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FdSc Software Engineering with Artificial Intelligence

Start Date: 7th September 2026

Length 2 years
Study Full-Time (Based on campus 2 days per week)
Location Rye Hill Campus

Qualification Gained

Levels Explained

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More about the course

FdSc Software Engineering with Artificial Intelligence is a new foundation degree programme delivered at NCUC and aligned to the HTQ Software Developer occupational standard. The programme develops practical software engineering skills through programming, databases, dynamic and secure web development, systems design, testing and DevOps, while embedding artificial intelligence through object-oriented AI-enabled applications, emerging technologies, generative AI, automation, API integration, machine learning concepts and responsible AI practice.

Students study Level 4 modules in databases, programming, object-oriented programming with AI, dynamic website development, academic skills and vocational practice. At Level 5, they progress into secure website development, systems design and testing, emerging technologies, DevOps, pre-professional identity and a vocational work project.

The teaching approach combines lectures, workshops, seminars, tutorials, independent study, practical development work and scenario-based learning. Assessment is largely project-based, with students producing technical artefacts, reports, designs, test plans, presentations, professional discussions and reflective evidence. The programme places strong emphasis on employability, professional identity, communication, teamwork, commercial awareness, responsible AI use and preparation for software engineering or AI-related employment.

Entry requirements

64 UCAS points (related to Computer Science and/or Digital Technologies subjects).

Once your application has been reviewed, you will be invited to attend an interview at the University Centre (details will follow through email from our Admissions Team).

If you are a current Newcastle College student and successfully meet the published Level 3 entry criteria in an appropriate subject, you will be guaranteed a place on this course.

Applicants are normally expected to have achieved grade 4 or higher in GCSE Maths and English or the Level 2 equivalent (i.e. Functional Skills or Adult Literacy/Numeracy).

At Newcastle College University Centre we welcome applications from students studying new T-Level qualifications.

Further details on our entry requirements can be found here.

What will I achieve?

Upon successful completion of this course, you will receive a FdSc Software Engineering.

What will I learn?

Year One

Information Systems and Databases
Fundamentals of Programming
Object-Oriented Programming with Artificial Intelligence
Dynamic Website Development
Skills for Success
Vocational Skills Practice

Year Two

Secure Website Development
Systems Design and Testing
Emerging Technologies
DevOps
Pre-Professional Identity
Vocational Work Project

How is the course taught?

The teaching approach combines lectures, workshops, seminars, tutorials, independent study, practical development work and scenario-based

How am I assessed?

Assessment is largely project-based, with students producing technical artefacts, reports, designs, test plans, presentations, professional discussions and reflective evidence.

Work Experience

The programme places strong emphasis on employability, professional identity, communication, teamwork, commercial awareness, responsible AI use and preparation for software engineering or AI-related employment.

Where can I progress?

Once you complete your degree you can progress onto one of our BSc (Hons) Top-Up degrees. This course will also help you develop a variety of computing skills that allow you to pursue a career in website development, IT consultancy, software development, or other industry-related roles.

Course costs and information

Tuition fees vary depending on the course and mode of study. Read more about tuition fees and financial support.

Fees for international students vary depending on the course. Find out more about international fees and payments.

It's important that you know what your tuition fee includes and what other costs you'll need to plan for. Read what your fee includes here.

William Ledwith

Level 6 BSc (Hons) Computing (Top-Up)

"Having industry-experienced tutors available to encourage you to be a well-rounded employee and work in industry, is also a massive advantage to studying at Newcastle College University Centre."

Murray Lambert

Programme Lead | Computing

"I enjoy delivering technical modules with a practical outcome. I get to use my experience working on industry projects to help students develop their skills in 3D modelling, texturing and animation. It's very rewarding to see students bring their own ideas to life, from a simple concept all the way to a character they can move around in a game."