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Computing for England Higher National Certificate (HNC) Full-time

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Course Overview

Computing for England Higher National Certificate (HNC) Full-time

This is a contemporary, cutting-edge programme aimed at those who are eager to follow a career in various job roles within the high tech and ever-changing world of Software Development, Cybersecurity and Networking. Students on this programme will have a range of different backgrounds and interests meaning the programme will have a rounded approach to delivery and content.  Our course revolves around an everchanging industry of profession practice and techniques alongside ever-changing technology and computer advancements within the computing industry. We use up to date equipment and software, reflecting use within industry, and have a hand on practical approach to the course for certain pathways and practices. Our connections with clients across Barnsley allow us to sync our units with client briefs and needs to implement real work practice of what we learn in the classroom. You will use industry standard equipment and technology; we have networking and data labs equipped with testing tools, practice networking components and cables, programming software and computers to run testing and set up from and robotics components to build and programme. Utilising this practical approach to teaching in these areas allow for a hands-on learning environment where learning meets the needs of industry and new knowledge can be tested and visualised in a safe environment. This course is delivered as part of the South Yorkshire Institute of Technology (SYIoT). Our HNC Computing has been aligned to the occupational standard for the industry. It has been approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE). Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) are Level 5 qualifications that have been approved as meeting occupational standards for the relevant sector. To Achieve the HTQ status both level 4 and level 5 pathways must be completed.

Located at: SciTech Digital Innovation Hub

Course Start: September 2025

Course length: 1 Years

Study Mode: Full-time

Course Code: HCOMPHNC

UCAS Course Code: COMP

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Awarding Body:

Pearson education ltd logo
South Yorkshire Institute of Technology Logo

Course Fees and Funding

How much does the course cost?

£6,995 per year.

Other funding information

As a Higher Education student living in England you may be eligible for the non-means tested Tuition Fee Loan from the Government and a Maintenance Loan.

Students with children or dependant adults may qualify for a Childcare Grant or Adult Dependants' Grant. Students can apply for these at the same time as applying for a Maintenance Loan.

Remember: Eligible students will not have to pay tuition fees in advance and can apply for the Maintenance Loan before they start the course.

Visit the Student Finance page on the Government website for further details and to apply.

We offer a service to any student who has a diagnosis of anything persistent or long-term which might interfere with how they study and manage their day-to-day academic engagement. The service is flexible and shaped around the needs of each individual; it might be consistent support or intermittent support.


For further information please visit the Disability and Dyslexia Service (DDS) web page for more information.

Course Content

64 UCAS points from either subject-relevant A Level, T Level or BTEC equivalent qualifications or an Access to HE Diploma. You will also need GCSE English and Maths at grade C/4 or above. We welcome applications from students with prior learning and/or previous experience. Evidence should be submitted through the application and interview process.

Specific assessment strategies include practical work, written assessments, examinations, case studies, presentations and reports offering the opportunity for students to demonstrate knowledge, understanding and application of both general and specific business principles. Such methods will also allow you to indicate both the breadth and depth of your directed and independent research. Some modules are assessed partly using group activities as well as independent activities.

All equipment will be provided.

Higher National Certificate

After successfully completing the first year and achieving the Level 4 National Certificate in Computing for England, you can progress onto the Level 5 Higher National Diploma, which allows you to specialise by committing to a specific career path in Cyber Security/networking and progression routes directed towards degree level study. See what careers are available in the Computing and Games sectors.

Other Resources

For further details, please contact our Information Unit by calling 01226 216 123 or emailing: info@barnsley.ac.uk

Barnsley College has a range of sports opportunities for all students to take part in, gain professional training and compete nationally and internationally. We also have a state-of-the-art fitness village, the Sports Village, where students can make use of our fitness suite, spinning studio and classes for competitive rates.

Barnsley Sports Academy offers state-of-the-art facilities and diverse sports programs, enabling students to achieve academic and athletic excellence. Remember, you don't have to be studying Sport to join Barnsley Sports Academy.

Disclaimer: Please note we reserve the right to change details without notice. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

The course information on this page was last updated 01 May 2025.