LSI

Programme Specification

PgDip Advanced Software Engineering

This programme isn't just about learning advanced software engineering; it's about becoming a catalyst in a tech-driven world. With a curriculum designed for Computer Science graduates, Software Engineering majors, and seasoned software developers, this programme bridges the gap between academic theories and the dynamic needs of the industry. The focus is on creating software solutions that can tackle complex business challenges, making our graduates indispensable in the tech landscape.

The world is rapidly evolving, and software engineering plays a pivotal role in this transformation. Through this programme, students will delve into the intricacies of software development, understanding how intelligent design can be a game-changer in various industries. It's not just about coding; it's about innovating and creating software that makes a difference.

Award Information

Type of Qualification Postgraduate Diploma
Final Award PgDip Advanced Software Engineering
Awarding Body London School of Innovation
Teaching Institute London School of Innovation
Exit Award(s) PgCert (60 credits)
External Accreditation N/A

Programme Details

Qualification Level Postgraduate
Language Of Programme English
Mode(s) of Study Full-time blended
Part-time blended
Credits CATS 120, ECTS 60
Notional Learning Time 1200 hours
Applicable FHEQ Descriptor FHEQ - Level 7
Applicable Subject Benchmark Statement
HECoS Code

Entry Criteria

Admission to this programme will be governed by the School's Admissions Policy, which aligns with our commitment to inclusivity as outlined in the School's Access and Participation Statement. All applications will be assessed in accordance with the Admission and Registration Regulations of the School, ensuring a fair, transparent, and equitable process for all prospective students.

Requirement Details
Academic Qualifications An undergraduate degree or equivalent in any of the following:
Software engineering/computer science
Any Computing/IT
Required Work Experience A minimum of four years' experience as a developer.
English Language IELTS Level [Min. 5.5 ]

Aims and Objectives

Target Details
Skill Development This programme is engineered to hone critical skills in software development, project management, and problem-solving. Students will master the art of developing, implementing, and testing high-level software programs, focusing on both the technical and strategic aspects. The curriculum emphasises the importance of the organizational structure in projects, preparing students to lead and innovate in any setting. In the second phase, the course dives deeper. Students will learn to communicate effectively about software specifications, manage expectations, and adhere to deadlines. This involves regular updates to clients and project managers, coupled with the ability to modify, troubleshoot, and provide technical support for software programs. This comprehensive skill set is designed to elevate students from proficient coders to visionary software engineers.
Real World Application The MSc Advanced Software Engineering programme is rooted in real-world applications. Students will engage with current industry trends, learning how to apply advanced software methods to solve pressing business problems. This practical approach ensures that graduates are not only well-versed in theory but also adept at applying their knowledge in dynamic environments. Our curriculum is constantly updated to reflect the latest industry developments. This means students are always learning the most current and relevant practices, preparing them for immediate impact in their careers. From handling complex software projects to troubleshooting real-time issues, the programme equips students with the tools to excel in any professional setting.
Career Prospects Graduates of this programme are poised for success in a variety of roles across the technology sector. Potential career paths include software developer, project manager, software analyst, CTO, CIO, and many more. The skills acquired through this course are in high demand, making our graduates highly sought after in the job market. The employability skills gained through this course go beyond technical prowess. Graduates will emerge as confident communicators, strategic thinkers, and effective leaders. These skills are invaluable in any professional context, opening doors to a multitude of career opportunities and advancements.
Personal Growth While the MSc Advanced Software Engineering programme focuses on professional development, personal growth is equally prioritised. Students will embark on a journey of self-discovery, learning to navigate challenges with resilience and adaptability. This course fosters an environment where creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration are encouraged, contributing to the holistic development of each student. The programme is not just a stepping stone to a successful career; it’s a transformative experience that shapes individuals into well-rounded professionals. Graduates leave not only with advanced technical skills but also with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of their role in the wider tech community. This personal growth is integral to their success, both professionally and personally.

Learning Outcomes

FHEQ Level 7 (Threshold Academic Standard)
Qualification Descriptor Programme outcome(s)
Domain knowledge
Systematic understanding of knowledge in their field		 Demonstrate an organised grasp of knowledge within the scope of advanced software development, incorporating understanding of key principles, latest technologies, and programming paradigms. Digest and synthesise new concepts and advancements to establish a solid foundation for innovation in software engineering.
Problems and new ideas in the field
Critical awareness of current problems or new ideas in their field		 Maintain an acute awareness of evolving issues and pioneering ideas within the software engineering landscape. Critically engage with existing problems and potential solutions that are emerging at the forefront of the technology sector, particularly in relation to complex system design and development.
Techniques
Comprehensive understanding of applicable techniques in their field		 Comprehend and employ a broad spectrum of methodologies and tools pertinent to software engineering. Understand and utilise various programming languages, development frameworks, and software design patterns effectively in creating and maintaining robust software solutions.
Originality
Show some originality in applying knowledge		 Apply original thinking in utilising existing knowledge to develop innovative software products. Incorporate individual creativity and initiative in problem-solving whilst adhering to sound engineering principles and practices in the creation of software systems.
Knowledge discernment
Practical understanding of how to create and interpret knowledge in their field using established techniques of research and enquiry		 Utilise established research and enquiry methods to generate and interpret knowledge effectively within the software engineering field. Comprehend practical techniques for the systematic investigation and analysis of software systems, contributing to evidence-based conclusions.
Research critique
Conceptual understanding so they can criticise and evaluate the current research papers in their field, and the current methodologies and techniques. 		Critique and evaluate contemporary research articles, methodologies, and technical approaches in software engineering. Display a conceptual grasp that allows for informed judgement on the validity and relevance of new research findings and the optimisation of software development processes.
BCS Level 7 (Subject Benchmark Statement)
Qualification Descriptor Programme outcome(s)
Intellectual skills
Analyse, apply and critically evaluate concepts, principles and practices.		 Analyse, compare, and critically assess various concepts, principles, and practices within the software engineering domain. Utilise intellectual skills to make sound decisions and develop coherent strategies for approaching complex software development tasks.
Problem-solving
Well-developed skills in critical thinking, research design, judgement and problem-solving, leading to the ability to create effective computational artefacts, given complex or open constraints, with a high degree of autonomy.		 Employ refined problem-solving abilities to evaluate and address intricate or uncertain computing challenges, crafting effective software artefacts. Show proficiency in research design and judgement, working autonomously to find solutions within complex or open-ended scenarios.
Practical computing skills
Apply computing techniques, as appropriate to the area of study, within complex or unpredictable scenarios, in a systematic manner, making appropriate decisions given incomplete or missing data.		 Utilise advanced computing techniques in uncertain and multifaceted situations systematically. Make informed choices amidst incomplete datasets, demonstrating the capacity to adapt to and effectively navigate unpredictable computing environments.
Autonomy and self-direction
Demonstrate some self-direction in learning and attainment, tackling and solving problems, and approaching and implementing tasks and activities proactively and effectively.		 Display independence in the pursuit of learning, addressing issues, and performing tasks with minimal guidance. Approach the development and execution of software projects proactively, drawing on personal drive and effective time management skills to achieve set objectives.
Professional practice
Identify appropriate practices in complex and unpredictable professional environments in the work that they undertake, and perform work within a professional, legal and ethical framework – including data management and use, security, equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) and sustainability.		 Identify and implement appropriate professional practices within complicated and unforeseeable software engineering scenarios. Work responsibly with consideration to legal, ethical, data management, security, and sustainability issues which are inherent in the professional technological environment.
Professional communication
Communicate their work to specialist and non-specialist audiences.		 Communicate effectively about complex software projects and their specifications to both experts and laypersons. Articulate technical information and project updates clearly, ensuring that the communication bridges the gap between technical intricacies and broad audience comprehension.

Programme Structure

To qualify for the Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) you must achieve 120 CATS credits from the following.

Programme Modules Outcomes Map

The following mapping demonstrates how the programme outcomes are all addressed by the module outcomes.
In compliance with the School's regultations, every programme outcome is covered by at least one core module outcome.

FHEQ Level 7 (Threshold Academic Standard)

Programme Learning Outcome
Domain knowledge
Problems and new ideas in the field
Techniques
Originality
Knowledge discernment
Research critique

BCS Level 7 (Subject Benchmark Statement)

Programme Learning Outcome
Intellectual skills
Problem-solving
Practical computing skills
Autonomy and self-direction
Professional practice
Professional communication

Mode(s) of Study

Students can choose either of the following. Entry points can be at the beginning of any semester in the School's academic calendar (February, June or October) where an entry cohort is provisioned. For each semester of each year, the School's website will set out whether an entry cohort for this programme is scheduled.

Please view the programme page on our website for the latest information.

FullName Duration Location Asynchronous learning Synchronous learning
1 Full-time blended
Ideal for students who can fully commit to weekly classes (in-person or remotely) and willing to immerse in full-time education.		 12 months
Students can begin in any of our standard semesters, on the first of February, June or October, and complete the programme in 3 consecutive semesters, studying 60 credits per semester. 		On-campus or online. All modules delivered at LSI will allow remote attendance in order to promote flexibility, access, and participation. Our advanced, AI-enhanced online learning platform elevates student engagement. It features the Interactive Knowledge Graph (IKG) for efficient, engaging knowledge attainment, alongside AI-guided activities like quizzes, discussions, Q&A, and immediate feedback on practical tasks, supplementing synchronous classes. Rather than conventional lectures, our academic staff and subject-matter experts focus on interactive methods in live classes, facilitating problem-solving, role-play, case studies, discussions, and teamwork. Students attend these weekly sessions to engage in structured social learning. Our hybrid approach blends the convenience of digital resources with the motivation of human interaction.
2 Part-time blended
Ideal for students busy with work/life commitments, but who can commit to weekly classes (in-person or remotely).		 24 months
Students can begin in any of our standard semesters, on the first of February, June or October, and complete the programme within 2 years. Per semester, they typically study 30 credits. Each taken module should begin and end within the same semester, except the final project, which can be stretched across two. 		On-campus or online. All modules delivered at LSI will allow remote attendance in order to promote flexibility, access, and participation. Our advanced, AI-enhanced online learning platform elevates student engagement. It features the Interactive Knowledge Graph (IKG) for efficient, engaging knowledge attainment, alongside AI-guided activities like quizzes, discussions, Q&A, and immediate feedback on practical tasks, supplementing synchronous classes. Rather than conventional lectures, our academic staff and subject-matter experts focus on interactive methods in live classes, facilitating problem-solving, role-play, case studies, discussions, and teamwork. Students attend these weekly sessions to engage in structured social learning. Our hybrid approach blends the convenience of digital resources with the motivation of human interaction.

Credit Structure

The following are examples only. For more information, please read the school's registration regulations .

Full-time blended (total of 120 credits)
Taught modulesFinal project
Year 1 Semester 160
Year 1 Semester 260
Total120
Part-time blended Example 1 (total of 120 credits)
Taught modulesFinal project
Year 1 Semester 130
Year 1 Semester 230
Year 1 Semester 330
Year 2 Semester 130
Total120
Part-time blended Example 2 (total of 120 credits)
Taught modulesFinal project
Year 1 Semester 120
Year 1 Semester 220
Year 1 Semester 320
Year 2 Semester 120
Year 2 Semester 220
Year 2 Semester 320
Total120

Teaching Systems

There are no teaching systems to display.

Teaching and Learning Methods

Each module will specify its teaching system, including weighted teaching and learning activities, which will be drawn from the following pool as appropriate.

There are no learning activities to display.

Assessment Formats

Each module will specify its weighted summative assessment formats which will be drawn, as appropriate, from the following pool.

There are no assessment formats to display.

Marking Criteria

The following grid sets out the School’s marking criteria for FHEQ - L7.

Outcome Expectation Distinction (70 - 100%) Merit (60 - 69%) Pass (50 - 59%) Fail (0 - 49%)
Knowledge and Understanding Systematic and critical understanding of relevant knowledge, concepts, new insights, and developments in the discipline, including within current literature, and also incorporating interrelationships with other relevant disciplines. Outstanding systematic and critical understanding of relevant knowledge, concepts, new insights, and developments in the discipline, including within current literature, and also incorporating interrelationships with other relevant disciplines. Very good systematic and critical understanding of relevant knowledge, concepts, new insights, and developments in the discipline, including within current literature, and also incorporating interrelationships with other relevant disciplines. Satisfactory systematic and critical understanding of relevant knowledge, concepts, new insights, and developments in the discipline, including within current literature, and also incorporating interrelationships with other relevant disciplines. Little to no systematic and critical understanding of relevant knowledge, concepts, new insights, and developments in the discipline, including within current literature, and also incorporating interrelationships with other relevant disciplines.
Intellectual Skills Ability to analyse, apply, and critically evaluate knowledge, techniques, and practices, in unpredictably complex contexts and to existing discourses and methodologies with intellectual skill and some originality. Exceptional analysis, application, and critical evaluation of knowledge, techniques, and practices in unpredictably complex contexts and to existing discourses and methodologies, with a high-level of intellectual skill and some originality. Sound analysis, application, and critical evaluation of knowledge, techniques, and practices in unpredictably complex contexts and to existing discourses and methodologies, with very good intellectual skill and some originality. Acceptable analysis, application, and critical evaluation of knowledge, techniques, and practices in unpredictably complex contexts and to existing discourses and methodologies, with satisfactory intellectual skill and limited originality. Little to no analysis, application, and critical evaluation of knowledge, techniques, and practices in unpredictably complex contexts and to existing discourses and methodologies, with a very narrow level of intellectual skill and no originality.
Technical/Practical Skills Comprehensive and critical understanding and organisation of specialist techniques and advanced methodologies in the discipline, including those related to critical thinking, specialist projects, research design, problem-solving, and techniques, and a practical understanding of how they should be selected and used to interpret incomplete knowledge and create effective artefacts. Outstanding critical understanding and organisation of specialist techniques and advanced methodologies in the discipline, including high-level critical thinking, specialist projects, research design, problem-solving, and techniques, and a thorough practical understanding of how they should be selected and used to interpret incomplete knowledge and create effective artefacts. Very good critical understanding and organisation of specialist techniques and advanced methodologies in the discipline, including sound critical thinking, specialist projects, research design, problem-solving, and techniques, and a very good practical understanding of how they should be selected and used to interpret incomplete knowledge and create effective artefacts. Acceptable critical understanding and organisation of specialist techniques and advanced methodologies in the discipline, including satisfactory critical thinking, specialist projects, research design, problem-solving, and techniques, and acceptable understanding of how they should be selected and used to interpret imcomplete knowledge and create effective artefacts. Limited or no critical understanding and organisation of specialist techniques and advanced methodologies in the discipline, including little or no critical thinking, , specialist projects, research design, problem-solving, and techniques, and a limited to no practical understanding of how they should be selected and used to interpret incomplete knowledge and create effective artefacts.
Professional/Transferable Skills Ability to show awareness, autonomy and self-direction in development and learning, tackling and solving complex problems, approaching and implementing tasks in diverse and unpredictable contexts, including professional, legal and ethical, critically evaluating own and others capabilities, and with an ability to communicate work to specialist and non-specialist audiences. Exceptional ability to show awareness, autonomy and self-direction in development and learning, taking a thorough proactive approach to tackling and solving complex problems, approaching and implementing tasks in diverse and unpredictable contexts at a very high level, including professional, legal and ethical, exceptional critical evaluation of own and others work, and with a thorough ability to communicate work to specialist and non-specialist audiences Very good ability to show awareness, autonomy and self-direction in development and learning, taking an effective and proactive approach in tackling and solving complex problems, approaching and implementing tasks in diverse and unpredictable contexts at a very good level, including professional, legal and ethical, very good critical evaluation of own and others work, and with a very good ability to communicate work to specialist and non-specialist audiences. Satisfactory ability to show awareness, autonomy and self-direction in development and learning, taking a good approach in tackling and solving complex problems, approaching and implementing tasks in diverse and unpredictable contexts at an acceptable level, including professional, legal and ethical, satisfactory critical evaluation of own and others work, and with a good ability to communicate work to specialist and non-specialist audiences. Little to no ability to show awareness, autonomy and self-direction in development and learning, taking a limited or no proactive approach in tackling and solving complex problems, approaching and implementing tasks in diverse and unpredictable contexts at a very limited level, including professional, legal and ethical, little to no critical evaluation of own and others work, and with little to no ability to communicate work to specialist and non-specialist audiences.

Programme Contacts

Role Description Name Email
Programme Director Oversees the overall direction and integrity of the programme.

Programme Approval

Stage Version Date of approval Authority Chair Revalidation
Strategic Approval 1.0 Board of Governors Somayeh Aghnia
Operational Approval 1.0 Executive Committee Paymon Khamooshi
Academic Approval 1.0 Academic Board Dr Paresh Kathrani
Core > Programme spec > Pgdip