Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This top-up builds honours-level knowledge and practical skills across the technical and applied areas of digital technologies. Teaching typically combines lectures, hands-on lab work, group projects and an individual final project or dissertation.

• Core software development — advanced programming principles, object‑oriented design, software engineering life cycle and testing.
• Web and mobile technologies — modern front‑end and back‑end development, responsive design, APIs and deployment pipelines.
• Databases and information systems — relational and non‑relational databases, data modelling, query languages and basic data management practices.
• Networks, security and cloud — network fundamentals, security principles, cloud services and infrastructure considerations for digital solutions.
• User experience and human‑centred design — UX methods, prototyping and evaluation to ensure usable digital products.
• Data fundamentals and analytics — introductory data analysis, basic visualisation and how data informs decision making in organisations.
• Emerging technologies and applications — taught modules covering contemporary topics such as IoT, automation and elements of AI/ML as they apply to digital systems.
• Professional practice and project management — ethics, legal issues, project planning and working in multidisciplinary teams.
• Final project or dissertation — an independent, substantial piece of work that demonstrates your ability to apply technical skills to a real‑world problem, often produced in collaboration with an employer or external partner.

Entry requirements

Entry is aimed at applicants who already hold a relevant Level 5 qualification such as an HND, foundation degree or Higher National Certificate plus appropriate progression qualifications, or those with equivalent professional experience and prior learning. Applicants should normally have studied computing, IT, software development or related subjects at Level 5; you will be asked to provide transcripts, a personal statement and references. International applicants are expected to demonstrate proficiency in English through a recognised qualification or equivalent evidence. Oxford Brookes also considers mature applicants with substantial relevant industry experience on an individual basis.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for technical and applied roles across the digital sector. Typical job titles include software developer, web developer, systems analyst, network or cloud technician, junior data analyst, cybersecurity support officer and digital product specialist. The programme also supports progression into specialised postgraduate study or professional certifications, and can help experienced practitioners formalise their credentials to move into senior technical or management roles within IT and digital teams.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes combines vocational relevance with academic rigour, emphasising hands‑on learning and industry engagement. The university provides computing and digital facilities, access to well‑equipped labs and project support, plus opportunities to work on employer‑linked projects and placements where available. Located near the city of Oxford, the university has connections with local and regional technology employers and a strong student support infrastructure to help you complete the top‑up and transition into professional practice or further study.