Computing Plus for England

Pearson BTEC Higher National Certificate in Computing Plus provide a wide-ranging study of the computing sector and is designed for students who wish to pursue or advance their career in computing. In addition to the knowledge, understanding and skills that underpin the study of the computing sector, Pearson BTEC Higher National Certificate in Computing Plus give students experience of the breadth and depth of the sector that will prepare them for further study or training

Students will develop a broad knowledge and awareness of key aspects of the computing sector at Level 4 through six core units (mandatory), which include one unit assessed by a Pearson-set assignment, and two further optional units at Level 4.

The core units are:
Programming
Networking
Professional Practice
Database Design & Development
Security
Managing a Successful Computing Project (Pearson-set)

The Specialist units are:
Computer Systems Architecture
Website Design & Development

Cisco “CCNA Routing and Switching” materials are embedded in the BTEC L4 HND in computing plus programme. Actual Specialist units may be subject to change if sufficient number of students decide to follow one of the six specialist pathways offered by Pearson. The course will also develop a broad range of transferable skills, which include communicating, teamwork, planning & organising, problem solving, IT skills and numerical techniques. The course also includes two vendor qualifications delivered during term breaks:

CompTIA A+
Network+

CompTIA certificates will be administrated separately through Pearson VUE testing centres, which we offer in Uxbridge College and delivered during the student breaks, i.e. December, February, April & May. Passing or failing the two vendor qualifications tests will have no impact on the BTEC HNC Computing Plus progression.

Study Methods:
75% classroom-based learning supervised by a tutor
20% work-based learning supervised by a tutor
5% e-Learning supervised by a tutor in real time, guest speakers and field trips (Optional).

Students will attend college for 15 hours – over three days. Students are expected to complete approximately 22.5 hours per week of independent study (i.e. on research in LRC and completing assignments).

Assessment is through a series of assignments including 95% written assignments, 3% group work, 1% presentations and 1% Time-constrained assessments.