HNDPearson BTEC Higher National Diploma
Computing
You'll study computing systems, software development and network technologies. A Pearson BTEC Higher National Diploma: Level 5, 240 credits. That is the HNC year plus 120 credits at Level 5.
Full title: Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Computing
- Level
- Level 5Higher National Diploma
- Size
- 240credits
- Units
- 11 mandatoryplus 4 optional listed
- For
- School leavers and adults
01What you'll study
Three areas of study.
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Computing systems
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Software development
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Network technologies
Where you learn
In Lisbon, or wherever you are.
The same Pearson qualification, whichever way you study.
02The units
What's on the course.
Mandatory units, plus optional units. Your final set of optional units is confirmed with your academic team.
- Mandatory
- 11
- Optional listed
- 4
- PSA units
- 2
- Unit 1 Programming 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 2 Networking 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 3 Professional Practice 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 4 Database Design & Development 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 5 Security 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 6 Computing Research ProjectPSA 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 7 Advanced Research MethodsPSA 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 8 Advanced Programming 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 9 Cloud Computing 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 10 Systems Analysis & Design 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 11 Computer Systems Architecture 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 12 Web Development 15 Credits Optional
- Unit 13 Mobile Application Development 15 Credits Optional
- Unit 14 Artificial Intelligence 15 Credits Optional
- Unit 15 Cybersecurity 15 Credits Optional
PSA Pearson Set Assignment: a unit assessed through an assignment that Pearson sets.
03How you're assessed
Assessed through assignments.
Assignment-based, with a Pearson-set assignment unit at each level.
Assessment at a glance
- PSA units use Pearson briefs with external verification standards.
The qualification
- Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Computing.
- Level 5, 240 credits: the HNC year plus 120 credits at Level 5.
- 11 mandatory units and 4 optional units listed, including 2 Pearson Set Assignment units.
04Where it leads
Every level opens the next.
HND graduates can apply to top up to a bachelor's degree, usually entering the final year, at universities that accept HNDs. Entry is subject to each university's own requirements.
- L3 Information Technology Level 3
- HNC Computing HNC (Level 4)
- HND Computing This course
- Degree top-up On application
What is the difference between an HNC and an HND?
An HNC is a Level 4 qualification worth 120 credits. An HND is a Level 5 qualification worth 240 credits: the HNC year plus 120 credits at Level 5.
How is it assessed?
Through assignments (coursework). Higher Nationals include a Pearson-set assignment unit at each level.
Can an HND lead to a degree?
HND graduates can apply to top up to a bachelor's degree, usually entering the final year, at universities that accept HNDs. Entry is subject to each university's own requirements.
What does it cost?
Fees are set by level, with and without boarding. The HND (Level 5) figures are on the fees page. See the fees.
How do I apply?
Send us an enquiry with the subject and level you are interested in. We'll get back to you to talk through your options and the next steps.
06Start here
Where will you start?
Tell us about yourself, what you'd like to study and whether you'd rather join us in Lisbon or online. We'll suggest a starting level and talk you through your options.