Entry requirements
A keen interest in IT and be capable of working at SCQF Level 6 (equivalent to Highers).
Why take this course?
Develop essential IT skills, achieve a recognised computing qualification, and experience College study, with clear progression routes into future full-time study.
What you will experience
Experience hands-on IT learning, practical and written assessments, supported by tutor-led guidance, while developing core computing skills in a College environment.
Key Facts
Everything you need to know about applying for this course.
What you will get
NPA in Professional Computer Fundamentals.
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 several universities across Scotland and strong relationships with industry employers.
Education at NESCol
Upon successful completion of this course, you may be able to progress to a full-time SCQF level 6 course at North East Scotland College.
University
Following successful completion of this course and further study, learners with the relevant qualifications may be able to progress to university-level degree study.
Student Stories
Michael Till
Computing
HND Networking & Cloud Infrastructure (NextGen)
“NESCol has given me a really good grounding – I’ve even managed to go on to win a national competition!”
Read more about Michael's story
Viera & Radoslav Vidis
Computing
HND Web Development (including Digital Design & Development)
“It was great to be able to share knowledge and bounce ideas off each other. The course was really interesting, challenging at times, but the lecturers were fantastic and explained everything so well.”
Read more about Viera's story
Charlie Priestley
Computing
HND Networking & Cloud Infrastructure (NextGen)
“I honestly don’t think university could have taught me the skills I have learned here.”
Read more about Charlie's story
Danielle Craig
Computing
HND Web Development (including Digital Design & Development)
“I loved that the course covered a broad range of topics, from animation and graphic design to programming”
Read more about Danielle's story
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
Applications
This course is only available to pupils in S5 and S6 across Aberdeen City and Shire, giving pupils the opportunity to experience life as a College student whilst staying on at school.
Please note, applications for schools courses must be submitted by a member of school staff.
You can apply for a place on this course by completing an online application, which you can access using the ‘Apply Online’ button. Once submitted, this will be processed by our Admissions team.
Aberdeen City Campus
Starts02 Jun 2026
Duration1 year
Course CodeC01069
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