Access to HE Diploma Computing and Digital Technology

You will need 4 GCSE’s at grade C/4 or above or Level 2 equivalent. Including GCSE English and GCSE Maths or Level 2 equivalents?

Please be aware students will be considered on a case-by-case basis if the entry requirements are not met.

By combining a variety of teaching methods and assessment types, the Access to HE Diploma in Computing and Digital Technology ensures that students gain a thorough understanding of the subject matter and are well-prepared for further education and careers in the field.

On the course, students will experience learning through seminars and workshops exploring core concepts, theories, and frameworks in computing and digital technology.

Sessions are interactive and delivered by skilled professionals either in person or remotely. All students will have the opportunity to gain support through small groups and one-to-one discussions with lecturers and access to digital learning materials, including video tutorials, interactive simulations, and e-books.

Units will be assessed throughout the year with ongoing feedback on coursework and projects to help students improve and learn continuously. Assessment methods are varied and include, portfolios, projects, essays, presentations and reports to name a few.

It is expected that you hold GCSE Maths and English at grades 4 or above, or a Functional Skills Level 2 Maths and English qualification. However, this can be discussed when invited to interview.

You may have the opportunity to attend some virtual events with industry experts. In addition to this you may also have the opportunity to listen and interact with guest speakers.

When studying you will be expected to spend time outside of lessons working on coursework and studying. You will also have access to study areas in college to support your learning and development.

Open Awards

Tuesday and Thursday Evenings
5pm - 9pm

This course aims to transform students' educational trajectories, opening doors to higher education and career opportunities in computing and digital technology, and empowering them to succeed in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

The Access to HE Computing and Digital Technology course is designed with several key aims in mind:

Prepare for Higher Education: Equip students with the foundational knowledge and academic skills necessary for success in undergraduate computing and digital technology programs.

Bridge Educational Gaps: Provide a pathway for mature students and those without traditional qualifications to access higher education and pursue careers in computing and IT.

Develop Technical Competence: Foster a solid understanding of core computing concepts, programming, web development, networking, and database management.

Enhance Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Cultivate analytical skills and the ability to solve complex problems using logical reasoning and computational thinking.

Promote Lifelong Learning: Encourage a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability to keep pace with the rapid advancements in technology.

Build Confidence and Independence: Develop self-confidence in students’ abilities to undertake higher education studies and professional challenges in the computing field.

Developmental Units

ICT: Advanced Word Processing

Communication: Critical Thinking in Academic Writing

Personal Development: Study Skills

Communication: Presentation Skills

Graded Academic Units

Computing:

Event Driven Programming

Stop Motion Animation

Database Principles and Design

Interactive Media Industry

Digital Graphics

Web Animation

Principles of Computer Programming

IT Systems Security

Networks and Communication Protocols

Computer System Architecture

Commercial Aspects for Computing:

Website Design and Development

Developing Spreadsheet Applications

Communities and Sharing on the World Wide Web

Maths for Computing: Algorithms, Pseudocode and Trace Tables

Business :

Introduction to Marketing

Open Awards

The Access to HE Diploma requires 60 credits for achievement. Of these, 45 credits come from graded Level 3 units focused on academic subject content. The remaining 15 credits are from ungraded Level 2 or Level 3 units.

On completion of this course, you will have the opportunity to progress onto Higher Education. If you are aged 19+ and do not currently hold a level 3 qualification and are looking to progress to university or employment in the industry, this is the course for you.