What can I do with a degree in Software Engineering?

What can I do with a degree in Software Engineering?

A degree in Software Engineering provides a wide range of career opportunities across many industries. Graduates gain a solid foundation in computing, including programming, web technologies, and databases, preparing them for roles such as software developer, systems analyst, programmer, and computer scientist. The programme focuses on the design and development of complex software systems, equipping students with the skills needed to work on challenging projects and adapt to technological change. Get ideas and inspiration here before booking a one-to-one appointment with a Careers Adviser.

Careers in Software Engineering

The following roles demonstrate the range of career opportunities available to Software Engineering graduates, showcasing their technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.  

Software Developer Design, code, test, and maintain software applications tailored to user needs across various industries.

Systems Analyst Analyse and design information systems to improve business efficiency and solve organisational problems.

Web Developer Build and maintain websites, ensuring they are functional, user-friendly, and visually appealing.

Mobile Application Developer Develop applications specifically for mobile devices, focusing on usability, performance, and compatibility.

DevOps Engineer Combine software development and IT operations to improve deployment frequency, reliability, and system scalability.

Alternative career paths

Cybersecurity Analyst Protect an organisation’s computer systems and networks by monitoring, detecting, and responding to security threats.  

Data Engineer Design and build systems to collect, store, and analyse large sets of structured and unstructured data for use in analytics and decision-making. 

Cloud Solutions Architect Design and manage scalable, secure cloud-based infrastructure and services to meet business needs. 

Machine Learning Engineer Develop algorithms and models that enable machines to perform tasks and make predictions based on data.  

Technical Consultant Provide expert advice and solutions in IT systems, software, and processes to help organisations improve performance and efficiency.  


Where do University of Kent graduates work?

Organisations that have employed University of Kent graduates in the past include:

  • Information Technology and Services: Google, Microsoft, IBM, and Capgemini, Accenture, Arm.
  • Finance and Banking: Lloyds Banking Group
  • Healthcare Technology: NHS, IBM and specialised health tech firms.
  • Telecommunications: BT and Amazon Web Services (AWS) driving global connectivity and cloud infrastructure.
  • Public Sector and Government Agencies: BAE Systems and central government departments including roles in defence, security, and digital transformation.

There are many more possible employers in these and other industries.  

Find a job

The Careers and Employability Service provides information and advice on job searching to University of Kent students and recent graduates. This includes a vacancy database advertising a range of graduate jobs, placement year and vacation work/internships.

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Software Engineering recruitment platforms

CWJobs

Technojobs

Stack Overflow Jobs Global developer job listings

DevITjobs UK Developer-focused job board with UK filtering

Otta Modern, user-friendly platform for tech/start-up roles


briefcase

General graduate job search platforms

Gradcracker

Prospects

TargetJobs

LinkedIn Jobs

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Useful resources

GitHub

coursera

freeCodeCamp 

Codeacademy 

British Computer Society

Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET)

Tips to stand out

  • Gain practical experience: Engage in internships, placement years, or part-time roles related to software development.
  • Develop a portfolio: Showcase your projects, such as applications or software tools, through a personal website or platforms like GitHub.
  • Pursue certifications: Enhance your credentials with certifications in areas like AWS Certified Developer, Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate, or Oracle Certified Java Programmer.
  • Participate in competitions: Join coding challenges, hackathons, or open-source projects to demonstrate your skills and creativity.
  • Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with emerging technologies, programming languages, and industry best practices through relevant journals and online courses.

Year in industry

A year in industry can have a big impact on your employability. By gaining real-world experience and learning key skills in the workplace, and pairing these with the knowledge you gain on your degree, you can become a highly employable candidate in the labour market. The year can be based in the UK or abroad, including your home country if you're an international student, and contribute to your final degree. At The University of Kent, many courses include an optional year in industry between your second and final year, where you undertake graduate-level work related to your studies.     

Work experience
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Further study 

Some graduates choose to pursue postgraduate education to specialise further or enhance their career prospects. Relevant master's programs include:

  • MSc Advanced Computer Science
  • MSc Cyber Security
  • MSc Artificial Intelligence
  • MSc Data Science
  • MSc Software Engineering

Postgraduate Courses at Kent 

Prospects – Postgraduate Study 

Find a Masters