HNC in Computing (Part-time)

COURSE SPECIFICATION

Computing is consistently one of the popular university-level courses that we offer. The career progression opportunities within computing are huge, as this is a fast-paced and constantly changing industry sector to work in. This fascinating course is delivered by qualified industry-experienced teachers in our labs and workshops at the London Road campus, all equipped with the very latest technology. We'll support and equip you with the skills you need to pursue a career in the computing and IT industry or further continue your studies in Higher Education. There is a large practical-based element, and learning is mainly assessed through the production of technical artefacts and reports.

The Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Computing is designed for individuals seeking a broad introduction to computing. It includes a mandatory core of learning, a pathway-dependent unit specialism, and an optional unit, allowing students to acquire skills and experience across various occupational sectors at Level 4. The programme offers a general pathway and specialist pathways in Data Analytics, Network Engineering, and Cyber Security.

This qualification effectively builds core skills, preparing students for further specialisation at Level 5. Students will gain extensive sector knowledge and practical skills through research, self-study, directed study, and workplace scenarios. This foundation equips them for advanced studies and professional growth in the computing field.

• A Levels or a Level 3 BTEC National Diploma / GNVQ Advanced or relevant work experience in a responsible IT role.
• GCSEs for English and Maths at grade C/4 or above however, equivalent qualifications and/or work experience will be taken into consideration.
• Applicants without GCSEs will be required to complete initial assessments and may wish to consider the part-time GCSE courses that the college offers both during the evening and daytime.
• Accreditation may be given for relevant work experience or prior learning for mature learners.
• To be able to study on this course, you will need to have reached a certain standard of speaking English - please refer to the Course Specification for the IELTS requirement for your individual course.

The HNC is widely recognised and is are highly valued qualifications that enable you to develop a range of skills and gain relevant experience necessary to progress a career in computing. The programme is run from September to June.

Course Content:

Programming

Programming involves creating processes and procedures based on algorithms, which differentiate developers from end users. Developers write source code in a language that devices can understand and execute. Algorithms describe solutions to problems by identifying necessary data and processes, and programming languages represent these through control constructs and data types. These constructs enable sequential processing, decision making, and iteration, essential for algorithm representation.

This unit introduces students to programming fundamentals, including algorithms and programming paradigms such as procedural, object-oriented, and event-driven programming. It covers security considerations, integrated development environments (IDEs), and debugging processes. By completing this unit, students will be able to design and implement algorithms in an IDE, developing skills like communication literacy, critical thinking, analysis, reasoning, and interpretation, which are vital for employment and academic success.

Networking

Computer networks are essential for the evolution of computer systems, enabling users to access data, hardware, and services from any location. Understanding networking principles is crucial for IT professionals due to the complexity and continuous development of networking environments. These networks connect the world through small networks linked via the internet, supporting global communications and access to digital information through various applications like email, audio, video transmission, and the World Wide Web.

This unit aims to provide students with comprehensive knowledge of computer networking essentials, including operations, protocols, standards, and security considerations. Students will explore and configure various hardware and software to understand networking systems, covering Local Area Networks (LAN), Wide Area Networks (WAN), and their evolution into large-scale networks. By completing this unit, students will gain the skills to install, operate, and troubleshoot small networks, understand IP data networks, and develop critical skills such as communication literacy, critical thinking, analysis, reasoning, and interpretation, which are vital for employment and academic success.

Database Design & Development

Organisations rely on databases to provide essential information for daily operations and to leverage e-commerce opportunities. Understanding database tools and technologies is crucial for designing and developing supportive systems. As applications become more sophisticated, database systems require more complex data structures and interfaces. Organisations collect and store large volumes of data, both on-premises and in the cloud, for operational use and advanced applications. Databases serve as the backbone of most organisational systems.

This unit aims to equip students with an understanding of database design and development concepts and issues. It covers practical skills for designing and creating complex databases, including examining design tools, development software, and features for robust solutions like data integrity, validation, consistency, security, and advanced querying. Students will learn to create user interfaces, generate reports, test systems, and document their work. The unit focuses on relational databases, with a brief overview of object-oriented databases. Successful completion will develop students' communication, critical thinking, analysis, reasoning, and interpretation skills, essential for employment and academic success.

Professional Practice

In the workplace, being an effective communicator, critical thinker, analyst, team worker, and team leader is essential for carrying out daily tasks. Developing academic competence and engaging in lifelong learning and continuing professional development (CPD) ensures individuals possess valuable interpersonal skills applicable in various situations. This unit lays the foundation for good practice across different contexts, emphasising effective communication using diverse tools and mediums for professional tasks like research, design, reporting, and presentations. Critical reasoning and problem-solving skills are crucial for successful task completion and decision-making, while understanding team dynamics enhances teamwork.

The unit covers the development of communication skills and literacy, utilising qualitative and quantitative data for analysis, reasoning, and critical thinking. Students will engage in team-based scenarios, planning, and problem-solving tasks. Upon successful completion, students will demonstrate leadership skills through team dynamics and reflective practice, evaluating their contributions and those of others. This approach fosters self-improvement, professional development, and the ability to conduct effective research and academic reporting, preparing students for employment and academic success.

Security

Security is one of the most important challenges modern organisations face. It involves protecting organisational assets, including personnel, data, equipment, and networks, from attacks through prevention techniques like vulnerability testing and security policies, as well as detection techniques to expose breaches and implement effective responses. The aim of this unit is to provide students with knowledge of security, associated risks, and their impact on business continuity. Students will examine security measures involving access authorisation and regulation of use, implement contingency plans, and devise security policies and procedures. The unit also introduces students to detecting threats and vulnerabilities in physical and IT security and managing risks related to organisational security.

This unit covers network security design and operational topics, including address translation, DMZ, VPN, firewalls, AV, and intrusion detection systems. Remote access will be addressed, along with the need for frequent vulnerability testing as part of organisational and security audit compliance. As a result, students will develop skills such as communication literacy, critical thinking, analysis, reasoning, and interpretation, which are crucial for gaining employment and developing academic competence.

Website Design & Development

Wireless, public hotspots, mobile broadband, and unlimited network connections have made internet access and usage easier and more important than ever. As demand from the public, organisations, and businesses increases, so do user expectations. Designers must leverage technology to deliver high-quality and consistent User Experiences (UX) through friendly and functional User Interfaces (UI). However, the evolving nature of software and hardware presents ongoing design challenges. This unit introduces students to the essential services required to host, manage, and access secure websites. Students will explore methods to integrate back-end (server-side) and front-end (client-side) technologies, ensuring they can design and deliver sites with outstanding UX and innovative UI.

Topics covered in this unit include domain structure, domain name systems, web protocols, database servers, development frameworks, website publishing, content management, search engine optimisation, web browsers, HTML standards, CSS and CSS pre-processing (LESS, SASS), presentation models, responsive design, integrated development environments, user requirements, interface design, user experience, branding, navigation, optimisation, and validation. Upon successful completion, students will be able to explain server technologies and management services for secure websites, categorise website technologies, tools, and software, apply good design principles to create multipage websites, and use a Test Plan to review website performance and design. This unit helps students develop skills such as communication literacy, critical thinking, analysis, reasoning, and interpretation, which are crucial for employment and academic success.

Software Development Lifecycles

The software development lifecycle is an integrated process aimed at creating high-quality, secure software throughout the development stages. This unit provides students with the knowledge and skills to understand and implement software development lifecycles using appropriate methodologies. Students will learn to make lifecycle decisions at various stages of the development process, examining different lifecycle models to understand their characteristics and suitability for different project environments. Practical skills will be developed through a real software development lifecycle project, enhancing students' confidence in using specific tools and techniques relevant to their chosen methodology.

Topics covered in this unit include iterative and sequential models of software development lifecycles, reference frameworks for capturing conceptual data, feasibility studies, requirement gathering techniques, and activities related to analysis, design, and software implementation. By completing this unit, students will develop essential skills such as communication literacy, critical thinking, analysis, reasoning, and interpretation, which are crucial for employment and academic success.

Planning a Computing Project

This unit is assessed through a Pearson-set assignment, with the project brief determined by the centre based on an annually changing theme provided by Pearson. The theme and chosen project will allow students to explore and examine a relevant and current aspect of computing within a business environment. As computing systems and technologies evolve, businesses must adapt to remain competitive. Understanding technological advancements and their applications across different sectors is crucial for computing professionals.

The unit aims to develop students' research skills, enabling them to gain a deeper understanding of a subject and use evidence to inform decisions. Students will conduct independent research on a theme set by Pearson and investigate an industry sector as outlined in the centre-set project brief. They will use their research outcomes to plan a computer-based project and make recommendations on how the identified business can utilise the tools and technologies discovered. Upon successful completion, students will be equipped with the confidence to engage in decision-making, problem-solving, research activities, and project planning, and will be able to present evidence to stakeholders in a clear and understandable format.

Your work for both qualifications will be continually assessed throughout the course. The assessment will depend upon the module being studied. Typical assessment methods include assignments, developing portfolios, examinations, presentations, and a Pearson set project.

The HNC and HND HTQ are widely recognised and valued higher education university-level qualifications. These programmes are designed to prepare and develop people for advancement in Computing and IT.

On achieving the HNC qualification, graduates may continue academic study to HND, or move directly into employment in a range of computing and IT roles.

On achieving the HND qualification, graduates may continue academic study to top-up to a BSc(Hons) degree, or move directly into employment in a range of Computing and IT roles.

You can apply online via the APPLY NOW button. If after reading this factsheet you are still undecided, please drop into one of our Advice Events, ring Admissions on 01743 653111 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.