Higher Education

Start Date: Duration: Level: Study mode: Course Location: Course Type:
January 2 Years Level 4 Part-Time - Day Bede Campus University Level Qualification Enquire

What’s it all about?

Embark on a transformative journey with the Higher Nationals in Computing for England, designed to elevate your potential in the ever-evolving tech landscape. This robust programme offers an immersive educational experience, meticulously crafted to open doors to both employment and higher education.

At the heart of this programme lies a commitment to practical, applied learning, ensuring you develop the vital skills required in today’s digital world. Engage with a diverse array of units ranging from programming and cybersecurity to data analytics and network engineering, each carefully aligned with industry needs and professional standards. This blend of core and specialist units allows for a tailored learning experience, perfectly suited to your career aspirations. This qualification not only enhances your employability by developing key technical and professional skills but also fosters a critical understanding of the global computing environment.

Prepare to be challenged, inspired, and empowered as you navigate through this programme, which not only reflects current industry practices but also anticipates the skills for the future. Join a community of ambitious learners and pave your path to success in the dynamic field of computing.

To ensure you are fully prepared for the challenges and learning this course offers, the entry requirements are specifically tailored to align with the demands of the industry. Applicants are expected to have:

• A BTEC Level 3 or T-Level Digital qualification in Computing or a related field,
• GCE Advanced Level qualifications demonstrating strong performance in relevant subjects,
• GCSE grades A* to C (or 9 to 4) in Maths and English to ensure you have the foundational skills needed for success,
• Relevant work experience or an Access to Higher Education Diploma from an approved institution.
• Relevant work experience in a related field,
• An international equivalent to any of the above qualifications.

We also recognise the value of your previous learning and experiences. Applicants may be considered for admission through recognition of prior learning, ensuring that your existing skills and knowledge are acknowledged and valued as part of your application. This inclusive approach ensures that if you have a passion for computing and meet these criteria, you are positioned to excel both academically and professionally.

Study level Cost Additional fees
HE Please enquire It is expected that a student will have access to their own computer in order for them to be able to complete work outside of college.

Experience innovative teaching and assessment tailored to ensure you gain industry-specific skills essential for a career in computing. This programme employs a blend of internally devised assignments and mandatory Pearson-set projects, combining both practical and theoretical learning approaches.

Each assessment is designed to challenge your understanding and application of computing concepts, ensuring you're well-prepared for real-world scenarios. These assessments are not only set to refine your technical skills but also to enhance your analytical and problem-solving capabilities, perfectly aligning with the demands of the fast-paced tech industry.

GCSE Maths and English form the cornerstone of your studies in this comprehensive computing programme. Mastery of these subjects is not merely academic; they are critical tools that enhance your employability in the tech industry. Maths sharpens your analytical abilities, enabling you to tackle complex problems and manage data with precision—skills indispensable for areas like algorithm development and cost analysis. English proficiency empowers you to articulate ideas clearly and interact effectively with stakeholders, crucial for preparing reports, delivering presentations, and navigating professional dialogues. These foundational skills ensure you can excel in both your studies and future computing career, making you a versatile professional in a competitive field.

Pursuing the HNC in Computing as a full-time student involves a commitment of 12 hours per week in college. This structured time is complemented by an additional 12 hours of independent study each week, essential for mastering the course content and successfully completing the qualification.

This balanced approach ensures you have ample time to absorb the material and apply your learning effectively, preparing you for progression in both your studies and future career in the dynamic field of computing.

Discover a transformative educational experience designed for those passionate about technology and eager to shape the future of the computing sector. This programme equips you with essential skills and knowledge, seamlessly bridging higher education and professional careers in technology. Whether your goal is to dive directly into the tech industry or advance to further studies, you'll receive a robust foundation in computing essentials, along with advanced specialisations.

You will embark on one of three industry-aligned pathways -Data Analyst, Network Engineer, or Software Developer—each tailored to meet the demands of specific computing professions. The curriculum includes common modules taught in whole group sessions, complemented by focused, pathway-based specialist modules. This structure not only enhances your employability but also prepares you to adapt to the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

HNC in Computing is a comprehensive Level 4 qualification, structured around 120 credits. Typically, it is completed over one year when studied full-time. As a full-time student, you will attend college for 12 hours per week, which supports a balanced approach to learning and mastering the curriculum effectively.

Additionally, the Pearson Higher National Diploma (HND) extends the learning journey by encompassing both Level 4 and Level 5, totaling 240 credits. This qualification is designed to be completed over two years when studied full-time. This progression allows for a deeper immersion into computing, preparing you thoroughly for advanced opportunities in education or direct entry into the tech industry. These structured yet flexible learning options cater perfectly to students dedicated to advancing their knowledge and skills in computing.

What’s next?

Upon completing this programme, you’re poised for success in both further studies and immediate employment. Progress to a full degree in computing with our HND or a related field, enhancing your theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Alternatively, step directly into the tech industry where roles in data analysis, network engineering, and software development await.

Skills for employment

This course is a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ), approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education. HTQs are alternatives to apprenticeships or degrees, providing a practical and employer-led study programme. Our HTQ courses are approved against occupational standards set by employers to give you the skills and experience to start a career in your chosen field.

Open Events

Find out everything you need to know about Sunderland College and our exciting range of courses!

Register for our next open event

Take a tour around our college campuses

Student in common room

93% of our students have progressed to employment, university or further study

(*Destination data, all students, 2023-24)

Why choose Sunderland College?

94% Overall pass rate for T Levels

2022-23

Top performing college group in the North East for student achievement

NARTS, 16-18 Students, 2024

98% of students said they had the freedom to express themselves

NSS, 2024

We have International award winning Immersive Spaces at both Bede and City Campus