Career opportunities
Software engineers are amongst the highest-paid professionals globally and are recruited from across the world to address critical shortages. Graduates enter tech roles such as:
- Software engineer/developer
- Web or mobile app developer
- DevOps engineer
- Quality assurance engineer
- Business/systems analyst
- Game developer
These roles aren’t just found in software development companies. You could find yourself working in:
- Tech companies
- Government
- Finance
- Healthcare
- Manufacturing
- Telecommunications
The field offers exceptional entrepreneurial potential – whether developing web applications or specialised software for industries like tourism or finance.
How you will learn
From day one, you'll dive into hands-on projects, building practical applications that address real-world challenges. You'll learn to design robust software systems, master cutting-edge development techniques, and collaborate with innovative thinkers.
As you progress, you'll have the opportunity to specialise in areas like artificial intelligence and human-computer interfaces – whatever ignites your interest and curiosity.
Technical know-how is also enhanced with essential professional skills. Through team projects, you'll strengthen communication abilities and critical thinking, learning to explain complex ideas to diverse audiences and approach challenges systematically.
Recommended high school subjects for undergraduate study
Applicants to the first year of the BE(Hons) in Software Engineering are normally expected to have completed achievement standards in NCEA Level 3 calculus or equivalent. Those without this background are strongly advised to enrol in MATH 120.
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.
Ready to apply?
Take the first step towards your future in this subject.
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)
Related subject areas
Explore all subject areasTechnology, maths and computing
Study technology, mathematics, or computing to solve real-life problems – harnessing the power of information and data
Engineering, land surveying and urban design
Shape the world with innovative solutions and modern technology – designing spaces where people live and flourish
Business, accounting and finance
Study business and prepare yourself for a career in the fast-paced corporate world – or even launch your own start-up
Future-proof your career
Our industry connections ensure you'll work with the latest tech and tools actually used in the field. Plus, practical work experience integrated into the degree means you'll graduate job-ready with a portfolio that impresses employers. With software engineers in high demand worldwide, you'll enjoy exceptional career opportunities and competitive salaries from graduation.
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, 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, 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
View a list of all related papers below.
More information
Have a question or need support? AskOtago can connect you with the right team for personalised help.
This information must be read subject to the statement on our Copyright & Disclaimer page.
Regulations on this page are taken from the 2026 Calendar and supplementary material.
Not sure what to study?
Take our short quiz to uncover study options matched to your background and interests.
Take the quiz