HNC/D in Computing

The HNC/D in Computing will run in collaboration with the Stoke-on-Trent & Staffordshire Institute of Technology (SoTIoT) and is designed to help learners to develop as professionals in this sector. The course 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. 

Computing specialists are in high demand as technology now plays a significant role in almost everything we do. This course combines the core principles of the field with a forward-looking approach to embracing and driving new developments.

If you're looking to gain the skills to advance your career in the fast-paced computing industry, then write the code to your future with a higher level Computing qualification.

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:

• Application Development
• Business Process Support
• Network Security
• Computing Research Project
• Emerging Technology
• Forensics
• User Experience and Interface Design

The HNC/D is equivalent to the first year at university and is a recognised Level 4 qualification. On completion of the Level 4, students may choose to progress onto a Level 5 which is equivalent to the second year of a Bachelor's degree. The Level 5 HND is offered subject to numbers and could be offered at either Newcastle or Stafford campuses.

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

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.

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.

Please contact Paul Tanner, Course leader by emailing paul.tanner@nscg.ac.uk

On successful completion of the course, you will gain a widely recognised qualification. You could progress onto a 'top-up' degree or further professional qualification in the computing area.  There is an exciting option to progress on to study a BSc (Hons) Computer Science Top-Up through an exclusive partnership with Keele University as part of the Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent Institute of Technology (SoTIoT).

Alternatively, you may wish to pursue employment opportunities in roles such as web developer, mobile application developer, software engineer, computer systems analyst and IT security specialist.

There are two types of loans to help students cover the costs of their higher education course in college: tuition fee loans and living cost loans (also called maintenance loans). You pay these loans back when you finish your course and earn over £25,000. If you earn less than that, you won’t have to repay anything. If you’re earning more than that, we’ll work out your repayments at 9% of your income over that amount. Maintenance loans are only available to students studying on a full-time basis. They are not available for students studying on a part-time basis. For more details visit nscg.ac.uk/finance

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