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Level 5 HND Computing Course in Harlow

Cost£6,185
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 5
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

£6,185. Advanced Learner Loan available. Contact Harlow College for more info.

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About this course

Level 5 BTEC Higher National Diploma in Computing for England Course in Harlow. Classes run at Harlow College. This two-year, full-time daytime course builds directly on the Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Computing for England (Cyber Security). You'll go deeper into applied cyber security, covering topics such as Applied Cryptography in the Cloud, Digital Forensics, and Information Security Management. The course is equivalent to the second year of a university degree and prepares you for professional roles in computing and cyber security.

Who this course is for

The Higher Nation Diploma in Computing for England (Cyber Security) is a two-year qualification building on the knowledge gained in the Level 4 HNC, deepening your understanding and preparing you for advanced study or a professional career in the computing and cyber security sectors.

Equivalent to the second year of a university degree, the HND explores more specialised and applied areas of cyber security. You’ll study key topics such as Applied Cryptography in the Cloud, Digital Forensics and Information Security Management, developing both your technical expertise and your ability to apply it in real-world contexts.

Learning takes place in our purpose-built computing labs, where you’ll have access to industry-standard software and equipment. You’ll be supported by experienced tutors who bring extensive knowledge from across the computing and cyber security industries, helping you build the confidence and practical skills needed for a successful career.

Whether you plan to move straight into employment within the IT and cyber security sector or continue to a Bachelor’s degree (BSc Hons), this qualification provides a strong platform for your next step.

Entry requirements

You will be expected to have English and maths at GCSE grade 4 or above or a Level 2 Functional Skills certificate may be considered.

Applicants must also have achieved successful completion of a Level 3 qualification, equivalent to 64 UCAS points, such as A Levels or BTEC Level 3.

Applicants must also have achieved successful completion of the Higher National Certificate in Computing for England – Cyber Security.

What you will learn

  • You'll apply cryptographic techniques in cloud environments.
  • You'll investigate digital forensics methods used in cyber security incidents.
  • You'll develop skills in information security management and policy.
  • You'll build on the technical foundations from the Level 4 HNC to tackle more specialised computing challenges.
  • You'll use industry-standard software and equipment in purpose-built computing labs.
  • You'll develop your ability to apply technical knowledge in professional contexts.

How you will learn

Learning takes place in purpose-built computing labs at Harlow College, with access to industry-standard software and equipment. You'll attend daytime classes full-time over two years. Assessment methods are set by Pearson Edexcel and typically combine assignments, practical tasks, and project work across the units. All applicants who meet the entry requirements are invited to an interview before the course begins.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Harlow 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
  • Digital Forensics Analyst: investigate cyber incidents and gather evidence
  • Information Security Officer: manage security policies across an organisation
  • Network Security Engineer: design and maintain secure network infrastructure
  • Cloud Security Specialist: secure cloud-based systems and data
  • IT Security Consultant: advise businesses on managing cyber risk

What you could study next

  • BSc (Hons) in Cyber Security or Computing: a Level 6 degree top-up at a university, often one additional year for HND holders, leading to a full honours degree.
  • Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or CompTIA Security+: industry certifications that complement the HND and are recognised by employers in cyber security roles.
  • MSc in Cyber Security: a postgraduate route for those who complete a full degree and want to specialise further.
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