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Access to HE Computer Science Course in Richmond upon Thames

CostFREE
Duration33 weeks
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start13 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyOCN London Region
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About this course

Access to HE Computer Science Course in Richmond upon Thames. Classes run at Richmond College, full-time during the day over 33 weeks.

Tuition fees may apply, though the course may be free for eligible learners. You'll build the academic knowledge and study skills needed for university-level computing. The course covers digital technologies, computer science principles, and the analytical thinking universities expect. It earns UCAS tariff points, so you can apply to degree programmes through the standard process.

You'll finish with an Access to HE Diploma in Digital Technologies and Computer Science.

Who this course is for

The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Digital Technologies and Computer Science) is a Level 3 qualification which prepares people, above the age of 19, without traditional qualifications for study at university.

The qualification gives you the relevant academic subject knowledge needed for higher education study and the opportunity to develop study skills to help you succeed. It is well-established and widely accepted by universities, qualifying for UCAS tariff points.

What you will learn

  • You'll study core computer science concepts, including algorithms, data structures, and computational thinking.
  • You'll explore digital technologies and how they are applied in real computing contexts.
  • You'll develop programming skills and an understanding of software development principles.
  • You'll practise academic writing, research, and critical analysis skills for university study.
  • You'll learn how to plan, structure, and present arguments at degree-entry level.
  • You'll gain UCAS tariff points to support your university application.

How you will learn

You'll study in a classroom at Richmond College, full-time during the day. Learning is a mix of taught sessions, guided study, and assignments. Assessment is through coursework and written assignments rather than traditional exams. You'll build a portfolio of work across the year that demonstrates your academic ability to universities.

What you will need to bring

Richmond College will confirm what you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Software developer, builds and maintains software applications, typically requires a degree.
  • Web developer, designs and codes websites, a degree or strong portfolio helps progression.
  • Data analyst, works with data to support business decisions, degree-level study usually needed.
  • IT support technician, a role you can move toward while studying further.
  • Junior programmer, an entry point while working toward a computing degree.

What you could study next

  • A BSc in Computer Science, the natural next step after this Diploma, at Level 6.
  • A BSc in Software Engineering, for those focused on development and systems design, Level 6.
  • A BSc in Cybersecurity or Data Science, if you want to specialise during your degree.
  • A Foundation Year in Computing, available at some universities as a bridge before the full degree programme.
Apply on rutc.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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