Computing and Systems Development Higher National Certificate (HNC) – (HTQ, subject to IfATE approval)

Course overview

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 has been approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE).

Course content

Having been developed in collaboration with employers to meet the needs of the growing demands of the industry, this HTQ provides the opportunity to gain the proper training, knowledge and skills to be successful in the workplace.

You will study a broad range of topics to prepare you for your next steps, completing the following mandatory units:

• Unit 1 – Programming
  • This unit introduces students to the core concepts of programming along with a introduction to algorithms and the characteristics of programming paradigms.
• Unit 2 – Networking
  • The aim of this unit is to give students a wider background knowledge of computer networking essentials, how they operate, protocols, standards, security considerations and the prototypes associated with a range of networking technologies.
• Unit 3 – Professional Practice
  • This unit covers the development of communication skills and communication literacy and the use of qualitative and quantitative data to demonstrate analysis, reasoning and critical thinking.
• Unit 4 – Database Design
  • The aim of this unit is to give students opportunities to develop an understanding of the concepts and issues relating to database design and development. It will also provide the practical skills needed to be able to translate that understanding into the design and creation of complex databases.
• Unit 5 – Security
  • The aim of this unit is to give students knowledge of security, the associated risks and how it has an impact on business continuity. Students will examine security measures involving access authorisation and regulation of use. They will implement contingency plans and devise security policies and procedures.
• Unit 6 – Big Data (A Pearson set project)
  • The aim of this unit is to give students an opportunity to demonstrate the research skills required for developing a deeper understanding of a subject and the ability to use evidence to inform decisions. Students will undertake independent research, and investigation of a theme set by Pearson.
• Unit 7 – Software development Life Cycles
  • The unit introduces students to lifecycle decision making at different stages of the software development process. They will examine various lifecycle models and learn to appreciate their particular characteristics in order to understand for which project environments they are most appropriate.
• Unit 10 – Cyber Security
  • This unit has been designed to develop students’ knowledge and understanding in relation to cyber threats and vulnerabilities, cyber defence techniques and incident response. Students will explore fundamental principles as well as leading-edge concepts, terminologies, models, and hardening methods.
• Unit 13 – Web Design and Development
  • This unit introduces students to the underpinning services required to host, manage and access a secure website. Students will then be introduced to and explore the methods used by designers and developers to blend back-end technologies (serverside) with front-end technologies (client-side).

In addition, you will gain a wide range of sector knowledge tied to practical skills gained in research, self-study, directed study and workplace scenarios. You will also be given the opportunity to study units aligned to professional vendor qualifications and allow you, if you wish to apply after unit completion, to be assessed externally for the vendor qualification.  This could be CISCO or Microsoft. 

Please note that for 2023 academic year entrants this is a HNC which leads to a HTQ at HND level only.