Software Engineering subject career prospect

I'm a parent seeking advice for my son. He is good at coding and completed Computer Science for his GCSEs. He is highly likely to pursue a computing-related degree at university. I've suggested Software Engineering as a strong option. I have a few questions:

1. What are the career prospects for a Software Engineering degree?
2. Since many universities offer this subject, which ones would you recommend? I am considering Glasgow as a potential first choice, but I'm unsure about other strong options.
3. Should he choose Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry for his A-levels?

(edited 1 month ago)

Reply 1

Stnky

Original post

by zhd

I'm a parent seeking advice for my son. He is good at coding and completed Computer Science for his GCSEs. He is highly likely to pursue a computing-related degree at university. I've suggested Software Engineering as a strong option. I have a few questions:
1. What are the career prospects for a Software Engineering degree?
2. Since many universities offer this subject, which ones would you recommend? I am considering Glasgow as a potential first choice, but I'm unsure about other strong options.
3. Should he choose Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry for his A-levels?

Hi, I'm currently applying to Computer Science courses for 2026 and heres my opinion - hope it helps! First off, software engineering degree will most likely take him to either a job in software development - if he doesn't know for sure which area of computer science is his favourite, he can always look at either doing a Computer Science degree with software engineering (offered by most universities) or a straight up Computer Science degree which is more generalised in the knowledge compared to a software engineering degree, however upons up more options for paths after uni. Until he gets his predicted grades it's hard to know what uni's to aim for, however if you want to look at universities with strong courses / links to employers I would recommend looking at the Complete University Guide for 2026 or the Time University Guide, both are relatively reliable. Imo maths physics and chemistry are very good options, personally I took Computer Science, Maths and Chemistry as some universities are starting to offer either increased consideration or a grade lower offer if you take computer science at a-level. However if he doesn't want to do that then his A-levels are hard and therefore will show he is strong in academia - maths is definetly a must for a computer science degree as well. Lmk if you have any more questions and I hope this helps :smile:

Reply 2

LSBU

Official Rep

Original post

by zhd

I'm a parent seeking advice for my son. He is good at coding and completed Computer Science for his GCSEs. He is highly likely to pursue a computing-related degree at university. I've suggested Software Engineering as a strong option. I have a few questions:
1. What are the career prospects for a Software Engineering degree?
2. Since many universities offer this subject, which ones would you recommend? I am considering Glasgow as a potential first choice, but I'm unsure about other strong options.
3. Should he choose Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry for his A-levels?

Hi there,
It’s wonderful to hear that your son already has a strong interest in coding and has completed Computer Science at GCSE, that’s a great foundation for pursuing a computing-related degree at university. Software Engineering, Computer Science, and related fields all offer excellent career prospects and long-term stability, so he’s definitely heading in the right direction.
At London South Bank University (LSBU), we offer a range of computing and engineering degrees designed to prepare students for today’s fast-growing technology industry. These include BSc (Hons) Computer Science, Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence), Computer Science (Cyber Security), Computer Science (Data Engineering), and the BEng (Hons) Electronic and Computer Systems Engineering. Each course is accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, ensuring that the degree meets professional standards and is highly regarded by employers in the tech sector.

In terms of career prospects, graduates from LSBU’s computing and engineering programmes go on to work in diverse roles such as software engineer, data analyst, systems developer, cyber security consultant, AI researcher, and network engineer. Many work with major tech companies, start-ups, or in finance and engineering sectors. According to graduate outcome data, over 95% of LSBU computing graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months, and LSBU graduates are among the highest earners of all London modern universities, reflecting the strong employability focus built into our courses.

Regarding A-level choices, Mathematics is essential for any computing or engineering degree, as it underpins programming, algorithms, and problem-solving. Physics is also a strong choice, especially if he’s interested in software systems, robotics, or electronic engineering. Chemistry is perfectly fine too, but if his school offers Computer Science A-level, that would complement Maths and Physics very well. Another good alternative could be Further Maths or Economics, depending on his interests and strengths.

As for universities, Glasgow is an excellent academic choice, and it’s great that you’re researching early. Alongside that, LSBU offers a very practical, industry-focused approach with smaller class sizes, one-to-one academic support, and strong links to London’s growing tech sector. Our central London location provides access to real-world experience and internships that help students build strong portfolios before they graduate. This is why I chose to pursue a degree in Computer Science at university. I have thoroughly enjoyed the course and am now in my final year, continuing to make strong progress.

If you’d like to explore our courses further, I’d recommend attending our Open Day on Saturday 15th November. It’s a great opportunity to visit our computing labs, meet lecturers, and speak to current students about their experiences and career journeys.

👉 You can sign up here: LSBU Open Day.
👉 You can also chat with our students through our Unibuddy platform: Chat with our students.

Your son already has the right mindset and skills to succeed in this field, and with the right course, whether in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or Software Engineering, he’ll be well prepared for a successful and rewarding career in technology.

Reply 3

University of Sheffield Students

Official Rep

Original post

by zhd

I'm a parent seeking advice for my son. He is good at coding and completed Computer Science for his GCSEs. He is highly likely to pursue a computing-related degree at university. I've suggested Software Engineering as a strong option. I have a few questions:
1. What are the career prospects for a Software Engineering degree?
2. Since many universities offer this subject, which ones would you recommend? I am considering Glasgow as a potential first choice, but I'm unsure about other strong options.
3. Should he choose Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry for his A-levels?

Hiya!

I am currently a 4th and final year Computer Science student at the University of Sheffield. I have really enjoyed my time here so far and found the course and academic support beneficial to my future goals. To answer your questions:

For a software engineering degree there are a wide range of jobs that you can go into. A few of my friends who have graduated went into Full Stack Developer or Front-End Developer. It depends on your son's interests on the area in which he wants work with code.

It can be very useful to visit the universities at open days where possible as this can give you a feel for where he would be for the next few years of his life. While the course is important, the city is also something to consider. If you cannot visit the unis, then you can have a look if there are any online sessions to join. For example, here at Sheffield we have Live Sessions where prospective students can join on a virtual talk about their department or student life and get their questions answered by a member of staff or a current student.

I took Maths, Chemistry and Physics for A Level too so I think this combination is a good choice. Some universities' computer science degrees may be more maths-heavy than others so this is also something to look into (module content) but maths is a necessity for most courses.

I hope this helps and let me know if you have anymore questions!
Jivanthika (4th Year Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Student)

Reply 4

sarataelor

Original post

by zhd

I'm a parent seeking advice for my son. He is good at coding and completed Computer Science for his GCSEs. He is highly likely to pursue a computing-related degree at university. I've suggested Software Engineering as a strong option. I have a few questions:
1. What are the career prospects for a Software Engineering degree?
2. Since many universities offer this subject, which ones would you recommend? I am considering Glasgow as a potential first choice, but I'm unsure about other strong options.
3. Should he choose Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry for his A-levels?

That’s great to hear your son is already interested in coding and has taken Computer Science early on — that’s a solid start.
Career prospects for Software Engineering are excellent. It opens doors to roles like software developer, systems analyst, data engineer, and even AI or cybersecurity positions — industries that are growing fast.
University-wise, Glasgow is a good choice. Other strong options in the UK include Edinburgh, Bath, Manchester, and Southampton — all with strong computing departments and good industry links.
For A-levels, Mathematics is essential. Physics is a good second choice, and for the third, he can go with either Further Maths, Computer Science, or Chemistry — whichever he enjoys most.

Reply 5

StaffsRep Aura

Official Rep

Original post

by zhd

I'm a parent seeking advice for my son. He is good at coding and completed Computer Science for his GCSEs. He is highly likely to pursue a computing-related degree at university. I've suggested Software Engineering as a strong option. I have a few questions:
1. What are the career prospects for a Software Engineering degree?
2. Since many universities offer this subject, which ones would you recommend? I am considering Glasgow as a potential first choice, but I'm unsure about other strong options.
3. Should he choose Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry for his A-levels?

Hello,
I study Computer Science at the University of Staffordshire in Stoke-on-Trent. Our university offers a wide range of technology-related degrees, including our newly refurbished and BCS and TechSkills accredited Software Development BSc.

This specialised pathway focuses on software concepts and hands-on projects in areas such as mobile, web and cloud development. In the first year, you’ll cover essential core topics shared with other pathways like cloud computing, networks and cybersecurity. From the second year onward, the modules become more software-focused, allowing you to develop in-depth technical expertise.

Staffs also offers students the opportunity to take a placement year between the second and third year, an excellent way to gain real-world industry experience. Many Universities also do this, which I personally recommend. It can allow your son to have a year of experience before even graduating and occasionally a return offer! Alternatively, you can choose to complete summer internships to strengthen your skills and CV.

Thanks to the course’s strong technical foundation and practical focus, many of our graduates have gone on to work in diverse sectors and roles, not just as software developers but also as web developers, backend engineers, full-stack developers, DevSecOps, cloud engineers and technology analysts. Some have even won national awards and regularly contribute to global tech volunteering programmes. Employers who have hired our students in the past include bet365, IKEA, Kainos, Codemasters, PwC, Barclays and Goldman Sachs, among others.

If your son is looking for a degree that prioritises coding, software design and development skills, then Software Development at the University of Staffordshire is a great choice. You can find more details about the course here: 👉 Software Development BSc

When choosing a University, ensure your son reads the modules he will be taking. You do not want to be stuck doing modules you do not like. This discounted many options when I was choosing my top 5 and I found out about Staffs this way due to their industry focus.

In terms of entry requirements, most universities focus more on UCAS points (112-120 UCAS Tariff points for Staffs) than on specific A-level subjects. From my own experience, studying Mathematics (A), Physics (A) and Computer Science (A*) was very helpful but I also know many students who joined without a tech-related A-level and still succeeded including many career changers. What matters most is choosing a degree that teaches him the fundamentals and build his knowledge from the ground up. If Chemistry is his passion, he should go for it! Remember to also not worry too much about UCAS points as clearing exists.

Hope that helps,
Aura (University of Staffordshire Rep)

Reply 6

zakimasood1

Original post

by zhd

I'm a parent seeking advice for my son. He is good at coding and completed Computer Science for his GCSEs. He is highly likely to pursue a computing-related degree at university. I've suggested Software Engineering as a strong option. I have a few questions:
1. What are the career prospects for a Software Engineering degree?
2. Since many universities offer this subject, which ones would you recommend? I am considering Glasgow as a potential first choice, but I'm unsure about other strong options.
3. Should he choose Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry for his A-levels?

•

Career prospects for Software Engineering are excellent — demand for skilled developers keeps growing across tech, finance, AI, and other industries.

•

Top UK universities for Software Engineering/Computer Science include Glasgow, Edinburgh, Bristol, Manchester, Southampton, and Imperial (if grades allow).

•

A-levels: Maths is essential; Further Maths and Physics are strong complements. Chemistry is fine but less directly relevant — consider Computing or Further Maths instead if available.

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