Bachelor of Information and Communications Technologies (Software Engineering)
Course details
| NZQF Level | 7 |
|---|
About the course
This pathway prepares you to design and build modern software applications using current industry practices and tools. Skills are developed across application development, programming and software engineering, with exposure to agile development, DevOps and cloud‑based deployment.
Learning is grounded in real‑world projects and collaborative environments. You’ll gain the ability to design scalable software systems, develop applications across platforms, and contribute across the full software development lifecycle, from planning and development through to testing and deployment.
Key highlights
- Develop real software solutions through applied learning and projects
- Learn modern development practices, including Agile and DevOps
- Build strong programming skills across multiple languages and technologies
- Prepare for high‑demand software development roles
- Work collaboratively on real‑world applications
- Final year work-integrated project
- Flexible study options, with full‑time in 3 years or part‑time up to 5 years
- Gain real-world experience in your final year through a work-integrated learning project, where you’ll apply your skills in an industry setting
What you’ll learn
- Programming and application development
- Object-oriented programming
- Web application development
- Server-side programming
- Software architecture and design
- DevOps and software deployment
- Software testing and debugging
- Agile software development practices
Entry requirements
Academic Requirements
University Entrance as specified by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA)
OR New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) Construction and ICT Pathway
OR a qualification on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework at Level 4 or above in a related discipline.
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
Alternative Requirements
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
This may include Recognition of Prior Learning, please contact Ara for advice.
English Requirements
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives
- English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
What if I have achieved New Zealand University Entrance?
If you have achieved New Zealand University Entrance requirements, you are not required to provide evidence of English language skills.
Selection Requirements
Applicants who meet the entry requirements will be accepted into the programme in the order that completed applications are received.
About the provider
Ara Institute of Canterbury is recognised as one of New Zealand’s leading tertiary institutes. Specialising in applied, vocational and professional training, it offers more than 150 courses from foundation to postgraduate level.
Ara caters to a diverse range of learners; from school leavers and career changers to professionals wanting to upskill and individuals seeking to re-enter the workforce.
All Ara students benefit from the Ara Advantage: relevant courses, taught by inspirational mentors in real-life learning environments. Almost every Ara programme includes work-integrated learning. Work placements, apprenticeships, industry-based projects and internships ensure students are work-ready when they graduate.
Across its six campuses, Ara’s dedicated tutors and non-academic staff support students throughout their study journey. A comprehensive range of student services - such as financial assistance, learning support, health and wellbeing services, accommodation, childcare and student events – contributes to the success of every student.
It also has six additional small community hubs which deliver free digital upskilling and personal development courses.