HNC in Computing - HTQ | NSCG
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Course overview

The HNC in Computing (HTQ) is taught by experienced industry professionals and aims to develop your theoretical and practical knowledge of computing which will get you equipped with the understanding and skills for success in employment in the Computing industry.
At Level 4 we offer units which over a wide variety of aspects
• Programming
• Networking
• Professional Practice
• Database Design & Development
• Security
• Planning a Computing Project
• Software Development Lifecycles
• Website Design & Development
In addition to the course it is recommended that learners seek employment in a Computing related business.
At Level 5 we currently offer units
• Computing Research Project
• Business Intelligence
• Cloud Computing
• Forensics
• Application Development
• e-commerce
• User Experience and Interface Design


In addition to the course it is recommended that learners seek employment in a Computing related business.

What else do I need to know?

The part-time course runs over two years and you will attend college for one afternoon/evening per week.

To help you there is a course team of friendly, approachable tutors committed to your success. Your Curriculum Leader and Course Tutors will meet with you regularly to discuss your progress.

What are the entry requirements?

To study this course you must be over 18 years old and have four GCSEs including mathematics and English or equivalent and a level 3 qualification or equivalent.

For mature candidates (over 21 years of age) who can evidence a satisfactory and relevant work experience portfolio would be favourably considered and academic requirements may be waived please contact our HE advisor for more information.

All prospective students will be interviewed and assessed individually.

How is it assessed?

The course is accredited by BTEC. There is no final written examination as you achieve your qualification through continuous assessment. This involves carrying out assignments, project work, case studies and practical based assessments in which you collect evidence of your competence until you have gained a Pass grade in all units and skills. If your work is outstanding you may be awarded an overall Merit or Distinction grade. It is imperative that all units are achieved on the programme in order to be awarded the qualification.

What financial support is on offer?

You can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan or Higher Education Loan to help with the costs of your course if you are 19 or older and the course you are studying is an eligible Level 3, 4, 5 or 6 course. If you have any queries with regards to the funding of your course, please contact Charlotte Robertson on 01782 254141 or email charlotte.robertson@nscg.ac.uk

What can I do next?

On successful completion of the course you can progress onto a Level 5 in Computing (possibly at Newcastle College depending on numbers). Alternatively you may wish to pursue employment opportunities in roles such as Mobile App Developer, Software Engineer, Video Game Designer, IT Security Specialist, IT Systems Analyst, Health Information Technician, Web Developer, Data Scientist, Blockchain Engineers, Cloud Engineers, Database Administrators.

The part-time course runs over two years and you will attend college for one afternoon/evening per week.

How do I find out more?

Please contact Paul Tanner, course leader, at paul.tanner@nscg.ac.uk.

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