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Free Level 4 Computing Course in Welwyn Garden City

CostFREE
Duration34 weeks
LevelLevel 4
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
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About this course

Free Level 4 Computing for England Course in Welwyn Garden City. Classes run at Oaklands College Welwyn Garden City Campus, part-time during the day, so you can fit study around other commitments. The course focuses on cyber security: protecting systems, networks, and data from threats and unauthorised access. You'll cover the concepts, practices, and technical skills that employers in the sector look for. The course runs over 34 weeks. You'll need 48 UCAS Tariff Points, a Level 3 qualification in a related subject or two A levels in science or technology, plus GCSE English and Maths at grade C/4 or above.

Who this course is for

This programme is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of cyber security concepts, practices, and skills. It is typically intended for individuals who want to pursue a career in the field of cyber security, which involves protecting computer systems, networks, and data from attacks, threats and unauthorized access.

Entry requirements

To be considered for admission into the programme, applicants should meet the following criteria:

1. Educational Qualifications:

  • 48 UCAS Tariff Points
  • Possess a Level 3 qualification in a subject related to the industry.
  • Alternatively, have completed two A levels in science or technology subjects.

2. GCSE Passes:

  • Possess GCSE passes in English and Maths at grade C/4 (H).

3. Mature applicants without formal qualifications, but with evidence of sufficient, relevan

What you will learn

  • You'll study core cyber security concepts, including how threats and attacks are identified and countered.
  • You'll develop skills in protecting computer systems, networks, and data from unauthorised access.
  • You'll learn how to assess and manage security risks in digital environments.
  • You'll explore the technical principles underpinning computing infrastructure relevant to security roles.
  • You'll build practical knowledge of security tools, practices, and industry standards.
  • You'll develop problem-solving approaches used by cyber security professionals.

How you will learn

Learning takes place in the classroom at Oaklands College Welwyn Garden City Campus. The BTEC Higher National Certificate is assessed through assignments and project-based work rather than traditional exams. You'll complete units that are assessed as you progress through the course, with feedback from tutors along the way. Assessment is coursework-based, reflecting the practical and analytical demands of cyber security work.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Oaklands College Welwyn Garden City Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Cyber Security Analyst: monitor and protect systems from threats and attacks.
  • IT Security Technician: maintain security tools and respond to incidents.
  • Network Security Engineer: design and secure organisational networks.
  • Information Security Officer: oversee data protection and compliance.
  • Junior Penetration Tester: test systems for vulnerabilities under supervision.
  • IT Support Analyst: provide technical support with a security focus.

What you could study next

  • Pearson Edexcel BTEC Higher National Diploma in Computing (Level 5): a natural next step that deepens your technical knowledge and can lead to the final year of a computing degree.
  • BSc (Hons) Cyber Security or Computing degree (Level 6): many universities accept an HNC for direct entry into Year 2, giving you a full honours degree in two further years.
  • CompTIA Security+ or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): industry certifications that complement your HNC and strengthen your CV for cyber security roles.
Apply on oaklands.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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