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Level 5 HND Computing Course in Birmingham

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 5
DeliveryClassroom based
Start21 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 5 BTEC Higher National Diploma in Computing for England Course in Birmingham. Classes run at South & City College Birmingham Digbeth Campus. This Pearson Edexcel qualification covers cyber security, networking, forensic computing, programming, and digital technologies. You'll study full-time over two years, building technical expertise alongside communication and problem-solving skills. The course focuses on real-world computing challenges, including protecting systems from cyber-attacks and handling sensitive data securely. It prepares you for roles in cyber security and related tech fields.

Who this course is for

The HTQ award for the Higher National Diploma (HND) in Computing (Cyber Security) caters to students wanting careers in computer science. Including information technology, cyber security, forensic computing, and business computer systems. In the swiftly evolving technical landscape, this course fosters adaptability to tackle emerging roles. There are new jobs and careers formed that never existed five years ago. The course nurtures computing, academic, communication, transferable, and interpersonal skills, empowering individuals to deepen technical expertise in cyber security, broaden knowledge in digital technologies, and excel in this dynamic field.

Entry requirements

Applicants must be 18 years old by August 31st of the program's start. Entry requires GCSE (or equivalent) grades A*-C or 9-4 in English and Maths, or an equivalent Level 2 qualification. A minimum of 48 UCAS points from Level 3 qualifications like A-Levels, BTEC Diplomas, Access Courses, or equivalent. IELTS 5.5 including reading and writing at 5.5. Relevant work experience or professional qualifications may be considered�contact the course team for details.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn how to identify, prevent, and respond to cyber-attacks.
  • You'll develop networking skills, including how systems communicate and how to secure them.
  • You'll study forensic computing and how to investigate digital incidents.
  • You'll build programming and coding skills using current languages and tools.
  • You'll learn how to safeguard sensitive data from unauthorised access.
  • You'll explore business computer systems and how IT supports organisations.
  • You'll develop communication and transferable skills for professional tech environments.

How you will learn

You'll study in the classroom at the Digbeth Campus, with learning delivered through a mix of taught sessions, practical work, and assignments. Assessment is coursework-based, using assignments and projects that apply your skills to real computing scenarios. There are no traditional written exams for most units. You'll build a portfolio of work across the two years that demonstrates your technical and professional competence.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. South & City College Birmingham Digbeth Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Cyber Security Analyst: monitor systems and defend against cyber threats.
  • IT Support Technician: troubleshoot hardware, software, and network issues.
  • Network Administrator: manage and maintain organisational IT networks.
  • Digital Forensics Investigator: examine digital evidence after security incidents.
  • Junior Software Developer: write and test code for applications and systems.
  • IT Systems Administrator: oversee servers, infrastructure, and user access.
  • Information Security Officer: develop and enforce data protection policies.

What you could study next

The Level 5 BTEC Higher National Diploma in Computing for England is equivalent to the first two years of a degree. Many graduates progress to a Level 6 Bachelor's degree top-up in Computing, Cyber Security, or a related subject at university. You could also pursue professional certifications such as CompTIA Security+, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), or Cisco CCNA to strengthen your technical credentials for specific roles.

Apply on sccb.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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