Understand the foundations of software development and how to get the best out of software development processes and technologies to deliver successful, sustainable solutions.

Microcredential

Online

Technology (neutral UI)

Tech Futures Lab - hidden

Paid

Understanding Software Development Processes and Tools

<h6>LEARNING OUTCOMES</h6><h1>What you’ll learn</h1>

Gain a deeper understanding of software development through weekly live online sessions on this Level 8 NZQA accredited (15 Credits) micro-credential. This engaging course will give you practical skills, the confidence to engage with developers and the understanding to be part of delivering great technology initiatives. This short course is structured to encourage cross collaboration and teamwork to help you develop the skills needed to coordinate, engage and communicate with software development and product development teams and business stakeholders in your workplace.

Explore core ideas in software development including teams roles and methodologies as well as requirements, testing and security tools. Build and share your knowledge with peers through the facilitation of a workshop addressing a key aspect of the software development process

Dive into programming, coding, data and systems which can be used to develop software, that meets the needs to all stakeholders.

Work collaboratively on a project using an existing software system to improve functionality.

<h3 style="text-align: center;">Translate user needs into software requirements</h3>Gain experience with tools and techniques to convert user needs into clear software development requirements.

<h3 style="text-align: center;">Understand the software development pipeline</h3>Learn about the software development pipeline and how to deliver successful projects from start to finish.

<h3 style="text-align: center;">Effective collaboration and communication</h3>Develop strategies for managing projects and stakeholders through strong communication and teamwork.

<h3 style="text-align: center;">Consider human factors in software development</h3>Understand the importance of human factors like usability, culture, and stakeholder perspectives in the development process.

What you’ll learn - USD Micro overview

<ul><li>Professionals aiming to enhance their skills and understanding of software development processes and tools.</li><li>Managers seeking to effectively collaborate with software development teams.</li><li>Individuals interested in gaining practical knowledge to contribute to technology initiatives.</li><li>Aspiring developers wanting to build a solid foundation in software development practices.</li></ul>

Where this could take you - Course overview - PG/Micro-creds

Follow your passionLead or contribute to a software development project for your community or workplace.

Boost your careerConfidently work with software development teams in your current role, or move into a new role and apply your new knowledge and skills.

Continued learningStack your credits toward our <a href="/courses/master-of-change-and-organisational-resilience">Master of Change and Organisational Resilience</a>

Where this could take you - List - USD Micro overview

What you need to apply - Course overview - Micro-creds

<h3 style="text-align: center;">Proof of identity</h3>You will need to provide a copy of your passport or birth certificate to confirm your personal details.

<h3 style="text-align: center;">Qualifications &amp; work experience</h3>You need to provide proof of previous study and work experience e.g. an academic transcript, graduating certificate, or CV.

<h3 style="text-align: center;">English language proficiency</h3>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence of English language competence e.g. academic IELTS or PTE. <a target="_blank" href="https://www2.nzqa.govt.nz/tertiary/english-language-entry-requirements-for-international-students/">Learn more</a>

Step-by-step process to apply for this course:

Application and admissions - Course overview - Micro-creds

<h4 style="text-align: center;">Apply online</h4>Choose a <a href="/browse/courses?course-type=microcredential">micro-credential</a> that aligns with your goals and complete an application form. Make sure to submit all the required documentation so your application can be processed as quickly as possible.

<h4 style="text-align: center;">Enrolment confirmed</h4>Once your documents and application has been reviewed and approved by our team, you will be enrolled in your course and advised of next steps.

<h4 style="text-align: center;">Welcome to the whānau!</h4>You are ready to start your learning journey and join a group of like-minded, life-long learners.

Application and admissions - List - Course overview - Micro-creds

Domestic student fee Domestic student fees apply to all students who are citizens, permanent residents or those hold a residency visa in New Zealand.

International student fee International student fees apply to all students who are NOT citizens, permanent residents or those who DO NOT hold a residency visa in New Zealand. Please note that this course is not eligible for a student visa into New Zealand.

Research Director

Dr. David Parsons

Student Experience Manager

Eugenia Lytvyn

I took the leap - MCOR gave me the confidence to work for myself, doing what I do best. It’s been a total life-changer.

For Māori and Pasifika wanting to change careers or up-skill, academyEX offers a supportive environment for your journey.

Being future-ready is simple: hop on, or get left behind! I believe everyone has a responsibility to embrace and prepare for the future.

If you love ideas and you want to engage in an exciting community of people who are creating change give it a go because you have nothing to lose.

academyEX is for you if you have an idea, and if you are passionate about it, and if you want the tools and network around you to actually put it together.

This was the only place where they were providing the kind of context and the information that I wanted to be really future-focused.

My project focused on harnessing the power of technology through a blended learning model, aiming to transform education delivery.

If you think you&#039;re too busy or tied up with work, academyEX is the place to start—no better way to expand your horizons.

If we look at this from a purely academic perspective, a micro-credential is worth 15 educational credits which equates to 150 hours of learning. But how much time you need to commit each week will depend on the length of the programme. This 15-week micro-credential includes an average of 10 learning hours per week. The Understanding Software Development Processes and Tools Micro-credential’s blended delivery approach includes self-directed and directed learning activities supported by weekly 60-minute virtual synchronous class sessions. These sessions will ensure that everyone has understood the core concepts and provide opportunities to explore these further, as well as address any problems or questions.  Online synchronous sessions will take place on Thursdays, 5:00-6:00 pm (but please note this is subject to change). Sessions will be recorded but we do expect attendance every week to enable effective project work and to maximise learning and networking opportunities But don’t let that number put you off - our micro-credentials are all about gaining practical, transferable skills. So those 15 hours will comprise weekly sessions (where applicable), time for you to work on your assessment (which can often be work-related or a live project for your workplace or organisation) and applying your new skills and knowledge in your practice. For further information, download our <a rel="noreferrer" target="_blank" href="https://link.academyex.com/prospectus-2024">prospectus</a>.

What is the time requirement for this programme?

The next intake is scheduled to start in 2026

When are the next intakes?

To be eligible to study on the Programme, applicants must meet the admission criteria. The high-level entry criteria as approved by NZQA are as follows:<ul><li>A Bachelor&#039;s degree or an equivalent level qualification </li><li>OR equivalent professional experience in a relevant field.</li></ul>For further information, including how to demonstrate equivalent professional experience, download <a rel="noreferrer" target="_blank" href="https://link.academyex.com/prospectus-2024">our prospectus</a>.

What are the entry requirements?

Whether you’re leading software development projects, engaged as a key stakeholder or seeking to carve out a career in software project management, this micro-credential will equip you with the skills needed to be part of delivering successful ICT projects. Examples of individuals or groups who would benefit from this micro-credential include:<ul><li>People who are end-users of software systems and want to give informed feedback to software developers or vendors</li><li>People who work directly with software developers such as analysts, product owners, and project managers</li><li>People who want to integrate software more effectively into their businesses or organisations</li><li>People who are interested in developing a greater understanding of software development in order to develop new career paths or expand their current roles</li></ul>

Who is this programme for?

Generally, a 15 credit micro-credential will comprise two summative assessments. Some assessments are individual and others may be group based to encourage collaboration with others. Assessments are about applying your learning to your practice or context - developing small plans, strategies, designing initiatives, and exploring and evaluating key concepts or ideas. All assessments will add demonstrable value to your applied knowledge of the area you&#039;re learning in. In the Understanding Software Development Processes and Tools micro-credential, you will evaluate software processes to workshop with your peers and complete a software development project by proposing changes to improve existing system functionality.

What sort of assessments are required for micro-credentials?

<ul><li>The domestic tuition fee for the Programme is $675 (including GST). Unfortunately, students are not eligible to apply for StudyLink Student Loans for this micro-credential</li></ul>

What are the fees?

Applications close one week before the start date of the intake you are applying for. Applications may be accepted on a case-by-case basis after the application close date at the discretion of academyEX. Please contact us if applications are closed and you would like to apply.

When do applications close?

Absolutely. We’ve had loads of students do the course alongside family members, friends and colleagues. There are also opportunities to work collaboratively on assessments during the programme and work together on a project of interest. Learning is always better together!

Can I do this course with colleagues?

In the lead up to the start of each intake, fully enrolled students will receive onboarding emails from the team, as well as access to platforms that will be used during your study. During the first session, the team will talk through what you can expect during the programme and answer any questions.

What does orientation look like?

Micro-credentials are delivered entirely online. Each micro-credential has regular online facilitated classes and self-directed study, that includes viewing videos, completing quizzes and reading relevant papers.

Can I study fully online or do I need to be able to travel to Auckland for classes?

Yes, almost all academyEX learners work full time while studying part time. This programme has been designed to fit in around full time work or family commitments, with weekly online sessions taking place at lunchtime or in the late afternoon (usually 4 pm). Assessments are designed to be practical and linked to personal aspirations and projects. If you are concerned about the workload and how you will balance it, please reach out to us and we can chat about how it could work for you.

Can I study and work full time at the same time?

We are very happy to help you to communicate the benefits of studying with academyEX to your employer. If you would like us to provide you with a letter of support or further information, please just ask.

Can you help me to get support from my organisation to support me to enrol in the programme?

This programme is available to study as an international student either via online distance learning or if you currently reside in New Zealand and your visa conditions allow study. To find out more about studying with academyEX as an international student, and for programme fees, visit our <a rel="noreferrer" target="_self" href="https://academyex.com/student-support/international-students">International Students</a> page.

What do I need to know as an international student?

A micro-credential certifies achievement of a specific and coherent set of skills and/or knowledge. Micro-credentials are created through strong evidence of need by industry, employers, iwi and/or the community. Think of them like a ‘crash course’ on the future – bringing you up to speed on what matters today but also what’s critical for a thriving future. They are designed to be done alongside your busy work and personal life, so you don&#039;t have to take time off to study. Our Micro-credentials give you a recognised NZQA qualification.  Delivered through a combination of self-directed learning and weekly live online sessions, you’ll practice and apply the knowledge and skills you learn through two practical assessments. Between 7 and 15 weeks, all micro-credentials have a set price and we run regular intakes at set times of the year.

What is a micro-credential?

Our stackable learning means you can take a mix ‘n match approach to building your skills, knowledge and network across programmes, no matter which faculty, so you have a customised toolkit to make change and innovate where it matters most to you. You can think of micro-credentials as building blocks of learning. Each building block could be credited to larger qualifications (e.g. a Master’s degree) if a specific micro-credential aligns to specific learning outcomes covered in a larger qualification. It’s worth having a chat with us about what you’re seeking to achieve for your upskilling so we can help with selecting the right learning pathways for you.

What is stackable learning?

What you need to know - USD Micro overview

Starts March 2026. Disruptive Technologies: The AI One micro-credential provides hands-on, real-world learning in AI and emerging tech. Gain critical skills to lead through innovation and solve complex industry challenges.

Disruptive Technologies

Starts 30 October. AI is reshaping every part of work. This course equips senior leaders with the AI literacy, insight, and confidence to turn disruption into leadership.

Master of Technological Futures

Starts 17 September. Got a business idea rattling around in your head? Connect with and learn from entrepreneurs who&#039;ve built real ventures and turned bold ideas into revenue.

Entrepreneurship

Starts 30 October. This course is for senior leaders who want to strengthen culture, manage complexity, and lead transformation with confidence in an AI-enabled world.

Master of Change and Organisational Resilience

Tech Futures Lab

Understand the foundations of software development and how to get the best out of software development processes and technologies to deliver successful, sustainable solutions.2026 Intakes Coming Soon

Complete in 15 weeks

Weekly classes, Thursdays, 5:00-6:00pm

100% online, expertly facilitated

NZQA accredited, Level 8 (15 Credits)

<a href="/courses/micro-credential/understanding-software-development-processes-and-tools-micro-credential#section_m6h9gvsv">Learn more about fees</a>

Level up your software development skills with our Micro-credential course. Learn processes & tools for lasting solutions. Apply today!

MICRO-CREDENTIAL

Understanding Software Development Processes and Tools

Course duration

Time commitment

Flexible study

Accredited

Software development fundamentals

Programming, data and systems

Collaborative project

This course is ideal for:

PATHWAYS

Where this could take you

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

What you need to apply

HOW TO APPLY

Application and admissions

FEES & START DATES

Let’s get started!

MEET THE TEAM

Our people

TESTIMONIALS

Hear from our EXceptional students

KEY INFORMATION

What you need to know

RECOMMENDED COURSES

We think you’ll like these too

Join an EXciting community and stay in the know.