THE STRUCTURE OF UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATIONAL CURRICULA FOR SOFTWARE ENGINEERING TRAINING IN THE UK IN THE CONTEXT OF MODERN REQUIREMENTS FOR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY

Abstract

The article is devoted to analyzing the structure of undergraduate software engineering programs in leading universities of the United Kingdom, focusing on their compliance with the modern demands for the information technology industry. In today’s rapidly evolving IT landscape, the growing demand for highly qualified software engineering professionals necessitates adapting educational programs to the ever-changing market needs. The UK, as one of the leading countries in IT education, offers programs that combine academic knowledge with practical experience, integrating modern technologies and fostering collaboration with industry companies.

The article examines key aspects of the educational process, including the structure of curricula, teaching methods, assessment approaches, and the role of internships. Particular attention is paid to the alignment of these programs with international educational standards, such as those set by the Association for Computing Machinery. Through comparative analysis, critical elements impacting the quality of graduate preparation are identified. They include the development of computational thinking, the integration of interdisciplinary approaches, the focus on practical problem-solving, and the application of modern teaching methods.

The article highlights the importance of innovative components within educational programs, such as team-based projects, interdisciplinary integration, and the involvement of industry representatives in the teaching process. It is noted that programs emphasizing practical learning enhance graduates' competitiveness in the global job market, providing them with opportunities to secure positions in leading companies.

The study also emphasizes the need to balance theoretical education with the development of practical skills. This ensures students are professionally prepared to address real-world challenges, a critical requirement in the IT sector. However, certain gaps in some curricula were identified, particularly the insufficient coverage of specific Knowledge Area Core components defined by appropriate standards.

This article contributes to understanding the features of modern education in software engineering, underscoring the importance of aligning educational programs with international standards and the current demands of the industry. The findings can serve as a basis for further research aimed at optimizing educational programs and adapting them to the challenges of the modern labor market.