Course Overview
Course summary
Software engineers design and build the systems that power modern life – from web platforms and mobile apps to large-scale cloud services and AI-driven technologies. This course combines strong engineering foundations, hands-on system building and modern development practices. You’ll learn to design, build and maintain reliable software systems while developing the skills needed to adapt and grow throughout your career. The focus is not just on learning programming languages, but on understanding how complex software systems are designed, built and maintained.
The course is built around four key ideas – strong engineering foundations, practical system building, modern technologies and professional software development practices.
Great software engineers are not defined by a single programming language or framework – they are defined by their ability to understand systems, solve problems and learn new technologies. You’ll develop strong foundations in the principles that underpin reliable software systems and support lifelong learning in a rapidly evolving field, including programming, algorithms and data structures, databases, software architecture and secure software engineering.
Software engineering is a practical discipline and is learned by building systems. Throughout the course, learning is centred on practical development tasks that mirror real software engineering workflows. You will design and implement applications, develop backend services and build full-stack systems using modern programming languages and collaborative development tools.
You’ll also explore modern and emerging areas shaping the future of software development, including artificial intelligence, large language models, cloud platforms and distributed systems.
Modern software systems are built by teams rather than individuals. We emphasise professional practices such as agile development, technical communication, collaborative design and project delivery through team projects and presentations.
In addition, you can choose to complete a year in industry after your second year, giving you valuable work experience and strengthening your career prospects. Our Careers Service, alongside the course team, will support you in finding and securing placement opportunities.
Top reasons to study with us
- Work-based agile team project – you’ll work in small teams on a real-world problem set by an external organisation, applying agile development practices to design and build a software solution.
- Authentic software engineering tasks – learning and assessment focus on designing, implementing and analysing working software systems, reflecting tasks engineers encounter in professional practice.
- Modern development technologies – you’ll work with technologies used across the industry, including Java, Python, C#, modern web development, cloud platforms, DevOps workflows and AI-assisted software development.
- You'll qualify for free British Computer Society (BCS) academic membership for the duration of your studies. The BCS supports professionals working in the IT industry and promotes the responsible use of technology in society. Membership provides opportunities for professional development and networking within a global community of computing professionals. For more information, visit the BCS website.
visit the BCS website
Course structure
You’ll learn through a mixture of lectures, practical workshops, lab sessions and independent study. In Year 1, you’ll be introduced to the foundations of software engineering. In Years 2 and 3, you’ll build on these foundations through more advanced modules and practical projects, designing and developing larger and more complex software systems. This degree also includes the option to complete a year abroad or a year in industry after Year 2.
The following modules are indicative of what you’ll study on this course.
We aim to offer a wide range of option modules. However, availability may be affected by timetabling, staff availability, or student demand, so preferred choices cannot always be guaranteed.
Core modules:
- Applications of AI and Prompt Engineering
- Mathematics for Computing
- Software Development
- Software Engineering Professional Practices
- Web Design and Development
Credit Level 4
Core modules:
- Agile Team Project
- Back-end Web Development
- Data Structures and Algorithms
- Database Systems
- Object Oriented Programming
Option modules:
- Mobile Application Development
- Mobile Game Development
- Practical Machine Learning
- Web Application Penetration Testing
Credit Level 5
Our course gives you the opportunity to take a year in industry (work placement) after completing the second year of your study. This will help you gain work experience and increase your chances of employability after you graduate.
You'll be offered help and support to find and secure placement opportunities through various workshops and events organised by the Careers and Employability Service and the course team.
Typically, you'll be assigned into roles involving tasks related to software engineering.
Find out more about the costs involved in taking a placement year.
Core modules:
- Distributed Systems and DevOps Engineering
- Full Stack Enterprise Application Development
- Secure Software Engineering
- Software Engineering Final Project
Option modules:
- Applications of Large Language Models
- Business Innovation with Artificial Intelligence
- Internet of Things
- iOS Application Development
Credit Level 6
Professional accreditation
This course is CITP (Chartered IT Professional) and partial CEng (Chartered Engineer) accredited by the BCS (British Computer Society).
Course Overview Video
Learn more about this course from a member of the course team.
Software Engineering BEng at Westminster
Hear from final-year Software Engineering BEng students, as they share what they have enjoyed most about studying their course at the University of Westminster.
Studying Computer Science and Engineering at Westminster
Watch the video below to find out more about studying Computer Science and Engineering at Westminster.
For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF).
To request an accessible version please email [email protected]
Get your copy of the University of Westminster prospectus and browse the range of courses on offer.
Contact us for general course enquiries:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm GMT)
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(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm GMT)
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Join us at an open day online or on campus. Get a feel for student life at the University of Westminster and talk to course leaders and our support teams.
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More ways to meet us
Careers
Software systems underpin almost every sector of the modern economy – from finance and healthcare to retail, telecommunications and digital services. Organisations rely on skilled software engineers to design, build and maintain the systems that support their operations.
This course is designed with the needs of the modern software industry in mind. You’ll develop the technical foundations, practical development experience and professional skills required to work effectively in software engineering teams and contribute to complex software projects.
Through practical development work, collaborative projects and work-based learning opportunities, you’ll gain experience applying software engineering principles to real problems while developing skills such as teamwork, communication and project delivery.
Get ahead before graduating
The work-based learning opportunities built into our course will provide you with valuable practical industrial experience.
Transferable skills
You’ll develop transferable skills valued across the technology sector, including analytical problem-solving, software design, collaborative development, technical communication and project delivery.
Employers
Access a network of over 3,000 employers at the University’s new home for careers and enterprise, Zone29.
Career development
Our course aims to create high-quality graduates who have a strong focus on solving real-world problems with adaptability and maturity, a strong foundation of knowledge and the technical capability to be able to immediately contribute to their workplace environment.
Our course provides an exciting and rewarding work-based learning experience that will help you develop subject-specific technical skills as well as employability skills such as leadership, organisation and commercial awareness.
In addition, this course gives you the opportunity to undertake a year in industry (work placement) after completing the second year of your study and gain work experience, enhancing your employability after graduation.
On graduating, you’ll be well-versed in all aspects of software engineering. As well as having a solid background in software development, you’ll also have knowledge of multiple specialisms in various fields relating to software engineering, which will benefit you during your early years as a computing professional.
Industry links
We take full advantage of our central London location, a global city and a major technology hub, to enrich your learning experience. Our academic staff have strong connections with employers across various sectors, involving them in our curriculum design and encouraging their participation in our career guidance. By using current market data, we provide relevant advice and insights on trends and employer requirements, ensuring you receive industry-specific employability support. Additionally, you'll benefit from our connections to industry through a network of visiting speakers and mentors.
Job roles
This course prepares you for a wide range of careers in software engineering and related technology fields. Typical roles include:
- Software engineer
- Full-stack developer
- Backend engineer
- DevOps engineer
- Cloud engineer
- Systems engineer
- Platform engineer
- Solutions architect
- Technical consultant
Graduate employment
Graduates from this course have secured software development roles in various areas including:
- Banking (Barclays, ING Bank)
- Retail (Amazon, Argos, Co-op, Marks & Spencer)
- Service-providing sectors (British Telecom, Royal Mail, Y.T.C. Medical Ltd)
- Software companies (Nasco UK Limited, Qube Global Software, The App Experts)
Unlock your career potential at Zone29
Zone29 is our new home of careers and enterprise.
Our doors are set to open in spring 2026, but game-changing opportunities are available now, such as:
- jobs, placements and work experience
- tailored career guidance and mentoring
- step-by-step career planning through the Westminster Award
- work and study abroad programmes
- help with starting your own business or freelancing
International Opportunities
Many of our courses offer international study and work experiences, and the University provides other global opportunities that all students can apply for – so whatever you're studying, you'll have the chance to go abroad.
Opportunities could include:
- Taking part in semester or year-long exchanges at institutions around the world
- Attending an international summer school or field trip
- Developing your CV through volunteering or work placements abroad
International experience broadens horizons, boosts self-confidence, and improves global understanding, alongside being fantastic for your career.
Find out more about our international opportunities, including funding options and where you can go.
Course Leader
Dr Rolf Banziger
Lecturer
Dr Rolf Bänziger is a Lecturer in Computer Science with over 15 years of experience across various sectors, including finance, manufacturing, government and NGOs. Before entering academia, he worked in roles ranging from software developer to project manager and consultant, gaining a broad understanding of professional practice.
Rolf joined the University of Westminster as a full-time lecturer in 2022 and has led modules across various undergraduate and postgraduate levels. He especially enjoys supervising students in the final year project, guiding students in applying innovative techniques to solve real-world challenges.
Rolf holds a BSc in Business Information Technology from the University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland and earned a PhD in Computer Science from the University of Westminster.
We don’t just teach coding – we develop engineers who can adapt, innovate and build the systems that power the modern world.
Course Team
- Noam Weingarten - Senior Lecturer
- Maria Chondrogianni - Principal Lecturer
- Dr Artie Basukoski - Senior Lecturer
- Dr Francois Roubert - Senior Lecturer
- Anne-Gaelle Colom - Assistant Head of School
- Dr Barbara Villarini - Reader
- Dr Alexandra Psarrou - Reader
- Dr Ayman El Hajjar - Senior Lecturer
- Professor Sophie Triantaphillidou - Staff
- Dr Vasileios Kontogiannis - Reader
Why study this course?
Fantastic central London location
Based in our Cavendish Campus in central London, you’ll enjoy the benefits of studying in a major tech-hub.
Improve your employability
You'll have the opportunity to undertake a year in industry (work placement) and gain work experience, enhancing your employability after graduation.
Prepare for industry
You'll learn techniques and subjects such as machine learning, AI algorithms, robotics and smart systems, the Internet of Things, Big Data technologies, complex heterogeneous systems, and cloud-based, distributed and parallel software solutions.
Entry Requirements
- A levels – CCC (96 UCAS Tariff points)
- T levels – 96 UCAS Tariff points
- International Baccalaureate – 96 UCAS Tariff points from all components of the Diploma Programme. International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme will be considered on a case-by case basis
- BTEC Extended Diploma – MMM
- BTEC Diploma – DD
- Access – 96 UCAS Tariff points from the Access course
In addition to one of the above, you should have:
- GCSE English Language grade 4/C – IB grade 4 Higher level, GCSE Maths grade 4/C – IB grade 2, SL & HL - IB MYP 3
If your first language is not English, you will need an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with 5.5 in each component.
We also welcome applications from students who are taking a combinations of qualifications listed above. For further information, please contact Course Enquiries.
Direct (Advanced) Entry or Transfer
Direct entry to Year 2 may be available for some of our programmes. You will need to have already successfully completed part of your undergraduate course elsewhere with the relevant number of credits of a comparable degree. Please note that admission to Year 3 is rarely granted. Applications for direct entry are made through UCAS, selecting the appropriate 'point of entry' whilst making your application e.g. for second year entry you would choose point of entry 2.
View more information about our entry requirements and the application process.
International Baccalaureate
96 UCAS Tariff points from all components of the Diploma Programme. International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme will be considered on a case-by-case basis. You can refer to the UCAS calculator to determine your point score. Find out more about acceptance of the International and European Baccalaureate.
Other international qualifications
We accept a wide range of international high school level qualifications. Please see information on country-specific entry requirements.
International Foundation courses
We work in partnership with Kaplan International College London who provide the International Foundation Certificate at their College based in Liverpool Street. These courses are for students who don’t meet our direct entry requirements. Upon successful completion, you can progress to your chosen degree at the University of Westminster. Find out more about the different university preparation courses that are accepted for entry.
International Year One
Kaplan International College London also offer the option to study an International Year One which offers entry to Year 2 to this degree course at Westminster. Upon successful completion of this course, you can progress to the second year of your chosen degree course at the University of Westminster.
English language requirements
If your first language is not English, you will need an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with 5.5 in each component. Please note we accept a wide range of English language qualifications and assessments. Find out more at English language requirements.
If you don't meet the English language requirements yet, then we offer online and on campus pre-sessional English programmes to help develop your English language skills to the required level before you start your course. Find out more about our pre-sessional English programmes.
Direct (Advanced) Entry or Transfer
Direct entry to Year 2 may be available for some of our programmes. You will need to have already successfully completed part of your undergraduate course elsewhere with the relevant number of credits of a comparable degree, or have passed an International Year One programme at a recognised partner institution. We are unable to consider applications from international students who have failed Year 1 or who are not eligible to progress within their current programme of study. Please note that admission to Year 3 is rarely granted. Applications for direct entry are made through UCAS, selecting the appropriate 'point of entry' whilst making your application e.g. for second year entry you would choose point of entry 2.
More information
- A levels – CCC (96 UCAS Tariff points)
- T levels – 96 UCAS Tariff points
- International Baccalaureate – 96 UCAS Tariff points from all components of the Diploma Programme. International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme will be considered on a case-by case basis
- BTEC Extended Diploma – MMM
- BTEC Diploma – DD
- Access – 96 UCAS Tariff points from the Access course
In addition to one of the above, you should have:
- GCSE English Language grade 4/C – IB grade 4 Higher level, GCSE Maths grade 4/C – IB grade 2, SL & HL - IB MYP 3
If your first language is not English, you will need an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with 5.5 in each component.
We also welcome applications from students who are taking a combinations of qualifications listed above. For further information, please contact Course Enquiries.
Direct (Advanced) Entry or Transfer
Direct entry to Year 2 may be available for some of our programmes. You will need to have already successfully completed part of your undergraduate course elsewhere with the relevant number of credits of a comparable degree. Please note that admission to Year 3 is rarely granted. Applications for direct entry are made through UCAS, selecting the appropriate 'point of entry' whilst making your application e.g. for second year entry you would choose point of entry 2.
View more information about our entry requirements and the application process.
International Baccalaureate
96 UCAS Tariff points from all components of the Diploma Programme. International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme will be considered on a case-by-case basis. You can refer to the UCAS calculator to determine your point score. Find out more about acceptance of the International and European Baccalaureate.
Other international qualifications
We accept a wide range of international high school level qualifications. Please see information on country-specific entry requirements.
International Foundation courses
We work in partnership with Kaplan International College London who provide the International Foundation Certificate at their College based in Liverpool Street. These courses are for students who don’t meet our direct entry requirements. Upon successful completion, you can progress to your chosen degree at the University of Westminster. Find out more about the different university preparation courses that are accepted for entry.
International Year One
Kaplan International College London also offer the option to study an International Year One which offers entry to Year 2 to this degree course at Westminster. Upon successful completion of this course, you can progress to the second year of your chosen degree course at the University of Westminster.
English language requirements
If your first language is not English, you will need an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with 5.5 in each component. Please note we accept a wide range of English language qualifications and assessments. Find out more at English language requirements.
If you don't meet the English language requirements yet, then we offer online and on campus pre-sessional English programmes to help develop your English language skills to the required level before you start your course. Find out more about our pre-sessional English programmes.
Direct (Advanced) Entry or Transfer
Direct entry to Year 2 may be available for some of our programmes. You will need to have already successfully completed part of your undergraduate course elsewhere with the relevant number of credits of a comparable degree, or have passed an International Year One programme at a recognised partner institution. We are unable to consider applications from international students who have failed Year 1 or who are not eligible to progress within their current programme of study. Please note that admission to Year 3 is rarely granted. Applications for direct entry are made through UCAS, selecting the appropriate 'point of entry' whilst making your application e.g. for second year entry you would choose point of entry 2.
More information
What our students say
Rathnayaka Kaduruwewa
BEng Software Engineering (Hons) - 2023
My time at the University of Westminster has been nothing short of transformative. Beyond the top-tier education and state-of-the-art facilities, the vibrant community, with its rich tapestry of cultures and perspectives, has expanded my worldview and instilled in me values of inclusivity and global-mindedness. The support I've received, both academically and personally, from mentors, academics, and peers, has been unparalleled, fostering an environment where I felt empowered to challenge conventions, take risks, and truly discover my potential.
Learn new skills
Learn a new language
From Arabic to Spanish, you can learn a new language alongside your degree with our Polylang programme.
Develop your entrepreneurial skills
Access industry networking events, workshops, one-to-one business advice and start-up support through our award-winning WeNetwork.
Gain extra qualifications
We provide access to free online courses in Adobe and Microsoft Office applications, as well as thousands of specialist courses on LinkedIn Learning.
Fees and Funding
UK tuition fee: £9,790 (Price per academic year)
Please note that if you defer your place, the first year’s tuition fees will be those of the academic year in which you enrol, which may be higher than the fee shown for this year.
Fees are subject to UK Government Parliamentary procedure.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Funding
As well as tuition fee loans, there is a range of funding available to help you fund your studies.
Find out about undergraduate student funding options.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible undergraduate students, which cover all or part of your tuition fees.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what you tuition fees cover.
International tuition fee: £17,600 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase International tuition fees.
Please note that if you defer your place, the first year’s tuition fees will be those of the academic year in which you enrol, which may be higher than the fee shown for this year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme
If you are an international student accepted on an undergraduate programme starting in September at level 3 (Foundation) or level 4 (first year) on the basis of an eligible EU qualification only, you will be awarded a £4,500 tuition fee reduction off your first year of studies. For more information, see the EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme.
International student funding
Find out about funding for international students.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what you tuition fees cover.
UK tuition fee: £9,790 (Price per academic year)
Please note that if you defer your place, the first year’s tuition fees will be those of the academic year in which you enrol, which may be higher than the fee shown for this year.
Fees are subject to UK Government Parliamentary procedure.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Funding
As well as tuition fee loans, there is a range of funding available to help you fund your studies.
Find out about undergraduate student funding options.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible undergraduate students, which cover all or part of your tuition fees.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what you tuition fees cover.
International tuition fee: £17,600 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase International tuition fees.
Please note that if you defer your place, the first year’s tuition fees will be those of the academic year in which you enrol, which may be higher than the fee shown for this year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme
If you are an international student accepted on an undergraduate programme starting in September at level 3 (Foundation) or level 4 (first year) on the basis of an eligible EU qualification only, you will be awarded a £4,500 tuition fee reduction off your first year of studies. For more information, see the EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme.
International student funding
Find out about funding for international students.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what you tuition fees cover.
We Are Westminster Blog
Read our blog to get an insight into student life and studying at the University of Westminster.
Immersive Development Lab
The Immersive Development Lab (ID Lab) is a cutting-edge creative space preparing students for the future of immersive technology and digital development. Its interconnected ecosystem of professional tools – including a room-sized LED wall, virtual production, motion capture, spatial audio, VR, 3D scanning, and locally hosted generative AI – enables students to experiment, collaborate, and innovate without technical barriers.
Students on this course engage with the lab through specialist VR and motion capture modules, as well as onboarding sessions that support the development of their own immersive projects.
Learn more about the Immersive Development Lab.
Teaching and Assessment
Below you will find how learning time and assessment types are distributed on this course. The graphs below give an indication of what you can expect through approximate percentages, taken either from the experience of previous cohorts, or based on the standard module diet where historic course data is unavailable. Changes to the division of learning time and assessment may be made in response to feedback and in accordance with our terms and conditions.
How you'll be taught
Teaching methods across all our undergraduate courses focus on active student learning through lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application. Learning typically falls into three broad categories:
- Scheduled hours: examples include lectures, seminars, practical classes, workshops, supervised time in a studio
- Placement: placement hours normally include placement opportunities, but may also include live projects or virtual activity involving employers
- Independent study: non-scheduled time in which students are expected to study independently. This may include preparation for scheduled sessions, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks, or revision
How you'll be assessed
Our undergraduate courses include a wide variety of assessments.
Assessments typically fall into two broad categories:
- Practical: examples include presentations, videos, podcasts, lab work, creating artefacts
- Coursework: examples include essays, reports, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation
Data from the academic year 2025/26
Supporting you
Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.
- Study support – workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
- Personal tutors – support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
- Student advice team – provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
- Extra-curricular activities – volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more
Course Location
With state-of-the-art science and psychology labs and refurbished computer suites, our Cavendish Campus offers our science and technology students a range of learning spaces that are both dynamic and inspiring,
Located in central London, our Cavendish Campus is just a five-minute walk from Oxford Street and Tottenham Court Road.
For more details, visit our Cavendish Campus page.
This course is based at Cavendish, though some teaching may take place at our other central London campuses.
CHANGES TO OUR COURSES
All content on our course pages is accurate at time of publication.
Where significant or material changes have been made, applicants will be informed of these in line with Competition and Markets Authority guidance.
Contact us
Call our dedicated team on:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65511
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
More information
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