Software Engineering BSc (Hons)

This module explores the design and development of computer software (applications) from two perspectives:

1. The implementation of software using programming code, in a high level statically typed, object-oriented programming language, such as Java.
2. The user-centred design approach to software design, considering human factors, user experience, usability, and prototyping.

The programming aspect covers a range of topics including

• The syntax and semantics of a programming language
• Different types of data, including collections
• Control flow - conditional, iterative and recursive
• Data input and output (CLI and file based)
• Object-orientation, including class design and inheritance
• Unit testing
• Basic refactoring

The human aspect considers topics that include

• User-centred design
• Human factors
• Usability
• Accessibility
• User experience
• Low and high-fidelity prototyping
• Evaluation

This module provides a strong foundation in the key areas of computing, i.e., mathematics, modern computing systems, cybersecurity, and professional skills. It equips students with the essential knowledge needed to tackle real-world computing problems and prepare them for advanced computing studies.

The mathematical aspect covers a range of topics that include:

• Set theory
• Geometric and trigonometric problem solving
• Vectors
• Linear, quadratic, fractional, and simultaneous equations
• Matrices
• Logarithmic functions
• Simple differential equations
• Introduction to complex numbers

The computing systems considers topics that include:

• Computer architecture - Hardware, software, and peripherals
• Basic computing mathematics - Number systems, binary operations, probability
• Logic gates and Boolean Algebra
• Machine Code and Assembly Language
• Compilers and Linkers
• Data Formats
• Operating Systems and File Management

The cybersecurity component addresses areas including:

• Cybersecurity Concepts
• The Human Weakness in Cybersecurity
• Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities
• Cybersecurity Exploitation
• Cryptography and Information Security
• Cybersecurity Auditing Methods
• Cybersecurity Defensive Strategies
• Programming for Cybersecurity with Python
• Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing Lifecycle

The professional skills aspect encompasses subjects including:

• Employment & Employability
• Curriculum Vitae
• Role of Professional Bodies
• Security Obligations, Ethics and Law
• Copyright and IPR Concepts
• Report Writing and Referencing
• Proposal and Business Plans
• Social Networks and Collaboration
• Data Collection Methods
• Reflection

This module introduces fundamental concepts in database systems, emphasising their importance in modern computing. Students will gain theoretical and practical skills in designing, implementing, and querying relational databases, while also exploring alternative database management systems (DBMS), such as NoSQL and distributed databases. Through hands-on experience with tools like SQL and exposure to NoSQL systems, students will learn to choose the right database solution for different use cases.

The aims of this module are:

• Understand the role and importance of databases in computer systems and applications.
• Explain core database concepts, including schemas, tables, keys, and relationships.
• Design normalised database schemas using Entity-Relationship (ER) modelling.
• Implement relational databases in a DBMS.
• Write SQL queries for data definition, manipulation, and retrieval.
• Compare and contrast relational databases with alternative database models such as NoSQL and distributed systems.
• Explore use cases for NoSQL databases, including document stores, key-value stores, and graph databases.
• Understand the challenges and benefits of distributed databases, including replication and scalability.
• Awareness of basic techniques for database optimisation and indexing.
• Discuss data security, privacy, and ethical considerations in database design and use.

The module focuses on the application of computer programming, and related technologies, in solving everyday problems. In this process, problems and challenges will be analysed, leading to the selection and deployment of tools and techniques in response.

As a problem-based learning strategy is employed, the syllabus of the module is fluid from occurrence-to-occurrence. However, central themes and foundational concepts that will be covered are:

• Computational thinking (decomposition, abstraction, algorithm design, pattern recognition)
• Collaborative software development
• Solution evaluation
• Project portfolios

You now have the opportunity to pick an optional module to learn a new language or build on your existing language skills as part of your degree. You can choose:

• Subsidiary Language for Beginners (choice of German, Italian or Spanish)
• French: Intermediate Language Development
• Spanish: Intermediate Language Development
• Chinese: Intermediate Language Development
• German: Communication in Practice
• French: Communication in Practice
• Spanish: Communication in Practice

This module introduces intermediate topics in algorithm design, analysis and implementation using industry standard libraries, tools and techniques. Topics include asymptotic analysis, memory management and common data structures and algorithms such as:

• Arrrays
• Linked lists
• Stacks
• Queues
• Heaps
• Binary search trees
• Hash tables
• Sorting
• Searching
• Pseudorandom number generation

Additionally we cover topics such as multithreaded software development, as well as issues regarding maintainability for larger software projects.

This module provides a critical understanding of the fundamental building blocks of computer systems with an emphasis on performance efficiency. Topics include gate-level minimization, the design of combinational and sequential circuits, and an exploration of performance metrics and techniques for enhancing microprocessor architecture.

The module also covers the below topics of computer networks. 

• Network representation and topologies
• Protocols and models
• SDLC
• Switching concepts
• Spanning Tree Protocol
• VLANs
• Wireless LAN
• Subnetting
• Routing fundamentals
• Network Virtualisation
• Cloud Fundamentals
• Quality-of-Service
• Network Security

The module introduces students to the basics of static websites - their structure (HTML), aethetics (CSS) and interactivity (JavaScript). It also introduces the kep protocol of the web (HTTP) and use of it's key verbs to make requests.

Students will be taught how websites compliant with HTML and CSS document standards, as well as being accessible, as defined by the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).

Students will also be introduced to various associated technolohies, such as IDEs, FTP clients and introduced to DevOps processes.

Students will then be introduced to mechanisms for developing dynamic websites through the development of server-side applications which utilise a database (i.e. full-stack development).

This module focuses on the learning and understanding how the SDLC - Software Development Lifecycle works and the associated project management methodology of Agile.

This learning aims to equip students with the necessary understanding of how to manage a software project from start to finish, with a focus on UX and UI design, architecture and software design patterns along with knowledge of CI/CD pipelines, the planning of large scale implementation and rigorous testing of the software needed for real world business applications. 

Additionally, ways to tackle legacy systems and utilising existing business systems, seamless deployment, maintenance and the added cybersecurity concerns and risks associated with all the topics listed above. 

Students are also made aware of business implications and strategic alignment when developing products needed for projects in industry. 

There is also an introduction to the careers in the industry and ways to enhance employability skills including portfolio development.

Students learn though authentic assessment, preparing presentations and collaborative group work. 

This is an experiential learning opportunity that incorporates, 20 teaching contact hours/lectures to prepare for the150 contract hours where L5 students can use all their skills learned to date on an actual real-world (external business) client driven project, working in teams and produce an artefact. 

Students are also expected to undertake around 30 hours of self study.

This module not only gives them enhanced skills but the opportunity to work for a real client thus giving them a valuable CV and LInkedIn entry as work experience that can contribute to their employability portfolio. 

Students will collaborate in teams and produce full client documentation alongside a reflection of their expereince and this all give some much needed contemplation of their skills to date and how to use them. 

This module provides a structured, university-level work placement for 4, 5 or 7 weeks as one continuous block / period with a placement provider (i.e. industry apprioprate sector). It is designed to enhance your professional skills in a real-world job setting.

The placement can either be organised by you or with support from university staff.

All work placements within this module must be university-level; this means:

• Undertaking high-skilled work commensurate with level 5 study (e.g. report writing, attending meetings, delivering presentations, producing spreadsheets, writing content on webpages, social media, marketing services/products etc)
• Physically placed (albeit part of it can be hybrid) within an employer setting in one continuous block / period for 4, 5 or 7 weeks for a minimum of 140-147 hours over the course of the entire work placement

Where applicable, your existing part-time employer can be approached/used as the placement provider, if the high-skilled work.

• criterion above is fulfilled for the full duration of the placement.
• All quality assurances/agreements provided by the University are adhered to, by you and the employer.

The work placement context may not necessarily, reflect your degree discipline per se, but rather, it will give you an enriched experience to enhance your professional skills in a real-world job setting.

Choose one of the following:

1. Professional Placement (40 Credits) Optional
2. Term abroad (40 Credits) Optional
3. One of the following Language options

Advanced Language Development and Global Sustainability (40 Credits) Optional

The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at advanced level. The second half of the module includes a placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a sustainability issue in a target language country. The first half of the module will prepare you for placements abroad where appropriate as well as a deeper understanding of sustainability in target language contexts. 

Developing Intercultural Literacy and Cross-Cultural Skills (40 Credits) Optional

• The multiple facets of global citizenship
• Ethical engagement and practice
• The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
• Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
• Intercultural communication
• Culture shock
• Cultural adjustment
• Self- assessment of needs: identification of the range of transferable skills, competencies and attitudes employees need and employers expect graduates to possess-with a strong focus on understanding the intercultural competencies (ICC) needed to live and work abroad.
• Critical analysis/evaluation of individual requirements in relation to culture/cultural adjustment/culture shock/visas/medical.
• Critical analysis/evaluation of skills already acquired in relation to key skills related to ICC.
• Devising strategies to improve one’s own prospects of working abroad in the future.
• Devising an action plan to address gaps in transferable skills based on organisational analysis and sector opportunities.

Experiential Overseas Learning (40 Credits) Optional

Preparation for Experiential Overseas Learning will take place at the University of Chester during level 5 and will include:  

• The multiple facets of Global citizenship
• Ethical engagement and practice
• Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
• Intercultural communication
• Theories, models and strategies of learning

Theories and models Intercultural competence

• Theories and models of Integration and Multiculturalism
• Critical thinking skills and models of Reflection
• Experiential learning models
• Self-directed experiential learning

Personal and placement-related skills

• Enhanced independence
• Improved command of multicultural behaviour
• Increased knowledge and confidence in their individual facets of personal identity
• Effective time management and organisational skills
• Project management – working away from University and independent study
• Self-management and personal development
• Team building and team work

Part B: Overseas

Students will engage in experiential learning activities overseas for at least 150 hours 

Post Beginner Language Development and Global Cultures (40 Credits) Optional

The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at beginner level. The first half of the module includes intensive taught sessions in interactive workshop mode which will prepare you for placements abroad or self-directed language development. The second half of the module includes a placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a cultural issue in a target language country. 

Upper Intermediate Language Development and Global Employability (40 Credits) Optional

The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at intermediate level. The first half of the module includes intensive taught sessions in interactive workshop mode which will prepare you for placements abroad or self-directed language development. The second half of the module includes an placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a business or tourism issue in a target language country. 

Or you can choose ONE of the following:

• University Placement Year Optional
• Subject Placement Year Optional
• International University Placement Year Optional

This module introduces students to developing applications for mobile devices on a major platform such as Android or iOS. This includes mobile device specific aspects such as working with location services, SDKs and libraries, making network requests, concurrency and dealing with resource limitations.

From a programming theory and application perspective, the module will consider, working with and further developing existing code, including the refactoring process, design patterns, the SOLID principles andwill  introduce students to the fundamentals of functional programming. Students will also consider the differing features of programming languages (such as type systems)

The module offers a comprehensive exploration of design thinking and its integration with human-centred design principles and practices to realise highly usable interactive systems. By the end of the module, students will be equipped to design innovative and user-friendly digital products and services, balancing business objectives with user satisfaction. This is supported by a focus on collaboration and teamwork, ensuring that the practices and processes of the industry are reflected. Over its duration, the module will engage with topics including, but not limited to, the following:

• Human-centred design and ISO 9241-210
• Balancing business goals with user needs
• UX research
• Experience mapping
• Design thinking
• Information architecture
• Progressive enhancement
• User interface design techniques
• Defining inclusive design and accessibility
• Style-guides and specifications for developers
• Design sprints for software innovation
• User testing and evaluation

The module covers a range of topics that include:

• Basic cloud computing concepts, advantages, and service delivery models.
• Identity and Access Management (IAM) for centrally managing access to cloud resources.
• Secure networking practices within the cloud environments.
• Design and implementation of highly available, and secure cloud architecture.
• Design and implementation of cloud resources such as Virtual servers, Databases, and storage solutions.
• Introduction to serverless architecture within the cloud environments.
• Application Data protection, both in transit and at rest, with in the cloud environments.
• Logging and Monitoring within the cloud.
• Incident Response Management within the cloud environments.

Students will undertake a large self-directed software project in a specialist topic of their choice with guidance and support from a dedicated academic supervisor.

The project will begin with an appraisal of said topic, usually through a literature review and/or a commercial assessment of viability. This will be followed by planning and creation of a practical software artefact covering an implementation lifecycle, making use of project management techniques.

Ethical issues will be explored, leading to required approval for quantitative and/or qualitative testing, with results then analysed and used to inform futher development and to draw conclusions against a hypothesis.

This module is introduces the theory and practice of network protocol design, maintenance and evalutation. We will build from first principles towards a professional, research and development approach to the subject. This will include topics such as:

• Routing
• Traffic engineering
• Distributed protocol design
• Use of discrete event simulation tools
• Evaluation and analysis of protocols
• Mobile and wireless networking
• Graph theory
• Network optimisation
• Computational complexity
• Software defined networking
• Information centric networking

The module combines relevant theoretical abstractions with essential practical networking approaches to build a strong profile of skills, abilities and knowledge for the successful student.