Entry requirements
- HNC Computing (NextGen) or
- HNC Computing or
- HNC Cyber Security or
- Year 1 of HND Computing: Software Development or
- Year 1 of HND Computing: Technical Support
Why take this course?
This course will allow students to study many of the skills that are in demand for many different types of career in an IT technical support role. The course provides a comprehensive range of knowledge and practical skills in providing technical expertise in PC maintenance, networking, installing Microsoft Windows, desktop support, and server support.
In specialist labs learners will have the opportunity to build PCs, study the Microsoft Windows operating systems, and build networks within a virtualised environment providing hands on experience and learning.
This course is expected to lead to employment opportunities at IT Support technician level or our articulation agreements allow entry to third year university Networking and Cyber security courses.
What you will experience
- Acquire skills in configuring and maintaining a network infrastructure, working with a variety of networking technologies, including routers, switches, and wireless access points.
- Gain experience in designing, implementing, and maintaining network and cloud infrastructure, working with a variety of networking technologies and cloud-based platforms.
- Recognise the importance of security and integrity in a network and cloud infrastructure and implement intrusion detection and prevention systems.
Many of the skills and concepts in this award are transferable to other areas of computing and technology.
The award also offers opportunities for learners to develop the Meta Skills and professional attitudes required in this vital industry sector, along with awareness of legal and ethical obligations, including those relating to diversity, inclusion, and sustainability.
This HND is part of the NextGen qualifications from SQA. It is a one year course at SCQF Level 8 and entry is via completing the one year course HNC Computing (NextGen) at SCQF Level 7.
NextGen qualifications allow more time in class focusing on larger, fewer subjects in more depth, increasing learning time, integrating learning, teaching and assessment approaches which reduces the assessment load. The traditional graded unit is also replaced with a project and portfolio that students work on throughout the year allowing students to develop and showcase their own work to universities and potential employers.
NextGen courses offer more than just the traditional subjects, they are designed to develop the individuals Meta Skills, the skills to thrive in an ever changing environment, developing self management, social intelligence and innovation.
Key Facts
Everything you need to know before applying for a place on this course.
What you will get
HND Networking & Cloud Infrastructure (NextGen) (SCQF Level 8).
This is a SQA NextGen course.
NextGen is a new approach to Higher National qualifications introduced by the SQA and designed to be adaptable and flexible to respond to the needs of the employment market.
How do I pay for this course?
If you are studying a full-time advanced course (HNC, HND or above), you may be entitled to funding.
How to apply to NESCol
You can apply for a full-time course online or using a paper form.
Open Days
Open Days are a great way to find out more about this course and what it’s like to study at NESCol. You will see facilities, meet lecturers and get a feel for life as a student.
Our next Open Day will take place in winter 2024.
Do you need extra support?
NESCol can provide extra support to students who have additional support needs, including:
- learning difficulties or disabilities
- physical or sensory disabilities
- mental health and wellbeing concerns
- are care experienced or young carers
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)
This course is a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) programme. This means that you are required to have access to your own laptop computer, netbook or similar device in class each day that you are in college.
If you do not already own a suitable device you can apply for a student loan from SAAS, if eligible, to fund the cost of purchasing a device.
Opportunities
Whether you wish to progress in your studies or enter the world of work, North East Scotland College has excellent progression opportunities, with links to eight universities across Scotland and great relationships with industry employers.
University
- Robert Gordon University - BSc Hons Cyber Security with Computer Network Management and Design Year 3 (subject to conditions)
- Edinburgh Napier University - BSc (Hons) Cyber Security & Forensics year 3 (subject to conditions)
- University of Highlands and Islands (UHI) - BSc (Hons) Computing year 3 (subject to conditions)
Employment
Successful completion will open career opportunities for you in computer networking.
Student Stories
Rebecca Clements
Computing
HND Web Development (including Digital Design and Development)
“I’ve had a passion for computing from a very young age. I decided when my son was starting school that it was the best time to go back and follow a dream I had put on hold.”
Read more about Rebecca's story
Ella-May Quinn
Computing
HND Web Development (including Digital Design & Development)
“I really enjoyed the course and the hands on nature of the learning. Being able to build websites was great and I got a real sense of achievement from the work we were asked to produce.”
Read more about Ella-May's story
Scott Duncan
Computing
HND Digital Development & Design (Games Development)
“I feel the course has prepared me well for my new role and I’m excited to put my new skills into practice and have the opportunity to do something I love every day! “
Read more about Scott's story
Martin Meszaros
Computing
HND Cyber Security
“I really have so much to thank NESCol for. I’m sure it is an experience that will have a positive impact throughout my life.”
Read more about Martin's story
Shay McGillivray
Computing
HND Technologies in Business
Shay’s HND has given him knowledge and skills that are vital for running a business today including cyber resilience, e-commerce solutions and social media and knows the course has given him a solid grounding in business operations, technology and project management which will serve him well for the continued success of their family business.
Read more about Shay's story
Beata Tetkowska
Computing
HND Technologies in Business
“I would definitely recommend NESCol to everyone who wants to study computing. No matter what age, or if this is their first course, or – if like me – you want to change your career. It’s a very friendly environment, well quipped when it comes to computing facilities and – most importantly – with very, very supportive and highly knowledgeable lecturers.”
Read more about Beata's story
Louise Findlay
Computing
HND Digital Design & Development (Web Development)
“I enjoy Computing because it’s such a broad field. There’s a variety of skills to learn and you can easily develop a niche. No two projects will be the same and since it’s such a fast-paced field, there are always new developments to keep abreast of.
“The computing courses give you lots of practical skills and a strong foundation to expand upon.”
Read more about Louise's story
George Madgett
Computing
HNC Computing
“By sharing my experience I hope I can inspire anyone with autism.”
Read more about George's story
Gayle Duguid
Computing
HND Computing: Software Development
“I would say to anyone thinking of returning to learning after time away – just do it.”
Read more about Gayle's story
Dawn-Maree Wilson
Computing
NC Computing and Digital Media
“I I started with the intro course, am close to completing my Level 5 and next year I will be studying for my HNC – I’m so pleased with how far I have come.”
Read more about Dawn-Maree's story
Applications
North East Scotland College offers hundreds of courses each year, apply for one now.
You can apply for a place on this course by completing an online application form, which you can access using the ‘Apply Online’ button. Once completed, this will be received by our Admissions Team who will then process your application.
Aberdeen City Campus
-
Starts Aug 2024
-
Duration 1 year
-
Course Code QBDG
Completed forms should be signed and returned to us at the following freepost address:
The Student Information & Admissions Manager
North East Scotland College
FREEPOST RTJJ-TXBA-AEZS
Aberdeen City Campus
Gallowgate
Aberdeen
Scotland
UK AB25 1BN
Full-time Application Form
Full-time Application Process
If you take up a place on a College course, at the start of the course you will be asked to sign an enrolment form. In signing the form and/or taking up a place on a College course, you will enter into a contract with the College and be bound by the North East Scotland College Standard Terms and Conditions of Study. Copies of the Terms and Conditions are available for inspection on notice boards and at various locations throughout the College, at the College Reception, on the College website: nescol.ac.uk, or can be obtained on request from the Student Funding and Admissions Manager, North East Scotland College, Aberdeen City Campus, Gallowgate, Aberdeen AB25 1BN. Please note that courses are offered subject to (a) there being sufficient numbers of enrolments and (b) the availability of resources. The College reserves its right (i) not to run courses where the number of students is considered insufficient or where resources are unavailable and (ii) in certain circumstances, to refuse admission to an individual applicant.
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