Software Development & Cybersecurity | Selby College
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BTEC, Level 3

Software Development & Cybersecurity

Are you interested in a career in software development or cybersecurity?

If so, then our Level 3 Software Development and Cybersecurity course is the perfect choice for you. This course will teach you the skills you need to succeed in these rapidly growing fields.

The software development and cybersecurity industry is one of the fastest-growing industries in the UK. The demand for software developers and cybersecurity professionals is high and is expected to continue to grow in the future. This is due to the increasing use of technology in all aspects of our lives, from business to entertainment to healthcare.

Software developers are responsible for creating and maintaining software applications. They use their knowledge of programming languages, software development methodologies, and software engineering principles to create software that meets the needs of users. Cybersecurity professionals are responsible for protecting computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. They use their knowledge of cybersecurity threats, vulnerabilities, and mitigation techniques to protect organizations from cyberattacks.

There are many different types of software development and cybersecurity jobs available in the UK. Some of the most common jobs include:

• Software Developer
• Cybersecurity Engineer
• Web Developer
• Mobile Developer
• Game Developer
• Network Security Engineer
• Information Security Analyst

The salaries for software developers and cybersecurity professionals are typically very good. According to the National Careers Service, the average salary for a software developer in the UK is £35,000 per year. The average salary for a cybersecurity professional is £40,000 per year.

The software development and cybersecurity industry is a great place to work. It is a fast-paced, challenging, and rewarding industry. There are many opportunities for career growth and advancement.

This course is for anyone who is interested in a career in software development or cybersecurity. No prior experience is required.

The course will teach you the skills you need to succeed in these rapidly growing fields. You will learn about programming languages, software development methodologies, cybersecurity concepts, and more. You will also have the opportunity to specialize in one or more areas of software development or cybersecurity, such as web development, mobile development, game development, network security, or information security.

Here are some of the specific topics you will learn about on a level 3 software development and cybersecurity course:

• Programming languages: Java, Python, C#, and more
• Software development methodologies: Agile, Waterfall, and more
• Cybersecurity concepts: Malware, phishing, social engineering, and more
• Web development
• Mobile development
• Network security
• Information security
• Data handling, analysis, and presentation
• Problem-solving
• Communication

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

• Design and develop software applications
• Apply software development methodologies
• Protect computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction
• Work independently and as part of a team
• Communicate effectively with technical and non-technical audiences
• Analyze and interpret data
• Solve problems using a variety of methods
• Communicate effectively in writing and orally

On completion with the appropriate pass plus English and maths grades, you can progress through the levels, you can then progress to Higher Education to study for an HNC/D, Foundation Degree or BA/BSc degree in a range of disciplines at the centre of your choice.

Skills in Digital Applications provide a wide range of career options, as well as a route into Further and Higher education.

You could develop a career on the creative side of new media, or you might follow a path that leads you into even more technical areas. You might be more interested in managing the whole process or you might use your knowledge of new media to take you into sales and marketing, or you might prefer to write about what you know. Digital applications play an important role in nearly all careers.

The study programme may also lead to: Software Development, Programmer, Systems Analyst, Web Developer, Computer Engineer & Service Technician, IT Technician & User Support, Network Administrator & Technical Supp.

5 GCSEs at grade 9-4, including English or maths
OR
Relevant Level 2 at Merit grade, plus English and maths at a minimum of Level 2

Please note: If you have not achieved a Grade 4 or above in GCSE English and/or Maths you will be required to continue studying these alongside your college course.

Written Assignments and practical observations/tasks, external (exams), internal (assignments) and synoptic (projects) and some units are externally assessed via online exams.