Computing

We live in a digital age where the demand for ICT and digital technology is growing at an incredible pace. With good computing and IT systems now central to every business, organisations are set to become even more driven by technology and data. In this dynamic and continually evolving sector, there’s already a skills shortage and it’s predicted there could be as many as 11,000 job opportunities each year in Scotland alone. So by investing in digital and IT skills now, you could find yourself highly sought after in the future! If you’re interested in a career in computing and IT systems, this course can help you on your way. This course will give you the skills you need to design, implement, and support IT systems in a wide range of industries. It focuses on the key areas of software development, databases, interface design, troubleshooting, and e-commerce.

For entry to this course you’ll need:

• a minimum of 1 Higher, but preferably two Maths at SCQF Level 6, although we’ll consider a relevant group of NQ Units and SCQF Level 6
• an interview with us

If you don’t have formal qualifications, but have previous employment, practical or life experience, then we’ll also consider you for a place, so please call us for a chat.

This course will give you the skills you need to design, implement and support IT systems in a wide range of industries. It focuses on the key areas of software development, databases, interface design, troubleshooting and e-commerce. You’ll begin by looking at computer system basics - the various hardware and software, how to install an operating system and how to install/configure application and security software.

In software development

• You'll look at programming, coding, testing and technical documentation.
• You'll focus on basic programming constructs, before moving onto more complex programming structures.
• You'll also look at the software development life cycle, and will design and construct a small standalone interactive application.
• You'll learn about relational databases using a query language (SQL) and develop skills to create a relational database management system using commercially available database software.
• You'll explore the concepts of user interface design for digital media such as web, apps, games and animation.
• You'll develop valuable skills for finding solutions to computing problems in computer networking, software development or technical support. You’ll learn about e-commerce and the steps needed to process secure commercial transactions over the internet.
• You'll develop your maths skills in a computing context. You’ll also have the chance to work on a team based ICT project.
• Finally, you'll look at professional issues, including legislation, codes of conduct and ethical considerations. If you wish, you’ll have the opportunity to undertake two further units, which can lead to other qualifications, including: Design, Build and Maintain Web Sites (can lead to CIW – Certified Internet Web Professional) Design and Develop Databases to Work with Applications

When you successfully complete this course, you’ll have the choice of:

• moving onto HND Computing (Computing Science)
• seeking to start your career with an entry level role in web development, software development or database design.

Hands-on experience in software development, troubleshooting, and more

Gain skills applicable across various industries

Apply your knowledge to create interactive applications and design user interfaces

Stay ahead with a curriculum designed to meet the demands of the evolving IT sector

Throughout the course you will meet with guest speakers from universities, various companies and third sector organisations as well as ex-students who have studied the course and gone on to further study. There are also opportunities to work on projects alongside a number of companies such as CyberFirst, iDance, Barclays Bank, East, North, and South Ayrshire Councils, and many more.

BSc (Hons) Computing at GCU, BSc (Hons) Computing Science at UWS, and many more.