and deploy platforms, and streamline development and deployment via an automated continuous delivery pipeline.

• IT infrastructure

  Jump into the fascinating mechanics of IT infrastructure, uncovering essential factors about computer operations and handling tasks using shells and user-interfaces. Explore straightforward IP network structures and learn to manage basic orchestrated sets of containers, all while gaining hands-on experience in this pivotal IT area.

• Self-arranged internship I (*)

  Gain practical and analytical skills by securing and completing an internship, enhancing your employability. In preparation tutorials, explore workplace dynamics and set personal goals for your placement.

• Self-arranged internship II (*)

  Building on your first experience, this self-arranged internship lets you apply academic skills in a real-world entrepreneurial setting. Focus on refining your communication, problem-solving, and time management skills.

*You'll be responsible for arranging a suitable internship for your field of study. Once arranged, please complete an application to the internship module via myCampus, to make sure your internship can be recognised and credited towards your course requirements.

Data and business intelligence

• Data analytics and big data
  Explore statistical analysis and data structures, while designing big data projects. Learn to critically evaluate projects for practical feasibility and analyse across legal frameworks, working independently and in teams.

• Project: build a data mart in SQL
  In this module, apply database theoretical knowledge, methods, and approaches to solve a real-world scenario. In this case study, implement your design and architectural choices in a functioning database.

IT project management

• IT service management
  Learn about the IT services that keep IT systems running. This module builds knowledge and expertise to provide IT services to organisations, mainly based on the IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL).

• Project: IT service management
  Take the opportunity to analyse and evaluate certain aspects of IT service management within a project framework. You can apply the theory you have learnt to propose practical solutions to company-specific situations.

Cyber security

• Introduction to data protection and cyber security
  This module covers important IT security concepts. Learn terminology, typical application fields, IT security application areas, and standard procedures and techniques.

• Cryptography
  Hash functions, One-Time Pad, symmetric and asymmetric methods. Sounds like a different language? Analyse the various cryptographic processes so you're equipped to protect critical data in today's online society.

Cloud Native

• Cloud programming

  Make your mark in the cloud. As you plan, create, test, and document a scalable cloud service, you'll get to delve into how a cloud system's elements are formed and measured. This module also guides you to assess the risks, protective measures, and responsive actions of a cloud service and explore its various use dimensions.

• Cloud computing
  An introduction to cloud computing, its enabling technologies, and analytics capabilities. Learn about cutting-edge advances like serverless computing, storage, and popular cloud offerings.

Data analysis and engineering

• Data engineering
  Explore the important foundational concepts in data engineering: storage infrastructure, data security, systems architecture, developments in storage technology, and the logic of data pipelines.

• Project: data engineering
  Create your own portfolio by working on a real data engineering project. Perhaps you’ll want to set up a Docker container environment. Or how about building a data pipeline according to DataOps principles? The choice is yours.

Artificial intelligence

• Artificial intelligence
  From looking at the history of AI to modern AI systems, artificial intelligence has captured our attention for decades. Explore the successes and setbacks of AI and find out how you can be a part of its rapid-growing development.

• Project: artificial intelligence
  Take on the challenge of designing and developing your own AI system. You'll consider the application requirements, practical constraints and desired output as you put your knowledge into practice.

Big data and business intelligence

• Business intelligence
  This module introduces the procedures and models for data provision, information generation and analysis. Build skills in data warehousing and develop techniques to optimise business activities.

• Project: business intelligence
  This module introduces the procedures and models for data provision, information generation and analysis. Build skills in data warehousing and develop techniques to optimise business activities.

IT operations and project management

• IT project management
  This module provides fundamental IT project management concepts. Learn about project management and organisation, develop cost-management skills, and solve IT project management problems.

• IT architecture management
  This module defines a future blueprint for particular IT developments, including service strategies and available technologies for IT service providers.

Cyber security

• Technical and operational IT security concepts
  Confidentiality, integrity and availability are key issues in today's IT systems. As well as learning how to evaluate an IT network, you'll develop protection profiles, design monitoring tools and interpret Big Data.

• Project: configuration and application of SIEM systems
  With help from a tutor, you'll take on the challenging task of implementing a Security Incident Event Management tool in an enterprise IT environment. Look at the data sources and formats, and learn to convert technical data into operational information.

Cloud native

• Introduction to Low-Code Development
  Explore the transformative power of low-code programming. Understand its essential concepts, advantages and applications while learning to create your own software with less coding knowledge and more creativity.

• Project: Low-Code Development
  Learn to identify, plan and implement solutions using a low-code app. This practical project-based module will empower you to model, create and launch apps, even with limited IT expertise, on platforms like Microsoft's Power Platform or Mendix.

Data analysis and engineering

• Advanced data analysis
  Get up to speed with the many analytics platforms widely used in business today. This module looks at everything from measuring business performance to text mining, from social media analytics to the current trends in experimental design and setup.

  Project: data analysis
  It’s time to put your analysis techniques and knowledge to the test in the real world. Develop a report as you apply advanced analytical methods to simulate work in a professional data science environment.

Artificial intelligence

• Self-driving vehicles
  Focus on the safety standards and IT security of autonomous vehicles. There's a lot to explore – sensor fusion, feature detection, calibration, localisation, satellite-based systems, and motion planning are just a few areas to get you started.

• Seminar: current topics and trends in self-driving technology
  Uncover the most recent developments of autonomous vehicles. Discover the technical advances, philosophical issues, and how it'll affect law, society and many industries. You'll then apply your new knowledge in a research essay.

You can find more details about your BSc (Hons) Software Development course in these PDF files:

• Online programme schedule: BSc (Hons) Software Development

• Programme specification: BSc (Hons) Software Development

• Once enrolled, you will be expected to meet LIBF's policies and standards.

• LIBF has Taught Degree Awarding Powers (TDAP).

Our Software Development degree is a comprehensive course that delves into various key aspects of software development. It involves understanding software engineering principles and becoming acquainted with modern programming languages like Python and Java.

There's a focus on database systems and software quality assurance alongside modules that prepare you for the rigorous methodology of agile development. You'll also learn critical interpersonal skills through our collaborative work module. Lastly, a strong emphasis on ethics and sustainability in IT ensures you are ready to face emerging challenges in any industry.

You’ll study in a virtual learning environment that uses the latest learning technology and benefit from innovative multimedia tools and study materials, including:

• lecture notes

• learning videos

• revision courses

• online consultations, and

• live sessions with lecturers.

We also incorporate up to date reports and case studies from industry into our courses.

To become a software developer, a Bachelor's degree in Software Development is highly recommended. This degree program typically covers essential subjects such as programming languages, software engineering principles, database management, and web development.

Alternatively, related degrees in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Computer Engineering can also provide the necessary skills and knowledge. Many employers value the strong technical foundation and problem-solving abilities these programs cultivate, making them excellent pathways to a career in software development.

Read our full guide on how to become a software developer.

Yes, a BSc in Software Development is definitely worth it. This degree not only equips you with technical expertise in various programming languages and software frameworks but also hones your problem-solving and analytical skills. The coursework often includes real-world projects, internships, and collaboration opportunities, ensuring you gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge. Graduates from this software development course enjoy strong job prospects, with roles such as software developer, web developer, systems analyst, and application developer in high demand across multiple industries. Given the growing reliance on technology, your skills will be indispensable, making this a smart investment for a stable and fulfilling career.