Access to Higher Education Diploma in Computer Science
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Overview
The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Computer Science) is designed to give adult learners an intensive introduction to the field of computer science, as well as boosting study skills to prepare for higher education.
Course Breakdown
Topics You Will Study
- Study Techniques
- Mathematics for Computing
- Cyber Forensics
- Computer Systems
- Database Development
- Networking
- Installing, Configuring and Maintaining Systems
- Software Design and Development
- Event Driving Programming
- Designing and Developing a Website
- Network Security
- Cyber Threats and Legislation
Duration
1 year (2 days per week)
Entry
September
Department
Department of Digital
Entry Requirements
Academic Requirements
- GCSE English (Language or Literature) and Maths at grade 4 (grade C) or equivalent
Supporting Documents Required
Applicants will also be required to submit a reference from a previous or current employment role.
Guaranteed Progression
Students who achieve 56 UCAS points or more from this qualification will automatically be guaranteed a place on a degree course at University College Birmingham.
Key Information
Teaching and Assessment
You will be assessed through coursework assignments and projects.
Fees
The fee for this course is £3,022.
Career Opportunities
This course is designed to enable your progression onto higher education. Depending on entry requirements, you could continue onto a degree at University College Birmingham, such as Computer Science or Cyber Security.
With further study, possible future career options open to you include:
- Network administrator
- Systems analyst
- IT project manager
- IT consultant
- IT support technician
- Database developer
Why Choose This College Course?
- RECOGNISED QUALIFICATION – This Access to Higher Education Diploma will give you a nationally-recognised qualification to help meet the entry requirements for university.
- BOOST YOUR SKILLS – Gain the necessary study skills and key knowledge for your chosen subject or career, as well as the independent learning skills needed for university study.
- GREAT LEARNING SUPPORT – Enjoy a positive and supportive learning experience that will develop your skills and confidence to progress onto higher education.
- MOVE UP TO UNIVERSITY – Continue your learning journey to the next level at University College Birmingham, such as on our computing degree.
Accreditations, Endorsements and Partnerships
University College Birmingham works with a wide range of organisations to ensure you receive the best possible training and qualifications recognised by industry.
Meet Your Tutors
- Edward Bird, Deputy Dean for Strategy, Recruitment and Innovation
Other Courses You May Like
- Travel and Tourism Level 3
- Computing and ICT Level 3
- Access to Higher Education Diploma (Business)
- Business Level 3 National Foundation / National Extended Diploma
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
- Objective: This one-year Access to Higher Education Diploma (Computer Science) aims to give adult learners an intensive introduction to computer science while boosting their study skills for higher education.
- Description: The Access to HE Diploma is a Level 3 qualification equivalent to A-levels. It provides individuals without traditional qualifications with the necessary skills to progress to university and a subsequent career in a relevant field.
- Outcome: This program prepares students for various industry careers, such as software engineer, IT technician, website content manager, or database developer.
Outline:
- Content: This program covers various areas in the field of information technology (IT), including programming and mathematics, web design, networking, cyber security, databases, and systems.
- Structure: The course is delivered over one year with lectures and practical sessions held two days per week.
- Individual Modules:
- Study Techniques
- Mathematics for Computing
- Cyber Forensics
- Computer Systems
- Database Development
- Networking
- Installing, Configuring and Maintaining Systems
- Software Design and Development
- Event Driven Programming
- Designing and Developing a Website
- Network Security
- Cyber Threats and Legislation
Assessment:
- Methods: Students are assessed through coursework assignments and projects.
Teaching:
- Methods: The course employs a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, tutorials, practical sessions, and independent study.
- Unique Approaches: The program emphasizes independent learning skills crucial for university study.
Careers:
- Potential Paths: Graduates can pursue various careers in the computing sector, including network administrator, systems analyst, IT project manager, IT consultant, IT support technician, and database developer.
- Outcomes: Graduates have a high success rate in gaining employment or further education after completing the program.
Other:
- Facilities: Students have access to state-of-the-art computer labs and the Digital Creative Studio with industry-standard media equipment.
- Financial Aid: Student Finance England may write off outstanding Advanced Learner Loan balances upon completion of a higher education course.
- Progression: Students achieving 56 UCAS points are guaranteed a place on a degree course at University College Birmingham.
Summary:
The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Computer Science) at University College Birmingham is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for a successful career in the IT sector.
