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Key details

Course area
Computing, IT and Esports
Student type
University Level
Course type
Part-time University Level course
Course level
Level 4
Start date
Monday 21st September 2026
Location
City Hub 111 Canal Street, Nottingham, NG1 7HB
Fees
£4,125.00
Course code
Parent course code:C000412 Child course code: Q002227
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Course introduction

This HNC is perfect if you want to gain hand on skills to work in the field of Business Analyses, Software Development, Data Analytics, Network Engineer, Cyber Security.

If you are passionate about computing and want to develop practical skills for a rewarding career in the IT industry, this HNC course is ideal for you. You will learn about various aspects of computing, such as programming, analysis, design, computer architecture, networking, business communication, database design and professional practice. You will also explore how to apply these skills to real-world scenarios and projects.

Some of the units you may study are:

  • Programming: Learn how to design, implement and test software solutions using different programming languages and paradigms.
  • Networking: Understand the principles and technologies of computer networks and how to configure, manage and secure them.
  • Professional Practice: Develop your professional skills and knowledge of the IT sector, including ethical, legal and social issues.
  • Database Design & Development: Create and manipulate databases using various tools and techniques, such as SQL, ERD and normalization.
  • Security: Learn how to protect data and systems from cyber threats and attacks, using encryption, authentication and firewall methods.
  • Software Development Lifecycles: Understand the different stages and models of software development, such as waterfall, agile and scrum.
  • Strategic Information Systems: Analyse the strategic role of information systems in organizations and how to align them with business objectives and processes.

Nottingham College is proud to have been awarded the Teaching Excellence Framework Bronze Award for high quality student experience and outcomes. You can read more about this on the Office for Students website.

What are HTQs?

Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) are new or redesigned Level 4 and 5 qualifications (such as HNCs and HNDs) that have been approved against occupational standards in their sector. These qualifications have been developed by UK awarding bodies, working with employers and businesses to make sure that students get the specific training, knowledge and skills they need for their chosen career.

Timetable (subject to change)

The current timetable is as follows but this is subject to change:

  • Tuesday 09:00 – 12:00, Wednesday 13:00 – 16:00 and Thursday 13:00 - 16:00
  • Plus self directed study

Please note: Some classes may be delivered online.

Course information

2 years

Pearson Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Digital Technologies for England (HTQ)

You’ll need a minimum of 64 UCAS points from:

  • At least two A Levels at A2
  • BTEC Diploma or Extended Diploma
  • International Baccalaureate
  • Access to HE Diploma

Other combinations of qualifications and experience will also be considered, as will Level 3 qualifications not currently listed on the UCAS tariff. For creative courses you would usually need a qualification in a relevant subject area.

We would expect students to be working at (or to demonstrate competency at) Level 2 or above in English/literacy and maths/numeracy.

Mature applicants with relevant professional experience and/or qualifications are welcome to apply.

Assessment is 100% coursework using a variety of assignments, case studies, practical tests and phase tests.

The HNC and HND qualifications are valuable credentials that equip students with the practical skills and knowledge they need to pursue a variety of careers in related fields.

If you complete the HND successfully, you will have the opportunity to further your education by topping up your qualification to a degree at various universities. The level of entry (eg. second or third year of a degree) will depend on the university you choose the modules you have studied and the grades you have achieved at HND.

About the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF)

The TEF is a national scheme run by the Office for Students (OfS) that aims to encourage higher education providers to improve and deliver excellence in the areas that students care about the most: teaching, learning and achieving positive outcomes from their studies.

View our TEF assessment (opens in a new window/tab) Learn more about the TEF (opens in a new window/tab)

Careers related to this course

Select career:

Information Technology Professionals

Potential Earnings

£75,512.95

Average Earnings

£43,987.00

Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).

Pathways

Information and Communication Technology

People in these occupations manage and analyze technical information and communication systems, provide user support, and plan, build, and test applications and systems.
View more about this career

Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.

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