Entry requirements
- HNC Computing (NextGen) or
- Year 1 of HND Computing: Software Development or
- Year 1 of HND Computing: Technical Support
Why take this course?
Students will learn programming languages
including Python, SQL Database, NoSQL and Software Development, preparing you for a career in this ever changing industry.
There is a focus on human-computer
interaction and making your programmes
and software more user friendly. Smart
home devices such as the Amazon Alexa,
Google Home and even the Apple Homepod
were developed using the skills you will learn on this course. Students will also be able to take part in exciting software events such as the Hackathon which are hosted at our partner universities.
What you will experience
- Python and Java
- SQL DataBase and Software Development
Students on this course can apply for one our paid intern positions working on the student IT Helpdesk. This is a great opportunity to put into practice what you have learnt while supporting students at College.
This HND is part of the NextGen qualifications from SQA. It is a one year course at SCQF Level 8 and entry is via completing the one year course HNC Computing (NextGen) at SCQF Level 7.
NextGen qualifications allow more time in class focusing on larger, fewer subjects in more depth, increasing learning time, integrating learning, teaching and assessment approaches which reduces the assessment load. The traditional Graded Unit is also replaced with a Project and Portfolio that students work on throughout the year allowing students to develop and showcase their own work to Universities and potential employers.
NextGen courses offer more than just the traditional subjects, they are designed to develop the individuals Meta Skills, the skills to thrive in an ever changing environment, developing self management, social intelligence and innovation.
Key Facts
Everything you need to know before applying to this course.
What you will need
As this is a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) course you will require a laptop that can run virtual software, as well as running software compilers like Python IDLE.
What you will get
HND Computing: Software Development (SCQF Level 8).
This is a SQA NextGen course.
NextGen is a new approach to Higher National qualifications introduced by the SQA and designed to be adaptable and flexible to respond to the needs of the employment market.
English language requirements
If English is not your first language, please view the specific English language requirements for this course.
How do I pay for this course?
If you are studying a full-time advanced course (HNC, HND or above), you may be entitled to funding.
How to apply to NESCol
You can apply for a full-time course online or using a paper form.
Open Days
Open Days are a great way to find out more about this course and what it’s like to study at NESCol. You will see facilities, meet lecturers and get a feel for life as a student.
Our next Open Day will take place on 15 March 2025.
Do you need extra support?
NESCol can provide extra support to students who have additional support needs, including:
- learning difficulties or disabilities
- physical or sensory disabilities
- mental health and wellbeing concerns
- are care experienced or young carers
How do I cover the cost of living?
You may be eligible for additional funding to support the cost of living, including travel costs, cost of materials, and childcare.
Find out more about the types of funding and whether you are eligible here
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)
This course is a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) programme. This means that you are required to have access to your own laptop computer, netbook or similar device in class each day that you are in college.
If you do not already own a suitable device you can apply for a student loan from SAAS, if eligible, to fund the cost of purchasing a device.
College transport to Fraserburgh
A bus is available to Fraserburgh Campus from a number of locations for a fee. Please contact collegetransport@nescol.ac.uk for more information.
Opportunities
Whether you wish to progress in your studies or enter the world of work, North East Scotland College has excellent progression opportunities, with links to several universities across Scotland and strong relationships with industry employers.
University
- Robert Gordon University (RGU) - BSc/BSc (Hons) Computing (Application Software Development) year 3
- Robert Gordon University (RGU) - BSc/BSc (Hons) Digital Media, year 3
- Edinburgh Napier University - BEng (Hons) Software Engineering year 3
- Abertay University - BSc (Hons) Computing year 3
- University of the Highlands & Islands (UHI) - BSc (Hons)Computing year 3
- The Open University Top-up - BSc(Hons) Computing and IT Practice
Employment
Those who successfully complete this course often secure work as:
- IT Support Technician
- Software Developer
- Web Designer
- Web Developer
- Web Support Officer
Student Stories
Danielle Craig
Computing
HND Web Development (including Digital Design & Development)
“I loved that the course covered a broad range of topics, from animation and graphic design to programming”
Read more about Danielle's story
Rebecca Clements
Computing
HND Web Development (including Digital Design and Development)
“I’ve had a passion for computing from a very young age. I decided when my son was starting school that it was the best time to go back and follow a dream I had put on hold.”
Read more about Rebecca's story
Ella-May Quinn
Computing
HND Web Development (including Digital Design & Development)
“I really enjoyed the course and the hands on nature of the learning. Being able to build websites was great and I got a real sense of achievement from the work we were asked to produce.”
Read more about Ella-May's story
Scott Duncan
Computing
HND Digital Development & Design (Games Development)
“I feel the course has prepared me well for my new role and I’m excited to put my new skills into practice and have the opportunity to do something I love every day! “
Read more about Scott's story
Martin Meszaros
Computing
HND Cyber Security
“I really have so much to thank NESCol for. I’m sure it is an experience that will have a positive impact throughout my life.”
Read more about Martin's story
Shay McGillivray
Computing
HND Technologies in Business
Shay’s HND has given him knowledge and skills that are vital for running a business today including cyber resilience, e-commerce solutions and social media and knows the course has given him a solid grounding in business operations, technology and project management which will serve him well for the continued success of their family business.
Read more about Shay's story
Beata Tetkowska
Computing
HND Technologies in Business
“I would definitely recommend NESCol to everyone who wants to study computing. No matter what age, or if this is their first course, or – if like me – you want to change your career. It’s a very friendly environment, well quipped when it comes to computing facilities and – most importantly – with very, very supportive and highly knowledgeable lecturers.”
Read more about Beata's story
Louise Findlay
Computing
HND Digital Design & Development (Web Development)
“I enjoy Computing because it’s such a broad field. There’s a variety of skills to learn and you can easily develop a niche. No two projects will be the same and since it’s such a fast-paced field, there are always new developments to keep abreast of.
“The computing courses give you lots of practical skills and a strong foundation to expand upon.”
Read more about Louise's story
George Madgett
Computing
HNC Computing
“By sharing my experience I hope I can inspire anyone with autism.”
Read more about George's story
Gayle Duguid
Computing
HND Computing: Software Development
“I would say to anyone thinking of returning to learning after time away – just do it.”
Read more about Gayle's story
Applications
North East Scotland College offers hundreds of courses each year, apply for one now.
You can apply for a place on this course by completing an online application form, which you can access using the ‘Apply Online’ button. Once completed, this will be received by our Admissions Team who will then process your application.
Aberdeen City Campus
-
Starts Aug 2025
-
Duration 1 year
-
Course Code C00073
Completed forms should be signed and returned to us at the following freepost address:
The Student Information & Admissions Manager
North East Scotland College
FREEPOST RTJJ-TXBA-AEZS
Aberdeen City Campus
Gallowgate
Aberdeen
Scotland
UK AB25 1BN
Full-time Application Form
Full-time Application Process
If you take up a place on a College course, at the start of the course you will be asked to complete an enrolment form. In completing the form and/or taking up a place on a College course, you will enter into a contract with the College and be bound by the North East Scotland College Standard Terms and Conditions of Study. Copies of the Terms and Conditions are available for inspection on notice boards and at various locations throughout the College, at the College Reception, on the College website: nescol.ac.uk, or can be obtained on request from the Student Funding and Admissions Manager, North East Scotland College, Aberdeen City Campus, Gallowgate, Aberdeen AB25 1BN. Please note that courses are offered subject to (a) there being sufficient numbers of enrolments and (b) the availability of resources. The College reserves its right (i) not to run courses where the number of students is considered insufficient or where resources are unavailable and (ii) in certain circumstances, to refuse admission to an individual applicant.
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