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 addition, modern organisations hold large amounts of data – about their customers and about themselves. But they face many threats to the security of this information, and they have many legal obligations to take care of it. This course will give you many perspectives about data breaches and how to protect against them.

In this dynamic and continually evolving sector, there is already a skills shortage, and it is predicted there could be as many as 11,000 job opportunities each year in Scotland alone; by investing in digital and IT skills now, you could find yourself highly sought after in the future! If you are interested in a career in computing and IT systems or the cyber security industry, 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, and interface design, troubleshooting and cyber security.

In present day Scotland, most businesses are small to medium sized enterprises many of whom lack the funds to employ several specialists, they could, however, employ an individual with good general computing skill; this award covers both the technical and professional skills required for working within the computing industry.

A computing professional has to be aware of contemporary legislation, ethical considerations, codes of conduct and professional bodies which would provide opportunities for personal development and support in their career. This qualification covers these topics. The development of software has become a necessary part of many job functions within the industry and is no longer the remit solely of programmers. For example, technical support and networking, this HNC provides all candidates with the basic skills to design, implement and test simple programs and produce technical documentation.

Although hardware and software are continually changing, an understanding of the physical, software and logical elements of a computer is required along with the along with the basic skill of installing and configuring various types of software. This qualification provides this knowledge and experience as well as an appreciation of the interaction between hardware and software and the impact various elements may have on system performance.

For entry to this course, you'll need a real interest in Computing Science along with a minimum of one higher, but preferably two, at grade C or above in Maths and or Computing.

Assessment will cover a variety of knowledge and practical skills as well as the more intellectual skills of planning and evaluating. These together with the core skills mean that many different methods are employed to ensure that you can do what you are supposed to do as well as know what you are supposed to know.

You may progress to:

• HND Cyber Security Relevant degree course at university Modern or Graduate Apprenticeship
• start your career with employment in the computing industry