Why take this course?
This qualification is highly sought after
by employers and will teach you the skills
required to install, configure and maintain
computer network infrastructures.
Working in our specialist labs, learners
will have the opportunity to build PCs,
study the Microsoft Windows operating
systems, and build networks within a
virtualised environment providing hands
on experience and learning. Many of the
skills and concepts in this award are
transferable to other areas of computing
and technology.
What you will experience
- Acquire skills in configuring and maintaining a network infrastructure, working with a variety of networking technologies, including routers, switches, and wireless access points.
- Gain experience in designing, implementing, and maintaining network and cloud infrastructure, working with a variety of networking technologies and cloud-based platforms.
- Recognise the importance of security and integrity in a network and cloud infrastructure and implement intrusion detection and prevention systems.
Many of the skills and concepts in this award are transferable to other areas of computing and technology.
The award also offers opportunities for learners to develop the Meta Skills and professional attitudes required in this vital industry sector, along with awareness of legal and ethical obligations, including those relating to diversity, inclusion, and sustainability.
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 for a place on 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 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
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.
Entry requirements
- HNC Computing (NextGen) or
- HNC Cyber Security or
- HNC Computing: Software Development or
- HNC Computing: Technical Support
What you will get
HND Networking & Cloud Infrastructure (NextGen) (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.
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 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
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.
Entry requirements
- HNC Computing (NextGen) or
- HNC Cyber Security or
- HNC Computing: Software Development or
- HNC Computing: Technical Support
What you will get
HND Networking & Cloud Infrastructure (NextGen) (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.
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 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 eight universities across Scotland and great relationships with industry employers.
University
Our university partnerships ensure a smooth progression to further study. Subject to meeting conditions, entry to the following degrees may be possible after completing this course:
- Robert Gordon University (RGU) - BSc (Hons) Cyber Security - Year 3
- Edinburgh Napier University - BSc (Hons) Cyber Security & Forensics year 3 (subject to conditions)
- University of Highlands and Islands (UHI) - BSc (Hons) Computing year 3 (subject to conditions)
Employment
Successful completion will open career opportunities for you in computer networking.
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 C00072
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.