Higher National Diploma in Computer Systems Design and Development (including Games)

 

Introduction

This course is for people looking to build a career in computing or a related role. You will develop your computing skills across a wide variety of areas. It is also an ideal route to the final year of a Degree course in Computing Games Development.

 

Entry Requirements

A minimum of 120 points on the UCAS tariff, which includes success in at least one 6-unit subject in GCE or VCE A Level or success in a vocational 12-unit double award (excluding General Studies)
OR a recognised access course with at least 14 points (including 12 at Level 6)
OR business experience in the computing industry and IT-related skills (over 21s only).
NB: You will also be expected to take part in an interview to gain a place on the course. Key Skills UCAS points are accepted.

 

How long is the course?

The course runs for 34 weeks per year for two years during which candidates will attend directed study lessons for approximately 12.5 hours per week.

 

Programme Content

You will need to take units giving a total of 240 credits over two years, including:

Four core units:
• Computer Systems (15 Credits – level 4)
• Business Skills for e-Commerce (15 Credits – level 4)
• Employability and Professional Development (15 Credits – level 4)
• Project Design, Implementation and Evaluation (20 Credits – level 5)

175 Credits may be obtained from the following units (other units are available):
• Design a Small or Home Office (SOHO) Network (15 Credits – level 4)
• Systems Analysis and Design (15 Credits – level 4)
• Website Design (15 Credits – level 4)
• Multimedia Design and Authoring (15 Credits – level 4)
• Procedural Programming (15 Credits – level 4)

Level 5 units are delivered in the second year of the course and are tailored to the current cohort of students. A full list is available on request.

You may also be eligible for Microsoft Official Curriculum accreditation dependent on your success in some of the units above. Optional modules may change due to the differing interests of the student group.

 

Mode of Delivery

Lessons and lectures are underpinned by tutorial support and seminar presentations, assignments, individual study, group discussion, projects and Interactive Learning Technologies (ILT).

 

Method of Assessment

Ongoing assessment of coursework, assignments and projects.

 

Progression

Academically:
• Applied Computing
• Business Information Technology
• IT Software
• IT Networks

Careers:
• Computer Programmer
• Software/Systems Engineer
• Networking
• Database Designer
• Other IT-related careers

 

How to Apply

You will need to apply via UCAS.
UCAS Code: 004G
Institution Code: S77

If you need help with this process or advice and guidance, please contact our Student Support Services on 01384 344400 or email: student.services@stourbridge.ac.uk