Learn how to implement technology solutions that enable businesses to develop new products and services using digital technologies

About the apprenticeship

How long: 3 years, part-time

Start date: September

Course level: Level 6

University award: BSc (Honours) Digital and Technology Solutions (Software Engineer)

How much it costs: funded through the employer

Course summary

• Develop knowledge of systems development, cyber security, data and infrastructure in the creation of digital solutions
• Use project management techniques to successfully develop software systems
• Learn to analyse client and system requirements to develop tailored solutions
• Gain experience using conceptual data modelling techniques

Build essential skills and knowledge alongside the other Digital and Technology Solutions specialisms, providing opportunities for group learning and networking. You’ll then begin your specialism as a Software Engineer, benefiting from the latest techniques and using your knowledge in workplace projects.

This course meets the digital and technology solutions professional apprenticeship standard.

How you learn

This course is designed around a set of key principles based on engaging you with the world, collaborating with others, challenging you to think in new ways, and providing you with a supportive environment in which you can thrive.

You will attend University for a total of:

• Ten weeks in year one
• Three weeks in year two
• One week in year three

Your employer will also allow you to spend half a day of study time per week, per module, in addition to the on-site teaching.

You will learn through: 

• A 10-week boot camp in year 1 to gain fundamental knowledge and skills 
• 3 separate weeks of teaching in year 2, followed by online delivery
• 1 week of teaching in year 3, followed by online delivery 
• In-company projects to make direct use of your degree learning
• Virtual meetings and drop-in sessions

Applied learning

All three years of the course are structured around applied learning. This links your studies to real-world situations.

You will progress through the course following the successful completion of your assessments, which address the learning outcomes for each module and allow you to complete the course.

You will also complete an endpoint assessment towards the end of the apprenticeship.

Campus facilities

You'll study at City Campus, with industry standard computing packages, tools and hardware – plus a specialist networking lab for laboratory exercises and individual project work.

While on campus you will have access to:

• Modern software IDEs including Visual Studio  
• Industry-standard software and tools  
• IT lab space and self-study areas 

You’ll also have remote access to:  

• The University’s Virtual Learning Environment 
• Our Adsetts Learning Centre and Skills Centre 
• A suite of software and applications via our remote services

Entry requirements

Apprentices can be existing employees looking to develop their careers, or new applicants to the business.

Applicants must:

• be over 18
• not be in full time education
• have the right to abode in the UK
• meet the course entry requirements

GCSE (or equivalent)

Maths and English at Grade C, 4 or above

If you don't have this yet, you'll need to achieve this level through a function skills programme in your first year.

Additional qualifications

One of the following:

• 96 UCAS points from three A levels (we accept General Studies) 
• 112 UCAS points with at least 64 from two A levels or equivalent BTEC
• Access to HE Diploma with at least 45 credits at level three and 15 credits at level two
• A completed level three apprenticeship

Modules

The programme adopts a blended learning approach with modules delivered through a combination of lectures, class-based seminars, practical work and distance learning.

Throughout the course, you will study:

Year one

• Introduction to computer networks and security 
• Programming fundamentals
• System analysis and design
• Reflective and personal development skills with work-based review

Year two

• Database administration and security
• Software architecture and design 
• Software engineering concepts and methods 
• Reflective skills for professional performance and work-based project

Year three

• Designing and developing enterprise systems
• Reflective practice for professional development 
• Work-based report

Module and assessment information for future years is displayed as currently validated and may be liable to change.