Advanced Diploma
A two-year, four-term software engineering pathway covering programming, databases, web and mobile development, Java and .NET application development, and a choice of Data Science, AI & ML, IoT or platform-specialisation tracks.
ADSE curriculum
The supplied ADSE curriculum material maps the programme across four terms, with progressive programming, web, application development, data, AI, IoT and project-focused learning.
Year 1
Year 1
Year 2
Year 2
Programme map
Year 1 builds a shared foundation. Year 2 opens into a Java or .NET application-development track in Term 3, then branches into seven Term 4 pathways — three with full module detail below.
166 Hours · Website Development eProject
Year 1 — Curriculum detail
Every ADSE student completes both terms, moving from programming fundamentals to Java, C# and Linux foundations.
Programming Principles and Techniques
Solve programming problems using flowcharts and pseudocode.
Object-Oriented Programming Concepts
Develop object-oriented programming skills using OOP principles and concepts.
Logic Building and Elementary Programming
Use programming constructs to write programs in C.
Data Management with SQL Server
Normalise raw data into well-organised database tables in SQL Server and perform advanced database operations.
Year 2 — Term 3
Term 3 splits into a Java or a .NET application-development pathway.
Web Component Development
Build web applications suited to any Java EE application server using JSP and Servlet technologies.
Integrating App with Spring Framework
Develop powerful web applications with the Spring Framework.
Agile and DevOps
Implement software development processes using Agile methodology.
Introduction to Dart Programming
Learn to code Flutter apps using the Dart programming language.
Year 2 — Term 4
Term 4 offers seven pathways. Explore the three with full module detail below, each ending in an industry-aligned exit profile.
Programming with Python
Understand the syntax and logic of Python programming and learn how Python is used for data analysis and other applications.
Large Data Management with MongoDB
Learn MongoDB concepts, features, architecture and data model, and how to install, configure and monitor open-source databases.
Emerging Job Areas — SMAC
Learn the basics of social media, mobile technology, analytics and cloud computing along with an understanding of their interconnectivity.
R Programming
Master data exploration, data visualisation, predictive analytics and descriptive analytics techniques with the R language.
Foundation of Big Data Systems
Learn how components of the Hadoop ecosystem — Hadoop, Yarn, MapReduce, HDFS, Pig, Impala, HBase, Flume and Apache Spark — fit into the big-data processing lifecycle.
Processing Big Data (Hadoop MapReduce, Hive, Pig Latin)
Learn to work with adaptable, versatile frameworks based on the Apache Hadoop ecosystem.
Visual Analytics with Tableau
Learn how to build visualisations, organise data and design dashboards using Tableau Desktop.
Web and Social Media Analytics (Google Analytics and SAS)
Understand the major aspects of the Google Ads network across search, display, mobile and video, and master SAS techniques to access and manage data, create data structures, generate reports and handle errors.
Also available in Term 4
Term 4a — OST & Java
Operating Systems & Technology specialisation paired with Java.
Term 4b — OST & .NET
Operating Systems & Technology specialisation paired with .NET.
Term 4c — OST & Oracle
Operating Systems & Technology specialisation paired with Oracle.
Term 4d — OST & Networking
Operating Systems & Technology specialisation paired with networking.
Why software engineering, why now
The demand data behind the ADSE curriculum, covering both the global technology market and Africa's fast-growing tech landscape.
Source: Research and Markets; Worldwide Technology Employment Impact Guide, IDC; grandviewresearch.com
The Advanced Diploma in Software Engineering (ADSE) is a two-year programme built across four terms. Year 1 (Term 1 and Term 2) lays a shared foundation in programming, web development, databases, Linux and Java/C#. Year 2 opens into specialisation: Term 3 offers a Java or .NET application-development track, and Term 4 branches into seven pathways — four platform specialisations (OST paired with Java, .NET, Oracle or Networking) and three fully detailed tracks in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, and the Internet of Things — each ending in an industry-aligned exit profile.
Programming principles, logic building and object-oriented programming in C
Modern web development with HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript and React
Database design and management with SQL Server
Java and C# application development, from core language to advanced APIs
A practical, step-by-step look at the skills, learning path and portfolio work that actually matter for landing a software development role in Nigeria today.
A short, focused course and a longer diploma programme solve different problems. Here's how to work out which one fits your situation.
Common mistakes new programming students make, and practical habits that make the learning curve less painful.
Career pathways
Explore the skills published for this programme and the areas of work they may support. These are potential directions, not employment or placement guarantees.
Tools you'll use
Data, analytics and AI-related technology work
Based on the programme information currently published. It is not a guarantee of employment, salary or placement.
Student stories
I'm so grateful for the supportive learning environment at Aptech. The instructors are always available to answer our questions and provide guidance, and my fellow students are incredibly talented and motivated. We're all learning and growing together, and it's an amazing experience.
The practical training, interactive classes, and real-world projects at Aptech have helped me strengthen my technical skills, build confidence, and develop problem-solving and teamwork abilities. The collaborative atmosphere encourages us to share ideas, support one another, and continuously improve. This experience is preparing me for future career opportunities in the technology industry.
LesleyADSEThe ADSE program at Aptech is giving me the skills and confidence to pursue my dream of becoming a software engineer. I'm learning the latest technologies and best practices, and I'm building a strong foundation for a successful career in the tech industry.
The ADSE program combines theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience in software development. Through coding exercises, real-world projects, and guidance from experienced instructors, I'm developing my programming, problem-solving, and analytical skills. The program is also helping me understand software development principles, industry best practices, and the importance of continuous learning in a rapidly evolving technology industry. Every new concept and project brings me closer to achieving my goal of becoming a competent, innovative, and professional software engineer.
A four-month course covering HTML5, CSS3 and JavaScript to design and build responsive, mobile-friendly websites.
148 Hours · Java Application Development eProject
130 Hours · choice of pathway
7 specialisation pathways
Building Modern Websites
Use HTML5, CSS3 and JavaScript to implement websites.
React
Design and develop responsive websites using React.
UI/UX for Responsive Design
Learn the basic principles of effective web UI/UX design.
Markup Language and JSON
Use XML and JSON to store and exchange data.
Fundamentals of Linux Operating System
Use the various commands, shell scripts and tools of Linux OS.
Fundamentals of IoT
Understand the "what, why and how" of the Internet of Things.
Java Programming I
Develop object-oriented applications using Java.
Java Programming II
Use advanced language features and application programming interfaces (APIs) of Java.
Programming in C#
Develop basic and advanced object-oriented applications using C#.
Application Development Using Flutter and Dart
Use the Flutter framework and Dart programming language to develop cross-platform mobile apps.
Developing ASP.NET Core Web Applications
Develop web applications implementing server-side programming using ASP.NET Core.
Application Development Using Flutter and Dart
Use the Flutter framework and Dart programming language to develop cross-platform mobile apps.
Introduction to Dart Programming
Learn to code Flutter apps using the Dart programming language.
Agile and DevOps
Implement software development processes using Agile methodology.
Source: Statista; MarketFinder
Source: getsmarter.com; World Economic Forum, "Jobs of Tomorrow"
Linux fundamentals and IoT foundations
Java EE web components, the Spring Framework, Agile/DevOps and cross-platform mobile apps with Flutter & Dart
A specialised Term 4 pathway in Data Science, AI & Machine Learning, IoT, or an OST platform track (Java, .NET, Oracle or Networking)
Term-end eProjects and a job-role-aligned exit profile
Entry requirements, fees and intake dates are confirmed by the admissions team, so check the admissions page or contact the academy before you apply. Not sure whether a short course or a longer programme suits you? Compare them in Short Course or Diploma? How to Choose the Right Programme Length, or browse the full course catalogue.
JamesADSEI'm really impressed with the breadth and depth of the ADSE curriculum. We're covering everything from database management to cloud computing, and I'm gaining a holistic understanding of the software development lifecycle. The instructors are experts in their field and provide great guidance and support.
The ADSE curriculum provides a comprehensive learning experience that combines essential computing principles with modern technologies and practical applications. Studying areas such as database management, cloud computing, programming, and software engineering is helping me understand how different technologies work together throughout the software development lifecycle. The instructors bring valuable industry knowledge into the classroom, making complex concepts easier to understand through practical examples, demonstrations, and guidance. This well-rounded approach is broadening my technical knowledge, strengthening my problem-solving abilities, and preparing me to tackle real-world challenges in the technology industry.
KhalidADSEA two-month course covering core Java programming, from fundamentals through object-oriented programming.
Aptech Certified Nxt Generation Professional (ACNPRO): a shared foundation in Excel, Python, R and large data management, branching into Data Science, AI & Machine Learning, or Software Testing — each ending in a Professional Diploma.