BE(Hons) - Software Engineering as a specified programme
The Bachelor of Engineering with Honours is the basis for a professional career in engineering, and at Waikato you're provided with plenty of opportunities to apply what you’ve learnt in real-life work situations.
When you study software engineering, you'll be learning about how to use a scientific and disciplined approach to designing and developing complex software systems. You'll also learn how to operate and maintain such systems. From ATM machines to smart phones to cars - many aspects of modern society are driven by software which we expect to operate correctly and be reliable and flexible at all times.
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Key information
| Years: | 4 |
|---|---|
| Points: | 480 |
| Start Dates: | Semester A (February) and Semester B (July) |
| Fees (Domestic): | $7,580 (approx) per year |
| Fees (International): | $35,700 per year (any of years 1-3) |
| Entry Requirements: | Undergraduate International |
| Faculties: | |
| *Tuition fees shown are indicative only and may change. There are additional fees and charges related to enrolment please see the Table of Fees and Charges for more information. You will be sent an enrolment agreement which will confirm your fees. | |
Career opportunities
- Network Engineer
- Product Development Engineer
- Software Architect
- Software Consultant
- Software Developer
- Systems Engineer
- Test Engineer
Degree Planner
Degree planner — Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) BE(Hons) in Software Engineering
If no point value is listed, papers are worth 15 points. This structure applies to study starting in 2019.
Year 3
Year 4
COMPX526, COMPX552 or COMPX554
COMPX532, COMPX539 or COMPX548
Any 500 Level
COMPX Paper
Any 500 Level
COMPX Paper
- Stream
- Compulsory
- Elective
- Placement
Papers
Papers available within Software Engineering
Software engineering is the scientific, disciplined and quantifiable approach to developing, operating and maintaining complex software systems. These software systems include operating systems, networks, real-time and embedded systems, distributed and parallel systems, as well as engineering, scientific and business application software. The Software Engineering programme at Waikato emphasises the software engineering process, formal methods for software engineering, and human-computer interaction. The programme starts from scratch, and teaches programming skills using C# and Microsoft Visual Studio, before moving on to Java and even further to more modern languages. The final year project assimilates material taught in the earlier years with material from related disciplines such as electronics and industrial sources. It prepares students well for professional practice as well as continuing, or further, education and research.
Software Engineering is available as a specified programme for the BE(Hons).
To complete the specified programme in Software Engineering, students must follow the following programme.
Year 1
Students must take the following papers: COMPX101, COMPX102, ENGEN170, ENGEN180, ENGEN183, ENGEN184 and MATHS135.
And 15 points from the following: APHYS111, CHEMY100, CHEMY101, CHEMY102, ENGEN110, ENGEN111, ENGEN112, PHYSC100, PHYSC101.
Year 2
Students must take the following papers: COMPX203, COMPX204, COMPX223, COMPX241, COMPX242, COMPX361, ENGEN201, ENGEN270 and ENGEN271.
Year 3
Students must take the following papers: COMPX301, COMPX304, COMPX307, COMPX324, COMPX341, COMPX374, ENGEN301, ENGEN370 and ENGEN371.
Year 4
Students must take ENGEN570 and ENGEN582, 30 points from any 500 level COMPX paper, one of COMPX526, COMPX552 or COMPX554, and one of COMPX532, COMPX539 or COMPX548.
100 Level
| Code | Paper Title | Occurrence / Location |
|---|---|---|
| APHYS111 | Physics in Context | 20A (Hamilton) |
| This is an introductory paper in physics for students who have not studied physics or mathematics at NCEA level 2 or 3. It is intended to support a major in other science subjects. Emphasis is placed on describing everyday physics concepts using correct terminology. Examples of physics in action are drawn from many science areas. T... | ||
| CHEMY100 | Chemistry in Context | 20A (Hamilton) & 20B (Tauranga) |
| This is an introductory paper for students with a limited background in chemistry. There is a strong emphasis on teaching chemical concepts through real-world examples relevant to different science and engineering disciplines. | ||
| CHEMY101 | Structure and Spectroscopy | 20A (Hamilton) & 20C (Hamilton) |
| A theoretical and practical course covering aspects of analytical and inorganic chemistry. This course is required for the chemistry major. | ||
| CHEMY102 | Chemical Reactivity | 20B (Hamilton) |
| A theoretical and practical course covering aspects of physical and organic chemistry. This course is required for the chemistry major. | ||
| COMPX101 | Introduction to Programming | 20A (Hamilton), 20A (Online), 20B (Hamilton), 20G (Hamilton) & 20X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) |
| This paper introduces computer programming in C# - the exciting challenge of creating software and designing artificial worlds within the computer. It also covers concepts such as the internals of the home computer, the history and future of computers, cyber security, computer gaming, databases, mobile computing and current researc... | ||
| COMPX102 | Object-Oriented Programming | 20B (Hamilton), 20B (Tauranga), 20S (Hamilton) & 20X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) |
| This paper continues from COMPX101, expanding upon data organisation and algorithms, and introducing code contracts, computer architecture, Boolean algebra, assembly language, program analysis and object-oriented programming. | ||
| ENGEN101 | Engineering Mathematics 1A | 20A (Hamilton), 20A (Tauranga) & 20B (Hamilton) |
| A study of the fundamental techniques of algebra and calculus with engineering applications. | ||
| ENGEN102 | Engineering Mathematics 1B | 20B (Hamilton), 20B (Tauranga) & 20C (Hamilton) |
| A further study of the fundamental techniques of algebra and calculus with engineering applications. Includes an introduction to relevant statistical methods. | ||
| ENGEN103 | Engineering Computing | 20A (Hamilton), 20A (Tauranga) & 20G (Hamilton) |
| This paper introduces computer programming in languages such as Python. It provides the basis for the programming skills required in more advanced papers. | ||
| ENGEN110 | Engineering Mechanics | 20A (Tauranga), 20B (Hamilton) & 20X (Hamilton) |
| Statics and dynamics of rigid bodies. Application of freebody diagrams and equations of equilibrium to calculate internal and external forces and moments on/in structures and mechanisms. Kinetics and kinematics of particles. Geometric properties of areas. | ||
| ENGEN111 | Electricity and Electronics | 20A (Hamilton), 20B (Tauranga) & 20X (Hamilton) |
| Students are introduced to underlying concepts in electricity such as current, voltage and power, and apply these concepts in a laboratory by making circuits and measuring them with common laboratory instruments. | ||
| ENGEN112 | Materials Science and Engineering | 20B (Hamilton) & 20B (Tauranga) |
| Introduction to engineering materials (metals, ceramics, polymers, composites, semiconductors and biomaterials) and their atomic structure and mechanical properties. Includes; elastic and plastic deformation, fracture mechanisms, failure in service, iron-carbon phase diagram, redox reactions in corrosion, production of polymers, ce... | ||
| ENGEN170 | Engineering and Society | 20B (Hamilton) & 20B (Tauranga) |
| Introduction to the role of engineering in society in particular understanding of Treaty of Waitangi, history of science, engineering and technology, philosophy and ethics and public participation, participatory design, sustainability. | ||
| ENGEN180 | Foundations of Engineering | 20A (Hamilton) & 20A (Tauranga) |
| Introduction to the engineering design process and computer aided design, fundamental principles of engineering analysis, open ended problem solving, engineering economics and the skills of a successful engineer. Includes a design-build-test experience. | ||
| ENGEN184 | Calculus for Engineers | 20S (Hamilton) |
| A study of the fundamental techniques of calculus, including differentiation and integration for functions of one real variable, with engineering applications. | ||
| MATHS135 | Discrete Structures | 20B (Hamilton) & 20B (Tauranga) |
| An introduction to a number of the structures of discrete mathematics with wide applicability in areas such as: computer logic, analysis of algorithms, telecommunications, networks and public key cryptography. In addition it introduces a number of fundamental concepts which are useful in Statistics, Computer Science and further stu... | ||
| PHYSC100 | General Physics | 20A (Hamilton) |
| This paper provides an introduction to the core ideas in physics. Topics covered include kinematics, mechanics, fluids, electric and magnetic forces and fields, electric circuits, optics, modern physics and relativity, taught in a problem solving context. | ||
200 Level
| Code | Paper Title | Occurrence / Location |
|---|---|---|
| COMPX203 | Computer Systems | 20A (Hamilton) & 20B (Hamilton) |
| This paper provides an overview of the operation of computer systems. The central theme is the way in which the hardware and software co-operate to allow the execution of programs written in a high-level language. | ||
| COMPX204 | Practical Networking and Cyber Security | 20B (Hamilton) |
| This paper provides an overview of the technologies and protocols involved in computer communications and cyber security. Practical work includes network programming. | ||
| COMPX223 | Database Practice and Experience | 20A (Hamilton) |
| This paper approaches the subject of databases from a practical perspective - how do I create a database and how do I retrieve/update data. Both aspects are heavily addressed in this paper. Database creation and querying, using SQL, will be introduced in lectures as you will master practical skills associated with a commercial Data... | ||
| COMPX241 | Software Engineering Development | 20A (Hamilton) |
| Students will learn how to program in Java and design, analyse, and apply commonly used data structures. Broader software engineering practices will be developed through a group project. | ||
| COMPX242 | Software Engineering Process | 20B (Hamilton) |
| This paper covers object-oriented programming, primarily as seen in Java, but also touching on alternative approaches. It introduces software development methodologies and the use of support tools, particularly repositories and a testing framework. Project work starts with GUI develoment in Java and works through to the constructio... | ||
| ENGEE233 | Digital Electronics and Microprocessors | 20A (Hamilton) |
| This paper provides students with an introduction to digital electronics and microprocessors. It covers combinatorial and sequential logic, hardware description languages, and processor architecture and construction. | ||
| ENGEN201 | Engineering Mathematics 2 | 20B (Hamilton) |
| Calculus of Several Variables and its Applications. Vector calculus (Green's, Gauss' and Stokes' theorems). Taylor's Theorem in n dimensions. Introduction to ordinary differential equations and methods to solve them. | ||
| ENGEN270 | Engineering and Business | 20A (Hamilton) |
| This paper focuses on empowering students to become “business savvy” and prepared to enter the workplace and solve real-world problems. Topics covered include; team formation, design thinking, Lean Canvas, project management, Agile, risk management, project finance, professional ethics, preparing for the workplace, and business... | ||
| ENGEN271 | Engineering Work Placement 1 | 20X (Hamilton) |
| First work placement involving 400 hours of work experience at an approved engineering organisation relevant to your studies. Typically undertaken during the summer semesters at the end of second year. | ||
| ENGEN272 | Engineering Work Placement 1 | 20X (Hamilton) |
| First work placement for the DipEPP involving 400 hours of work experience at an approved engineering organisation relevant to your studies. Typically undertaken during the summer semesters at the end of second year. | ||
300 Level
| Code | Paper Title | Occurrence / Location |
|---|---|---|
| COMPX301 | Design and Analysis of Algorithms | 20A (Hamilton) |
| This course gives a survey of advanced algorithms and analysis of their performance, along with heuristic methods that include basic Artificial Intelligence techniques. | ||
| COMPX304 | Advanced Networking and Cyber Security | 20B (Hamilton) |
| A study of computer networks with a focus on Internet protocols and security. The aim of this paper is to develop a practical understanding of the operation and programming of core internet protocols, application protocols, and transmission technologies. | ||
| COMPX307 | Functional Programming | 20B (Hamilton) |
| The design, implementation and use of programming languages, in particular the use of functional languages to implement imperative languages will be studied. Assignments will involve challenging programming problems. | ||
| COMPX324 | User Experience Design | 20B (Hamilton), 20B (Tauranga) & 20X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) |
| An introduction to the field of human-computer interaction (HCI) where students develop skills and techniques for the design and evaluation of modern computer interfaces. | ||
| COMPX341 | Software Engineering Methodology | 20A (Hamilton) |
| This paper introduces the central ideas of risk analysis and testing as ways of developing high quality of software leading to good practice in test development. | ||
| COMPX361 | Logic and Computation | 20B (Hamilton) |
| The syllabus includes: further development of predicate logic with application to program verification; mathematical induction including structural induction; finite state automata and regular languages; Kleene's Theorem; Turing machines, the Church-Turing thesis, universal Turing machines and the Halting problem; formal grammars a... | ||
| COMPX374 | Software Engineering Industry Project | 20B (Hamilton) |
| Students work in small groups to build a medium sized software project. They develop requirements and specification, design the system structure and user interface, carry out documentation preparation, implementation, and maintenance. This paper includes a component on professional interaction skills within the workplace and CV pre... | ||
| ENGEN301 | Engineering Mathematics 3 | 20A (Hamilton) |
| Introduces numerical methods and statistical ideas relevant to Engineering. | ||
| ENGEN371 | Engineering Work Placement 2 | 20X (Hamilton) |
| Second work placement involving 400 hours of work experience at an approved engineering organisation relevant to your studies. Typically undertaken during the summer semesters at the end of third year. | ||
| ENGEN372 | Engineering Work Placement 2 | 20X (Hamilton) |
| Second work placement for the DipEPP involving 400 hours of work experience at an approved engineering organisation relevant to your studies. Typically undertaken during the summer semesters at the end of second year. | ||
500 Level
| Code | Paper Title | Occurrence / Location |
|---|---|---|
| COMPX502 | Cryptography | 20A (Hamilton) |
| An introduction to cryptographic methods. | ||
| COMPX514 | Carrier and ISP Networks | 20B (Hamilton) |
| One or more special topics in computer communications, at an advanced level. | ||
| COMPX518 | Cyber Security | 20A (Hamilton) |
| This paper introduces the key topics in the important field of cyber security. It will cover a range of topics relating to defensive security (e.g. malware analysis, social engineering, intrusion detection and prevention), offensive security (e.g. pen testing, Web app security) and preventative security (e.g. cryptography, applied ... | ||
| COMPX521 | Advanced Machine Learning | 20A (Hamilton) |
| This paper exposes students to more advanced topics in machine learning. Rule induction, numeric prediction, clustering and state-of-the-art ensemble learning methods are among the topics covered. | ||
| COMPX523 | Data Stream Mining | 20A (Hamilton) |
| Data streams are everywhere, from F1 racing over electricity networks to news feeds. Data stream mining relies on and develops new incremental algorithms that process streams under strict resource limitations. | ||
| COMPX527 | Cloud Computing Technologies and Security | 20B (Hamilton) |
| This paper explores cloud computing's underlying enabling technologies (e.g. virtualisation) and business models. It also covers key research topics in cloud computing security, trust and data privacy. | ||
| COMPX529 | Engineering Self-Adaptive Systems | 20B (Hamilton) |
| Software needs to manage itself to fullfill dynamic requirements in a changing environment. Self-adaptive software is currently employed in clouds, networks, IoT, autonomous robots, etc. Adaptation challenges include self-configuration, self-optimization, self-healing and selfprotection. | ||
| COMPX532 | Information Visualisation | 20A (Hamilton) |
| This paper aims to provide an awareness of the potential offered by information visualisation techniques, a familiarity with the underlying concepts, and an understanding and ability to effectively design and apply information visualisations in a given context. | ||
| COMPX539 | Usability Engineering | 20B (Hamilton) |
| This paper covers the design and evaluation of interactive computer systems with a focus on user studies. Topics covered include: scenarios, ethnography, designing and performing user studies, and ethical issues involved in studying human-computer interaction. | ||
| COMPX542 | Web Search: Technical and Social Issues | 20A (Hamilton) |
| This paper covers the operation of web search engines, the development of web spam and techniques for combating it, and social issues raised by centralised search engines. | ||
| COMPX552 | Model Checking | 20A (Hamilton) |
| This paper shows how reactive systems can be modelled and analysed using finite-state machines and temporal logic, and how model checking tools can be used to verify crucial properties of safety-critical systems. It also provides an introduction into the algorithms and data structures used to model check very large finite-state sys... | ||
| COMPX553 | Extremely Parallel Programming | 20A (Hamilton) |
| This paper covers advanced parallel programming for large-scale parallelism. A variety of programming techniques will be covered, with application to cluster computers, GPU computing, many-core computing and cloud computing. | ||
| COMPX554 | Specification Languages and Models | 20B (Hamilton) |
| This paper deals with various aspects of modelling systems using advanced best practice methods from the software engineering field. It will introduce at least one of the main software modelling languages, Z, including its semantics, logic and associated tools. | ||
| COMPX555 | Bioinformatics | 20B (Hamilton) |
| An introduction to bioinformatics, open to students majoring in computer science or biology. It includes an overview of molecular biology, genomics, script language programming, algorithms for biological data, an introduction to machine learning and data mining, and relevant statistical methods. | ||
| COMPX560 | Turing Topics in Computer Science | 20X (Hamilton) |
| One or more special topics in computer science, at an advanced level. | ||
| ENGEN570 | Engineering and the Profession | 20D (Hamilton) |
| The roles and responsibilities of professional engineers are examined. Topics include; project management, leadership, negotiation, ethical responsibilities, legal duties, Treaty of Waitangi, intellectual property and professional communication. | ||
| ENGEN582 | Honours Research and Development Project | 20D (Hamilton) & 20X (Hamilton) |
| This is the final year Honours, research and design "capstone" project. | ||
Scholarships and prizes
Selected scholarships for Software Engineering students.
New to Waikato? The International Excellence Scholarship is worth up to $10,000.
Brian Perry Charitable Trust Undergraduate Scholarship in Science & Engineering Closed
For students who are enrolled in the second year of full-time study towards an undergraduate degree, in the Faculty of Science and Engineering at the University of Waikato. The scholarship will have a value of up to $3,000.
CMS International Exchange Scholarship Closed
For students who have completed at least one year of study in the Faculty of Computing & Mathematical Sciences, applied for a University of Waikato exchange programme, and who will be enrolled full-time in FCMS in the year of tenure.
Computer Science Undergraduate Scholarship Closed
For students who are currently in Year 12 or Year 13 at a New Zealand secondary school. Candidates must be intending to enrol full-time in a BCMS(Hons), BSc, BSc(Tech), BE(Hons) or BDes degree, in one of the computing streams, at the University of Waikato. Candidates will sit a Scholarship exam, which will be held on 25 and 26 October 2019.
Smartrak Software Development Scholarship Closed
For students enrolled full time in the second to last year of study towards a BE(Hons) majoring in software engineering or a BCMS with a focus on software development or a BSc(Tech) majoring in computer science with an emphasis on software development. The scholarship will have a value of $4,000.
Looking for more scholarships?
Contacts
Faculty of Computing & Mathematical Sciences
Phone: 0800 924 528 ext: 4322 or +64 7 838 4322
Email: cms@waikato.ac.nz
Website: cms.waikato.ac.nz
Facebook: facebook.com/WaikatoFCMS