At Robert Gordon University the Computing – Application Software Development degree is a two-year top-up programme that leads to an Honours degree for those with a relevant HND. The course will develop your knowledge and skills in software and systems development for multiple platforms, and enhance your ability to develop sophisticated applications to change tomorrow’s world.
One of the major challenges that businesses are facing today is maintaining and enhancing a competitive advantage. The merging of communication and information technologies is creating new opportunities for the development of application software that integrates mobile, tablet, PC, networking and an array of computing services, into highly accessible systems. The course content covers the full range of software technologies which underpin these opportunities.
Years 1 & 2
This is a direct entry course, so applicants will need to have completed a HND Computing: Software Development, or a similar Computing with Software Development diploma award, to start the course at Year 3.
Year 3
In Degree Year you'll study programming for mobile devices, learn how to conduct research into problems, use your computing abilities while collaborating with students from different backgrounds on projects focusing on problems provided by industrial clients, and develop entrepreneurial skills used to create innovative solutions to real world challenges.
The course offers two routes, meaning you’ll have the choice to study modules focusing on learning how to create systems that utilise the latest artificial intelligence, or modules focusing on game mechanics and security.
Year 4
You’ll have the option to seek a year- long placement in industry between year 3 and year 5. There’s also an opportunity to take placement over the summer at the end of year 3. Alternatively, you can study abroad for the year, where you will advance your skills at one of our specialist international partner institutions between years 3 and 5.
Year 5
In Honours Year you’ll further develop your skills in human computer interaction and data visualisation. Depending on the route selected, you’ll study more advanced areas of artificial intelligence, or games development. You’ll use your knowledge and skills in a large, capstone project in Semester 2.
Student stories
Hear from our students and graduates about their experiences studying this course:
Events
We have on campus and virtual events to help you find out more about study, student experience and future career paths.
Modules
Modules and delivery order may change for operational purposes. The University regularly reviews its courses. Course content and structure may change over time. See our course and module disclaimer for more information.
Detailed module informationLearning Methods
Throughout this course, students studying Computing - Application Software Development will have a choice of elective modules in each Semester (except Semester 2 in Honours Year). This will provide students with the opportunity to create a unique pathway through the course by studying modules from the other specialist courses within the school, reinforcing skills while allowing students a chance to diversify their experience, and appreciate the wider context of related subjects that computing operates within.
Many activities are done in the context of projects to develop important skills in project management and team-working; to extend programming and problem-solving skills, and make sure that your software applications meet the real needs of users and business organisations.
You’ll use the latest computer hardware and software, with extensive use of technology-assisted learning. Lectures and practical sessions are undertaken with class sizes of around 40 however we also use a two to three-hour integrated teaching approach where you have short periods of instruction followed by lab exercises to contextualise the topic.
Activity Summary
- Lectures - 40 students per group, 4 hours per week
- Project Supervision - 1 - 4 students per group, 1 hour per week
- Demonstration - 40 students per group, 8 hours per week
How long is a BSc (Hons) Computing - Application Software Development course?
The Computing - Application Software Development degree can be completed over:
- 2 years
- 2 years + 1 year placement
Independent Study
Independent study allows you to engage fully with the wider context of the subject being taught in supervised classes. It allows you to fully cement what has already been taught and be fully prepared for the next session. Independent study should amount to around 3 hours a week per module.
Staff Delivering on This Course
Our staff members feature in the annual Support and Teaching staff with Appreciation and Recognition (STAR) awards voted by the students and organised by RGU:Union. Recently we have been awarded two Lecturer of the Year awards and an award for Continued Excellence.
Many of our academic staff are Fellows or Senior Fellows of the Higher Education Academy or are working towards this accolade. This is a professional recognition of practice, impact and leadership of teaching and learning.
Staff on this course could also include: visiting lecturers, visiting Distinguished Researchers, library staff and industry experts and postgraduate researchers.
Assessment
Typically students are assessed each term:
- Two Written Exams. Average time of exam three hours
- Two Project Outputs
- Two Reports
- One Dissertation
- One Practical skills assessment
Feedback
We aim to provide you with feedback within 20 working days of hand-in for all written exams, coursework and practical exams.
Academic Support
The Inclusion Centre advises and supports students who disclose a sensory or mobility impairment, chronic medical condition, mental health issue, dyslexia and other specific learning differences. Applicants are encouraged to arrange a pre-entry visit to discuss any concerns and to view the facilities.
Online Learning & Support
All undergraduate and postgraduate students, whether you are learning on campus or by online learning, benefit from using our collaborative virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle. You will be provided with 24/7 online access to your learning material and resources, along with the ability to interact with your class members and tutors for discussion and support.
Study Skills Support
The Study Support Team provides training and support to all students in:
- Academic writing
- Study skills (note taking, exam techniques, time management, presentation)
- Maths and statistics
- English language
- Information technology support
Library Support
The Library offers support for your course, including the books, eBooks, and journals you will need. We also offer online reading lists for many modules, workshops and drop-ins on searching skills and referencing, and much more.
Placements
Optional, paid, 3-month (summer) or 12-month placements can be undertaken in this course. You will be supported by a dedicated Placements Coordinator within the school who oversees the placement module and be assigned a Placement Supervisor who will carry out regular visits to your placement provider and meet with you and your employer. The confidence and experience you could acquire during a placement will make you more employable and put you one step ahead of the competition when you graduate.
Please note, placements are not guaranteed.
Job Prospects
There is a constant industry demand for graduates who have the ability to build robust usable software applications in the global digital market. You will have the user design and security knowledge, and the proficiency in the tools and technologies needed to develop accessible, interactive solutions for your clients. In addition to these skills, you will also have learned about ethics – so you’ll have an excellent skill-set for any employer.
Is Computing - Application Software Development a good career choice?
Previous BSc Computing - Application Software Development graduates of Robert Gordon University have gone on to pursue the following careers:
- Data Scientist
- Software Developer
- Digital Health Developer
As a graduate of the course you could find employment in a variety of areas that take advantage of recent advances in communication and information technologies. These include building and servicing information-rich applications using interactive media for mobile devices, developing secure internet and intranet technologies to provide enterprise-wide services, and developing smart database and e-commerce systems.
What is needed for a BSc (Hons) Computing - Application Software Development degree?
- This course does not have a year 1 or 2 as the requirements are an HND Computing: Software Development or a similar Computing with Software Development diploma award.
Applicants from Partner Colleges
A relevant HND from one of our partner colleges will be considered for entry into Year 3 subject to meeting requirements.
Advanced Entry
All other applicants who are interested in applying for advanced entry will be considered on an individual basis.
English Language Requirements
Applicants whose first language is not English should have an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with no component lower than 5.5, or an equivalent.
We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:
Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact admissions@rgu.ac.uk for further information.
Academic Year 2025-2026
Scottish Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 4 years | Year 1 | £1820 |
| Year 2 | £1820 | |
| Year 3 | £1820 | |
| Year 4 | £1820 | |
Rest of UK Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 4 years | Year 1 | £7220 |
| Year 2 | £7220 | |
| Year 3 | £7220 | |
| Year 4 | £7220 | |
International Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 4 years | Year 1 | £18300 |
| Year 2 | £18300 | |
| Year 3 | £18300 | |
| Year 4 | £18300 | |
Academic Year 2024-2025
Scottish Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 4 years | Year 1 | £1820 |
| Year 2 | £1820 | |
| Year 3 | £1820 | |
| Year 4 | £1820 | |
Rest of UK Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 4 years | Year 1 | £6930 |
| Year 2 | £6930 | |
| Year 3 | £6930 | |
| Year 4 | £6930 | |
EU Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 4 years | Year 1 | £6930 |
| Year 2 | £6930 | |
| Year 3 | £6930 | |
| Year 4 | £6930 | |
International Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 4 years | Year 1 | £17720 |
| Year 2 | £17720 | |
| Year 3 | £17720 | |
| Year 4 | £17720 | |
Additional Costs
- £50 for materials
Some other costs are not included in the course fees:
- The cost of books that you may wish to purchase.
- Costs associated with any placement / study abroad
- Accommodation and Living Costs
- Printing
Student Funding
If you are a Scottish resident, you may be eligible for funding and should apply to SAAS for funding.
Students from other parts of the UK should visit the appropriate website:
Scholarships and Financial Awards
You may qualify for a scholarship or financial award:
Disclaimer
For new intakes, course fees are reviewed and published annually for each mode of delivery. Tuition fees are fixed for the duration of a course at the rate confirmed in the offer letter. For further information:
Any questions?
Get in touch with our Student Admissions Service and we'll do our best to help.