BTEC HND Computing

Course Description

The Pearson BTEC Higher National Diploma (HND) in Computing is designed to provide learners with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience required to succeed in the rapidly evolving field of information technology. The programme combines theoretical concepts with industry-relevant applications, enabling students to develop competencies in areas such as software development, networking, cybersecurity, database management, and systems analysis. Through a range of academic and practical activities, learners gain the technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and professional skills necessary for employment or further study within the computing sector.

The programme is intended for individuals seeking to develop a career in computing, including school leavers, aspiring IT professionals, and those wishing to enhance their existing technical skills. It combines theoretical concepts with industry-relevant applications, enabling students to develop competencies in areas such as software development, networking, cybersecurity, database management, and systems analysis. Through a range of academic and practical activities, learners gain the technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and professional skills necessary for employment, career progression, or further study within the computing sector.

Course Structure / Units

The Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Computing consists of eight units in Year 1, plus a further seven units in Year 2.

Year 1 - Students will study eight units at Level 4, with a value of 15 credits each = 120 credits.

Year 2 - Students will study a further seven units (six units at Level 5 with a value of 15 credits each, plus one unit at 30 credits) = 120 credits.

The total credits available for the BTEC HND Computing is 240 Credits.

Entry Requirements

Within the context of the college’s Mission Statement and equal opportunities policy, the programmes aim to attract applicants from wide range of backgrounds.

We welcome applications from all sectors of the community and mature students.

For students who have recently been in education, the entry profile is likely to include one of the following:

 - A BTEC Level 3 qualification in Computing
 - A GCE Advanced Level profile that demonstrates strong performance in a relevant subject or adequate performance in more than one GCE subject. This profile is likely to be supported by GCSE grades at A* to C (or equivalent) and/or 9 to 4 (or equivalent) in subjects such as maths and English
- Other related Level 3 qualifications
-An Access to Higher Education Diploma from an approved further education institution
- Relevant work experience, or
- An international equivalent to the above qualifications.

English Language Requirement

Students who are non-native English speakers and who have not undertaken their final two years of schooling in English, can demonstrate capability in English at a standard equivalent to the levels identified below, before being recruited to the programme where the programme is both taught and assessed in English:

- Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) level B2
- PTE Academic 51, or
- IELTS 5.5 (reading and writing must be at 5.5).

Teaching & Support

The course is delivered using several teaching methods such as lectures, seminars, workshops, field trip and guest speaker sessions. Students are expected to attend 6 hours of classes for 2-3 days a week for a minimum of 12 weeks. Students are expected to spend additional time (up to 10 hours a week per module) on self-study to achieve a module.

The course is delivered by a team of highly experienced and qualified lecturers who hold a Master/PhD or are working towards it, have a fellowship of the Higher Education Academy and have diverse industry exposure and expertise. 

Students may also seek support from a member of the dedicated Student Support Team regarding formative feedback, submissions, Turnitin, Moodle/VLE, plagiarism checking, extenuating circumstances and other academic related matters.

Assessment and Feedback

Each module will be assessed by a combination of two or more of the following methods:

- Written report
- Class Presentation
-Self-reflection

Students are expected to submit their assignments on the Turnitin website that is embedded into the college’s Moodle platform. The results are generally published 4-6 weeks after a submission deadline. Students can access their grades and feedback from their submission on the college’s Moodle.