HNC Computing
Subject Area
Digital & IT
Student Type
Higher Education
Study Mode
Full Time
What is the course about?
The HNC Computing is a specialist computing course. It is designed to equip you with the knowledge, understanding, and skills required for success in an ever-expanding IT industry. You will acquire essential skills including networking, computer programming, security, web design, and development, as well as enhancing your own personal professional development. The programme can be studied full time over one year (attending college two days per week) or part time over two years (attending one day per week).
Why should I choose the course?
The HNC Computing provides strong foundations for entry into a wide range of careers in the computing sector. It aims to help you become a highly qualified and knowledgeable IT professional who can meet the requirements of employers for both users and suppliers of computer services.
What will I learn?
The HNC consists of the following units:
Core units:
- Programming
- Networking
- Professional practice
- Database design and development
- Security
Managing a successful project.
Specialist Units:
- Website design and development
- Software development lifecycles
Please note that modules listed are indicative and may be subject to change. We do not guarantee that a non-mandatory unit will always run in any given academic year as options may be dependent on student numbers, sector requirements, and staff expertise.
Units will be assessed using a variety of assessment methods including projects, portfolios, presentations, case studies, reports, and research. Alternative assessment methods may be used where appropriate.
Students can progress on to the HND Computing after successful completion of the HNC Computing. After completing the HND some students have gone on to employment while others have progressed on to their final year at universities including the University of Chester.
How is the apprenticeship delivered?
Students can progress on to the HND Computing after successful completion of the HNC Computing. After completing the HND some students have gone on to employment while others have progressed on to their final year at universities including the University of Chester.
What will the course lead on to?
Students can progress on to the HND in Computing after successful completion of the HNC in Computing. After completing the HND some students have gone on to employment while others have progressed on to their final year at the University of Chester.
Are there any links with industry and university?
The tutors on the course have connections with universities including the University of Chester. Students may benefit from these valuable partnerships.
What support is available?
All HE students receive termly one-to-one tutorials with their programme leader to support them with their progress on programme. You will also have access to an online tutorial programme which provides guidance on a wide range of topics such as mental health, managing finances, support for single parents, and working online. In addition, you can access a programme of workshops throughout the year to support with topics such as study skills, academic writing, and time management.
We have a team of staff dedicated to providing learning support if it is required, and a Welfare Team that is on hand to offer guidance, support, and help when needed. All HE students have access to a designated progress coach who can also provide welfare support.
For further information on HE student support please visit:
https://www.wvr.ac.uk/higher-education/higher-education-student-support/
Additionally, eligible students can access a wide range of finance and funding support to help them during their time at college. The college offers a HE Hardship Fund that students can apply to access.
Why should I choose to study the course at Warrington & Vale Royal College?
The college offers a very high-quality education for HE students. HE student feedback is strong, and students are highly complimentary of their learning experience. HE students have access to specialist facilities and resources to support their programme of study as well as designated HE learning spaces to support independent study.
Here at Warrington & Vale Royal College we have a team of dedicated, experienced staff who can share their extensive knowledge and skills with you. Learning in a friendly and inclusive environment, you will be fully supported to achieve your goals.
What are the entry requirements?
You will typically have one of the following:
- A BTEC level 3 or other level 3 qualification in a related subject (64 UCAS points)
- A minimum of two A-Levels (A2) with one in a related subject at grade C or above (64 UCAS points)
- Access to HE with relevant options
- Appropriate relevant work experience – mature students who have appropriate work experience in a related sector or role and/or have professional qualifications in a related industry are welcome to apply.
AND
- A* to C grade and/or 9 to 4 in GCSE English (language or literature)
- A* to C grade and/or 9 to 4 in GCSE maths is also recommended
Non-native English speakers who have not undertaken their final two years of schooling in English need to demonstrate capability in English at a standard equivalent to the levels identified below. This is necessary before being recruited to the programme, as the programme is both taught and assessed in English:
- Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) level B2
- IELTS 5.5; reading and writing must be 5.5.
All HNC/HND programmes require the completion of a personal statement and curriculum-set task prior to an admissions interview being offered. Further information on this will be provided to you upon receipt of your application. You will also be required to provide a reference from one of the following options:
- A previous course leader/teacher (if progressing from a recently attended further or higher education course)
- A recent or current employer
- An appropriate professional who can provide a character reference (if you have not been in recent education or employment).
What are my funding options?
Students applying to study on a Higher Education course can apply for a HE student loan at www.gov.uk/student-finance.
For further finance support and enquiries please visit https://www.wvr.ac.uk/higher-education/higher-education-funding-support/
Are there any additional costs associated with the course?
The college provides all students with £3 print credit. Any further printing will incur a cost.
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