Higher National Diploma in Computing

Program Overview

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Higher National Diploma in Computing

Course Description

The purpose of Pearson BTEC Higher Nationals is to develop students as independent-thinking professionals who can meet the demands of employers and adapt to a constantly changing world. The qualifications aim to widen access to higher education and improve the career prospects of those who take them.

Target Group

The Pearson BTEC Higher National qualifications in Computing are aimed at students wanting to continue their education through applied learning. Pearson BTEC Higher Nationals provide a wide-ranging study of the computing sector and are designed for students who wish to pursue or advance their career in computing.

Target Audience

• 16+

Course Language

English

Where you will learn

Domain Building, 102/104, Constitution Street, Mosta

Course Details

What you will study

• Year 1
  • hndit - Year 1
• Year 2
  • hndit2 - Year 2

Core Modules

• Programming
  • 188 Learning Hours
  • 7.5 ECTS Credits
  • 15 UK Credits
  • This unit introduces students to the core concepts of programming with an introduction to algorithms and the characteristics of programming paradigms.
• Networking
  • 188 Learning Hours
  • 7.5 ECTS Credits
  • 15 UK Credits
  • The aim of this unit is to provide students with wider background knowledge of computer networking essentials, how they operate, protocols, standards, security considerations and the prototypes associated with a range of networking technologies.
• Professional Practice
  • 188 Learning Hours
  • 7.5 ECTS Credits
  • 15 UK Credits
  • This unit provides a foundation for good practice in a variety of contexts.
• Database Design and Development
  • 188 Learning Hours
  • 7.5 ECTS Credits
  • 15 UK Credits
  • The aim of this unit is to give students opportunities to develop an understanding of the concepts and issues relating to database design and development, as well as to provide the practical skills to translate that understanding into the design and creation of complex databases.
• Security
  • 188 Learning Hours
  • 7.5 ECTS Credits
  • 15 UK Credits
  • The aim of this unit is to provide students with knowledge of security, associated risks and how security breaches impact on business continuity.
• Managing a Successful Computing Project
  • 188 Learning Hours
  • 7.5 ECTS Credits
  • 15 UK Credits
  • The aim of this unit is to offer students an opportunity to demonstrate the skills required for managing and implementing a project.
• Computer Systems Architecture
  • 188 Learning Hours
  • 7.5 ECTS Credits
  • 15 UK Credits
  • This unit introduces students to the foundations of computer systems architecture together with the integrated hardware and software components and subsystems that enable and allow data to be input, processed and output.
• Website Design and Development
  • 188 Learning Hours
  • 7.5 ECTS Credits
  • 15 UK Credits
  • This unit introduces students to the underpinning services required to host, manage and access a secure website before introducing and exploring the methods used by designers and developers to blend back-end technologies (server-side) with frontend technologies (client-side).
• Computing Research Project
  • 375 Learning Hours
  • 15 ECTS Credits
  • 30 UK Credits
  • The aim of this unit is to offer students the opportunity to engage in sustained research in a specific field of study.
• Business Intelligence
  • 188 Learning Hours
  • 7.5 ECTS Credits
  • 15 UK Credits
  • This unit introduces students to a range of tools, techniques and technologies for acquiring data and processing this into meaningful information that can be used to support business functions and processes.
• Network Security
  • 188 Learning Hours
  • 7.5 ECTS Credits
  • 15 UK Credits
  • This unit introduces students to the fundamental principles of Network Security practices.
• Cloud Computing
  • 188 Learning Hours
  • 7.5 ECTS Credits
  • 15 UK Credits
  • This unit is designed to develop an understanding of the fundamental concept of Cloud Computing, cloud segments, and cloud deployment models, the need for Cloud Computing, an appreciation of issues associated with managing cloud service architecture and to develop a critical awareness of Cloud Computing based projects.
• Advanced Programming
  • 188 Learning Hours
  • 7.5 ECTS Credits
  • 15 UK Credits
  • The aim of this unit is to familiarise students with these features and their best practices to ensure that their code is in line with industry standards.
• Prototyping
  • 188 Learning Hours
  • 7.5 ECTS Credits
  • 15 UK Credits
  • This unit introduces students to the role, basic concepts and benefits of prototyping in the design and development process of software applications.
• E-Commerce & Strategy
  • 188 Learning Hours
  • 7.5 ECTS Credits
  • 15 UK Credits
  • Within this unit students will gain an understanding of how and why businesses and organisations develop E-Commerce strategies: to remain competitive in the global market.

How will you learn

ICT is both an academic and a practical subject so you will be taught with a flexible classroom-based method, through different ways, such as lectures, discussions and hands-on activities. We provide you with key reading and research activities, and you will make the most of our learning portal.

Our classrooms are equipped with PCs running Windows 7 and/or Linux and a whole range of industry-standard and educational software from Microsoft, Oracle, Adobe, and others.

Most of our students bring their own laptops, but this is not essential since you can use the school’s facilities. Our Learning Portal Moodle allows you to access electronic learning resources, as well as electronic discussions with lecturers and other students.

Where you will learn

Lessons will be held in class in our premises at Domain Building, 102/104, Constitution Street, Mosta.

Assessment

Method of Assessment

The purpose of assessment is to ensure that effective learning has taken place of the content of each unit. Evidence of this learning, or the application of the learning, is required for each unit. The assessment of the evidence relates directly to the assessment criteria for each unit. The grading of BTEC Higher National qualifications is at the unit and the qualification level.

Assessment is carried out through home-based assignments, which means you will have plenty of time to dedicate to each criteria. By having small groups, you will have more time for discussions where you can share your experiences at your place of work.

Structure of Programme

Teaching, Learning and Assessment Procedures

This programme offers both variety and flexibility, ensuring that the learning and assessment activities are relevant and of value for future progression. Throughout this programme learners are continuously and actively involved in all teaching methods including;

• Lectures
• Hands-on activities
• Seminar
• Workshops
• Enquiry-based learning

Lectures and other teaching methods are delivered interactively, with discussion sessions and tutorials in the form of hands-on and problem-solving activities building on the relevant academic study skills including concepts and practices.

These activities help learners to use different research and online tools. Learners are asked to reflect on the tools and activities, inviting discussions with regards to their own knowledge and skill and adapt these tools to their current situations and contexts. Feedback is given where appropriate throughout the course.

Learners are also introduced to appropriate websites and other related material for further development of their knowledge and skills.

Grading System

Summary of grades

In order to achieve a pass in a unit

• All learning outcomes and associated assessment criteria have been met

In order to achieve a merit in a unit

• Pass requirements achieved
• All merit grade descriptors achieved and all prescribed indicative characteristics

In order to achieve a distinction in a unit

• Pass and merit requirements achieved
• All distinction grade descriptors achieved and all prescribed indicative characteristics

Entry Requirement

• Have an A’Level standard of education; OR
• A relevant qualification at MQF/EQF Level 4;
• For students whose first language is not English, competence in English must be demonstrated through an overall IELTS score of 6.0, or equivalent qualification

Students should produce copies of certificates, full CV in EuroFormat and passport-size photo.

Fees & Funding

Get Qualified Scheme

MFHEA Licence Nº: 2011 – TC – 01

Further and Higher Education Institution

Testimonials

• Janson Chetcuti

“My experience with Domain academy was excellent. The lecturers were very helpful and flexible throughout the whole journey.

Throughout the learning experience at Domain Academy, I have enhanced my knowledge on IT. After successfully completing the course, I have managed to get promoted from ICT Support Officer to Senior Systems Analyst, thanks to the knowledge gained while studying at Domain Academy.

Will be looking forward to continuing my studies at Domain Academy.”

Program Outline

Outline:

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Year 1

• Programming Core Module
• Networking Core Module
• Professional Practice Core Module
• Database Design and Development Core Module
• Security Core Module
• Managing a Successful Computing Project Core Module
• Computer Systems Architecture Core Module
• Website Design and Development Core Module
• Computing Research Project Core Module

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Year 2

• Business Intelligence Core Module
• Network Security Core Module
• Cloud Computing Core Module
• Advanced Programming Core Module
• Prototyping Core Module
• E-Commerce & Strategy Core Module

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Teaching:

• Flexible classroom-based method, through different ways, such as lectures, discussions and hands-on activities.
• Key reading and research activities
• Learning portal
• Classrooms equipped with PCs running Windows 7 and/or Linux and a whole range of industry-standard and educational software from Microsoft, Oracle, Adobe, and others.
• Students can bring their own laptops
• Learning Portal Moodle allows you to access electronic learning resources, as well as electronic discussions with lecturers and other students.
• Lessons will be held in class in our premises at Domain Building, 102/104, Constitution Street, Mosta.

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Assessment:

• Home-based assignments
• Small group discussions to share experiences at the workplace
• Feedback is given where appropriate throughout the course