Students will develop a broad knowledge and awareness of key aspects of the computing sector at Level 4 through seven core units (mandatory) which include one unit assessed by a Pearson-set assignment and one further optional units at Level 4. The units are:
Core Units:
- Programming
- Networking
- Professional Practice
- Database Design & Development
- Security
- Planning a Computing Project (Pearson-set)
- Software Development Lifecycles
Optional units:
*Website Design & Development
Cisco “CCNAv7” materials are embedded in the BTEC L4 HND in computing programme. The course will also develop a broad range of transferable skills, which include communicating, team work, planning & organising, problem solving, IT skills and numerical techniques.
-
Entry requirements
GCSE English and maths at A* to C (or equivalent) and a UCAS Tariff score of 48-64 from a full Level 3 qualification such as BTEC, A Level or an Access to Higher Education Certificate awarded by an approved further education institution in maths, physics, engineering, science, computer science, electronic systems or similar. All students who are non-native English speakers and who have not undertaken their final two years of schooling in English, must demonstrate capability in English at a standard equivalent to IELTS 5.5; Reading and Writing must be at 5.5 or equivalent. We accept a wide range of European and international qualifications. Mature students with appropriate related industry experience are encouraged to apply.
-
Who is the course for?
The Pearson BTEC Higher National Certificate in Computing is aimed at students wanting to continue their education through applied learning. Pearson BTEC Higher Nationals provide a wide-ranging study of the computing sector and is designed for students who wish to pursue or advance their career in computing. In addition to the knowledge, understanding and practical skills that underpin the study of the computing sector, Pearson BTEC Higher Nationals Certificate in Computing gives students the experience of the breadth and depth of the sector, which will prepare them for further study or training.
-
Study methods
- 75% classroom-based learning supervised by a tutor
- 20% work-based learning supervised by a tutor
- 5% e-Learning supervised by a tutor in real time, guest speakers and field trips (Optional).
Students will attend college for 15 hours – over three days. Students are expected to complete approximately 22.5 hours per week of independent study (i.e. on research in LRC and completing assignments).
- 75% classroom-based learning supervised by a tutor
-
How is the course assessed?
Assessment is through a series of assignments including 95% written assignments, 3% group work, 1% presentations and 1% time-constrained assessments.
The grades in each subject unit are shown as:- pass
- merit
- distinction.
- pass
-
More information
Please click here for the Course Handbook – containing full course details plus information on
- Assessment and grading
- College rules and resources.
Please click here to view the Terms and Conditions for our HE students.
UCAS code: I420
For students to be eligible for funding from Student Finance England, they must be studying on an eligible course at a provider registered with the Office for Students (OfS).The OfS is the new independent regulator for higher education in England and all higher education providers need to register with the OfS for their students to be eligible for student support in the 2023-24 academic year. The OfS has published providers on its Register and HCUC (Harrow College and Uxbridge College) has been registered since 10 December 2018. Please visit www.officeforstudents.org.uk for more information.
- Assessment and grading
-
Where Next – Job Opportunities
The skills offered as part of the Pearson BTEC Higher National Certificate can provide graduates with the opportunity to work in many different areas of the computing sector. Previous students have successfully gained employment in the following roles:, IT help desk, Computer Service and Repair Technician, Web Developer, etc.
-
Where Next – Further Studies
The Pearson BTEC Higher National Certificate provides a solid grounding in computing at Level 4, vendor-accredited certification and Professional Body membership, all of which students can build on and allow students to continue their studies to Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Computing.
-
Fees
Home student fee: £6,500
International student fee: £8,500. There is also a registration fee for international students. This is between £115-25.
The fees quoted are for one year of study and include tuition, exam fee, materials, ID card (which gives access to the college and facilities e.g. library) and college registration.
Fees will be no higher than those published, subject to an Access and Participation Plan being approved by the Office for Students.
Whether you pay a 'home' or 'overseas' fee depends on whether you meet certain criteria. Harrow, Richmond and Uxbridge Colleges (HRUC) does not create the criteria for fee status. The fee status criteria is provided in regulations and guidance, published by the government.
For information on the conditions you need to meet to be entitled to pay tuition fees at
the 'home' rate for study on a Higher Education (HE) course at Harrow College please contact the Careers Team on 020 8909 6000.
If you are unsure about your status, please contact the Careers Team at Harrow College. The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) also has information about residency for international students. -
How to apply
All applications for HND courses are through UCAS (Universities and College Admissions Service). For an application pack, contact UCAS on 01242 227788 or visit www.ucas.com
For information and advice from the College you can also make an initial application by clicking the Apply Now button. Our Careers Team can provide you with support and advice to help you through the UCAS process.
