COURSE CURRICULUM

The Software Design & Development program is structured over two years, offering a comprehensive combination of core modules, electives, and a substantial research project to prepare students for careers in software and ICT. In the first year, students complete 60 ECTS through a series of required modules designed to build foundational knowledge and practical skills. These include Computing Architecture & Operating Systems, Algorithmics & Logical Methods, Software Engineering 1, Databases, Internet Programming, Programming I, Programming II, Object-Oriented Software Design & Development, and Computer Networks and Data Communications. Additionally, students undertake a Research Project that develops their analytical and problem-solving skills. The first year emphasises both theory and hands-on practice, ensuring students acquire core software development competencies, programming skills, and an understanding of software engineering principles and networking. In the second year, students continue with a flexible range of optional modules totaling 60 ECTS, allowing them to specialise in areas such as Natural Language Processing, Information Retrieval, Programming and Tools for AI, Principles of Machine Learning, Programming for Data Analytics, Systems Modelling and Simulation, Cybersecurity, Network Security & Cryptography, Interaction Design, Games Programming, and Image Processing and Computer Vision. These electives provide students the opportunity to focus on emerging technologies, advanced computational methods, and innovative applications in software development. The second year culminates in a major Research Project and Thesis worth 45 ECTS, where students integrate their learning by designing, implementing, and evaluating a substantial software or ICT solution. This combination of foundational knowledge, elective specialisation, and research experience ensures graduates are well-prepared to enter the software industry as developers, analysts, or specialists, with the skills to adapt to evolving technologies, tackle complex problems, and contribute effectively in professional ICT environments.