SouthamptonSouthampton
Having been developed in collaboration with employers in an ambition to meet the needs of the growing demands of the industry, a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) provides the opportunity to gain the proper training, knowledge, and skills to be successful in the workplace. Studying for the HTQ in Computing at South Hampshire College Group will provide you with access to state-of-the-art facilities that align with the industry, including lab facilities, high-tech specifications and modern settings. The course is suitable for computing and digital technology professionals or practitioners, of all ages (aged 19+) and the programme is tailored to enhance your knowledge and practical skills within the computing and digital industry to enhance career development.
In year 1, you will study the following modules:
Unit 1: Programming
This unit introduces you to the core concepts of programming along with an introduction to algorithms and the characteristics of programming paradigms. Among the topics included in this unit are: introduction to algorithms, procedural, objectorientated and event-driven programming, security considerations, the integrated development environment and the debugging process.
Unit 2: Networking
You will gain 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. You will explore a range of hardware, with related software, and will configure and install these to gain knowledge of networking systems. A range of networking technologies will be explored to deliver a fundamental knowledge of Local Area Networking (LAN), Wide Area Networking (WAN) and their evolution to form large-scale networks. You will also explore the protocol methodologies related to IP data networks.
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. You will carry out tasks that require working with others in a team-based scenario and planning and problem solving. On successful completion of the unit, you will be able to demonstrate leadership skills through the dynamics of team working. Through reflective practice, you will be able to evaluate the contributions they make as an individual and those of others.
Unit 4: Database Design & Development
This unit will enable you to engage in the examination of different design tools and techniques; examination of different development software options; consideration of the development features of a fully-functional robust solution covering data integrity, data validation, data consistency, data security and advanced database querying facilities across multiple tables; appropriate user interfaces for databases and for other externally linked systems; creating complex reports/dashboards, testing the system against the user and system requirements; and elements of complete system documentation. 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 you knowledge of security, the associated risks and how it has an impact on business continuity. You will examine security measures involving access authorisation and regulation of use. You will implement contingency plans and devise security policies and procedures. The unit also introduces you to detection of threats and vulnerabilities in physical and IT security, and how to manage risks relating to organisational security.
Unit 6: Planning a Computing Project
The aim of this unit is to give you 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. You will undertake independent research and investigation of set theme, and you will also investigate and research an industry sector as outlined in the centre-set project brief. You will use the outcomes of your research to help plan a computer-based project and to support recommendations for how the identified business could utilise the tools and technologies identified as part of your research.
Unit 7: Software Development Lifecycles
The unit introduces you to lifecycle decision making at different stages of the software development process. You will examine various lifecycle models and learn to appreciate their particular characteristics in order to understand for which project environments they are most appropriate. Theoretical understanding will be translated into practical skills through an actual software development lifecycle project. You will become confident in the use of particular tools and techniques relevant to a chosen methodology.
Unit 10: Cyber Security
This unit has been designed to develop your knowledge and understanding in relation to cyber threats and vulnerabilities, cyber defence techniques and incident response. You will explore fundamental principles as well as leading-edge concepts, terminologies, models, and hardening methods. You will assess the types of malicious activity and potential targets, and the role everyone has for maintaining cyber resilience.
In year 2, you will have the opportunity to specialse in one of the following areas:
Software Engineering: Units will include data structures and algorithms, applied programming and design principles, discrete maths.
Network Engineering: Units will include transport network design, cloud computing, network security.
Cyber Security: Units will include applied cryptography, information security management, forensics.
Course Fee
The fee shown below is the total course fee for the two-year qualification.
Financial Assistance
Did you know you can take out a Higher Education Loan to pay for this course? The Student Loans Company provides loans and grants to students at college studying Higher Education and you don’t start repaying until you earn over a certain amount.
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This course is endorsed by the South Coast Institute of Technology and represents a pathway to further progression towards higher level qualifications.
The South Coast Institute of Technology is a collaboration of five further education colleges and two universities. We work with well known employers to deliver industry-led courses which fill skills gaps and support the economic growth of the South Coast. You can read more about the South Coast Institute of Technology by clicking the button below. South Coast IoT
You will need a Level 3 qualification (e.g. A Levels, T Level, Level 3 Diploma, Level 3 BTEC) in a relevant subject or equivalent experience, plus GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C or above. Mature applicants without formal academic qualifications, but with evidence of sufficient, relevant industrial experience will be favourably considered.
You will also be required to attend an interview with the Course Leader. To support your application, you will be asked to complete a personal statement (approx 1 side of A4) explaining your background and why you feel the course is right for you. Once this has been received, you will be invited to attend an informal interview.
On completion of this course, you can develop your career by entering the industry, studying a Degree Apprenticeship or progressing to further study at university. The Level 5 Higher National Diploma is recognised by Higher Education providers as meeting admission requirements to many computing related courses, for example: BSc (Hons) in Computing, BSc Data Science, BSc (Hons) Business Computer Systems, BEng (Hons) Software Engineering, BSc (Hons) Cyber Security and Forensic Computing. Completing this course provides excemptions to the first and second years, allowing you to progress directly into year 3 and top-up to a full degree.
College is not just about your course – it’s an opportunity to have fun, meet new people and explore your interests! You can socialise with friends in the café and comfy seating areas, join a club or sports team or attend exciting events around the college. Many of our enrichment opportunities are also great on your CV or UCAS application to demonstrate your commitment and enthusiasm outside of your studies.
Your time at college can also be affected by life or health difficulties, and it’s okay to need support. Our specialist teams are here every day to listen and give advice, whether it’s about career planning, financial support, mental health, or something else. And if you have a long-term support need or medical condition, we’ll work with you on personalised learning support to help you achieve your full potential.
