Computing - Level 4 Higher National Certificate (Fast-track)

Essentials

Duration: 1 Year Part-time
Start date: 15th September 2025
End date: 5th June 2026

Course fees for each year.

Course Content

The purpose of Pearson BTEC Higher Nationals in Computing is to develop students as professional, self-reflecting individuals able to meet the demands of employers in the computing sector and adapt to a constantly changing world. The qualifications aim to widen access to higher education and enhance the career prospects of those who undertake them.

Students will also develop a range of skills and personal qualities essential for working life. These skills will enable students to make an immediate contribution in the working world.

Learners will study eight units, such as:

• Programming
• Networking
• Professional Practice
• Database Design & Development
• Security
• Project
• Mathematics for Computing
• Web Design & Development

There are no additional mandatory costs for this course.

Course Aims

• To equip students with computing skills, knowledge and the understanding necessary to achieve high performance in the global computing environment.
• To provide opportunities for students to enter or progress in employment in computing, or progress to higher education qualifications such as an Honours degree in Computing or a related area.
• To provide opportunities for students to develop the skills, techniques and personal attributes essential for successful working lives.
• To offer a balance between employability skills and the knowledge essential for students with entrepreneurial, employment or academic aspirations.

Special Features

• All students will have access to free software provided by Microsoft through their DreamSpark programme.
• Guest Speakers.
• Industrial Visits.
• Microsoft Office Specialist qualifications, aiming for new Expert Accreditation, along with Microsoft Technology Associate qualifications available.
• CybSafe qualification, certified by GCHQ.
• Access to Networking and Cyber Security lab.

Assessment Methods

100% coursework.

A suitable level 3 qualification such as:

• A BTEC Level 3 qualification in Computing/IT (minimum MPP) or
• A GCE Advanced Level profile that demonstrates strong performance in a relevant subject or adequate performance in more than one GCE subject. This profile is likely to be supported by GCSE grades at A* to C (or equivalent). (Minimum 64 UCAS points) or
• Other related Level 3 qualifications. (Minimum 64 UCAS points) or
• An Access to Higher Education Certificate awarded by an approved further education institution.

And

• GCSE Maths and English (or equivalent Essential Skills)

Or

• An international equivalent of the above.

Where students wish to have prior education and/or experience taken into account, in lieu of meeting the full course entry requirements, they should contact the relevant Course Director or Admissions. APEL applications must be submitted at least 2 weeks before the start date of the programme. More details can be found in the APEL Policy.

Entrance will be subject to interview by the course co-ordinator.

The BTEC Level 4 HNC in Computing will allow students to gain entry to the first year of computing degrees at the Ulster University and into the second year of Computing degrees at a variety of universities outside of Northern Ireland. This course is also suitable for students who have applied to the Ulster University to do a degree in Computing, but who were unsuccessful because their grades were not high enough.  Many students also receive job offers in the duration of the course that provide financial and experiential support when going on to other education.