Course overview
Computing and Digital Technologies HNC/D (HTQ) City of Bristol CollegeThis course has been designed as a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) for those who wish to pursue a career in the technical side of computing, including software development, installation and support.
Studying this HNC (HTQ) will allow you to explore fundamental computing principles and enable you to become more employable in a popular and ever-growing sector.
The Pearson HNC (HTQ) in Computing is equivalent to the first year of a degree and a stepping stone to achieving the following HND.
The HND is a one-year, full-time course for students who have completed the Level 4 HNC qualification and wish to dedicate themselves to the Level 5 HND.
If you studied your Level 3 course with us, you could be eligible for our Higher Education Progression Bursary. You can find out more about our financial support options or download the HE progression bursary application form.
To apply for the Computing and Digital Technologies HNC/HND courses that we offer, simply click the ‘Apply’ button next to your chosen course below in the ‘Dates and Applications’ box. Alternatively, you can apply directly through UCAS; see the relevant links below.
Computing and Digital Technologies HNC (HTQ)
The course code for the full-time HNC offering is: HGF1613C01-1
Alternatively, you can apply through UCAS
Computing and Digital Technologies HND (HTQ)
The course code for the full-time HND offering is: HGF1703C01-1
Alternatively, you can apply through UCAS
Campus code: C
Dates and applications
Please hover over the ‘i’ button to find out more about course fees and applications.
| Course Code | Dates | Duration | Days | Hours per week | Start Time | Location | Fee | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HGF1613C01-1 | 16/09/2025 - 29/06/2026 | 1 years | Date/Day(s) Being Finalised | Enquire | 09:15 | College Green Centre |
This course is still in its planning phase; course details - including fee information - are subject to change. In June, course details will be finalised and enrolment will open.
|
Enquire Apply |
| HGF1703C01-1 | 17/09/2025 - 25/06/2026 | 1 years | Date/Day(s) Being Finalised | 12.00 | 09:15 | College Green Centre |
This course is still in its planning phase; course details - including fee information - are subject to change. In June, course details will be finalised and enrolment will open.
|
Enquire Apply |
Additional information
Who is this course for?
This course could be an option for people who have had time out, or wish to change career and have some relevant experience with the subject.
What you'll learn
As part of the HNC, you will study the following core units:
- Programming
- Networking
- Professional Practice
- Database Design
- Security
- Computer Project Management
- System Development Lifecycle
An optional unit, with a focus on progressing to the HND in Computing (Software Development), is:
- Website Development
As part of the HND, you will study the following core units:
- Research Project (This is a double unit)
- Business Processes
Optional units for the HND:
- Systems Anaylsis & Design
- Games Engine Scripting
- Internet of Things
- Emerging Technologies
- E-commerce & Strategy
Course entry requirements
To join the course, you will need 32 UCAS points (via any of the following):
- Level 3 BTEC Computing or a related subject
- A Levels e.g. Computer Science
- Access to HE qualification
You will also need to have:
- GCSEs in English and Maths at Grade 4 (C) or above, or Functional Skills Level 2
- Students with English as a second language will need an IELTS score of 6 or above
Practical experience from learners that don’t meet the above criteria will be considered.
Please note you will require an interview for enrolment onto this course.
How is the course delivered and assessed?
You will be assessed in a variety of ways including group work and course work.
Future career and study opportunities
You could progress to the Level 5 HND in Computing (Software Development).
HNC and HNDs are well known among employers. There is a great demand for Computing and High Tech jobs in the South West. There are varied careers available such as programmers, IT managers, tech support and web developers.
Additional costs
As a City of Bristol College student, you may incur additional costs to attend your course. For example, it is likely you may need to pay for travel and stationery.
Many courses offer learning opportunities that you may need to pay for. This may include things like study visits and visiting speakers. We will let you know in advance if there will be additional costs.
If you are on a limited income, you may be able to receive help from our Learner Support Funding Bursary.
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Career Coach
For guidance on which career path to take, to explore career options related to our courses, find out which careers are in demand, and then get the training you need.
