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Overview
If you're seaching for a way into computing – whether that's creating smartphone apps, connecting businesses, or helping communities talk to each other – you'll find this Higher National Diploma (HND) Computing course a smart answer.
You'll learn the computing methods that lie behind the systems millions of people rely on daily, including programming, networking, business intelligence and IT security. You'll also use your learning to solve practical issues in placement and community project opportunities. When you graduate, you'll be prepared for work in the computing industry, or for top-up study to convert your HND into a Bachelor's degree.
This course is open to UK and EU students, and to international students who don't need a Student Route Visa.
This course takes place at Isle of Wight College in Newport.
While studying at Isle of Wight College, you can access our student support services and community including study support, the Students’ Union and our library's online resources.
Course highlights
- Learn the skills you need for your computing career, studying with staff who have industry experience
- Get experience of working in the computing sector through a work placement
- Shape your studies to match your interests and work aspirations
- Discover how to enhance lives with your computing skills, and work on community projects and events
- Study at Isle of Wight College in Newport, with access to the latest computing learning resources, journals and publications
- Have access to the University's student support services and community including the Library, study support, sport and recreation facilities, and the Student Union
- Skip the UCAS process and apply directly to our BSc (Hons) Computing, if you decide you want to continue your studies
Entry requirements
HND Computing entry requirements
Typical offers
- An A level in a computing related subject, or Level 3 vocational equivalent (diploma / extended diploma), or equivalent industry experience in a relevant field.
- T-levels – Merit
Acceptable T Level Subjects: T Level in Digital: Digital Production, Design and Development, T Level in Digital Business Services, T Level in Digital Support and Services, T Level in Science, T Level in Engineering and Manufacturing Design and Development, T Level in Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering and Manufacturing, T Level in Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control, T Level in Accounting (If mathematical components are passed), T Level in Finance (If mathematical components are passed) - BTECs (Extended Diplomas) – PPP
Selection process
All shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an interview, to which you should bring a portfolio/e-portfolio of recent work. This interview will include an admissions test and a tour of the facilities.
You may need to have studied specific subjects – find full entry requirements and other qualifications we accept at UCAS.
English language requirements
- English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.0 with no component score below 5.5.
See alternative English language qualifications
We also accept other standard English tests and qualifications, as long as they meet the minimum requirements of your course.
If you don't meet the English language requirements yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
Careers and opportunities
The computing expertise you develop on this course will set you up for employment in areas including systems design and analysis, commercial or scientific systems development and web development.
What jobs can you do with a Computing HND?
Roles you could go into could include:
- Business continuity analyst
- Software engineer
- Web developer
- Systems analyst
- Computer programmer
- Online course developer
If you want to continue your studies, you can top up your HND to a Bachelor's degree by joining the final year of the BSc (Hons) Computing course.
Ongoing career support – up to 5 years after you graduate
Get experience while you study, with support to find part-time jobs, volunteering opportunities, and work experience.
Towards the end of your degree and for up to five years after graduation, you’ll receive one-to-one support from our Graduate Recruitment Consultancy to help you find your perfect role.
What you'll study on this HND Computing course
Each module on this course is worth a certain number of credits. In each year, you need to study modules worth 120 credits.
Modules currently being studied
Core modules in this year include:
- Computer Systems Architecture – 15 credits
- Database Design and Development – 15 credits
- Managing a Successful Computing Project – 15 credits
- Networking – 15 credits
- Professional Practice – 15 credits
- Programming – 15 credits
- Security – 15 credits
- Website Design and Development – 15 credits
There are no optional modules in this year.
Core modules in this year include:
- Advanced Programming – 15 credits
- Business Intelligence – 15 credits
- Computing Research Project – 30 credits
- Database Management Systems – 15 credits
- Digital Technologies as a Catalyst for Change – 15 credits
- Operating Systems – 15 credits
- User Experience and Interface Design – 15 credits
There are no optional modules in this year.
Changes to course content
We use the best and most current research and professional practice alongside feedback from our students to make sure course content is relevant to your future career or further studies.
Therefore, some course content may change over time to reflect changes in the discipline or industry. If a module doesn't run, we'll let you know as soon as possible and help you choose an alternative module.
Teaching
There's an emphasis on interactive teaching on this course, giving you the chance to take a leading role in your own learning. Teaching methods include:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Workshops and discussion groups
- Tutorials
- Practical and coaching sessions
- Work-based learning (during your placement in year 2)
How you're assessed
The way you're assessed on this course reflects the requirements of the computing industry. You'll be assessed through:
- Examinations
- Essays
- Reports
- Projects, portfolios and case studies
- Practical demonstrations
- Oral assessments through presentations or discussion groups
You’ll be able to test your skills and knowledge informally before you do assessments that count towards your final mark.
You can get feedback on all practice and formal assessments so you can improve in the future.
How you'll spend your time
You'll normally spend 2 days a week at the Isle of Wight College, and you'll need to do some reading and additional studies above those contact hours. Your days in college will include lectures, seminars, workshops and discussion groups, tutorials and practical sessions. You'll work in supportive small group environments with experienced teaching staff, as well as studying by yourself.
Term dates
You'll follow the Isle of Wight College term dates on this course.
Supporting your learning
Even though you'll study at one of our partner colleges, you'll still be a student of the University of Portsmouth.
You'll have access to support via video, phone and face-to-face from University teaching and support staff to enhance your learning experience and help you succeed. You can build your personalised network of support from the following University services:
Types of support
Types of support
As well as support from faculty staff and your personal tutor, you can use the University's Academic Skills Unit (ASK).
ASK provides one-to-one support in areas such as:
- Academic writing
- Note taking
- Time management
- Critical thinking
- Presentation skills
- Referencing
- Working in groups
- Revision, memory and exam techniques
If you have a disability or need extra support, the Additional Support and Disability Centre (ASDAC) will give you help, support and advice.
Our online Learning Well mini-course will help you plan for managing the challenges of learning and student life, so you can fulfil your potential and have a great student experience.
You can get personal, emotional and mental health support from our Student Wellbeing Service, in person and online. This includes 1–2–1 support as well as courses and workshops that help you better manage stress, anxiety or depression.
If you require extra support because of a disability or additional learning need our specialist team can help you.
They'll help you to
- discuss and agree on reasonable adjustments
- liaise with other University services and facilities, such as the library
- access specialist study skills and strategies tutors, and assistive technology tutors, on a 1-to-1 basis or in groups
- liaise with external services
Library staff are available in person or by email, phone, or online chat to help you make the most of the University’s library resources. You can also request one-to-one appointments and get support from a librarian who specialises in your subject area.
The library is open 24 hours a day, every day, in term time.
Course costs and funding
Tuition fees (2024 start)
- UK/Channel Islands and Isle of Man students – £6,165 per year (may be subject to annual increase)
- EU students – £6,165 a year (including Transition Scholarship – may be subject to annual increase)
- International (non-EU) students – £20,200 per year (subject to annual increase)
This course is only open to international students who don't need a Student Route Visa.
Funding your studies
Find out how to fund your studies, including the scholarships and bursaries you could get. You can also find more about tuition fees and living costs, including what your tuition fees cover.
Applying from outside the UK? Find out about funding options for international students.
Additional costs
These course-related costs aren't included in the tuition fees. So you'll need to budget for them when you plan your spending.
You’ll study up to 6 modules a year. You may have to read several recommended books or textbooks for each module.
You can borrow most of these from the Library. If you buy these, they may cost up to £60 each.
We recommend that you budget £100 a year for photocopying, memory sticks, DVDs and CDs, printing charges, binding and specialist printing.
If your final year includes a major project, there could be cost for transport or accommodation related to your research activities. The amount will depend on the project you choose.
Contact our Housing Support Team if you need help and advice about accommodation.
Apply
How to apply
To start this course in 2024, apply through UCAS. You'll need:
- the UCAS course code – G402
- our institution code – P80
If you'd prefer to apply directly, use our online application form.
You can also sign up to an Open Day to:
- Tour our campus, facilities and halls of residence
- Speak with lecturers and chat with our students
- Get information about where to live, how to fund your studies and which clubs and societies to join
If you're new to the application process, read our guide on applying for an undergraduate course.
Admissions terms and conditions
When you accept an offer to study at the University of Portsmouth, you also agree to abide by our Student Contract (which includes the University's relevant policies, rules and regulations). You should read and consider these before you apply.