Free Level 5 Computing Course in Chichester

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 5
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free Level 5 BTEC in Computing in Chichester. Classes run at Chichester College, full-time during the day. The course takes two years and covers computing with a strong focus on cyber security. You'll study units including digital forensics, machine learning, cloud computing, and cloud cryptography. A Level 3 qualification or relevant work experience in computing is required to join. The course is considered equivalent to the first and second years of a university degree, making it a strong route into graduate-level roles or further study.

Who this course is for

The course is aimed at at anyone interested in developing a career in various sectors of computing. The focus is on the learner developing a range of computing skills with an emphasis on Cyber Security by studying units such as: Digital Forensics, Cyber Security, Machine Learning, Cloud Cryptography, Cloud Computing and other units.

The course will have a Project unit with a set theme and a unit to develop professional skills to ensure that the learner can transition into employment.

The course prides itself on its year-on-year high success rate and many students who have graduated have gone onto full-time employment within the computing sector.

Entry requirements

The course is suitable for anyone with a Level 3 qualification or above and anyone coming from a job in the computing sector, or who wants to retrain.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical cyber security skills, including threat analysis and defence techniques.
  • You'll study digital forensics and learn how to investigate and analyse digital evidence.
  • You'll explore machine learning concepts and their real-world computing applications.
  • You'll learn about cloud computing and cloud cryptography.
  • You'll complete a project unit with a set theme, applying your skills to a defined brief.
  • You'll build professional skills to prepare you for working in the computing sector.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Chichester College. Assessment is unit-based and includes assignments, projects, and practical tasks. A core project unit runs through the course with a set theme. You'll also complete a professional skills unit. Assessment is continuous rather than by final exam, so your work throughout the two years counts toward your final qualification.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Chichester College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Cyber Security Analyst: monitor and protect systems from threats
  • IT Support Technician: diagnose and resolve technical problems
  • Network Engineer: design and manage computer networks
  • Cloud Computing Specialist: manage cloud infrastructure and services
  • Digital Forensics Analyst: investigate digital data and security incidents
  • Software Developer: build and test applications and systems
  • IT Project Manager: plan and deliver technology projects

What you could study next

  • Bachelor's degree in Computing or Cyber Security: the HND is equivalent to the first two years of a degree, so many universities will accept you into the final year (Year 3) of an undergraduate programme.
  • Degree Apprenticeship in Cyber Security or Software Engineering: combine work and study at degree level.
  • CompTIA Security+ or CISSP: industry certifications that strengthen your cyber security credentials alongside or after your HND.

Related courses at Chichester College

More courses near you