HND Computing for England (HTQ) (Software Engineering Pathway)

Level 1 Diploma

Course Location

College

Stockport College

Location

Stockport College

Further Details

Age

University Level

Department

Computing

Course Start Date

Monday 15th September 2025

Course Duration

Full-time, 1 Year

Course Time

Course Fee

£ 0.00

Course Code

SPQ-HI4H-1200

Course Overview

This Level 5 HTQ course is designed to equip students with a robust skill set and in-depth knowledge across diverse facets of computing. The first year covers a wide range of subjects relating to computer fundamentals including programming, networking and website design which provides the background knowledge required, to approach the more advanced subjects in year 2 and to complete the final research project. Over the two year programme, students will embark upon a journey that explores the intricacies of the software development lifecycle, coding standards and debugging techniques.

Course Requirements

Whilst applications are considered on an individual basis, offers are usually based on a requirement to have:

64 UCAS points from either:

– A L3 qualification in a relevant subject
– GCE A Levels
– An Access to Higher Education Diploma in a relevant area

Successful applicants are also required to have 4 GCSEs at grade C (grade 4) or above including maths and English

Mature students with relevant work experience and/or professional qualifications are welcome to apply, and may be invited to interview.

What you will Learn

The course delves into the realm of project management within the IT landscape, emphasising the crucial skills needed for successful project planning, execution and closure. This provides the underpinning knowledge required when studying business process support. SQL and Databases introduces students to database management systems, enabling them to design and implement databases whilst mastering complex SQL queries. Mathematical concepts are integrated throughout the course including discrete mathematics, providing students with the necessary foundation for advanced algorithmic analysis.

Assessment

Students are assessed by centre-developed internal assignments and Pearson-set assignments, which target industry-specific skills. Units are assessed using a variety of methods including reports, presentations, practical workshops and portfolios and evidence.

Progression

Students may complete our one year Level 6 BSc (Hons) Computing (Software Engineering) top up, awarded by Sheffield Hallam University. Alternative top-up degrees may include:

BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Software Engineering)
BSc (Hons) Computing and Information Systems
BEng (Hons)

Career Options

On completion students may develop their career in this sector by entering or continuing existing employment. Students may consider roles such as:

Software engineer
Web designer
Web developer
IT consultant
Game developer
Applications developer
IT Technical support
Software tester
Database administrator

Mandatory Units

At Level 4 you will study:

Programming
Networking
Professional practice
Database design and development
Security
Planning a computer project
Software development lifecycles
Website design and development

At Level 5 you will study:

Computing research project
Business process support
Discrete maths
Data structures and algorithms
Applied programming and design principles
Internet of Things
Client/Server Computing Systems

Contact Details

Extra Costs Involved

There are no essential additional costs to this course, however, you will need access to a suitable laptop or similar for work outside of teaching hours.

Exam Validation Body

Pearson Education Ltd

Hours Per Week

12 hours per week

How Long To Complete

2 years

Programme Structure

The Higher National Diploma (HND) is a Level 5 qualification made up of 240 credits studied over two years

Contact Details

For further information please email HEenquiries@tcg.ac.uk

Disclaimer

Although every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained within this document is accurate, there may be changes to this programme and provision. We will endeavour to keep prospective and current students updated where appropriate and when the information becomes available.
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