Digital and IT

Digital Software Development Level 3

Level

Level 3

Duration

2 Year

Start Date

6 September 2027

Qualification Type

T Level

Course Details

What Will I Study?

Want to build the apps, games and software people use every day? This T Level will help you develop the skills needed to work in software development.

You’ll code, design and test software in teams, working in a similar way to a professional development studio and using agile working methods in our modern computer labs.

Alongside coding, you’ll develop core digital skills including data, digital analysis, security, testing and planning.

You’ll also complete a 45-day industry placement, giving you the opportunity to put your skills into practice with an employer.

Designed with employers including Fujitsu, IBM and Capgemini, the course can prepare you for careers across software development, web, games, testing and databases.

How Will I Be Assessed?

You’ll be assessed through two externally set examination papers and an employer-set project as part of the core component.

For the occupational specialism, you’ll complete an externally set project where you’ll design, implement and test software, apply ethical testing and manage risk in line with regulations.

You must also successfully complete an industry placement of at least 45 days.

What Could This Course Lead To?

You could progress into roles such as:

Junior developer
Software development technician
Web developer
Software tester
Games developer
Database developer

You could also progress to a digital apprenticeship or university. The T Level carries UCAS points equivalent to three A Levels, with popular degree choices including Computing, Computer Science and Software Engineering.

Software developers are the single most in-demand creative-industries role, with around 82,700 additional workers needed by 2035. Software developers are also in demand across many other sectors (Skills England, 2026).

In Manchester, programmers were the most advertised job in August 2025 (ONS data). Greater Manchester has the largest digital and creative cluster outside London, with over 10,000 digital and creative businesses and the UK’s largest AI cluster, so there are real opportunities on your doorstep.