Access to Higher Education Diploma – Computer Science
Our Access to Higher Education Computing course covers key computer science topics and essential skills, preparing you for a career in IT or further studies.
Course Overview
- Start Date
- 15 Sep 2025
- Mode of Study
- Full-Time
- Location
- South Central IoT – Bletchley
- Days
- Mon to Fri
- Time
- 09:00 – 17:00
Course overview
Our access to higher education computing course provides an extensive introduction into key areas within computer science in preparation of joining the IT profession. There are a total of 60 credits; 45 graded and 15 ungraded. To prepare students for learning a number of research, core, professional communication and skills for learning units would include: study techniques; technical skills for writing; extended essay; and health & safety.
What will I do?
The Access to Higher Education in Computing Course provides an extensive introduction to essential computer science topics to ensure students are prepared for study at university or for joining the IT profession. Students learn key skills in: study techniques; report writing and using spreadsheets in additional to technical subjects. Support in the process of applying to university is also provided.
You will study the following units over 1 year:
- Introduction to Computer Systems
- Introduction to Programming Implementation
- Mathematics for Computing
- Research Project
- Computer Networks
- IT Project
- Javascript
- Relational Database
- Website Design and Development
- Computer Data Protection
- Preparation for Higher Education
- Writing reports
- Spreadsheets
- Study Skills
What’s next?
Successful completion of this course will present several opportunities for you to progress onto the career of your choice. Principally the course will prepare you for entry onto a computer science based university course. You should therefore start the course having investigated the types of university course that are available so that we can support you in making a decision and the subsequent application process. You may also want to continue your studies at the college with an HNC in Digital. However a computer science course at Level 3 will also enable you to seek employment in a computing related profession or even an apprenticeship.
Is it for me?
If you are over the age of 19, and don’t have any traditional qualifications that would enable you to progress onto Higher Education, this course is the stepping stone you need. The course is also suitable for you if you’re interested in a career change, want a new challenge, or simply have a desire to learn.
The course is taught over two full days each week for 1 year. You will be required to attend in person. In addition you will need to set aside at least 5 hours a week home study. You must be confident that you can dedicate the required time and that you can arrange your life around the demands of the course.
Entry requirements
The minimum requirement for entry is GCSE in English and Mathematics at least at grade 4. If you have alternative qualifications, these will be assessed for equivalence.
How will my progress be monitored?
Regular feedback will be provided throughout the course in response to formal submitted work and during lesson activities. Each term a one-to-one meeting takes place with each student to discuss their progress and support with planning studies or any other issues which might arise during the course.
How will I be assessed?
Each unit will contain one or two assignments which are marked, graded and returned to students with feedback. In three cases there will also be examinations instead of assignment work.
How much will I have to study each week?
The actual amount of study time depends on the student’s individual abilities and prior knowledge, however we recommend 5 hours study per week outside of the lessons.
Highlights include
- Brand new computing building based at our Bletchley campus
- Course delivery by experienced professionals
- Course contains a comprehensive range of computing topics
- Students are armed with the skills needed to succeed in a computing based profession at university
EXPLORE COURSES
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Computer Science – Access to HE Diploma
(A564-1/1)- Start Date
- 15 Sep 2025
- Days
- Mon to Fri
- Time
- 09:00 – 17:00
- Location
- South Central IoT – Bletchley
Fees- 19 – 23
- £3384
- 24+
- £3384
- Overseas
- £3384
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