HND Computing for England (HTQ) - Cyber Security Pathway

Level 1 Diploma

Course Location

College

Stockport College

Location

Stockport College

Further Details

Age

University Level

Department

Computing

Course Start Date

Monday 15th September 2025

Course Duration

Full-time, 1 Year

Course Time

Course Fee

£ 0.00

Course Code

SPQ-HI4H-1300

Course Overview

This HTQ Level 5 course is designed to equip students with a robust skill set and provide in-depth knowledge across diverse facets of computing. The first year includes a range of subjects relating to computer fundamentals including programming, networking and website design. This provides the background knowledge required to approach the more advanced subjects in year 2 and to complete the final research project.

Over the two year programme, students will gain a comprehensive and strategic understanding of information security within the context of modern computing environments. Content covers the principles and practices of safeguarding sensitive information. Emphasis is placed on developing robust security policies, risk management and the implementation of security controls. Applied cryptography in the cloud equips students with the knowledge and practical skills to secure data in cloud environments. This unit explores cryptographic techniques tailored to the cloud, ensuring that students can implement robust encryption strategies in teh dynamic and distributed nature of cloud computing.

Course Requirements

Whilst applications are considered on an individual basis, offers are usually based on a requirement to have:

64 UCAS points from either:

– A L3 qualification in a relevant subject
– GCE A levels
– An Access to Higher Education Diploma in a relevant area

Successful applicants should have 4 GCSEs at grade C (grade 4) or above including Maths and English

Mature students with relevant work experience and/or professional qualifications are welcome to apply and may be invited to interview

What you will Learn

The course further addresses the critical aspect of digital forensics in a specialist unit. Students will gain insights into investigative techniques and tools essential for identifying, preserving and analysing digital evidence. Recognising the integral role of information security within broader business processes, the unit on business process support explores the intersection of technology and organisational workflows.

Assessment

Students are assessed by centre-developed internal assignments and Pearson-set assignments, which target industry-specific skills. Units are assessed using a variety of methods including reports, presentations, practical workshops and portfolios and evidence.

Progression

Students may complete our 1 year BSc (Hons) Computing (Cyber Security) top-up, awarded by Sheffield Hallam University. Alternative top up degree courses include:

BSc (Hons) Cyber Security and Forensic Computing
BSc (Hons) Computing and Information Technologies
BSc (Hons) Digital Technologies (Cyber Security)

Career Options

On completion students may develop their career in this sector by entering or continuing existing employment. Students may consider roles such as:

Cybersecurity analyst
Penetration tester
IT Security engineer
IT Security consultant
Forensic computer analyst

Mandatory Units

At Level 4 you will study:

Programming
Networking
Professional Practice
Database design and development
Security
Planning a computing project
Cyber security
Website design and development

At Level 5 you will study:

Computing research project
Business process support
Applied cryptography in the cloud
Forensics
Information security management
Internet of Things
Client/Server Computing Systems

Contact Details

Extra Costs Involved

There are no essential additional costs to this course, however, you will need access to a suitable laptop or similar for work outside of teaching hours.

Exam Validation Body

Pearson Education Ltd

Hours Per Week

12 hours per week

How Long To Complete

2 years

Programme Structure

The Higher National Diploma (HND) is a Level 5 qualification made up of 240 credits studied over two years

Contact Details

For further information please email HEenquiries@tcg.ac.uk

Disclaimer

Although every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained within this document is accurate, there may be changes to this programme and provision. We will endeavour to keep prospective and current students updated where appropriate and when the information becomes available.
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