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EduSCOT
Engineering & Technology

How to Become a Software Engineer in Scotland

Build software systems, apps and platforms for Scotland's growing tech sector.

Maths A required (Edinburgh/Glasgow)

Applications of Maths not accepted

Graduate Apprenticeship available

Edinburgh is a major European tech hub

Highers You Need

Typical entry: AAAAB–AAAAA at Higher. You also need English (C) at National 5.

Required Highers

  • Maths— grade A required at Edinburgh and Glasgow; Applications of Maths NOT accepted at any Scottish university

Recommended (not required)

  • Computing Science— recommended; required at Glasgow if Maths not achieved at A in S5

Route to Qualification

Degree: BSc / MEng Computer Science / Software Engineering (4 years at university).

1

BSc Computer Science (4 years)

4 years

2

Graduate Apprenticeship in IT/Software Development (Strathclyde, Heriot-Watt)

4 years

Employer-funded
3

Foundation Apprenticeship in Digital Technology (S5/S6)

2 years

Scottish Universities Offering This Course

Scottish-domiciled students can apply through UCAS and have tuition fees funded by SAAS.

  • University of Edinburgh
  • University of Glasgow
  • University of Strathclyde
  • Heriot-Watt University
  • University of Dundee

Salary in Scotland

Starting salary

£30,000–£42,000

Newly qualified

Mid-career salary

£50,000–£75,000

5–10 years experience

Scottish tech sector graduate starting salary. Edinburgh and Glasgow tech companies often pay London-adjacent rates.

EduSCOT note

Edinburgh consistently ranks in the top 3 UK computer science departments. Scotland's tech sector has grown significantly with remote-friendly hiring from London and US firms.

Subject choice guide

Planning your S3 or S5 Highers with Software Engineer in mind? Read the detailed guide.

Subject choices for Software Engineer

Frequently Asked Questions

What Highers do you need to become a Software Engineer in Scotland?▾
To become a Software Engineer in Scotland, you typically need Higher Maths. The typical grade offer is AAAAB–AAAAA. You also need English (C) at National 5 level.
Which Scottish universities offer BSc / MEng Computer Science / Software Engineering?▾
The following Scottish universities offer routes into Software Engineer careers: University of Edinburgh, University of Glasgow, University of Strathclyde, Heriot-Watt University, University of Dundee. Scottish-domiciled students are eligible for tuition fee funding through SAAS.
How long does it take to become a Software Engineer in Scotland?▾
The main degree route takes 4 years. Alternative routes include: Graduate Apprenticeship in IT/Software Development (Strathclyde, Heriot-Watt) (4 years); Foundation Apprenticeship in Digital Technology (S5/S6) (2 years).
What is the salary for a Software Engineer in Scotland?▾
Starting salary for a Software Engineer in Scotland is typically £30,000–£42,000. Mid-career salary is typically £50,000–£75,000. Scottish tech sector graduate starting salary. Edinburgh and Glasgow tech companies often pay London-adjacent rates.
Is there an apprenticeship route to becoming a Software Engineer in Scotland?▾
Yes — Graduate Apprenticeship in IT/Software Development (Strathclyde, Heriot-Watt) (4 years), Foundation Apprenticeship in Digital Technology (S5/S6) (2 years). Graduate Apprenticeships are funded through Skills Development Scotland and employers — tuition fees are covered.
Does SAAS cover tuition fees for Software Engineer degrees in Scotland?▾
Scottish-domiciled students studying BSc / MEng Computer Science / Software Engineering at a Scottish university are eligible for SAAS (Student Awards Agency Scotland) tuition fee funding. For 4-year undergraduate degrees, SAAS covers tuition in full. Professional or postgraduate stages (such as a Diploma in Legal Practice or pre-registration year) may not be covered — check the SAAS website for your specific course.