Program Overview

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Computing HND

Prepare yourself for further study or employment in the computing industry. Learn about topics such as programming, networking, business intelligence and IT security.

Key information

UCAS code:

G402

Typical offer:

An A level in a computing related subject, or Level 3 vocational equivalent, or equivalent industry experience in a relevant field

Study mode and duration

• 2 years full-time

Start date

• September 2025

Course information

Overview

If you're seaching for a way into computing – whether that's creating smartphone apps, connecting businesses, or helping communities talk to each other – you'll find this Higher National Diploma (HND) Computing course a smart answer.

You'll learn the computing methods that lie behind the systems millions of people rely on daily, including programming, networking, business intelligence and IT security. You'll also use your learning to solve practical issues in placement and community project opportunities. When you graduate, you'll be prepared for work in the computing industry, or for top-up study to convert your HND into a Bachelor's degree.

This course is open to UK and EU students, and to international students who don't need a Student Route Visa.

Course highlights

• Learn the skills you need for your computing career, studying with staff who have industry experience
• Get experience of working in the computing sector through a work placement
• Shape your studies to match your interests and work aspirations
• Discover how to enhance lives with your computing skills, and work on community projects and events
• Study at Isle of Wight College in Newport, with access to the latest computing learning resources, journals and publications
• Have access to the University's student support services and community including the Library, study support, sport and recreation facilities, and the Student Union
• Skip the UCAS process and apply directly to our BSc (Hons) Computing, if you decide you want to continue your studies

Entry requirements

HND Computing entry requirements

September 2025 start

Typical offers

• An A level in a computing related subject, or Level 3 vocational equivalent (diploma / extended diploma), or equivalent industry experience in a relevant field.
• T-levels – Merit
  Acceptable T Level Subjects: T Level in Digital: Digital Production, Design and Development, T Level in Digital Business Services, T Level in Digital Support and Services, T Level in Science, T Level in Engineering and Manufacturing Design and Development, T Level in Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering and Manufacturing, T Level in Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control, T Level in Accounting (If mathematical components are passed), T Level in Finance (If mathematical components are passed)
• BTECs (Extended Diplomas) – PPP

Selection process

All shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an interview, to which you should bring a portfolio/e-portfolio of recent work. This interview will include an admissions test and a tour of the facilities.

You may need to have studied specific subjects – find full entry requirements and other qualifications we accept.

English language requirements

• English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.0 with no component score below 5.5.

See alternative English language qualifications

We also accept other standard English tests and qualifications, as long as they meet the minimum requirements of your course.

If you don't meet the English language requirements yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

Careers and opportunities

The computing expertise you develop on this course will set you up for employment in areas including systems design and analysis, commercial or scientific systems development and web development.

What jobs can you do with a Computing HND?

Roles you could go into could include:

• Business continuity analyst
• Software engineer
• Web developer
• Systems analyst
• Computer programmer
• Online course developer

If you want to continue your studies, you can top up your HND to a Bachelor's degree by joining the final year of the BSc (Hons) Computing course.

Modules

Each module on this course is worth a certain number of credits. In each year, you need to study modules worth 120 credits.

Modules currently being studied

Year 1 Year 2

Computer Systems Architecture - 15 credits Understand the relationships

between operating systems and CPUs in this foundational module, and master the skills you need to maintain and troubleshoot secure computer systems.

You'll explore the integrated hardware and software components that enable data input, output and processing, and learn to diagnose and solve technical issues in computer systems architecture.

Database Design and Development - 15 credits Design and build a robust

database to meet a specialised business need in this practical module.

Starting from a substantial industry problem, you'll evaluate an existing system design, develop a fully functional relational database, and test your work against user needs and system requirements. On successful completion of the module, you'll be prepared to develop, test and document industry-standard databases that business relies upon.

Managing A Successful Computing Project - 15 credits Lead a practical

tech project from vision to implementation and assessment.

In this self-driven module, you'll define ambitious aims backed by research and stakeholder input, then use agile project management to pace your workflow. You'll analyse and develop pragmatic solutions to your selected task, before reflecting on and presenting your results. When you finish the module, you'll be ready for roles managing projects central to an organization’s tech strategy.

Networking - 15 credits Understand the high-performance networks

powering modern organizations and master protocols transferring data globally.

In this module, you'll optimize networks for speed, cost and reliability, grasp wired and wireless systems, configuring hardware and software to route information securely. When you complete this module, you’ll be ready to design, implement and manage critical infrastructure.

Professional Practice - 15 credits Show you're a highly employable

computing graduate with diverse professional capabilities in this career- focused module.

Through a series of team-based tasks in research, design and reporting, you'll develop career skills from communication to critical thinking, teamwork to self-directed learning. You'll learn to present your abilities for business, explore professional development models, and reflect on your readiness to join the workforce. When you complete this module, you'll be ready to stand out as an adaptable, career-ready candidate.

Programming - 15 credits Pick up fundamental coding capabilities with

this introduction to algorithms and programming paradigms.

You'll explore key approaches like procedural and object-oriented programming, learn how language structures communicate with machines, and evaluate Integrated Development Environments (IDE). You'll then use your learning to design and implement an algorithm in a language of your choice, using an appropriate IDE.

Security - 15 credits Develop expertise for safeguarding critical

systems and data assets.

You'll assess physical and IT vulnerabilities to escalating cyber risks in this module. Through topics including network design, firewalls, encryption and access controls, you'll learn to manage IT security. You'll also explore organisational security, remote access and the need for frequent vulnerability testing. You'll emerge from this module with skills to manage security risks faced by customers and stakeholders.

Website Design and Development - 15 credits Master the services that

let you host, manage and access a secure website, and create compelling pages following modern best practice.

In this module, you'll study the back-end technologies for web infrastructure, and understand the possibilities of the systems you use. You'll also learn design principles and web languages to deliver an intuitive front end for your users.

Advanced Programming - 15 credits Build reactive, resilient software at

scale, master object oriented principles, and implement elegant design patterns in this module.

You'll model complex architectures, design with Unified Modelling Language (UML) and learn best practices regarding containers, generics and effective exception handling.

Business Intelligence - 15 credits Investigate how business

intelligence (BI) systems can process information and spot patterns for strategy decisions.

In this module, you'll examine tools, techniques and technologies from data mining to visualisations, and leverage them to solve business problems.

Computing Research Project - 30 credits Showcase your analytical and

technical skills in an intensive and self-directed computing investigation.

You'll set the aims and methodology of your project, building on literature reviews, then work toward developing either software artefacts or research outcomes that meet your chosen brief. Finally, you'll reflect on your results, both in terms of meeting your research aims and of developing your personal research skills.

Database Management Systems - 15 credits Design, develop and administer

the robust database systems underpinning modern digital services.

In this module, you'll compare DBMS platforms, develop a database management system in your chosen platform, and demonstrate its system admin tools. When you complete the module, you'll be able to demonstrate your ability to create, test and manage a client's database systems.

Digital Technologies as a Catalyst for Change - 15 credits In this

module, you'll explore the emerging technologies changing the digital landscape, while developing the strategic abilities to handle organisations change.

You'll begin by studying innovations across industries, and how leading enterprises adapt to new capabilities, then focus on a digital change initiative for a specific organisation. On completion, you'll have the understanding and skills to help businesses adapt to the challenges of future digital technology.

Operating Systems - 15 credits Understand the essential software

managing computer hardware and resources.

In this module, you'll compare graphical interfaces, command line systems and kernel architectures. You'll review techniques for memory allocation, multi- tasking, IO handling and network communication, then apply your learning in Windows, Linux and Unix servers, optimizing for security, efficiency and reliability. Whether building skills for administration roles or pursuing specializations in embedded systems, you'll gain foundations enabling operating systems mastery.

User Experience and Interface Design - 15 credits Craft digital

experiences that intuitively connect human and computer.

In this module, you'll research how interfaces can be designed to meet user needs and attitudes, then plan and test a user interface for a specific brief. You'll also evaluate user experience testing methods, and learn to iterate your designs in response to feedback.

Changes to course content

We use the best and most current research and professional practice alongside feedback from our students to make sure course content is relevant to your future career or further studies.

Therefore, some course content may change over time to reflect changes in the discipline or industry. If a module doesn’t run, we’ll let you know as soon as possible and help you choose an alternative module.

How you'll spend your time

You'll normally spend 2 days a week at the Isle of Wight College, and you'll need to do some reading and additional studies above those contact hours. Your days in college will include lectures, seminars, workshops and discussion groups, tutorials and practical sessions. You'll work in supportive small group environments with experienced teaching staff, as well as studying by yourself.

Term dates

You'll follow the Isle of Wight College term dates on this course.

Supporting your learning

Even though you'll study at one of our partner colleges, you'll still be a student of the University of Portsmouth.

You'll have access to support via video, phone and face-to-face from University teaching and support staff to enhance your learning experience and help you succeed. You can build your personalised network of support from the following University services:

Types of support

Academic skills support

During term time, Faculty Academic Skills Tutors (AST) are available for bookable 1-to-1 sessions, small group sessions and online sessions. These sessions are tailored to your needs.

Support is available for skills including:

• University study
• Getting into the right study mindset
• Note-taking and note-making skills
• Referencing
• Presentation skills
• Time management, planning, and goal setting
• Critical thinking
• Avoiding plagiarism

If you have a disability or need extra support, the Additional Support and Disability Centre (ASDAC) will give you help, support and advice.

Wellbeing and mental health support

Our online Learning Well mini-course will help you plan for managing the challenges of learning and student life, so you can fulfil your potential and have a great student experience.

You can get personal, emotional and mental health support from our Student Wellbeing Service, in person and online. This includes 1–2–1 support as well as courses and workshops that help you better manage stress, anxiety or depression.

Disability advice and additional support

If you require extra support because of a disability or additional learning need our specialist team can help you.

They'll help you to

• discuss and agree on reasonable adjustments
• liaise with other University services and facilities, such as the library
• access specialist study skills and strategies tutors, and assistive technology tutors, on a 1-to-1 basis or in groups
• liaise with external services

Library support

Library staff are available in person or by email, phone, or online chat to help you make the most of the University’s library resources. You can also request one-to-one appointments and get support from a librarian who specialises in your subject area.

The library is open 24 hours a day, every day, in term time.

Course costs and funding

Tuition fees

September 2025 start

• UK/Channel Islands and Isle of Man students – £6,355 per year (subject to annual increase)
• EU students – £6,355 a year (including Transition Scholarship – subject to annual increase)
• International (non-EU) students – £19,200 per year (subject to annual increase)

This course is only open to international students who don't need a Student Route Visa.

Funding your studies

Find out how to fund your studies, including the scholarships and bursaries you could get. You can also find more about tuition fees and living costs, including what your tuition fees cover.

Applying from outside the UK? Find out about funding options for international students.

Tuition fees terms and conditions

Additional costs

These course-related costs aren’t included in the tuition fees. So you'll need to budget for them when you plan your spending.

Recommended reading

You’ll study up to 6 modules a year. You may have to read several recommended books or textbooks for each module.

You can borrow most of these from the Library. If you buy these, they may cost up to £60 each.

General costs

We recommend that you budget £100 a year for photocopying, memory sticks, DVDs and CDs, printing charges, binding and specialist printing.

Final year project

If your final year includes a major project, there could be cost for transport or accommodation related to your research activities. The amount will depend on the project you choose.

Accommodation and living costs

Contact our Housing Support Team if you need help and advice about accommodation.

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