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Entry Year

28/09/2026

Location

Castlereagh

Duration

2 Years (Part-Time)

Course Code

P00904-AC
Overview
BSc (Hons) Software and Cloud Development with Data Science (Top Up) Higher Level ApprenticeshipValidated by The Open University
Castlereagh
Part-Time
Higher Education
Start Date: 28/09/2026
End Date: 14/02/2028

Qualifications

BSc (Hons) Software and Cloud Development with Data Science (Top-Up) Private (Q00904)

BSc (Hons) Software and Cloud Development with Data Science (Top-Up) HLA PT Private

Overview

Welcome to the Future of Software and Cloud Development with Data Science 

If you've already completed a HND or Foundation Degree in Computing, Cloud, Software, or Data Science, our one and a half year apprenticeship programme is tailored to help you reach new heights in your career. Our BSc (Hons) Level 6 Top-Up programme is specifically designed for students with prior experience in Software Development, Cloud Computing, and General Computing. Join us on this transformative journey towards a brighter future in the dynamic world of Software and Cloud Development with Data Science. 

Why Choose Our Programme? 

The demand for skilled IT professionals is soaring, with the Northern Ireland Skills Barometer projecting a potential shortfall of up to 6,200 IT workers in Northern Ireland by 2030. Software Development remains a cornerstone of Northern Ireland's IT landscape, with significant growth anticipated in Cloud & Application Development and Data Analytics. Our programme is your gateway to not only meet but exceed these demands. 

What You'll Gain: 

  • Advanced Expertise: Building on your existing knowledge, our programme takes a deep dive into Software Development, Cloud Computing, and General Computing. You'll acquire specialized skills in data solutions, data modelling, container development, and comprehensive DevOps techniques used in the real world. 
  • Real-World Experience: Learn from industry experts in our state-of-the-art computing labs, fully equipped with industry-standard hardware and software. Gain hands-on experience and real-world insights that will set you on the path to success. 
  • Career Advancement: Upon completion of the programme, you'll not only hold a valuable qualification but also possess practical skills and relevant work experience. These assets will open doors to exciting career opportunities and advancement within your chosen field. 
  • Certifications: We're committed to enhancing your employability. As part of the programme, you'll have the opportunity to earn prestigious industry certifications, including Microsoft AZ-400, DP-100, DP-200, DevOps Foundation Qualification, and Certified Kubernetes Application Developer Qualification. You'll master Microsoft Azure and Kubernetes, setting you apart in the competitive IT job market. 

Key Areas of Study: 

  • Advanced Cloud Development Technologies 
  • Data Science and Engineering 
  • Final Year Research Project 

Join us today and transform your computing foundation into a thriving career in the world of Software and Cloud Development with Data Science. Your journey begins here at Belfast Met! 

Ready to take your career to the next level in Software and Cloud Development with Data Science? Explore the links below to learn more about our validated awards and regulations: 

OU Handbooks and Regulations can be found  under the Higher Education section of our public documents.

Regulations for validated awards of The Open University

Programme Specification

Student's guide to studying on a programme validated by The Open University

Advice
Pre-Entry Advice

Download the Pre-Entry Advice presentation.  Play Slideshow in the presentation to activate any links or videos.

Click here to download presentation

Requirements

Students must have completed and passed a relevant Computing Foundation Degree or HND or have completed and passed the first two years of a relevant Computing bachelor’s degree.  Applicants must have 240 credits at Level 4 and Level 5.

Students who do not meet this criteria must complete and pass the bridging qualification, Cisco CCNA 1 (Introduction to Networks).

Applicants must also have GCSEs at grade C or above in English and Mathematics, or equivalent qualifications, such as Level 2 Essential Skills in Maths and English

To be able to apply at this stage, you must be employed in an IT role or have an arranged an apprenticeship with an employer in IT.

If you are currently not employed in an IT role, you must apply to the IT Apprenticeship through the following link: Belfast Metropolitan College Careers Portal (mindmill.co.uk)

 

Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)

Applicants cannot use APL to apply directly to Level 6.    

Assessment

Module

Level/Credits

Assessment

Advanced Cloud Development

Level 6/40 credits

CW, CW, Exam

Data Science and Engineering

Level 6/40 credits

CW, CW, Exam

Final Year Project

Level 6/40 credits

CW

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CW = Coursework

 

Whenever possible, we make our assessment methods as practical, with written components primarily being used to reinforce technical understanding and personally reflect on own performance. However, research is a core component to the development of any skillset, and so will be tested through written assessment alongside academic writing skills appropriate to the foundation degree level.

Careers
Made for More

Careers

Employment or postgraduate qualification.

Interests

Interests

This is a part time 1-year long course spread over two academic years and the three modules will be Advanced Cloud Development Technologies, Data Engineering and Science and a Final Year Project.

Careers
Got a Question

Contact us

To be able to apply at this stage, you must be employed in an IT role or have an arranged an apprenticeship with an employer in IT. To apply, please email us with details of your employer and we will assist you in your application.

 

Tel: 028 9053 5394

Email: creativedigital@belfastmet.ac.uk

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