Career opportunities
Software Engineering study can lead to careers across the technology sector and in organisations that rely on digital systems, data, and software. Graduates can apply their skills in local and global settings, from building applications to improving how people interact with technology.
- Software development – designing and building applications for web, mobile, and digital platforms
- Technology companies – contributing to products, systems, and services used by diverse audiences
- Artificial intelligence – applying software skills in emerging data and intelligent systems fields
- User experience technology – creating digital tools that are useful, accessible, and engaging
- Digital innovation – solving practical problems through creative, adaptable technology solutions
How you will learn
You'll learn through a mix of lectures, labs and project work, building your programming skills alongside the wider process of designing, developing, testing and improving software.
Otago's School of Computing uses a Mastery Learning Model, developed from University of Otago Research. Rather than every student moving on once a topic has been taught, you build fluency in each concept before you progress, so gaps in your knowledge don't grow as you continue in your learning. This is made possible by our small group teaching. You'll also be taught directly by people doing the research behind it, all academic staff here are required to teach as well as research.
The School of Computing gives you access to modern computing labs and specialist facilities, including a Human-Computer Interaction lab for work in virtual, augmented and mixed reality. In your final years, you'll take on industry placements, working directly with companies to apply what you've learned to live projects.
Recommended high school subjects for undergraduate study
A strong background in mathematics is required, including calculus. Statistics is also useful, and digital technologies and physics can provide helpful preparation for Software Engineering. If you enjoy problem-solving, logical thinking, coding, designing digital tools, or working out how technology can meet people’s needs, this subject may suit you well.
Choose a study option
Whether you're embarking on your academic journey with our comprehensive undergraduate programmes or aiming to reach new heights through our advanced postgraduate offerings, Otago is here to support your aspirations.
Undergraduate qualifications
For new and current students studying towards a Bachelor's or other first degree. Explore undergraduate qualifications at Otago, designed to build a strong foundation in your chosen field, preparing you for a successful career or further study.
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Further study opportunities
Whether you are looking to bridge your undergraduate studies to advanced knowledge or aiming to specialise in a specific field, Otago offers a range of graduate and postgraduate options to suit your aspirations.
I’m employed in a graduate programme with a large Australian insurance company that has offices and brands in New Zealand. Right now, I work for the network and securities team doing software engineering work, building internal speed tests, scripting our automations, and liaising with stakeholders about AI capability.
Dyrel Lumiwes
Bachelor of Science (Major: Computer Science, Minor: Software Engineering)
From state-of-the-art computer labs to access to emerging tech like Snapchat Spectacles, virtual reality headsets, and even robots – we got hands-on experience with tools that are shaping the future of tech and communication. Our classes didn’t just focus on theory – we got to apply what we were learning in practical, exciting ways.
Olivia Andrew
Bachelor of Commerce and Science (Majors: Information Science, Marketing)
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Practical software learning with strong industry connections
Software Engineering at Otago is grounded in real-world application. You will learn to create software used by people and organisations, while building technical skills, creative problem-solving, and professional awareness. The subject connects classroom learning with practical experience in companies during later years, helping you understand how software development works in industry. Otago’s Computer Science teaching and research strengths also support learning in areas such as artificial intelligence, computer graphics, human-computer interaction, data science, and systems programming.
Programme details
Compare programmes for this subject.
| Level | Papers | Points |
|---|---|---|
| First year | PHSI 131 Physical Law and its Application | 18 |
| MATH 130 Fundamentals of Modern Mathematics 1 | 18 | |
| MATH 140 Fundamentals of Modern Mathematics 2 | 18 | |
| COMP 121 Computer Programming | 18 | |
| COMP 122 Foundations of Computer Science | 18 | |
| DHUM 101 Socially Responsible Computing | 18 | |
| One elective from COMP, COMO, MATH, PHSI, STAT and DATA 100-level papers | 18 | |
| Second year | COMP 221 Algorithms and Data Structures | 18 |
| COMP 222 User-centered Software Design | 18 | |
| COMP 223 Software Development | 18 | |
| COMP 224 Computer Systems | 18 | |
| COMP 226 Database Systems | 18 | |
| DATA 202 Information Assurance | 18 | |
| One elective chosen from COMP, COMO, MATH, PHSI, SENG, DATA and DHUM 200-level papers | 18 | |
| SENG 299 Practical Work Experience (I) | 0 | |
| Third year | SENG 311 Software Quality Assurance | 18 |
| SENG 312 Software Architectures and Design Patterns | 18 | |
| SENG 370 Software Engineering Project | 18 | |
| COMP 326 Human Computer Interaction and User Experience | 18 | |
| MANT 337 Organisations and Sustainability | 18 | |
| PMAN 401 Project Management | 18 | |
| One elective chosen from SENG, COMP, DATA and DHUM 300-level papers | 18 | |
| SENG 399 Practical Work Experience (II) | 0 | |
| Fourth year | SENG 470 Advanced Software Engineering Project | 20 |
| SENG 580 Software Engineering Research Project | 40 | |
| Three electives chosen from COMP or SENG 400-level papers | 60 | |
| SENG 499 Practical Work Experience (III) | 0 | |
| Total | 498 |
Papers
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