Free Level 5 BTEC in Computing course in Yeovil. Classes run full-time at Yeovil College, five days a week during the day, over two years. This Pearson Edexcel Higher National Diploma covers the theoretical concepts and vocational skills the IT industry needs. It is a recognised Higher Technical Qualification, reviewed and approved to make sure you gain the skills employers are looking for. You'll study specialist computing topics that prepare you for roles in software development and wider technology careers. The level 5 btec in computing qualification sits at the same level as the second year of a university degree.
Who this course is for
The Higher National Diploma in Computing for England covers theoretical concepts and vocational skills that are required in the IT industry and has been developed to equip learners with the specialist knowledge and skills to make them competitive and employable in the job market. The course is a recognised Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) which means it has been reviewed and approved for ensuring learners gain the skills that employers want, and employers can be confident that learners have the knowledge, skills, and behaviours for a particular specialist role. This is a Level 5 qualification, which is broadly equivalent to the first two years of a ‘traditional’ university degree.This course is available on a full-time and a part-time basis and is taught in-person at our Yeovil College campus.The full-time course is studied over 2 academic years, and students are typically timetabled for two days per week. The part-time course is studied over 4 academic years, and students are typically timetabled for one day per week.
Entry requirements
Please check our website for the latest information.
What you will learn
You'll develop specialist knowledge of computing systems, software, and IT infrastructure.
You'll apply programming concepts and software development techniques to real projects.
You'll study data management, databases, and how organisations use data.
You'll explore networking principles and how digital systems communicate.
You'll build skills in project management and working to professional IT standards.
You'll analyse problems and design technical solutions using industry-relevant tools.
You'll understand cybersecurity principles and how to protect digital systems.
How you will learn
You'll learn through a mix of classroom teaching, practical assignments, and project work. Assessment is primarily assignment-based, with written reports, practical tasks, and presentations rather than traditional exams. Each unit is assessed separately, and you'll build a portfolio of work across the two years. Classroom sessions at Yeovil College give you direct contact with tutors alongside independent study.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Yeovil College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Software Developer: design and build software applications and systems.
IT Support Technician: troubleshoot and maintain computer systems and networks.
Network Engineer: plan and manage organisational network infrastructure.
Web Developer: create and maintain websites and web-based applications.
Data Analyst: interpret data to support business decisions.
Cybersecurity Analyst: protect systems and data from digital threats.
Systems Analyst: assess and improve how organisations use technology.
What you could study next
Bachelor's Degree in Computing or Software Engineering: a Level 5 HND is widely accepted for entry into the final year of a related degree, letting you top up to a full honours degree in one year.
Degree Apprenticeship in Software Engineering: combine work with degree-level study if you move into employment after the HND.
Professional certifications (such as CompTIA, Microsoft, or Cisco): vendor qualifications that strengthen your CV for specific technical roles.
