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SOFTWARE ENGINEERING CAREER INFORMATION SUMMARY

WHAT IS SOFTWARE ENGINEERING AND WHO IS A SOFTWARE ENGINEER?

Software engineering is an engineering branch associated with development of software product using well-defined scientific principles, methods and procedures. The outcome of software engineering is an efficient and reliable software product.
Software engineers are computer science professionals who use knowledge of engineering principles and programming languages to build software products, develop computer games, and run network control systems.

WHERE DO SOFTWARE ENGINEERS WORK?
Almost all businesses rely on computers to function and larger companies have their own in-house IT specialists. You could find yourself working as a Developer in the IT department of major financial services, healthcare, manufacturing, aerospace, defence or governmental organisations. Many graduates go on to set up their own businesses, it could be a software development house making the next great app or a games studio working on the next big video game. You could also find work with web designing firms

WHAT TASKS ARE INVOLVED IN THE WORK?
Tasks are solely dependent on the firm where one is working, as a programmer, one might be a web designer or an application developer and integrator.

WHAT IS THE WORK SCHEDULE OF A SOFTWARE ENGINEER?
This is dependent on someone’s work place, it can range from being the usual 8-hour morning/afternoon routine for a Developer in some IT Department, to shifts for application integration monitors.

WHAT DOES THE JOB MARKET LOOK LIKE?
The world is becoming more and more technology inclined, as such computers and computer applications are being integrated into several aspects in the industry. As such there are places to some extent at almost any firm. However, Internet/Network service providers, Banks and other Technology solutions-based organisations are the leading recruiters for Software Engineer graduates.

WHAT SORT OF CAREER-PERSONALITY MATCH IS REQUIRED?
Firstly, one has to be more inclined to the science-based subjects as these are part of the initial step of the journey. Patience is another characteristic, working with Code and machines can sometimes be very frustrating. One also has to be innovative, always thinking about how best to improve new or existing designs.

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WHAT SUBJECTS WILL THE PROGRAM COVER?
When one enrols into university, one first has to learn A level science in the first year i.e Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology. At second year, one will then have to do general computer science which involves introductions to: a programming language such as Java, C, C#, or any other language offered, computer software, systems and architecture as well database creation and management. For the remaining years, one can then specialise in software engineering which focuses on software and application development.

WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?
As most science-based programs, its competitive and entry depends on the levels of competition in the University. Usually 10 points in 5 subjects and below, including Mathematics, Science and English with three other subjects.

WHAT OTHER PROGRAMS OF STUDY CAN MAKE SOMEONE A SOFTWARE ENGINEER?
Alternative programs are computer science, information technology, and computer systems engineering

WHAT ARE THE FUTURE ADVANCED QUALIFICATIONS AVAILABLE AND WHY?
Once you study software, there are a number of choices available to advance your qualifications. Masters programmes in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Engineering and Informatics, and Computational Life Science among others are available. You may also study a business related program such as a Master of Business Administration or Marketing especially if you find yourself in an IT sales and Marketing firm.

INSTITUTIONS THAT OFFER SOFTWARE ENGINEERING

UNIVERSITY OF ZAMBIA
Programme duration: 4 years (Degree)
Mode of study: Full-time and Part-time
Admitting school: School of Natural Sciences
Intakes: January
Location: Great East Road Campus - Lusaka
Contacts
Tel: +260 211 254406
E-mail: dean-ns@unza.zm
Website: cs.unza.zm/undergrad/

RUSANGU UNIVERSITY
Programme duration: 2 years (Master's)
Mode of study: Full-time, Part-time and Distance
Admitting school: School of Graduate Studies
Intakes: January and August
Location: Monze
Contacts
Tel: (+260) 21-3-255471 or (+260) 976271138
E-mail: info@ru.edu.zm
Website: www.ru.edu.zm.dedi542.jnb1.host-h.net/downloads/

INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS UNIVERSITY
Programme duration: 4 years degree
Mode of study: E-learning / Distance
Admitting school: School of Engineering
Intakes: January and July
Location: Lusaka
Contacts
Tel: +260-211-845754 or +260-211-221662
E-mail: icu@icuzambia.net
Website: www.icuzambia.net/

ZAMBIA ICT COLLEGE
Programme duration: 4 years (degree)
Mode of study: Full-time and Part-time
Intakes: January and July
Location: Ndola
Contacts
Tel: +260 972 118563 / +260 964 492551
E-mail: admissions@zictcollege.edu.zm
Website: www.zictcollege.ac.zm