HND COMPUTING LEVEL 5
The HND in Computing is a Level 5 qualification that combines academic understanding with hands-on practical experience. This qualification equips students with in-depth knowledge of the computing world, cover- ing topics such as programming, networking, security, data analytics, and software development. It is ideal for learners who want to pursue careers in IT or progress to a final year (Top-Up) of a Bachelors degree in comput- ing or related disciplines. The qualification is tailored to reflect current in- dustry standards and technologies, ensuring that learners develop skills that are immediately applicable in real-world tech environments.
Program Structure:
The HND in Computing is deliv- ered over one academic year (accelerated), with each level comprising 120 credits, making a total of 240 credits for the complete HND qualification.
Credit Hours:
Total Credits: 240 credits
Each unit typically carries: 15 credits Guided Learning Hours (GLH): Approx. 960-1200 hours
Total Qualification Time (TQT): Approx. 2400 hours
Assessment Method:
The HND in Computing is assign- ment-based, with no formal written exams. Assessment methods include:
Practical assignments
Projects and presentations Case studies
Portfolios and technical reports Group work and peer evaluations Reflective logs
Each unit is assessed internally and externally verified by Pearson to maintain academic standards.
Modules Included:
- Programming - Fundamentals of software development using different languages.
- Networking - Key concepts of data communication and networking. Professional Practice - Ethics, teamwork, and communication in the IT industry.
- Database Design & Development - Creating functional databases using SQL and related tools.
- Security - Understanding cybersecurity principles, threats, and protection methods.
- Planning a Computing Project – Research, design, and execution of a tech-based project.
- Cyber Security - Techniques to detect, prevent, and respond to cyber threats.
- Website Design & Development - Creation of dynamic and responsive websites using front-end and back-end technologies.
- Website Design & Development - Creation of dynamic and responsive websites using front-end and back-end technologies.
- Computing Research Project - Independent research with analytical and presentation skills.
- Business Process Support - Techniques in data analytics and business decision-making.
- Application Development - Design, test, and deploy desktop, web, or mobile applications using modern frameworks.
- Applied Cryptography on the Cloud - Explore cryptographic techniques and secure cloud-based environments.
- Forensics - Investigate and retrieve digital evidence to support legal and security investigations.
- Information Security Management - Implement organizational security strategies, compliance, and governance.
- Internet of Things/Machine Learning – Develop smart systems using sensor data and ML algorithms for automation.
Equivalency and Recognition:
The Pearson BTEC HND in Computing is internationally recognized and mapped to the UK Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) at Level 5, which is equivalent to the second year of a three-year UK undergraduate degree.
Academic Progression:
Graduates of the HND in Computing can directly enter the final year (Top-Up year) of a Bachelor’s degree at many universities in the UK and internationally. This allows students to earn a full BSc (Hons) in Comput- ing or related fields in just one additional year of study. Some of the pro- gression degrees include:
BSc (Hons) Computer Science
BSc (Hons) Information Technology
BSc (Hons) Software Engineering
BSc (Hons) Cyber Security
BSc (Hons) Data Science
BSc (Hons) Artificial Intelligence
Universities accepting HND graduates for Top-Up entry include:
University of Hertfordshire
University of Sunderland Coventry University
Sheffield Hallam University
De Montfort University
University of Portsmouth
Arden University (Online & Campus-based options)
Department of Computing
HND in Computing
HND in Software Engineering
HND in Cyber Security
Why Choose the Pearson HND in Computing?
- Globally Recognized: Accepted by employers and universities across the world.
- Industry-Focused Curriculum: Designed with employer consulta- tion to reflect real-world IT needs.
- Affordable and Flexible: More cost-effective than traditional uni- versity routes.
- Hands-on Skills Development: Learn by doing through labs, sim- ulations, and real-life case studies.
- Progression Opportunities: Seamless pathway into a final-year university degree.
- Employer Valued: Highly regarded by multinational corporations for its practical emphasis.
- Ideal for International Students: Suitable for learners from all edu- cational backgrounds.
What You’ll Learn
- Programming languages (Python, Java, etc.)
- Systems analysis and design
- Cybersecurity fundamentals
- Emerging technologies and innovation
Career Paths
Prepares students for careers such as software developer, systems analyst, IT consultant, or progression to a BSc in Computing or related fields.
Academic Units: HND COMPUTING LEVEL 5
- PROGRAMMING
- NETWORKING
- PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE
- DATABASE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
- SECURITY
- PLANNING A COMPUTING PROJECT
- CYBERSECURITY
- WEBSITE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
- COMPUTING RESEARCH PROJECT (PEARSON-SET)
- BUSINESS PROCESS SUPPORT
- APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT
- APPLIED CRYPTOGRAPHY ON THE CLOUD
- INTERNET OF THINGS/OR MACHINE LEARNING
- INFORMATION SECURITY MANAGEMENT