Digital Technologies: Software Development & Programming

Designed to meet industry demand, this course develops your ability to design, build and deploy software systems, while building a strong foundation in programming, data management, secure development and modern cloud-based environments.

Software developers are at the heart of today’s digital economy, creating the applications, websites and systems that power modern life. This Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Digital Technologies: Software Development & Programming will equip you with the skills to design, build and deploy software that solves real-world problems.

Delivered as a flexible one-year (full-time) or two-year (part-time) programme, the course has been developed in collaboration with employers and ensures that everything you learn is directly relevant to industry.

Taking a practical, hands-on approach, you will work across the full software development lifecycle, from initial concept and design through to testing and deployment. Alongside this, you will develop a strong foundation in core digital technologies, including programming, cyber security, data, databases and cloud networking, preparing you for a wide range of roles in software development.

On successful completion, you will be awarded a Level 4 Higher National Certificate, giving you both a recognised qualification and the confidence that your skills are in demand by employers.

Who is it for? This course is designed for a wide range of learners including; school and college leavers, adult returners, career changers, and professionals looking to enter or progress in software development roles. We recognise that balancing study with work and personal commitments can be challenging, which is why this course is delivered in the evenings – offering the flexibility to learn in a way that fits around your life.

How is it delivered? Teaching is delivered in 4 structured 9-week blocks as evening sessions at DMU’s Leicester campus. You will learn via a blend of lectures, seminars and hands-on practical sessions.

What will you study? Eight modules covering professional practice, digital transformation, cyber security, programming, big data and visualisation, cloud networking, database design and the software development lifecycle.

Support and resources: You will have access to professional development environments, version control tools, DMU's computing labs, and the full range of library and digital learning support.

At DMU, the focus is on your future - with work experience opportunities on every course, an employability-boosting careers award, and industry-led course content, you'll be well prepared to start your career.

You’ll get guaranteed work experience opportunities with UK and overseas placements, internships, and personalised training. DMU has been named the UK’s Best University for Work Experience (RateMyPlacement 2024 & 2025), offering personalised careers support, industry connections, and placements with global names like Rolls-Royce and Adobe.

DMU is one of only a few universities where you’ll benefit from modular, block teaching where you’ll study one subject at a time for deeper learning and better results.

Situated in the heart of Leicester, a vibrant student-friendly city, the campus is just a short walk from everything the city has to offer. Its central location means you can hop on a train and be in cities like London, Birmingham and Nottingham in around an hour or less.