Computer Science

Course Information

Introduction

This specialist Access to Higher Education in Computing course is a one year fast-track course to help adult (19+) learners successfully progress into Computing Courses at universities. This will allow students to access university courses in Computer Science, Cyber Security, Software Development, AI and Robotics and many other tech-related courses.

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Overview

This is a 60 credit diploma, 15 of which are Study Skills (Pass/Fail) units which are designed to support universal skills which will be required at university, such as Academic Writing. The remaining 45 Credits are specific subject knowledge for Computing. These units are graded as Pass, Merit and Distinction. In total, the course is worth a maximum of 144 UCAS points which is more than enough to successfully apply to full university degree courses across the UK.

Who is this course for?

The course is designed for busy adult learners aged 19+ who we recognise will likely have other commitments. Delivery of the course will include both in-class taught sessions and online support. Course materials will be made available via Google Classroom, a virtual learning environment easily accessible via home PCs, laptops, tablets or mobile devices. This course is ideal for adults who are seeking a career change or who are looking for an entry route into University for a Computing-related degree.

If you do not meet the entry requirements, you could consider our Level 2 BTEC course, which will allow you to earn the Maths or English Language GCSE whilst also providing foundation knowledge which will aid you to complete your Access to HE Diploma the following year.

Course units/modules

You will study the following Study Skills units:

• Academic Writing Skills: 3 Credits
• Researching and Understanding Opportunities in Higher Education: 3 Credits
• Communication Skills: 6 Credits
• Use of IT: 3 credits

Note: Many of the above credits will be earned as part of the graded units below. These are the specialist units chosen specifically to provide you a range of skills and knowledge that will support your university aspirations:

• Emerging Technologies: 3 Credits
• Computer Architecture: 3 Credits
• Components of Computer Systems: 6 Credits
• Networks: 3 Credits
• Pure Maths and Calculus: 6 Credits
• Software Development: 6 credits
• Project Development: 6 Credits
• Encryption and Security Concepts: 6 Credits
• Database Development: 6 Credits

Entry requirements

The entry requirements for this course are GCSE Maths and GCSE English Language, both a grade 4(C) or above. You also must be at least 19 years of age on August 31st of this year. |The entry requirements for this course are GCSE Maths and GCSE English Language, both a grade 4(C) or above. You also must be at least 19 years of age on August 31st of this year.

Available Apprenticeships and Progression options

Students who have completed the Access to Higher Education Diploma in Computing have successfully progressed to university to study Bachelor of Science degrees including:

• Application Development
• Artificial Intelligence & Robotics
• Computer Science
• Computer Games Development
• Creative Computing
• Cyber Security
• Digital Forensics
• Interdisciplinary Science
• Software Development
• Software Engineering
• Web Development & Programming

Students have also progressed onto Higher Level apprenticeships in Computing.

Assessment types

You will be assessed via research reports essays and exams. You will also be assessed with practical assessments such as using a virtual tool to set of a network, creation of a database and the development of software, among others.