Did you know that at North Kent College we offer a range of Higher Education programmes including a HNC in Computing? You may be wondering what this is or why you should take it, so we are here to answer some questions…

What is an HNC?

A Higher National Certificate (HNC) is a level 4 vocational qualification that takes one year to complete full-time. They're practical-based courses that can prepare you for either work after completion or studies at degree level.

What does an HNC in Computing involve?

The core units include:

Unit 01: Programming; Unit 02: Networking; Unit 03: Professional Practice; Unit 04: Database Design and Practice; Unit 05: Security; Unit 06: Managing a Successful Computing Project

The optional units include:

Unit 08: Computer System Architecture; Unit 12: Management in the Digital Economy

Can I enrol in HNC Computing if I previously haven’t been a student at NKC?

Yes, we encourage external candidates to apply for our Higher Education courses. The entry requirements are as follows: A BTEC Level 3 qualification in Computing or a GCE Advanced Level profile that demonstrates strong performance in a relevant subject or adequate performance in more than one GCE subject. This profile is likely to be supported by GCSE grades at 9 to 4 (or equivalent).

Can I go to university afterwards?

Yes, there may also be the option of continuing onto the 2nd year at university to gain a degree.

Previously, our students have completed HNC in Computing and progressed to complete a 2nd year at a university of their choice (Canterbury Christ Church University and University of Kent).

What are the other possible progression routes?

This programme allows you to progress into many different areas of the Computing sector, generally allowing you to gain employment and career destinations in the following areas:

System tester; Database administrator; IT support Technician; Network support Technician; IT Help Desk support officer; IT service delivery support Technician; Programmer; Junior 2nd Line IT Support Engineer; 1st Line IT Support; IT Project team member; Software Support.

Now you know a little more about the HNC in Computing programme we offer, you can apply now or find out more here.