Higher National Certificate in Applied Computing

Year 1

Core modules

• Computer Systems & Control (EXCE1158)

  Introduces the hardware components of modern systems, linked to logic, low level programming and simple control mechanisms. This module will identify and detail the essential components of a processor-based system, applying them to simple physical control systems using appropriate languages and a range of software operating systems.

• Databases and Information Systems (EXCE1159)

  This module addresses the theoretical and practical design and use of information systems in a variety of contexts from small businesses to large scale operations. The use of database software will include an understanding of the structure and creation of relational database applications, as well as their applications, hosting, management and security.

• Software Development (EXCE1161)

  In this module students develop the ability to solve problems algorithmically. Procedural, object oriented, and event-driven paradigms are studied and applied to create a program to carry out an operation. They will implement and debug applications. The process of developing an application using the software lifecycle will be explored – comparing and contrasting the various approaches.

Year 2

Core modules

• Computational Thinking (EXCE1157)

  This module covers the basic mathematical concepts that underpin much of computing practice. It is designed to be a practitioner’s guide, emphasising the practical application and implications of the theory.

• Business Intelligence & Big Data (EXCE1160)

  This module provides students with the skills to contribute to the design and development of data systems. It focuses on modern engineering methods, tools and systems used for statistical computing when conducting predictive and strict analytics. Also, students will also learn how organisations use Power BI as a tool for undertaking descriptive analytics through Business Intelligence.

• Fundamentals of Computer Networking (EXCE1162)

  Networking is fundamental to modern computer systems. Students will learn about standards, protocols and topologies on wired and wireless networks and the hardware and software that implement them. Students will have the opportunity to apply the skills learned to network management tasks commonly occurring in the workplace. Teaching will be a combination of classroom theory sessions together with practical activities carried out in the Faculty networking lab.

Year 3

Core modules

• Servers and Cloud Computing (EXCE2027)

  Servers are at the heart of most organisations computing operation. This module explores the role of servers within organisations, their hardware and software components and the trend towards virtualisation and cloud computing. Students will have the opportunity to apply the skills learned to real and virtual servers both local and within the cloud. Teaching will be a combination of classroom theory sessions together with practical activities carried out in the Faculty networking lab.

Optional modules

• Object Oriented Programming (EXCE2030)

• Website Development (EXCE2032)

  This module teaches the fundamentals of web-design and the concepts fundamental to web-technologies. Students will code a website using industry standard client-side languages. Students will use popular code libraries, as well as integrating data from a range of APIs to add extra functionality. A strong emphasis is placed on accessibility and usability, as well as SEO techniques and compliance to current web standards.

• Penetration Testing (EXCE2033)

  Introducing information security management and organisational security risk audits and frameworks, with ethical hacking and management of security improvement plans. Using Contemporary tools, develop personal, technical and theoretical knowledge and skills required to plan, test, analyse and secure systems. Students will gain the technical, auditing and analysis skills to progress to employment or further studies