Higher National Level 4 Flex – Software Development Life Cycles
Study LevelLevel 4 Course TypeHigher Education Duration12 Weeks Start DateSeptember 2025 Study ModePart-time LocationDavid Hockney BuildingOverview
This short course gives you a practical and in-depth look at how software is planned, built, tested, and maintained in real-world environments. Whether you’re new to coding or looking to understand the bigger picture of how software projects come together, this course will guide you through the full Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC).
Delivered through a blend of online and in-person sessions, you’ll explore the key stages of software development—from gathering requirements and designing solutions to testing, launching, and maintaining applications. You’ll also dive into popular modern approaches like Agile and DevOps, which are used by tech teams across the world to deliver high-quality software quickly and efficiently.
This course can be taken on its own or as part of a broader HNC programme, making it a flexible option to build your skills and boost your career potential.
Key Info
By the end of this course, you’ll have a strong understanding of how software is developed and maintained, along with the tools and practices that make modern development teams effective. Specifically, you’ll learn how to:
Understand the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC): Learn the structured steps involved in creating software, from initial planning and analysis to final deployment and long-term maintenance.
Explore Software Development Methodologies: Compare different approaches like Waterfall and Agile, and learn when and why each is used in various project settings.
Apply Agile and DevOps Practices: Get to know how Agile teams work through sprints and user stories, and how DevOps bridges development and operations to streamline delivery and improve collaboration.
Test and Maintain Software: Understand the importance of software testing, debugging, and long-term maintenance to ensure reliability and user satisfaction.
You’ll also strengthen your problem-solving, planning, and team-working skills—key abilities for anyone looking to succeed in software development or IT project management.
- Software development methodologies
- Agile and Developer practices
- Software testing and maintenance
The assessment will range between written assignments, group work, and individual and group presentations.
Each module is worth 15 credits. If you successfully complete one, two or three modules, you will receive a Certificate of Unit Credit (CoUC) upon completion of the individual units. If you finish 8 units, you will awarded a HNC. You can progress onto other units, and then onto a HNC or HND.
This is representative of the most common fees scenario, but actual fees can vary depending on a number of factors. Please contact us if you need more guidance.
If you have any questions or require any additional information, please contact [email protected]
Disclaimer: Our prospectus, college documents and website are simply here to offer a guide. We accept no liability for any inaccurate statements and are not responsible for any negative outcomes if you rely on an inaccurate statement. We reserve the right to withdraw any programmes or service at any time.
This course is delivered in partnership with
