Study Software Engineering at Otago

Why study Software Engineering?

Software engineering requires modelling and understanding complex interactive systems, as well as identifying how the performance of computer information systems can be improved. It also includes managing the construction of the information system components, and ensuring procedures are in place for continual testing and maintenance.

You’ll be able to join a highly sought-after profession. New Zealand’s (and the world’s) future depends on having technical experts who can oversee the construction of the complex information systems that will underpin the new knowledge-based society.

You’ll gain the expertise to enter a fast-growing industry with highly-paid job opportunities, where innovation is rewarded.

You’ll discover the satisfaction of devising and modelling systems, and then testing them under a range of operating conditions.

What will I learn?

You’ll learn about databases, mathematical applications, software development, and strategies for using computers to solve real-life problems. You’ll cover issues like systems design, where you’ll assess software on issues like usability and visual appeal. You’ll also learn how to manage and coordinate a software project, taking into account modelling, costing, risk, organisation and resourcing.

Career opportunities

Software Engineers are among the highest-paid professionals in most countries of the world. Countries like Japan and the United States are relaxing their immigration laws in order to address critical shortages in this area.

Software engineers are not only in demand at software companies, but are also sought after in a range of other organisations involved in the development of significant information systems. This includes governments, telecommunications companies, the chemical industry, biomedical industries, financial institutions, agribusinesses, pharmaceuticals, healthcare sector corporations, engineering and manufacturing firms.

While the work of software engineers can often involve developing interactive, user-friendly applications to be used by companies and individuals, it can also involve the development of a considerable amount of “behind the scenes” software. This can include systems to improve the management of e-commerce, or to improve the security and privacy of Internet transactions.

There is enormous scope to establish new start-up organisations throughout the information technology and telecommunications industries. This might mean anything from designing an interactive application for use on the Web, to developing your own line of software to meet the needs of a particular sector, such as tourism or finance.

Background required

Students from a range of backgrounds are welcome to study for Otago’s BAppSc in Software Engineering. There is some flexibility in entry requirements, but Year 13 mathematics is recommended. Experience or familiarity with computing also helps, but it is not essential.

What will I study?

The required papers at 100-level are: COMP 101, COMP 160, and one of MATH 151, 160, 170, FINQ 102.

From second year, you’ll study a wide range of information science and computer science papers, which lay the foundation for advanced papers in Software Engineering. There you’ll look at the development process of large scale, reliable, and maintainable software.

NB: Check the latest paper details in the Guide to Enrolment published with enrolment material each year.

How will I study?

As well as attending lectures, you’ll spend a lot of time in Otago’s well equipped computer labs, gaining valuable hands-on experience.

Can I combine my Software Engineering study with other subjects?

A minor or second major is compulsory for the Bachelor of Applied Science. Your first year course is very flexible and you can select papers that keep your options open for second year – for example you can tailor a course that will also cover the prerequisites for most of the other BAppSc subject majors, or you could carry on with a BSc in Energy Studies, Mathematics or Physics.

The minor or second major you choose will tailor your studies to match your own particular strengths and passions, but also match demand from industry, for the skill-sets most needed.

Qualifications

Explore your study options further. Refer to enrolment information found on the following qualification pages.

• Bachelor of Applied Science* (BAppSc)
• Bachelor of Arts and Science (BASc)
• Bachelor of Commerce and Science (BComSc)
• Bachelor of Applied Science with Honours (BAppSc(Hons))
• Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Science (PGCertAppSc)
• Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Science (PGDipAppSc)
• Postgraduate Diploma in Science (PGDipSci)
• Master of Applied Science (MAppSc)
• Diploma for Graduates (DipGrad)

*It is a requirement that every Bachelor of Applied Science (BAppSc) normally includes an approved minor subject or an approved second major subject. Usually such a minor or second major subject must be selected from the approved combinations of major subjects with minor or second major subjects. Some exceptions may apply. For details see:

Full list of available approved minor and second major subject areas

Key information for students

• Domestic students
• International students

Contact us

Professor Tony Savarimuthu
Tel +64 3 479 5143
Fax +64 3 479 8311
Email tony.savarimuthu@otago.ac.nz
Website otago.ac.nz/sciences/study/applied-science

This information must be read subject to the statement on our Copyright & Disclaimer page.

Regulations on this page are taken from the 2023 Calendar and supplementary material.