Foundation Degree Software Development

Step into the constantly evolving software development sector with our practical Software Development Foundation Degree. Software impacts all aspects of modern life from mobile devices to online banking therefore as technology advances, the demand for skilled software developers increases.

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About the course

This specialist programme will teach you how to design systems, develop analytical and programming skills and devise practical software solutions to solve real-world problems. Alongside gaining the practical knowledge of multiple programming languages, you will cover areas such as managing software development based on Agile and DevOpSec.

You will learn how to connect to internal and external databases and develop web and mobile applications and software using automation and continuous integration. You will also learn the fundamentals of computing and software development principles including the frequently used design and development cycles.

You will have the opportunity to work across a wide range of development platforms as you create software products and applications. Additionally, you will learn how to automate the testing and deployment of your projects while understanding all aspects of Agile Software Development.

This course is validated by Luminate Education Group

Fee

£7,950 Full Time (per academic year)

Location

University Centre

Start Date

September 2023

Duration

2 years

Course Code

UCAS Course Code: I300 Institution code: L21

Study Mode

Full-time

What you learn

Modules may include

Year 1 (Level 4)

Networks (20 credits) – You will understand the basic concepts of networks such as network types, architecture, services, protocols, topologies and standards to design, implement and how to secure a network given a business scenario. You will develop practical skills to design, implement, and test and troubleshoot a network.

Principles of Cyber Security (20 credits) – You will be introduced to the cyber security threats landscape and the technologies that can be used to countermeasure those threats, learning how to protect network infrastructure, components and data.

Principles of Database (20 credits) – You will demonstrate the practical aspects of designing and building a relational database and you will acquire skills and knowledge in the practical structure design of a given scenario and then apply this to implementing a prototype.

Principles of Programming (20 credits) – You will learn the underpinning knowledge and skills of programming and software development that is essential in a variety of computing related careers from app and website development to server administration.

Professional Development (20 credits) – You will acquire and develop a range of skills including transferable, personal, interpersonal, academic and subject specific skills that will enable you to succeed in the industry.

Web and Apps (20 credits) – You will develop & demonstrate the technical and creative skills required in the design, construction and management of an effective website interface and a mobile application.

Year 2 (Level 5)

Advanced Web Development (20 credits) – You will develop technical and creative skills whilst developing, maintaining and securing a viable and fully interactive website employing server-side scripting and data-driven methods.

Mobile App Development (20 credits) – You will demonstrate an iterative software development methodology and techniques through the production of an Android mobile application using Java, XML, external or device located databases, customised and dynamic screen layouts, and device specific technology.

Employability Skills (20 credits) – You will develop the wider skills today’s employers are expecting from their employees, including so-called “soft skills” such as time management, communication skills, project management and a good work ethic.

Software Testing (20 credits) – You will develop your knowledge of software testing theory and your skills in testing techniques and be introduced to advanced software production concepts and develop practical skills in these areas.

Software Development (20 credits) – You will develop useful and reliable GUI based applications that meet the expectations of end users by applying a range of proven software development methods and techniques.

Project (20 credits) – You will identify a problem and set about planning and delivering a solution to that problem within a given timeframe. You may choose to develop an online solution or develop a mobile app, or provide a business solution. The scope for the nature of your practical output for this module is vast.

Benefits/ skills you will develop

You will be given the opportunity to work across a wide range of computer science platforms, learning to programme software applications, develop websites and mobile apps and use a range of tools and techniques to automate the testing and deployment of your projects. You will learn the vital skills in Agile and DevOpSec based software development cycles from planning and analysis, iterative based design and implementation, and on to continuous integration and deployment.

You will also develop as an individual, learning to appreciate the computing industry form an employers perspective. Developing the skills employers are looking for that will compliment your technical skills. The aim of the course is to prepare you for employment and a long career in the digital sector.

Finally, you will develop a range of skills that can be used across the digital technology sector that will provide you with the opportunity to work in a broad range of roles, such as a Computer Programmer, Software Developer, Software Test Engineer, Front End Developer, Mobile App Developer, Web Developer or Computer Games Programmer.

Assessment

Entry requirements

	Typical offer
A Levels:	2xD grades
BTEC L3 Diploma or Extended Diploma:	MP, MPP grade
Access to HE Diploma:	Overall pass with 60 credits, with 24 credits to be at a Merit grade
T Levels:	Acceptable in a relevant subject.
GCSE English: Desirable but not essential	English Language Grade C or above (grade 4 for those sitting their GCSE from 2017 onwards). Key Skills Level 2, Functional Skills Level 2 and the Certificate in Adult Literacy are accepted in place of GCSEs.
GCSE Maths:	Maths Grade C or above (grade 4 for those sitting their GCSE from 2017 onwards). Key Skills Level 2, Functional Skills Level 2 and the Certificate in Adult Numeracy are accepted in place of GCSEs.
IELTS:	IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any component.
International qualifications:	International qualifications will be assessed against these criteria
Mature applicants:	Leeds City College welcomes applications from mature* applicants who may not have met the academic criteria, but who can demonstrate a wealth of experience in their chosen field. Candidates in this category and otherwise are likely to be interviewed to assess their suitability for the course and may be asked to provide a portfolio of evidence to support their application. *21 years and over at the start of the course
RPL claims:	The course structure actively supports claims for Recognition of Prior Certified Learning (RPCL) or Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL)

What’s next

On completion of this foundation degree course you can progress on to our Top-up degree at Leeds City College (subject to validation). To gain a full BSc (Hons) degree from our foundation degree you would need to study for a further year. You could also choose to study for a BSc (Hons) at other institutions.

You could find employment in a broad range of roles, such as a Computer Programmer, Software Developer, Web Developer, Computer Games Programmer or Software Engineer.

Programme Specification

Course Handbook

Leeds City College Regulations