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  • Digital Technologies and Computing HND Level

HND Computing

The HND Computing is a 3 years course designed to provide a strong grounding in use of computing and IT to solve real world problems. The programme is based around 3 themes: Technology, Software, and Data. These themes are embedded in modules each year and built upon in subsequent years, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of database systems, internet technologies, data, cyber security, networking, and business information systems - all essential features for all computing and IT job roles.

Overview


You will have the opportunity to develop academic and employability skills essential for higher education study while being introduced to key concepts in computing. The following year of study will teach you to interpret and evaluate data relevant to computing and IT. You will learn and apply fundamental theories and concepts of this discipline to make informed decisions and assess problem-solving approaches within the themes of Technology, Software, and Data.
As you advance your knowledge and skills of computer science principles will extend by focusing on applying concepts and various techniques within the broader contexts of Technology, Software, and Data to solve problems in business and industry. Your learning will culminate in an industry-related project, allowing you to demonstrate the knowledge and skills learned. Additionally, you will enhance your communication abilities by presenting your findings to a diverse audience, a crucial skill for all tech roles.
In your last year, you will have the opportunity to further investigate the three core themes: Technology, Software, and Data. This further study will focus on applying computer science principles and techniques across various sectors such as business, industry, and commerce to solve problems. Your skills and knowledge will be showcased through a comprehensive project module, which will be aligned with one of the core themes. This project will challenge you to apply your learning to real-world problems, demonstrating critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and technical ability.

Assessment


Assessment on the course is designed to provide suitable opportunities for all students to demonstrate a full range of knowledge, skills and competences that are key in computing management. Assessment methods include essays, reports, real-life simulations, presentations, projects and group debate.
You will be required to work in your own time to complete research, homework tasks or group work. Self-study is vital to your success on this course and lecturers will give you guidance on how best to approach this throughout the study period.
You will be required to work in your own time to complete research, homework tasks or group work. Self-study is vital to your success in this course and lecturers will give you guidance on how best to approach this throughout the study period.

Entry Requirement


Applicants Must be Aged 18+ and:

Applicants Aged 21+:
  • 1)We welcome applications from students 21+ who do not match the standard entry requirements but who can
    demonstrate willingness and commitment to studying this subject, and who can evidence academic, professional
    or vocational experience in a related field.
  • 2)Demonstrate English proficiency: GCSE 4/C or CEFR B2.
  • 3)If you do not have this qualification, you can carry out an English test provided at the instruction campus.

    • Next Steps:

    Foundation Year

    • Academic Integrity and Assessment (20 credits)
    • Digital Foundations (20 credits)
    • Fundamentals of Computing (20 credits)
    • Job Search Techniques and Professional Behaviour (20 credits)
    • Personal Development and Career Exploration (20 credits)
    • Study Strategies and Academic Development (20 credits)

    Year 1

    • Computer Systems and Internet Technologies (20 credits)
    • Group Project (20 credits)
    • Introduction to Databases (20 credits)
    • Introduction to Programming (20 credits)
    • User-Centric Design (20 credits)
    • Web Development (20 credits)

    Year 2

    • Application Development (20 credits)
    • Cloud Technologies (20 credits)
    • Data Science (20 credits)
    • Industry Related Project (20 credits)
    • Information Systems Development (20 credits)
    • Networking Technologies (20 credits)

    Year 3

    • Cyber Security (20 credits)
    • Machine Learning (20 credits)
    • Project Management (20 credits)
    • Requirements Management (20 credits)
    • Project (40 credits)

    Fees and Funding

    You can apply for financial help to support your studies by visiting gov.uk/student finance. This could take the form of a Tuition Fee Loan to cover the cost of your tuition fees, and/or a Maintenance Loan to support you with living costs whilst studying.

    • If you are eligible, you can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan which will be paid directly to your university or learning provider and is used to settle your tuition fees on your behalf. You will be required to start repaying the loan when you have finished your studies, and your income is above the required threshold set out by the UK Government.

    • If you are eligible, you can also apply for a Maintenance Loan, these funds are paid directly into your bank account in accordance with your course of study and pre-set intervals. The maintenance loan repayment operates in the same way as it does for tuition fee loans.

    • All students need to meet the eligibility criteria to apply such as eligibility checks on your nationality, residency status and any previous study that you have been funded for.

    For full details, more information or advice on how to apply, please visit gov.uk/student finance.