CertHE Digital and Software Technology
Full-time
Part-time
One year
Two year
September 2025
In a nutshell
This CertHE programme addresses a skills shortage in the general area of ‘digital’ and software technology. The programme will provide you with a broad set of skills suitable for technical roles in which you can implement software solutions that enable businesses to develop new products and services, and increase productivity using selected digital technologies. The programme therefore provides you with a broad appreciation and understanding of digital technology which includes computing, data science, networking, security, business systems and operations.
This includes an understanding of the fundamental principles that underpin computer programming systems and networking, as well as a more detailed understanding of agile methods, continuous integration in software development, cyber security threats and system design. Teaching is carried out within laboratories that use industry-standard equipment thereby allowing students to develop practical skills associated with digital and software technology environments.
What is a 'CertHE'?
A Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE) is a UK higher education qualification equivalent to the first year (Level 4) of a full-time Bachelor's degree, providing foundational knowledge in a specific subject area.
You will:
- Learn about software development and digital management
- Use and apply modern version control and continuous integration software development technologies
- Work as part of a team using an agile development method to design and create a software solution
- Gain experience with introductory cyber security techniques
This is for you if...
You're interested, curious and excited by digital and software technologies
You want to acquire desirable, practical skills in the design, creation and running of simple software products and services
You are interested in the details of software development and how commercial software products and services are made
You care about protecting your confidential data by using security techniques
You want to gain knowledge of digital product management and leadership techniques
You are willing to learn how to work with others to create software solutions
All about the course
This CertHE addresses a skills shortage in the general area of ‘digital’ and software technology. The course will provide you with an opportunity to acquire a broad set of skills suitable for technical roles in the digital and software sectors. Successful students will be able to implement software solutions that enable businesses to develop new products and services and increase productivity using selected digital and software technologies.
The course will provide you with a broad appreciation and understanding of digital technology which includes computing, data science, networking, cyber security, business systems and operations.
Links to industry
The topics within this course reflect current industry best-practice and are informed by Manchester-based companies such as Car Finance 247, AJ Bell, and Autotrader. You'll learn techniques that use processes and technologies to encourage shorter delivery cycles in software development.
Computer System Fundamentals
This module covers computer-based systems at both a theoretical and practical level. It covers how the transfer of data between computers is controlled by hardware and software that define how data is formatted and structured, but also how the transfer of information is managed and stored. This module will introduce the concept of layered architectures as a mechanism for defining the relationship and interaction between various sub-systems that are used within today’s computer-based systems. At a practical level, the module includes troubleshooting processes, professional skills, and health and safety issues.
Programming with Python
The ability to approach problems is key in practical programming and is a bedrock of computer science. This practical module will instill in you the need to make this logical approach and at the same time introduce you to an integrated programming environment using the Python language.
Web Technologies and Databases
Dynamic website development is an exciting fundamental aspect of any technology degree. This module will take you step-by-step through this process with a bespoke, guided, practically-oriented teaching regime.
Introduction to Business Intelligence
This module sheds light on the use of business intelligence (BI) systems in organisational scenarios. The module will provide you with a broad set of skills applicable to the origins and evolution of BI systems, as well as distinctions between characters, data, information and knowledge.
Students will also learn about BI Systems, Data and Information, Problems with data, Data Warehousing, OLAP and Data Mining.
Introduction to Networking
This module covers the operation of computer networks at both a theoretical and practical level. It covers how the transfer of data between computers is controlled by communication protocols which not only define how data is formatted and structured but also how the transfer of information is managed to ensure it arrives successively at the intended destination. The module will introduce the concept of layered protocol architectures as a mechanism for defining the relationship and interaction between various protocols that are used within today’s networks. At a practical level, the module covers the configuration of switches and routers to create an operational network and how to use software analysers to observe the correct operation of protocols, the traffic performance of a network and to assist with fault finding.
Agile Methods, Software Technologies and Operations
In this module, you will have an opportunity to learn about agile software development methods that are widely used in the software development industry. Scrum is an orchestration framework used by small, self-organising teams in business information system development. The Spotify model has emerged from music streaming and applied in large scale projects. Ceremonies are used to enable collaboration within software teams. We will use artefacts, which are tangible products created as part of the development process, such as backlogs, burndown charts, Kanban boards as well as software source code. We will also explore software deployment and operational issues at an introductory level.
Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.
Frequently asked questions
What is a CertHE qualification?
A Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE) is a UK higher education qualification equivalent to the first year (Level 4) of a full-time Bachelor's degree, providing foundational knowledge in a specific subject area.
What do you mean by ‘digital and software technology’?
This programme will provide you with a broad set of skills suitable for technical roles. You will learn how to implement software solutions, a skill in demand by modern businesses. You will also gain a foundational understanding of key digital and technological disciplines, including computing, data science, networking, security, business systems, and operations.
School OF Science, Engineering And Environment
Rising to the challenge of a changing world, our degree courses are designed to shape the next generation of urbanists, scientists, engineers and industry leaders.
Driven by industry, and delivered by supportive programme teams, you can develop the knowledge and skills to become unstoppable in your career.
Greater Manchester Institute of Technology
Located across England, Institutes of Technology (IoTs) are a national network of partnerships between local colleges, universities, and leading employers.
We are a proud partner in the Greater Manchester Institute of Technology. This means as a student on this course you will benefit from being part of the University of Salford community, with access to our facilities and support, and taught by our tutors. You will also be part of the GMIoT network, with access to additional events and activities.
What about after uni?
Employment
This course will lend you the skills required to access roles in a breadth of digital roles, for example:
- Software Developer
- Business Analyst
- Cyber Security Specialist
- Data Analyst
- Solution Architect
- Operations Manager
What you need to know
Applicant profile
You will have a keen interest, curiosity and passion for technology, especially related to the technical aspects of digital and software products and services. You will have an enthusiasm for computer programming, and probably have good IT skills, as well as an interest in understanding how things work at a technical level. You might already have experience of working in industry in another sector or be coming directly from school or college.
English language requirements
International applicants will be required to show a proficiency in English. An IELTS score of 6.0 (with no element below 5.5) is proof of this. If you need to improve your written and spoken English, you might be interested in our English language courses.
GCSE
English Language and Mathematics at grade C/level 4 or above (or equivalent). You must fulfil our GCSE entry requirements as well as one of the requirements listed below.
UCAS tariff points
72 points
A level
72 points (DDD) - must include A-level Computer Science
BTEC National Diploma
MMP in Computing or IT-related subject. Other engineering or science-related subjects may be accepted with distinctions in the Mathematics units.
BTEC Higher National Diploma
Merit / Merit in Computing or IT-related subject
Access to HE
72 points in Access to HE Computing
Scottish Highers
72 points - must include Computer Science
Irish Leaving Certificate
72 points - must include Computer Science
European Baccalaureate
Please contact our Admissions team
International Baccalaureate
Please contact our Admissions team
Accreditation of Prior Learning
An applicant who does not possess one of the qualifications which satisfies the General Academic Entry Requirement may be considered through the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) (both Certified Prior Learning and/or one Prior Experiential Learning) as per the University’s Admissions and Retention Policy.
Salford Alternative Entry Scheme (SAES)
We positively welcome applications from students who may not meet the stated entry criteria but who can demonstrate their ability to successfully pursue a programme of study in higher education.
Students who do not have the traditional entry requirements may be able to apply through the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme. Support in preparing for the written assessment is available from the University.
For further information, please contact: enquiries@salford.ac.uk.
HOW MUCH?
Your tuition fees are regulated by the UK government who has proposed changes to tuition fees for UK students studying in England from 1 August 2025. The fee stated reflects this proposed change, but remains subject to parliamentary approval. Your tuition fees may increase in your first and each subsequent year of your programme to the maximum amount permitted by UK law or regulation for that academic year.
| Type of study | Year | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time home | 2025/26 | £9,535 per year |
| Part-time | 2025/26 | Part time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis |
Additional costs
You should consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general sustenance on trips and visits.
All Set? Let's Apply?
UCAS Code: l300
Start Date(s): September
Duration:
One year full-time
Two years part-time
Enrolment dates
UCAS information
Course ID l300
Institution S03