Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Ara Institute of CanterburyBachelor of Information and Communications Technologies (Software Engineering)
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Bachelor's Degree
Duration
3 years
Next start date
Expected Feb 2027
Campus
Christchurch - City Campus
Summary
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
- 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 criteria
Academic RequirementsUniversity 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 RequirementsStill 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 RequirementsWhat 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 RequirementsApplicants who meet the entry requirements will be accepted into the programme in the order that completed applications are received.
Disclaimer