Computing for England (Cyber Security)

Course Information
Prepare for a career at the forefront of digital security with this Higher National Diploma (HND) in Computing for England (Cyber Security). This specialist pathway equips you with the technical knowledge and practical skills needed to tackle modern cyber threats and secure systems in an increasingly connected world.
You’ll develop a strong foundation in computing while focusing on advanced cyber security topics, including digital forensics, cryptography, cloud computing, and machine learning. The course also includes a project unit and professional practice module to ensure you graduate with the skills and confidence to transition into employment or progress to a top-up degree. With excellent facilities, small class sizes, and strong links to local tech employers, this course offers a supportive environment and real-world opportunities to launch your career.

Modules
Year One

• Programming

• Networking

• Professional Practice

• Database Design & Development

• Security

• Planning a Computing Project (Pearson set)

• Software Development Lifecycles

• Website Design & Development

Year Two

• Computing Research Project

• Business Process Support

• Cyber Security

• Digital Forensics

• Cloud Computing

• Cloud Cryptography

• Machine Learning

Key Features

• Specialist cyber security pathway within a recognised Higher Technical Qualification.

• Hands-on learning in purpose-built computing labs with industry-standard tools.

• Small group sizes for personalised support and high success rates.

• Strong links with local tech employers, offering real-world insight and opportunities.

• Progression routes to top-up degrees or higher-level apprenticeships.

• Career-focused curriculum aligned with industry needs.

Year 1 Modules include; Programming, Networking, Professional Practice, Database Design & Development, Security, Managing a Successful Computing Project, Website Design & Development, Software Development "Life Cycles"
Each of the modules are assessed by individual or group coursework assignments.
Year 2 Modules include; Business Intelligence, Cryptology, Forensics, Information Security Management, Network Management, and Virtual & Augmented Reality Development

The course will cover a range of units in the first year, and then specialise in the second year. All materials will be provided, some of which will be hosted by AWS cloud systems.
Assessment will be covered by written reports, practical activities (some of which will be hosted in the Cloud by AWS), presentations, team work and other methods. There are no exams. However, learners who successfully complete year 1 will be eligible to apply for and study the AWS qualification in Cloud Fundamentals. This additional qualification is external to this study programme, and may involve an additional fee.
At Level 4, students develop a broad knowledge and awareness of key aspects of the cloud sector through six core units, including a unit assessed through a Pearson-set assignment. To complete the Level 4, 8 units must be achieved.