Level 5 BTEC Higher National Diploma in Digital Technologies for England Course in Reading. Classes run at Reading College, full-time during the day. This two-year course follows the Software Development and Programming pathway, building the technical and professional skills employers look for in digital roles. You'll cover programming, software development principles, and the broader digital landscape at higher education level. The Pearson Edexcel BTEC Higher National Diploma in Digital Technologies for England is a Higher Technical Qualification approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education.
Who this course is for
The Pearson HND in Digital Technologies (Cyber Security Pathway) is a higher technical qualification (HTQ) that helps you develop as a professional, self-reflecting individual, able to meet the demands of employers. You can find out more about higher technical qualifications here: This programme as a Higher Technical Qualification is approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education and developed with employers. A Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) from Activate Learning provides an alternative high-quality route for you to gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in your career. HTQs are qualifications at Level 4 or Level 5, including Higher National Certificates (HNCs), Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) and Foundation Degrees, and are approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education to enable students to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviour sought after by employers. This Higher National Diploma (HND) provides a foundation of learning and also develops and strengthens your core and specialist skills. You will gain a wide range of knowledge tied to practical skills gained through research, independent study, directed study and workplace scenarios. You will be involved in vocational activities that help you to develop vocational behaviour (the attitudes and approaches required for competence) and transferable skills. Transferable skills are those such as communication, teamwork, research and analysis, which are highly valued in higher education and the workplace. The aims of this Pearson BTEC Higher Nationals in Digital Technologies are to: give students the skills, knowledge and understanding they need to achieve high performance in the national and international digital technologies environment.. For further information please visit the Actiate Learning Website at https://www.activatelearning.ac.uk
Entry requirements
Applicants will be expected to possess one of the following: A minimum of 64 UCAS points, or, Relevant Access to Higher Education Diploma, or, Level 3 in Computing or Business or other related subject, or, T Level at Pass in a related subject, . Along with a GCSE grade 4 or above in maths and also in English. Other L2 qualifications in English and maths. For further information please visit the Actiate Learning Website at https://www.activatelearning.ac.uk
What you will learn
You'll develop software using industry-relevant programming languages and tools.
You'll design and build applications following professional development practices.
You'll analyse problems and apply logical, structured solutions.
You'll work with databases, networks, and digital systems.
You'll understand the professional and ethical responsibilities of working in tech.
You'll plan and manage projects using recognised methodologies.
You'll communicate technical ideas clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
How you will learn
You'll study through classroom-based sessions at Reading College, five days a week during the day. Assessment is through a mix of assignments, projects, and practical tasks rather than traditional exams. Each unit is assessed separately, with work submitted and graded throughout the two years. You'll build a portfolio of work that demonstrates your skills to future employers.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Reading College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Software developer: write and maintain code for apps and systems.
Junior web developer: build and update websites and web applications.
IT support analyst: troubleshoot technical issues for organisations.
Systems analyst: review and improve how organisations use technology.
Database administrator: manage and maintain data systems.
Digital project coordinator: support delivery of tech projects.
QA tester: check software works correctly before release.
What you could study next
BSc (Hons) in Computer Science or Software Engineering: a Level 6 degree that builds directly on your HND. Many universities accept HND graduates into the second or final year.
Level 6 Digital and Technology Solutions Degree Apprenticeship: combine work and study while earning a full degree.
Specialist certifications (AWS, Microsoft Azure, CompTIA): vendor qualifications that strengthen your CV for specific technical roles.
