At Birmingham City University, we’re excited to launch our brand-new BSc (Hons) Software Engineering course for 2026 entry. This degree has been shaped with industry to prepare you for one of the most in-demand careers in tech. But what exactly is software engineering, and what career opportunities does it open up?
What is Software Engineering?
Software engineering is the disciplined design, build, test and maintenance of software systems. It goes beyond coding: engineers apply engineering principles to make software reliable, secure, scalable and usable. From reuirements analysis and architecture through to delivery and ongoing improvement. Collaboration, creativity and problem-solving sit at its core.
What can you do with it?
Graduates are in demand across every sector. Typical roles include Software Engineer/Developer, Full-Stack Developer, DevOps/SRE, QA/Test Engineer, Game/Embedded Developer, Systems Architect and Project Manager - with opportunities in areas from healthcare and fintech to AI and gaming.
Why study Software Engineering at BCU?
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Practice-first learning in STEAMhouse with access to modern labs, industry-style projects and showcase events such as Innovation Fest.
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A curriculum that builds year on year: Start with solid foundations, progress through core engineering practices, then deepen your expertise with specialist options and a major final-year project.
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Structured for growth: You'll move from fundamentals to advanced software engineering, culminating in specialised study areas and a capstone project that showcases your skills.
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From basics to mastery: Begin with core principles, evolve into real-world engineering workflows, and finish with targeted specialisation plus a portfolio-ready final project.
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Optional professional placement year to gain real-world experience and boost employability.
Software Engineering
Find out more about our course
Is Software Engineering still relevant in the age of AI?
Absolutely. AI creates more software to design, integrate and maintain. Engineers are needed to build trustworthy AI-enabled systems, integrate modern data stores, apply secure-by-design practices, design great user experiences, and assure software quality at scale. Our final-year modules in AI & ML, Modern Data Stores, UX, and Software Quality Assurance reflect this reality.
Why study Software Engineering at BCU?
We asked course lead, Dr Samer Bamansoor, why you should consider studying our course at BCU. “Software is the engine of modern change - from the apps we use daily to AI systems transforming business and society. Studying Software Engineering gives you the mindset and toolkit to build reliable, secure and human-centred software that lasts. At BCU, you’ll learn by doing: working in our STEAMhouse environment, tackling real briefs, and specialising in areas like AI, data stores, UX and software quality. If you want a degree that blends solid fundamentals with hands-on industry practice and a clear path into high-demand roles, this course is for you.”