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Computing HTQ
Level 5
Cheltenham
Course Overview
Full Time
Certificate
Certificate
Advance your IT career and build on your knowledge in one of three specialist pathways: Cyber Security, Software Engineering, or Network Engineering. Combining hands-on learning and technical theory, this course equips you with the skills, knowledge and confidence to enter employment or progress to a computing-related degree.
You’ll focus on applying specialist computing skills in real-world scenarios and core units across software, security, and networking. You’ll be able to specialise in one of three pathways:
- Cyber Security: Learn how to detect threats, manage risks, and safeguard organisational IT infrastructure and data.
- Software Engineering: Understand the full software development lifecycle, user requirements, and professional programming practices.
- Network Engineering: Explore LAN, WAN, protocols, and modern network technologies that support global connectivity.
You’ll study: Y1
- Programming
- Networking
- Database Design and Development
- Security
- Professional Practice
- Managing a Successful Computing Project
- Cyber Security
- Fundamentals of AI
Y2
- Information security management
- Forensics
- Business process support
- Internet of Things
- Applied cryptography in the Cloud
- Emerging Technologies
- Computing research project
Throughout the course you’ll gain vital problem-solving, project management, and critical thinking skills in preparation for roles in the fast-growing tech sector.
Afterwards, you’ll be able to progress onto further study and work towards a full degree.
You can look forward to:
- Working on ‘live’ projects provided by local businesses
- Learning in state-of-the-art facilities with access to specialist software and hardware
- Working on our own departmental network
- Guest lectures from industry professionals
- Small class sizes and more tailored support
- Hands-on, practical learning
- Optional enrichment activities
The Computing HTQ is awarded by Pearson Educational Ltd, and provides approved vendor-approved qualifications and professional body membership?
Assessment is coursework-based and includes written assignments, presentations, practical work, and project reports. All units are internally assessed and externally verified by Pearson. There are no exams. You’ll be assessed on your ability to apply theory to practice.
You must apply for this course via UCAS: www.ucas.com/apply
UCAS code for Computing HTQ is IHQ5
UCAS institution code for Gloucestershire College is G45
You’ll typically attend college 2 days per week. All specialist equipment and software are provided in the classroom.
Financial support and bursaries may be available to help with study costs. You can ask Student Services for more information. You may be eligible for tuition fee support through The Student Loans Company (www.slc.co.uk).
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Course Entry Point: Year 1
Typical Offers
48 UCAS tariff points:
- A Levels at grade DD
- BTEC National at grade PPP
- T Level at grade P (D or E)
- Access to Higher Education at grade P45
- Advanced Apprenticeship
Course Entry Point: Year 2 (Direct Entry)
Typical Offers
Higher National Certificate PASS (120 Credits) in a comparable and relevant subject
GCSE Maths and English Requirements
To study Higher Education at Gloucestershire College, normally applicants will be required to have GCSE English and Mathematics grade 4 (C) or above or have comparable/equivalent qualifications.
English Language Requirements
If English isn’t an applicant's first language they will be required to have a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 across all components. The College also accepts a range of international English qualifications and English language tests that demonstrate the required level of English language proficiency.
Gloucestershire College welcome any other/combinations of relevant qualifications that are comparable and/or equivalent to the typical course entry requirements.
Applicants that do not have recognised qualifications may still meet course entry requirements through alternative methods of assessment at the College’s discretion.
All queries regarding course entry criteria including the equivalency of qualifications and exceptional extenuating circumstances should be directed by email to the Admissions Department through applications@gloscol.ac.uk.
Shortlist and Apply
If you would like to apply for this course, please add it to your shortlist. You may then add further courses to your shortlist or continue to complete your application.
There is little left in our modern lives that isn’t affected by computers and technology. You’ll find computing at the centre of almost all businesses and, as a result, employment opportunities within the sector are huge.
We offer a range of qualifications that support a variety of interesting careers, from games and apps development, through to forensic computing and cyber security. Our industry-experienced lecturers will give you the knowledge and skills you need to develop your own computing competency, in an area that interests you.
A computing course is an ideal route to employment, or to progress on to higher-level qualifications at GC or university. You’ll have access to state-of-the-art equipment and software, including a dedicated network for computing students, so that you can get familiar with the latest technology and prepare for the systems you’ll use in the business world.
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