Programme Overview
The Top-Up Bachelor of Information Technology (Software Engineering) at Nova Academy lets diploma holders convert their qualification into a full EQF Level 6 bachelor degree in just 12 months. Certified by the University of Information Technology and Management (UITM) in Rzeszow, Poland, the programme provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practices and methodologies behind developing and maintaining software systems: software design and architecture, database management systems and SQL, software testing and quality assurance, development methodologies such as agile and iterative models, project management, programming fundamentals with languages like Java, JavaScript and Python, software development tools and version control, plus web and mobile app development. Assessment is 100% coursework — no written examinations — so you graduate with working software and a portfolio, not just a transcript. The curriculum is in English, with classes conducted in English and Mandarin, making it especially accessible for Chinese-educated students. Entry is open to holders of any diploma or equivalent certification in IT; counting from the start of a Nova diploma, the full pathway takes about 30 months. Graduates step into roles such as software developer, web developer, mobile app developer, QA engineer, database administrator, system analyst and project manager. Classes run at the Nova campus in MRANTI Technology Park, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur.
Area of Study
Software Design and Architecture: Understanding design and organisation of software systems, including software modelling, design patterns, and architectural principles.
Database Management Systems: Studying database design, implementation, and management. Learning about SQL (Structured Query Language) and relational database concepts.
Software Testing and Quality Assurance: Developing techniques for software testing to ensure reliability and quality, including manual and automated testing methods.
Software Development Methodologies: Exploring development methodologies such as agile, waterfall, or iterative models. Learn how to plan, manage, and execute software development projects.
Project Management: Acquiring skills in project planning, resource allocation, and team collaboration. This includes an understanding of project management tools and methodologies.
Programming Fundamentals: Learning the basics of programming languages, algorithms, and data structures, including languages like Java, JavaScript, Python, and more.
Software Development Tools: Familiarising with various software development tools, integrated development environments (IDEs), version control systems, and collaboration platforms.
Web Development: Studying technologies and frameworks for building interactive websites, like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and popular web development frameworks.
Mobile App Development: Introduction to developing applications for mobile devices, covering platforms such as Android and iOS.
Entry Requirement
Open to holders of any diploma or equivalent certification in IT — a 12-month top-up (about 30 months in total counting from the start of the diploma). Credit transfer is available for eligible diploma holders. Enrolment starts with a course consultation.
Fee Schedule
1st Semester: RM18,500
2nd Semester: RM12,000
3rd Semester: RM8,500
Total: RM39,000
Career Outlook
Increase in jobs until 2032
According to here, jobs for software developers are expected to increase by 25% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than other occupations.
Average annual base salary
The average annual base salary for a software developer in the US is $105,527 per year, as per Glassdoor.
Software engineers work remotely
You can apply to any remote position in the world, enjoying better work-life balance and flexibility.
Career Opportunities
Software Developer/Engineer: Design, code, test, and maintain software across domains like web, mobile app, or enterprise software development.
Web Developer: Build and maintain websites with HTML, CSS, JavaScript and web development frameworks and technologies.
Mobile App Developer: Develop mobile applications for platforms like iOS or Android.
Quality Assurance (QA) Engineer: Ensure software quality by testing, debugging, and fixing software defects.
Database Administrator: Manage and maintain databases, ensuring they are secure, efficient, and properly organized.
System Analyst: Analyze and design information systems of organisations, translating business processes into technical requirements.
Project Coordinator/Manager: Oversee and manage software development projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.
Credit Transfer Available
Transfer subject credits from Diploma to Degree Programs and have the opportunity to study abroad.
Application Deadline
For the upcoming semester, the application deadline is April 30, 2025. Applications received after this date will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Nova Academy is dedicated to equipping me with the skills necessary to a successful career through their practical, hands-on curriculum.
Candice Wu
Student
Nova Academy is dedicated to equipping me with the skills necessary to a successful career through their practical, hands-on curriculum.
Candice Wu
Student
Nova Academy is dedicated to equipping me with the skills necessary to a successful career through their practical, hands-on curriculum.
Candice Wu
Student
Nova Academy is dedicated to equipping me with the skills necessary to a successful career through their practical, hands-on curriculum.
Candice Wu
Student
Nova Academy is dedicated to equipping me with the skills necessary to a successful career through their practical, hands-on curriculum.
Candice Wu
Student
