Department of Science, Maths, Technology and Computing
HNC & HND in Computing and Systems Development
Programme Specification
Contents
Programme title ................................................................................................................. 2
Course codes .................................................................................................................... 2
School responsible for the management of the course ...................................................... 2
Duration of the programme/s ............................................................................................. 2
Entry requirements ............................................................................................................ 2
Educational aims in Computing and Systems Development .............................................. 3
Course description outline ................................................................................................. 4
Distinguishing features ...................................................................................................... 4
Course structure ................................................................................................................ 4
Descriptors for HNC (Level 4) ............................................................................................ 5
Descriptors for HND (Level 5) ............................................................................................ 5
Assessment & assessment criteria .................................................................................... 6
Summary of grades ........................................................................................................... 7
Calculation of the qualification grade (Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC) ................................. 7
Calculation of the qualification grade (Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND) ................................. 7
Progression from BTEC Level 4 HNC in Computing and Systems Development ............... 8
Progression from BTEC Level 5 HND in Computing and Systems Development ............... 8
Student support ................................................................................................................. 9
Other regulations ............................................................................................................... 9
Learning outcomes ............................................................................................................ 9
Development of programme learning outcomes units ...................................................... 11
HNC & HND in Computing and Systems Development (reviewed Oct 15)
Page 1
Programme title
HNC & HND in Computing and Systems Development
Course codes
Harrow College codes:
UCAS codes:
HC4CSDHA (HNC)
HD5CSDHA (HND)
II12 (course code)
H11 (institution code)
School responsible for the management of the course
Department of ICT
Awarding Body: Pearson
Duration of the programme/s
HNC: 1 year full-time
HND: 1 year full-time
Entry requirements
Entry Requirements for HNC
GCSE English Language grade A* - C and
2 A Levels A* - D or
BTEC Level 3 Diploma MP or
BTEC Extended Diploma PPP
For international students an IELTS score of 5.5 is required.
Those who do not have formal qualifications at level 3 but can demonstrate extensive relevant
work experience, including programming, and/or achievement on a range of professional
qualifications in Computing are also welcome to apply.
Entry Requirements for HND
A completed HNC or
Completed qualifying units that match the programme applied for and the HNC requirements
above.
-----------------------------------------Please note: in all cases, apart from English language and Functional Skills, computing-based
qualifications are required.
HNC & HND in Computing and Systems Development (reviewed Oct 15)
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Educational aims in Computing and Systems Development
This is a practical programme designed to provide learners with thorough knowledge of concepts
and practical skills related to Computing and System Developments, as well as skills for learners
to progress to employment in the field of Computing.
The programme further offers a progressions route to the professional qualifications offered by
the British Computes Society (BCS).
The Edexcel BTEC HNC and HND in Computing and Systems Development offer a progression
route to the professional qualifications offered by the British Computer Society (BCS). Edexcel
BTEC
The Higher Nationals in Computing & Systems Development have been developed to focus on:
•
providing education and training for a range of careers in computing and systems
development
•
providing opportunities for facilities managers to achieve a nationally recognised Level 4/5
vocationally specific qualification
•
providing opportunities for full-time and part-time learners to gain a nationally recognised
vocationally specific qualification to enter employment in computing and systems
development or to progress to higher education vocational qualifications such as a full or part
time degree in computing or a related area
•
developing the knowledge, understanding and skills of learners in the field of computing and
systems development providing opportunities for learners to focus on the development of
higher-level skills in a computing and systems development context
•
providing opportunities for learners to develop a range of skills and techniques and attributes
essential for successful performance in working life
The course meets the needs of the above by: equipping learners with knowledge, understanding
and skills for success in employment in the computing industry enabling progression to an
undergraduate degree or further professional qualification in computing or a related area:
•
providing opportunities for specialist study relevant to individual vocations and contexts
supporting individuals employed or entering employment in the computing industry
developing the learner’s ability in the computing industry through effective use and
combination of the knowledge and skills gained in different parts of the programme
•
developing a range of skills and techniques, personal qualities and attributes essential for
successful performance in working life and thereby enabling earners to make an immediate
contribution to employment
•
providing flexibility, knowledge, skills and motivation as a basis for future studies and career
development in computing and systems development
HNC & HND in Computing and Systems Development (reviewed Oct 15)
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Course description outline
This course is designed to develop a range of skills and techniques, personal qualities and
attributes essential for successful performance in working life and thereby enabling learners to
make an immediate contribution to employment. It also provides flexibility, knowledge, skills and
motivation as a basis for future studies and career progression in computing and systems
development.
The programme is modular and comprised of optional as well as core units.
HNC full-time: 1 academic year comprising of 2 x 15-week taught semesters with classes
usually taking place on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
HND full-time: 1 academic year comprising of 2 x 15-week taught semesters with classes
usually taking place on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Distinguishing features
Our learners benefit greatly from the use of the Student Portal, an online platform offering a
source of e-resources including a set of online Study Skills modules and e-books, detailed
information about the course, the college and the services, resources and events on offer.
Course structure
Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC in Computing and Systems Development (QCF)
• The qualification comprises a minimum of 120 credits of which 75 credits are mandatory core
• The programme must contain a minimum of 65 credits at level 4
The Harrow College HNC programme with blended learning comprises the following units:
First Semester
Level
Credits
1
Business Skills for e-Commerce
4
15
2
Computer Systems
4
15
9
Systems Analysis and Design
4
15
3
Employability and Professional Development
4
15
Second semester
30
Information Systems in Organisations
5
15
24
Networking Technologies
4
15
14
Website Design
4
15
41
Programming in Java
5
15
HNC & HND in Computing and Systems Development (reviewed Oct 15)
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Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND in Computing and Systems Development (QCF)
• The qualification comprises a minimum of 240 credits of which 95 credits are mandatory core
• The programme must contain a minimum of 125 credits at level 5
The Harrow College HND programme with blended learning comprises the following units:
First Semester
Level
Credits
4
Project Design, Implementation and Evaluation
5
20
14
Website Design
4
15
44
Local Area Networking Technologies (Database 4)
5
15
35
Web Applications Development
5
15
Second Semester
50
Work-based Experience
5
15
41
Programming in Java
5
15
37
Digital Image Creation and Development
5
15
39
Computer Games Design and Development
5
15
Descriptors for HNC (Level 4)
The Higher National Certificate is awarded to students who demonstrate the following:
• Knowledge of concepts and principles in Computing and System Development along with the
ability to evaluate and interpret these within the course
• Ability to present, evaluate and analyse qualitative and quantitative data in Computing and
link these to basic theories and concepts
Students should also be able to
• Explore and evaluate different approaches to problem solving in Computing
• Communicate results of both theory and practical work accurately and reliably with coherent
arguments
• Develop new skills and undertake training within a structured area
Students will have transferrable skills and develop qualities required for employment by taking
personal responsibility.
Descriptors for HND (Level 5)
The Higher National Diploma is awarded to students who demonstrate the following:
• Critical understanding and knowledge and development of the principles of Computing and
System Developments
• Ability to apply principles, concepts and applications in an industrial context
• Ability to demonstrate critical approach to problem solving in Computing
• Also have and understanding of the limitations on analysis, evaluation of practical work and
interpretation of knowledge
HNC & HND in Computing and Systems Development (reviewed Oct 15)
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Students should be able to:
• Conduct critical analysis on a wide range of techniques and propose solutions to any
problems on analysis
• Be an effective communicator of information and analysis to specialised and non-specialised
audience
• Develop and enhance existing skills and undertake training to acquire new competencies for
employment
Students will have
• Transferrable skills and qualities required for decision making and personal responsibility in
employment
Students will have transferrable skills and qualities required for decision making and personal
responsibility in employment.
Assessment & assessment criteria
Learners are encouraged to work with the specification and build an independent approach to
learning. the unit guides emphasise guidelines which contain information not only on the taught
part of the programme, but also specific guided reading in support of the lecture sessions and
pointers towards sources of more general background information.
The aim of assessment is to ensure that effective learning of the individual units has been
undertaken. Evidence of this learning is directly linked to the assessment criteria and grade
descriptors.
This course is 100% coursework assessed. There are no external examinations. For each unit it
will be necessary to produce a portfolio of assignments to demonstrate that the grading criteria
have been achieved for the unit. These assignments may be:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Written assignments
Laboratory reports on practical work
Tests
Role plays
Work sheets
Project work
Presentations
Other suitable methods
On completion of task, the work is marked and graded by the internal assessor at the College
and then subjected to internal verification (IV) process. It is presented to the EE for approval and
of marking and the moderation has been fair and reliable. The EE provides the College with a
final annual report that is shared within the departmental HE teachers. Any actions and
recommendations are noted and an action plan is followed for following academic year.
Final grades are agreed by an assessment board in assessment board meeting where learner’s
coursework and grades are discussed and finalised. The board is comprised of members of the
lecturing team, management, a quality representative and an external board verifier is also
invited. This is an academic review and following this, grades will be published and will be
available to students.
This programme complies with the QAA Quality code.
HNC & HND in Computing and Systems Development (reviewed Oct 15)
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Summary of grades
In order to achieve a pass in a unit

all learning outcomes and associated
assessment criteria have been met
In order to achieve a merit in a unit

pass requirements achieved
all merit grade descriptors achieved

In order to achieve a distinction in a unit


pass and merit requirements achieved
all distinction grade descriptors achieved
Calculation of the qualification grade (Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC)
To achieve the level 4 HNC, a learner must


Achieve at least 120 credits at or above the level of the qualification (a maximum of 55
credits may be at Level 5)
Achieve a minimum of 65 credits at Level 4
Calculation of the BTEC HNC qualification grade is based on the learner’s best performance in
units at or above the level of the qualification to the value of 75 credits:


The best 75 credits must come from a maximum of 120 credits
The units from which the best 75 credits are selected come from the whole qualification
including the mandatory core credit
Learners will be awarded a pass, merit or distinction qualification grade using the points gained
through the 75 best credits based on unit achievement.
Unit credit points available, level 4 or 5 units
Unit points per credit
Pass
Merit
Distinction
0
1
2
Example for level 4 or 5 unit of 15 credits
Pass
Merit
Distinction
0
15
30
HNC overall qualification grades
Points range
Grade
0 – 74
Pass
P
75 – 149
Merit
M
150
Distinction
D
Calculation of the qualification grade (Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND)
To achieve the BTEC level 5 HND, a learner must
• Achieve at least 240 credits at or above the level of the qualification
• Achieve a minimum of 125 credits at Level 5 or above
Calculation of the BTEC HND qualification grade is based on the learner’s best performance in
units at or above the level of the qualification – i.e. only units at level 5 can be counted towards
the value of 75 credits:
• The best 75 credits must come from a maximum of 240 credits as a valid rule of combination
HNC & HND in Computing and Systems Development (reviewed Oct 15)
Page 7
•
The units from which the 75 best credits are selected come from the whole qualification
including the mandatory core credit, but must be level 5 units or above
Learners will be awarded a pass, merit or distinction qualification grade using the points gained
through the 75 best credits based on unit achievement
Unit credit points available, level 5 only
Unit points per credit
Pass
Merit
Distinction
0
1
2
HND overall qualification grades
Points range
Grade
0 – 74
Pass
P
75 – 149
Merit
M
150
Distinction
D
Progression from BTEC Level 4 HNC in Computing and Systems Development
This specialist work-related programme of study covers the key knowledge, understanding and
practical skills required in the Computing sector.
This qualification offers a progression route for learners who are/ wish to be employed in the IT
and computing sectors.
Alternatively, learners can progress to the level 5 HND programme or into the second year of a
degree or honours degree programme, depending on the match of the BTEC Higher National
units to the degree programme in question.
Progression from BTEC Level 5 HND in Computing and Systems Development
This programme builds on the knowledge gained from the level 4 HNC and provides greater
breadth and specialisation in the field of Computing as well as opportunities for learners to apply
their knowledge and practical skills in the workplace. Learners will have the opportunity to do this
through work placements or part-time employment experience.
The qualification prepares learners for employment in the IT and computing sectors and is
suitable for learners who have already decided that they wish to enter this area of work.
Progression from this qualification may well be into or within employment in the IT and
computing sectors where learners may work towards membership of the British Computer
Society.
The BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma in Computing and Systems Development (QCF) offers a
progression route for learners to a number of roles in the IT and computing sectors. General
specialists can enter system management, while ICT system support specialists can install or
manage IT networks. Learners focusing on software development can enter the many jobs
available in that area.
Alternatively, learners can progress to the second or third year of a degree or honours degree
programme, depending on the match of the BTEC Higher National units to the degree
programme in questions.
The BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma in Computing and Systems Development (QCF) offers a
progression route to professional development qualification or vendor qualifications offered by
Cisco, Microsoft, IBM, CompTIA, Oracle and VM Ware.
HNC & HND in Computing and Systems Development (reviewed Oct 15)
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Student support
The college provides an induction period at the beginning of the course. Resources are available
via the student portal which has course information as well individual information about reviews,
timetables and units plans. Students have access to learning materials, both on and off-site.
Students are supported in Tutorial sessions, one-to-one reviews, careers advice, and access to
a well-equipped learning centre and support for UCAS applications. Learners with more specific
needs are able to apply for DLA.
Quality standards evaluation
The College has several methods for evaluating and improving the quality and standards of its
HE provision, including:







External examiners meet with learners
Learner voice with student representation
Focus groups for learner feedback and experience
Qualifications Self-assessment reviews carried out by tutors
Staff-student consultative committees
Student evaluations
Internal verification policies
Feedback is discussed at the Course Review meetings and built into the action plan.
Other regulations
Students must attend a minimum of 75% taught sessions. Students are allowed 1 resit per
module.
Learning outcomes
•
•
•
SB denotes subject benchmark reference points
FHEQ denotes framework for higher education reference points
ES denotes Edexcel reference points
A1 demonstrate systematic knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts,
principles and theories relating to computing and computer applications
A2 demonstrate systematic knowledge and understanding of business and professional aspects
of the industry
A3 demonstrate systematic knowledge and understanding of the gathering, processing, storage
and management of data
A4 demonstrate systematic knowledge and understanding of the development of structured
software and its testing and maintenance
A5 demonstrate systematic knowledge and understanding of the stages of the systems life
cycle, and the use of appropriate tools and techniques therein
A6 demonstrate systematic knowledge and understanding of the systems, program and data
modelling/design techniques that are fundamental to systems development
Reference points
HNC & HND in Computing and Systems Development (reviewed Oct 15)
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Intellectual skills – able to: (higher level academic/intellectual skills)
On completion of the course students will be able to:
B1 demonstrate the ability to identify and solve problems using a systematic approach to reach
a solution
B2 demonstrate the ability to investigate the existing body of knowledge in a particular field
B3 demonstrate the ability to apply concepts and evaluate alternatives in designing new
products and services
Reference points
Subject Practical skills - (higher practical and professional skills)
On completion of the course students will be able to:
C1 demonstrate the ability to produce a systems requirements specification, including user
interactions, interfaces and documentation
C2 demonstrate the ability to understand the potential risks, security and safety aspects
appropriate to the field of study, including risk assessment and disaster recovery
C3 demonstrate the ability to specify, design, test and implement a database using an industry
standard database package
C4 demonstrate the ability to choose and deploy effectively the hardware and software used to
create and maintain web/mobile content
Reference points
Transferable skills - (higher level transferable skills)
On completion of the course students will be able to:
D1 demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, involving
quantitative and qualitative aspects.
D2 demonstrate the ability to manage their own learning and development including time
management, organisational skills and self-appraisal
D3 demonstrate the ability to prepare for employment in the industry, recognising the
importance of teamwork and the need for continuing professional development
HNC & HND in Computing and Systems Development (reviewed Oct 15)
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Development of programme learning outcomes units
This map identifies where the programme learning outcomes are assessed across the units for this programme. It provides an aid to academic
staff in understanding how individual units contribute to the programme aims, and allows a means to help students monitor their own learning,
personal and professional development as the programme progresses and a checklist for quality assurance purposes. Includes both core and
option units.
S/F
F
S/F
Programme
Learning
Outcomes
Unit 35
Unit 39
Unit 41
Unit 44
F
S/F
S/F
S/F
S/F
A6
F
S/F
B1
F
S/F
B2
S/F
F
B3
S/F
F
S/F
S/F
C2
S/F
S/F
S/F
S/F
F
F
F
S/F
S/F
S/F
S/F
S/F
F
F
F
F
F
F
S/F
F
F
F
F
S/F
S/F
F
S/F
F
F
F
S/F
F
F
F
S/F
F
F
C3
S/F
S/F
S/F
F
S/F
S/F
A5
Unit 50
Unit 37
F
S/F
F
S/F
F
S/F
F
D1
F
F
F
F
F
F
S/F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
D2
F
F
S/F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
S/F
D3
S
F
S/F
A4
C4
Transferable
Skills
S/F
F
C1
Practical Skills
F
F
A3
Intellectual
Skills
Unit 30
S
Unit 4
A2
S
Unit 24
Understanding
F
Unit 14
A1
Level 5
Unit 9
Knowledge &
Unit 3
Skill
reference
Unit 2
Module Code
Unit 1
Level 4
S/F
indicates where a summative assessment occurs
where formative assessment/feedback occurs
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