Software Engineering (2022)

Software is everywhere: from spacecraft to smart watches. Software Engineers design, develop, maintain and oversee complex software-intensive projects while assuring their quality. These highly interconnected systems must meet multiple requirements, including correctness, usability, performance, safety and security. They leverage technologies, such as cloud, web, database, networks, mobile, IoT and embedded systems.

Software Engineering is available as a specified programme for the Bachelor of Engineering with Honours (BE(Hons)).

To complete the specified programme in Software Engineering, students must complete the following programme.

Note: Students are encouraged to contact the Division of Health, Engineering, Computing and Science for programme advice.


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  • Year 1

    Students must take the following papers: COMPX101, COMPX102, ENGEN101, ENGEN102, ENGEN170, ENGEN180 and MATHS135.

    Students must also take one paper from the following General -Engineering-Science papers: APHYS111, CHEMY100, CHEMY101, CHEMY102, ENGEN110, ENGEN111, ENGEN112, PHYSC100 or PHYSC101.

  • Year 2

    Students must take the following papers: COMPX203, COMPX204, COMPX223, COMPX241, COMPX242, ENGEN270 and ENGEN271.

    Students must also take one paper from the following Intermediate-Mathematics papers: ENGEN201, MATHS201, MATHS202, MATHS203, STATS221, or STATS222.

    Students must also take one paper from the following General-Computing papers: COMPX205, COMPX222, ENGEE233, ENGEE281 or any paper from the Advanced-Computing papers as defined in the Year 3 section.

    If you are studying the Diploma in Engineering Management, concurrent with the BE(Hons), you must complete ENGEN272 (in place of ENGEN271).

  • Year 3

    Students must take the following papers: COMPX301, COMPX324, COMPX341, COMPX361, COMPX374, ENGEN370 and ENGEN371.

    Students must also take two papers from the following Advanced-Computing papers: COMPX304, COMPX307, COMPX310, COMPX322, COMPX323, COMPX364, COMPX367, COMPX349 or ENGEE319.

    If you are studying the Diploma in Engineering Management, concurrent with the BE(Hons), you must complete ENGEN372 (in place of ENGEN371).

  • Year 4

    Students must take ENGEN570 and ENGEN582, and 30 points from 500 level COMPX papers listed under Software Engineering.

    Students must also take two papers from the following Specialised-Software-Engineering-Design papers: COMPX519, COMPX526, COMPX527, COMPX529, COMPX532, COMPX539, COMPX552 or COMPX554.

  • 100 Level

    Code Paper Title Points Occurrence / Location
    APHYS111Physics in Context - Ahupūngao o te Ao15.022A (Hamilton)
    This is an introductory paper in physics for students who have not studied physics or mathematics at NCEA level 2 or 3. It is intended to support a major in other science subjects. Emphasis is placed on describing everyday physics concepts using correct terminology. Examples of physics in action are drawn from many science areas. T...
    CHEMY100Chemistry in Context - Matū o te Ao15.022A (Hamilton) & 22A (Tauranga)
    This paper covers a broad range of chemical concepts that are fundamental to the sciences and engineering. A strong emphasis is made to teach concepts through real-life examples from the world around us. He toro na tenei pepa i nga tumomo tuapapa o te matai matu kei te tuapapa o nga horopaki putaiao, pukaha hoki He kaha hangai te ...
    CHEMY101Structure and Spectroscopy - Tūramaramatia i ngā Hanganga15.022A (Hamilton) & 22C (Hamilton)
    A theoretical and practical course covering aspects of analytical and inorganic chemistry. This course is required for the chemistry major. He pepa tirotiro i nga tuahua o te wetewete i te matauranga matuwaro me tona kore paraumu, he pepa matua o roto o te tohu matuora.
    CHEMY102Chemical Reactivity - Tauhohehohe Matū15.022B (Hamilton)
    A theoretical and practical course covering aspects of physical and organic chemistry. This course is required for the chemistry major. He pepa a-aria, a-mahinga hoki hei tirotiro i nga tuahuaranga o te matuora a-kikokiko, a-paraumu hoki He pepa matua o roto o te tohu matuora.
    COMPX101Introduction to Programming15.022A (Hamilton), 22A (Online), 22B (Hamilton) & 22X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
    This paper introduces computer programming in C# - the exciting challenge of creating software and designing artificial worlds within the computer. It also covers concepts such as the internals of the home computer, the history and future of computers, cyber security, computer gaming, databases, mobile computing and current researc...
    COMPX102Object-Oriented Programming15.022B (Hamilton), 22B (Online), 22B (Tauranga), 22H (Hamilton) & 22X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
    This paper continues from COMPX101, expanding upon data organisation and algorithms, and introducing code contracts, computer architecture, Boolean algebra, assembly language, program analysis and object-oriented programming.
    ENGEN101Engineering Maths and Modelling 1A15.022A (Hamilton), 22A (Secondary School - Unistart), 22A (Tauranga) & 22B (Hamilton)
    A study of the fundamental techniques of algebra and calculus with engineering applications.
    ENGEN102Engineering Maths and Modelling 1B15.022B (Hamilton), 22B (Secondary School - Unistart), 22B (Tauranga) & 22G (Hamilton)
    A further study of the fundamental techniques of algebra and calculus with engineering applications. Includes an introduction to relevant statistical methods.
    ENGEN103Engineering Computing15.022A (Hamilton), 22A (Tauranga) & 22G (Hamilton)
    This paper introduces computer programming in languages such as the MATLAB language. It provides the basis for the programming skills required in more advanced papers.
    ENGEN110Engineering Mechanics15.022B (Hamilton), 22B (Tauranga) & 22G (Hamilton)
    Statics and dynamics of rigid bodies. Application of freebody diagrams and equations of equilibrium to calculate internal and external forces and moments on/in structures and mechanisms. Kinetics and kinematics of particles. Geometric properties of areas.
    ENGEN111Electricity for Engineers15.022B (Hamilton), 22B (Tauranga) & 22X (Hamilton)
    Students are introduced to underlying concepts in electricity such as current, voltage and power, and apply these concepts in a laboratory by making circuits and measuring them with common laboratory instruments.
    ENGEN112Materials Science and Engineering15.022A (Hamilton) & 22A (Tauranga)
    Introduction to engineering materials (metals, ceramics, polymers, composites, semiconductors and biomaterials) and their atomic structure and mechanical properties. Includes; elastic and plastic deformation, fracture mechanisms, failure in service, iron-carbon phase diagram, redox reactions in corrosion, production of polymers, ce...
    ENGEN170Engineering and Society15.022A (Hamilton) & 22A (Tauranga)
    Introduction to the role of engineering in society with a focus on sustainable development, data analysis, holistic systems thinking, and the future of work within a global and New Zealand context including an introduction to the Treaty of Waitangi.
    ENGEN180Foundations of Engineering15.022B (Hamilton) & 22B (Tauranga)
    Introduction to the engineering design process and computer aided design, fundamental principles of engineering analysis, open ended problem solving, engineering economics and the skills of a successful engineer. Includes a design-build-test experience.
    MATHS135Discrete Structures15.022B (Hamilton), 22B (Secondary School - Unistart) & 22B (Tauranga)
    An introduction to a number of the structures of discrete mathematics with wide applicability in areas such as: computer logic, analysis of algorithms, telecommunications, networks and public key cryptography. In addition it introduces a number of fundamental concepts which are useful in Statistics, Computer Science and further stu...
    PHYSC100General Physics15.022A (Hamilton)
    This paper provides an introduction to the core ideas in physics. Topics covered include kinematics, mechanics, fluids, electric and magnetic forces and fields, electric circuits, optics, modern physics and relativity, taught in a problem solving context.
  • 200 Level

    Code Paper Title Points Occurrence / Location
    COMPX203Computer Systems15.022A (Hamilton) & 22A (Tauranga)
    This paper provides an overview of the operation of computer systems. The central theme is the way in which the hardware and software co-operate to allow the execution of programs written in a high-level language.
    COMPX204Practical Networking and Cyber Security15.022B (Hamilton) & 22B (Tauranga)
    This paper provides an overview of the technologies and protocols involved in computer communications and cyber security. Practical work includes network programming.
    COMPX223Database Practice and Experience15.022A (Hamilton)
    This paper approaches the subject of databases from a practical perspective - how do I create a database and how do I retrieve/update data. Both aspects are heavily addressed in this paper. Database creation and querying, using SQL, will be introduced in lectures as you will master practical skills associated with a commercial Data...
    COMPX241Software Engineering Design 115.022A (Hamilton)
    This paper covers object-oriented software development in Java focusing on abstract data types and dynamic data structures, while introducing design methodologies in software construction, software process, and software testing. A group project reinforces broader software engineering practices.
    COMPX242Software Engineering Design 215.022B (Hamilton)
    This paper continues object-oriented software development in Java introducing design methodologies in software architecture, detailed design, design patterns, software configuration management, and software testing. Project work starts with GUI development and works through to the development of mobile applications.
    ENGEE233Digital Electronics and Microprocessors15.022A (Hamilton)
    This paper provides students with an introduction to digital electronics and microprocessors. It covers combinatorial and sequential logic, hardware description languages, and processor architecture and construction.
    ENGEN201Engineering Maths and Modelling 215.022A (Hamilton) & 22H (Online)
    Calculus of Several Variables and its Applications. Vector calculus (Green's, Gauss' and Stokes' theorems). Taylor's Theorem in n dimensions. Introduction to ordinary differential equations and methods to solve them.
    ENGEN270Engineering and Business15.022B (Hamilton)
    This paper focuses on empowering students to become “business savvy” and prepared to enter the workplace and solve real-world problems. Topics covered include; team formation, design thinking, Lean Canvas, project management, Agile, risk management, project finance, professional ethics, preparing for the workplace, and business...
    ENGEN271Engineering Work Placement 10.022X (Hamilton)
    First work placement involving 400 hours of work experience at an approved engineering organisation relevant to your studies. Typically undertaken during the summer semesters at the end of second year.
    ENGEN272Engineering Work Placement 130.022X (Hamilton)
    First work placement for the DipEPP involving 400 hours of work experience at an approved engineering organisation relevant to your studies. Typically undertaken during the summer semesters at the end of second year.
    MATHS201Continuing Calculus15.022A (Hamilton)
    Calculus of Several Variables and its Applications. Vector calculus (Green's, Gauss' and Stokes' theorems). Taylor's Theorem in n dimensions. The gamma and beta functions.
    MATHS202Linear Algebra15.022A (Hamilton)
    A formal approach to linear algebra, with applications. Topics include: axioms of a vector space, linear independence, spanning sets and bases. Linear transformations, the Gram-Schmidt process.
    MATHS203Differential Equations and Modelling15.022B (Hamilton)
    Systems of ordinary differential equations and their applications, including phase plane methods. Introduction to partial differential equations. Fourier series.
    STATS221Statistical Data Analysis15.022A (Hamilton)
    This paper introduces students to the R programming language which is used to investigate a collection of real data sets. Analysis of variance, multiple regression, non parametric methods and time series are covered.
  • 300 Level

    Code Paper Title Points Occurrence / Location
    COMPX301Design and Analysis of Algorithms15.022A (Hamilton)
    This course gives a survey of advanced algorithms and analysis of their performance, along with heuristic methods that include basic Artificial Intelligence techniques.
    COMPX304Advanced Networking and Cyber Security15.022A (Hamilton)
    A study of computer networks with a focus on Internet protocols, application protocols and transmission technologies; followed by an analysis and in-lab replication of common security vulnerabilities, and secure software engineering techniques to defend against them.
    COMPX307Principles of Programming Languages15.022B (Hamilton)
    The design, implementation and use of programming languages, in particular the use of functional languages to implement imperative languages will be studied. Assignments will involve challenging programming problems.
    COMPX310Machine Learning15.022B (Hamilton) & 22B (Tauranga)
    This paper introduces Machine Learning (ML) which is the science of making predictions. ML algorithms strive to be fast and highly accurate, while processing large datasets. This paper will use standard Python-based ML toolkits to teach the fundamentals of ML.
    COMPX322Advanced Web Development15.022A (Hamilton) & 22X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
    This paper covers a range of topics relating to the development of web applications. These include the latest developments in HTML, CSS and JavaScript; asynchronous communication using AJAX; security issues; object-oriented JavaScript; RESTful web services; XML; JSON and development libraries and frameworks.
    COMPX323Advanced Database Concepts15.022A (Hamilton)
    This paper provides an introduction to the advanced features of database management systems. Students will learn to use and manipulate advanced features, and to understand and explore the technical background of large database management systems. They will have hand-on practice in using these features to create, query and maintain ...
    COMPX324User Experience Design15.022B (Hamilton), 22B (Tauranga) & 22X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
    An introduction to the field of human-computer interaction (HCI) where students develop skills and techniques for the design and evaluation of modern computer interfaces.
    COMPX341Advanced Software Engineering Design15.022A (Online)
    This paper discusses advanced software engineering design methodologies focusing on Software Requirements, Software Maintenance and Software Quality Assurance. Assignments include Software Requirements Specifications (SRS) documentation; verification-and-validation CI/CD regression toolchains for assuring correctness and security, ...
    COMPX349Embedded Systems15.022B (Hamilton)
    This course covers the principles and design of embedded systems, including micro-controllers, embedded system architecture, real-time programming and operating systems, and Field Programmable Gate Arrays.
    COMPX361Logic and Computation15.022B (Hamilton) & 22B (Tauranga)
    The syllabus includes: further development of predicate logic with application to program verification; mathematical induction including structural induction; finite state automata and regular languages; Kleene's Theorem; Turing machines, the Church-Turing thesis, universal Turing machines and the Halting problem; formal grammars a...
    COMPX364Cryptography and Number Theory15.022B (Hamilton)
    An introduction to number theoretic ideas with emphasis on their applications in cryptography.
    COMPX367Computational Mathematics15.022B (Hamilton)
    Introduces numerical methods for solving various mathematical problems.
    COMPX374Software Engineering Industry Project15.022B (Hamilton) & 22B (Tauranga)
    Students work in small groups to engineer a prototype for a medium-sized software project. Following established software engineering design principles, they elicit requirements and document specifications, design the system architecture and user interface, carry out documentation preparation, implementation, and plan for maintenan...
    ENGEE319Smart Grids and the Internet of Things15.022B (Hamilton)
    This paper is concerned with the application of sensors and IoT to modern smart grid electrical power systems including; sensor interfacing, data processing, power flow control and network stability.
    ENGEN301Engineering Maths and Modelling 315.022A (Hamilton)
    Introduces numerical methods and statistical ideas relevant to Engineering.
    ENGEN370Engineering and the Environment15.022A (Hamilton)
    This paper covers sustainability in engineering design and renewable energy generation through the critical lens of environmental impact assessment, risk and resilience, sustainable infrastructure and development, material and energy flow analysis, emissions, carbon accounting and life cycle analysis.
    ENGEN371Engineering Work Placement 20.022X (Hamilton)
    Second work placement involving 400 hours of work experience at an approved engineering organisation relevant to your studies. Typically undertaken during the summer semesters at the end of third year.
    ENGEN372Engineering Work Placement 230.022X (Hamilton)
    Second work placement for the DipEPP involving 400 hours of work experience at an approved engineering organisation relevant to your studies. Typically undertaken during the summer semesters at the end of second year.
  • 500 Level

    Code Paper Title Points Occurrence / Location
    COMPX502Cryptography15.022B (Hamilton)
    An introduction to cryptographic methods.
    COMPX513Topics in Computer Networks15.0No occurrences
    One or more special topics in computer networks, at an advanced level.
    COMPX515Security for Advanced Networks15.022B (Hamilton)
    Networks have evolved considerable in the last decade, leading to new technologies. Changes in the attack surface make network security a permanent concern. Novel approaches to protect them are required.
    COMPX518Cyber Security15.022A (Hamilton)
    This paper introduces the key topics in the important field of cyber security. It will cover various aspects of defensive, offensive and preventative security. Selective topics from a wide range, such as security vulnerabilities, secure software, intrusion detection and prevention, cryptography, applied cryptography, authentication...
    COMPX519Malware Analysis and Penetration Testing15.022B (Hamilton)
    This paper goes through two important aspects of Cyber Security. It first covers the defensive security techniques of malware analysis and then examines the offensive security techniques of penetration testing.
    COMPX521Machine Learning Algorithms15.022A (Hamilton)
    This paper exposes students to selected machine learning algorithms and includes assignments that require the implementation of these algorithms.
    COMPX523Data Stream Mining15.022A (Hamilton)
    Data streams are everywhere, from F1 racing over electricity networks to news feeds. Data stream mining relies on and develops new incremental algorithms that process streams under strict resource limitations.
    COMPX525Deep Learning15.022A (Hamilton)
    This paper provides an introduction into Deep Learning, focussing on both algorithms and applications. It covers both the basics of Neural networks and current mainstream and advanced Deep Learning technology.
    COMPX526Engineering Interactive Systems15.022A (Online)
    This paper introduces the topic of engineering methods for interactive systems. It provides both the background theory and practical methods for modelling and testing interactive systems.
    COMPX527Secure Cloud Application Engineering15.022B (Hamilton)
    Software Engineering on the Cloud is extremely prevalent nowadays. In this paper, you will learn how to design, develop and test cloud-native applications with a special focus on satisfying requirements.
    COMPX529Engineering Self-Adaptive Systems15.022A (Online)
    Software-intensive systems need to manage themselves to fulfill dynamic requirements in a changing environment. Self-adaptation is employed in clouds/datacenters, digital twins, networks, IoT, autonomous robots, etc. Adaptation challenges include self-configuration, self-optimization, self-healing and self-protection.
    COMPX532Information Visualisation15.022A (Online)
    This paper aims to provide an awareness of the potential offered by information visualisation techniques, a familiarity with the underlying concepts, and an understanding and ability to effectively design and apply information visualisations in a given context.
    COMPX539Usability Engineering15.022B (Hamilton)
    This paper covers the design and evaluation of interactive computer systems with a focus on user studies. Topics covered include: scenarios, ethnography, designing and performing user studies, and ethical issues involved in studying human-computer interaction.
    COMPX542Web Search: Technical and Social Issues15.0No occurrences
    This paper covers the operation of web search engines, the development of web spam and techniques for combating it, and social issues raised by centralised search engines.
    COMPX544Applied Computational Methods15.022A (Hamilton)
    This paper explores numerical methods with applications to real world problems. A variety of classes of problems will be introduced, and appropriate numerical methods for each will be explored. Each problem will be solved by writing code from scratch. Aspects of parallel methods will also be introduced.
    COMPX553Extremely Parallel Programming15.022A (Hamilton)
    This paper covers advanced parallel programming for large-scale parallelism. A variety of programming techniques will be covered, with application to cluster computers, GPU computing, many-core computing and cloud computing.
    COMPX554Specification Languages and Models15.0No occurrences
    This paper deals with various aspects of modelling systems using advanced best practice methods from the software engineering field. It will introduce at least one of the main software modelling languages, Z, including its semantics, logic and associated tools.
    COMPX555Bioinformatics15.022B (Hamilton)
    An introduction to bioinformatics, open to students majoring in computer science or biology. It includes an overview of molecular biology, genomics, script language programming, algorithms for biological data, an introduction to machine learning and data mining, and relevant statistical methods.
    COMPX556Metaheuristic Algorithms15.022B (Hamilton)
    Metaheuristic are stochastic search algorithms for solving massive scale combinatorial problems where exact algorithms do not exist. This paper explores the state-of-the-art metaheuristics such as GRASP, particle swarm optimisation, and parallel metaheuristics, along with their applications in operations research, science and engin...
    COMPX560Turing Topics in Computer Science15.022X (Hamilton)
    One or more special topics in computer science, at an advanced level.
    ENGEN570Engineering and the Profession15.022D (Hamilton)
    The roles and responsibilities of professional engineers are examined. Topics include; project management, leadership, negotiation, ethical responsibilities, legal duties, Treaty of Waitangi, intellectual property and professional communication.
    ENGEN582Honours Research and Development Project45.022X (Hamilton)
    This paper provides the "capstone" project required to complete an accredited engineering degree. The paper builds on the knowledge and skills students have gained in the first three years of their professional engineering degree and reinforces the multidisciplinary aspect of engineering. Students will learn how to carry out a Res...

2022 Catalogue of Papers information current as of : 29 November 2023 7:52pm

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