Why take this course?
In today’s tech-driven world, software development and cybersecurity skills are in high demand.
You’ll create real-world projects like building a website, developing your own app, and using scripts to test system vulnerabilities. With a curriculum designed to prep you for further computing qualifications, this course unlocks diverse career paths in software engineering, web development, IT security and more. This is an excellent opportunity to gain in-demand skills and experience that employers and universities look for.
Gain in-demand skills:
- Learn programming languages like Python, JavaScript, HTML and CSS.
- Develop your own mobile and desktop applications to start building a portfolio.
- Try out ethical hacking techniques used by professionals to strengthen security.
- Develop new technologies like data science and machine learning.
Advance your career:
- Gain skills and experience that tech employers and universities look for.
- Open diverse career paths in software engineering, web development, cyber security and more.
- Preparation for further computing qualifications like HNC and HND.
Hands-on, practical learning:
- Create real-world projects like fully functional websites and your own unique apps.
- Test out ethical hacking techniques in a safe virtual environment.
- Learn by doing with a curriculum focused on practical application.
What you will experience
You have the chance to master in-demand skills. These include:
- Building a website using HTML and CSS.
- Creating your own mobile and desktop application prototypes with visual, drag-and-drop software.
- Writing Python scripts to analyse data, automate common tasks, and implement algorithms.
- Solving problems through computational thinking and evaluating the effectiveness of your solutions.
- Using Linux tools and ethical hacking techniques to identify system vulnerabilities.
- Learning how to install software and hardware components while gaining proficiency in administration of operating systems.
- Exploring critical security topics like digital forensics, legal obligations and investigating how to mitigate cyber threats.
Key Facts
Everything you need to know before applying for this course.
How do I pay for this course?
If you are studying a full-time non-advanced course (below HNC level), 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 Saturday, 15 March 2025, from 10am to 2pm. Register your interest to receive email updates about the event.
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
Entry requirements
- Two National 5s at Grade C or above, preferably one in computing science or a STEM subject (Science, Technology, Engineering or Maths).
- Or a recognised computing course at SCQF Level 4/5 including Introduction to Computing Technologies.
What you will get
- Access to Software Development (SCQF Level 6) College certificate
- National 5 / Higher Computing Science
How do I pay for this course?
If you are studying a full-time non-advanced course (below HNC level), 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 Saturday, 15 March 2025, from 10am to 2pm. Register your interest to receive email updates about the event.
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
Entry requirements
- Two National 5s at Grade C or above, preferably one in computing science or a STEM subject (Science, Technology, Engineering or Maths).
- Or a recognised computing course at SCQF Level 4/5 including Introduction to Computing Technologies.
What you will get
- Access to Software Development (SCQF Level 6) College certificate
- National 5 / Higher Computing Science
How do I pay for this course?
If you are studying a full-time non-advanced course (below HNC level), 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 Saturday, 15 March 2025, from 10am to 2pm. Register your interest to receive email updates about the event.
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.
Education at NESCol
On successful completion of this course, you can progress to the following courses at North East Scotland College:
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
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Starts Aug 2025
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Duration 1 year
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Course Code C00077
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.