Software Development Course in Derby

Cost£8,700.00
Duration32 weeks
DeliveryClassroom based
Start28 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime

About this course

Software Development Course in Derby. Classes run at Derby College @ the Joseph Wright Centre, full-time over 32 weeks per year across a two-year Foundation Degree programme. The course covers all aspects of software design and is delivered by lecturers with professional backgrounds in the Digital and IT sector. You'll need 48 UCAS points (at least 32 from a related subject such as ICT or Computer Science), GCSE English at grades 9 to 4, and an appropriate level of maths for higher-level study. Applicants are invited to an online interview or site visit as part of the application process.

Who this course is for

This programme is approved through, and forms part of, the University of Derby’s School of Computing and Engineering.The two-year HTQ Foundation Degree reviews all aspects of software design.The programme is delivered by experienced Higher Education lecturers who have had careers within the Digital and IT sector and who can relate this topic using a diverse range of scenarios.Although you may only be in classes on two or three days per week, there is an expectation that you will spend the equivalent of a further three days in independent study and undertake a period of mandatory employer engagement to support your studies.This may involve you being invited in on non-timetabled days or working with employers during weekends to fulfil some elements of the course. Please note that classes can take place over traditional half-term holidays that fall within the identified semester weeks.The course is regulated by the OfS and the qualification is awarded by the University of Derby.All students have access to the UDO online platform, the Derby College Group Learning Resources Centre, the University of Derby library, and the College’s Moodle pages.

Entry requirements

All applicants will be invited to complete an online interview or site visit at which interviews will take place to discuss their qualifications, experience and any other related topics.You should have one of the following:48 UCAS points, with at least 32 preferably coming from a related subject (e.g. ICT or Computer Sciences)Access to HE qualificationsYou will also need:GCSE English at grades 9-4 (A*- C)An appropriate competency in maths for higher level studyWe also welcome applicants who lack

What you will learn

  • You'll study the principles and practice of software design across all key areas
  • You'll develop skills in writing and structuring code for real applications
  • You'll explore computing and engineering concepts at higher education level
  • You'll apply your learning to a diverse range of digital and IT scenarios
  • You'll build the independent study habits expected at Foundation Degree level

How you will learn

You'll attend classes two or three days per week at the centre. The programme is delivered by Higher Education lecturers with industry backgrounds in the Digital and IT sector. Alongside timetabled sessions, you'll be expected to complete a significant amount of independent study each week. Assessment methods are set at Foundation Degree level through the University of Derby's School of Computing and Engineering.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Derby College @ the Joseph Wright Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Software Developer: write and maintain software applications
  • Junior Web Developer: build and update websites and web apps
  • IT Support Analyst: troubleshoot systems and support users
  • Systems Analyst: review and improve how IT systems work
  • Application Developer: design and develop software for organisations
  • Junior Data Analyst: work with data using programming tools

What you could study next

After completing the Foundation Degree, you could top up to a full Bachelor's degree in Software Development, Computer Science, or a related subject at the University of Derby or another university. This typically takes one additional year of full-time study. You could also pursue professional certifications in areas such as cloud computing, cybersecurity, or software testing to specialise further.

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