The Diploma in Software Engineering (DSE), offered by the Centre for Open and Distance Learning at Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, is a thoughtfully designed program that provides a robust foundation in software engineering principles. This program is an excellent opportunity for individuals aiming to pursue a rewarding career in the dynamic fields of Information Technology (IT) and Business Process Management (BPM). Combining comprehensive theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical applications, the DSE program equips students with the foundational skills and expertise required to become proficient software engineers and IT professionals.

The curriculum covers a wide range of essential modules, including dynamic web application development, system analysis and design, database management systems, programming design techniques, and software engineering. Students also need to undertake an independent project, allowing them to apply their learning to real-world challenges. Through this comprehensive approach, the DSE program ensures that students not only acquire technical expertise but also develop critical problem-solving and analytical skills that are crucial for success in the IT industry.

Course Objectives/Aims/ILOs

The primary objective of the Diploma in Software Engineering (DSE) program is to deliver a comprehensive and well-structured education in the foundational principles and practices of software engineering.

Upon successful completion of this course, a student will be able to:

·         Design and develop fully functional, responsive web applications using modern web technologies, adhering to best practices in user interface and user experience design.

·         Analyze and design software systems using both structured and object-oriented methodologies, leveraging UML and CASE tools for effective modeling and documentation.

·         Design, implement, and manage relational databases using industry-standard tools, applying principles of database design, normalization, and SQL to ensure data integrity, security, and efficient performance.

·         Write, debug, and optimize code for software applications by applying fundamental programming concepts and object-oriented design principles.

·         Apply software development lifecycle methodologies to plan, design, develop, test, and maintain industrial-strength software solutions.

·         Independently conceptualize, design, and implement a complete software project, demonstrating integration of knowledge and skills acquired throughout the program.

Duration of the Course

This course is a comprehensive One (01) year diploma program equivalent to the Sri Lanka Qualifications Framework (SLQF) Level 03.

Lectures and practical classes are held on weekends (Saturdays), in hybrid mode (university premises and online), while examinations will take place in person at the university premises.

Medium of Instructions

The primary medium of instruction for this course will be English, with additional explanations provided in Sinhala during both lectures and practical sessions. Examination will be held in English medium.

Modes of Conducting Lectures

·         The lectures, including practical sessions, are conducted in both in-person or virtual mode. Students will be informed of the schedule in advance.

Target Groups

This course is tailored for individuals aspiring to build a career in the software engineering industry. It is ideal for recent school leavers looking to enter the IT field, professionals seeking to upgrade their skills in Information Technology, and freelancers aiming to gain recognition for their services. Additionally, the course caters to entrepreneurs and business owners who wish to create or manage their own software systems effectively.

Admission Requirements           

To be eligible for admission for DSE, candidates must have

·         Passed General Certificate of Education Advanced Level (G.C.E (A/L)) Examination OR

·         Passed General Certificate of Education Ordinary Level (G.C.E (O/L)) Examination AND “Information Communication Technology” subject in Advanced Level (G.C.E (A/L)) Examination OR

·         Successfully completed the “Certificate in Computer and Information Technology” course conducted by the Centre for Open and Distance Learning of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka OR

·         Successfully completed an equivalent IT-related course comparable to the “Certificate in Computer and Information Technology” offered by the Centre for Open and Distance Learning, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, as approved by the university.

Selection Criteria

Following the initial screening of applications based on the specified qualifications, shortlisted candidates will be notified and provided with details on their enrollment in the course.

Course Fee

The course fee can be conveniently paid in two (02) installments. An initial installment of Rs. 20,000.00 is required upon registration to secure a spot in the course. The second installment of Rs. 16,000.00, should be paid within five months after the course commences. Kindly note that once paid fees are not refundable.

The DSE consists of six (06) compulsory course modules which spans over one year period. Some course modules have both theory and practical sessions.

DSE001 - Dynamic Web Applications

·         Introduction to Web Applications

·         Introduction to PHP and functions

·         Creating Dynamic Web Sites

·         Common Programming Techniques

·         Exception handling

·         Dynamic Web Application Development

DSE002 - System Analysis and Design

·         Introduction to information systems

·         Decision making levels and classification of Information Systems

·         What is Systems Analysis?

·         Feasibility Study and Requirement Analysis

·         Requirement Discovery

·         Modelling with Structured Methodology  

·         Computer Aided Systems Engineering

·         Introduction to Object-Oriented Systems Analysis and Design with the UML

·         Practical CASE Tools (Theory through Lab Practical (Rational Rose, Easy Case)

DSE003 - Database Management Systems

·         Introduction to Databases & Database Management Systems

·         Database Design Process

·         Relational Model

·         Introduction to SQL

·         Database Server Installation

·         Future Trends

DSE004 - Programming Design Techniques and Programming

·         Introduction to programming

·         Building Elements

·         Control Structures

·         Methods-Comparison between Iteration and Recursion.

·         Programming with Objects and Classes

·         Arrays and strings

·         Program specifications

·         Error handling  

·         Methods of testing

DSE005 - Software Engineering

·         Introduction to Software Engineering

·         Software Development Process Models

·         Software Requirement Analysis and Specification

·         Software Design

·         Coding - Programming languages and development tools

·         Software Testing and Quality Assurance  

·         Software Maintenance

·         Managing Software Projects

DSE006 – Final Project

The final project (DSE006) module is designed to provide students with an opportunity to apply the skills and knowledge gained during the Diploma in Software Engineering program offered by the Centre for Open and Distance Learning (CODL). This project-based learning module requires each student to independently conceptualize, design, and develop a software solution that demonstrates their technical competence and problem-solving abilities.

Each taught course module is evaluated through a combination of continuous assessments and a final examination. The final examination accounts for a minimum of 60% of the total marks, while continuous assessments contribute up to 40%, ensuring a balanced evaluation of students' performance throughout the module. The continuous assessments may include in-class quizzes, practical evaluations, and take-home assignments. The final examination will be a written test conducted in person at the course.

The independent project module (DSE006) is evaluated based on the following deliverables: a Project Proposal, a Project Report, a Viva Voce examination, and a demonstration of a deployment-ready product.

	Mr. G.A.C.A. Herath Lecturer (Prob.) Faculty of Computing, SUSL E-Mail : anuradha@foc.sab.ac.lk Phone : +94(0)71-1140585
	Ms. S. Adeeba Lecturer (Prob.) Faculty of Computing, SUSL
	Ms. R.M.K.K. Wijerathna Lecturer (Prob.) Faculty of Computing, SUSL
	Ms. W.T.S. Somaweera Lecturer (Prob.) Faculty of Computing, SUSL
	Mr. W.G.S. Lakshitha Instructor in Computer Technology (Grade II) Faculty of Computing, SUSL

Contact

Course Coordinator

Mr. G.A.C.A. Herath

Email: anuradha@foc.sab.ac.lk

Centre for Open and Distance Learning

Tele: +94 (0) 45 228 0179

Email: info@codl.sab.ac.lk

Postal Address: Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, P.O. Box 02, Belihuloya.