Software Engineering BSc Welcome Pack
Welcome to Software Engineering BSc – September 2026.
Dear Software Engineering Student,
It is my absolute pleasure to welcome you to the Software Engineering course here at the University of Northampton. My name is Dr Mark Johnson and, as Course Leader, I am responsible for ensuring that your time on the course is a positive, engaging and valuable experience.
Software Engineering is a practical and rewarding discipline that combines creativity, problem solving, teamwork and technical expertise. Throughout your degree, you will learn how to design, develop, test and maintain software systems using modern tools, technologies and industry practices. You will work on a variety of individual and team-based projects, gaining experience that reflects the challenges faced by professional software engineers.
One of the key strengths of the course is its strong focus on employability. You will have opportunities to participate in industry challenge events, engage with guest speakers from leading technology companies, attend employability workshops, and build professional networks with employers and alumni. Many students also gain valuable experience through placements, internships and industry-sponsored projects.
You will be supported through lectures, workshops, laboratory sessions, personal tutorials and project supervision. Our academic team is committed to helping you succeed both academically and professionally. We pride ourselves on creating a welcoming and supportive learning environment where students can develop confidence, technical competence and lifelong friendships.
I look forward to meeting you during Welcome Week and helping you begin what I hope will be an exciting and successful journey with us.
Regards,
Your Course Leader
Dr Mark Johnson
Senior Lecturer in Computing
mark.johnson@northampton.ac.uk
As Course Leader, I can help with academic concerns, progression issues, personal tutoring queries (I will be your personal tutor in 2026/27), employability opportunities, and signposting to specialist support services. If you are unsure who to contact, please get in touch, and I will ensure that you are directed to the most appropriate person. The list of first-year module tutors is outlined in the next section.
First Year Module Tutors
- CSY1020 Problem Solving and Programming – Chris Rafferty chris.rafferty@northampton.ac.uk
- CSY1061 Computer Systems – Dr Yinghui Zhang yinghui.zhang@northampton.ac.uk
- CSY1062 Computer Communications – Dr Triantafyllos Kanakis (AKA Aldo) triantafyllos.kanakis@northampton.ac.uk
- CSY1063 Web Development – Chris Rafferty chris.rafferty@northampton.ac.uk
- CSY1064 Software Engineering Fundamentals – Dr Mark Johnson mark.johnson@northampton.ac.uk
- CSY1065 Database Design and Development – Mandy Morrell mandy.morrell@northampton.ac.uk
Preparing for your course
There are currently no pre-induction sessions scheduled for Software Engineering students. However, students are encouraged to regularly check their University email account and the Welcome Week timetable for updates before arrival.
When you arrive at the University of Northampton, there is plenty to get involved with during Welcome Week. However, there are specific sessions taking place as part of your course induction that will help you settle in and prepare for teaching to start the following week.
Tuesday 22 September
Session: General Welcome (All Computing)
- Time: 11 – 11:45am (BST)
- Location: LH017, Learning Hub, Waterside campus
Special Instructions: All undergraduate Computing students and staff attend.
Session: Welcome to the Software Engineering Course (Student Expectations)
- Time: 12 – 1pm (BST)
- Location: LH126, Learning Hub, Waterside campus
Special Instructions: Includes course expectations, support mechanisms, employability opportunities, and an overview of your degree.
Session: Meet Your Personal Tutor
- Time: 1 – 2pm (BST)
- Location: LH126, Learning Hub, Waterside campus
Special Instructions: Overview of the personal tutoring system and the support available throughout your studies.
Wednesday 23 September
Session: Subject Introduction
- Time: 10am – 12pm (BST)
- Location: SN113, Senate building, Waterside campus
Special Instructions: Introduction to the course structure, assessment methods, modules, and career pathways.
Session: Team Building and Orientation Activities
- Time: 1 – 3pm (BST)
- Location: SN113, Senate building, Waterside campus
Special Instructions: Interactive activities designed to help you meet fellow students and build friendships within the cohort.
Friday 25 September
Session: How to Login and Use University Technologies and Systems (All Computing)
- Time: 12 – 1pm (BST)
- Location: LH316, Learning Hub, Waterside campus
Special Instructions: Includes NILE, University Email, MyNorthampton and other key systems you will use throughout your degree.
Session: Meet the University Management Team
- Time: 2 – 2:30pm (BST)
- Location: Engine Shed, Waterside campus
Special Instructions: None
Preparation
No formal pre-arrival tasks are required.
Students wishing to prepare before arrival may find it useful to familiarise themselves with:
- Basic Python programming concepts (the first programming language you will be exposed to)
- GitHub and version control fundamentals
Equipment
A Windows laptop is recommended, although University computer laboratories are available for all practical activities and assessments. Students will receive access to all required software through university systems or freely available educational licences.
No specialist equipment is required before arrival.
Reading Lists
Formal reading lists will be available through the University’s Library Reading List system once modules become available.
No textbooks need to be purchased before arrival.
Enhancing skills, building networks and engaging in the wider University community
As a student on this course, you’ll have access to a range of enrichment opportunities that build your skills and confidence beyond the classroom:
- Industry Challenge Events – Work with real companies such as The Access Group, Triad Group, Toru Digital, and Xtremepush to solve real-world software engineering problems
- Guest Lectures – Hear from software engineers, developers, entrepreneurs and University alumni working across the technology sector
- Peer Mentoring and Support Groups – Access academic support and guidance from experienced students
- Employability and Networking Events – Meet employers, recruiters and recent graduates to gain insight into career opportunities
- Student Representative Opportunities – Help shape the student experience and develop leadership skills
- Computing and Technology Societies – Meet like-minded students and participate in social and technical activities
Participation in these activities can significantly enhance your CV, improve your professional network, and increase your employability upon graduation.
We are excited to welcome you to the Software Engineering community and look forward to supporting you throughout your studies.
