Digital Technologies HNC
Software Development
Looking to get your career in Software Development at the South Central Institute of Technology started? This course is for anyone looking to develop their understanding of Digital Technologies, who wants to develop specialist technical knowledge, and a broad skillset that will help them find employment.
Offered at: Bletchley, Oxford & Reading Campuses
Discover SCIoTWhat will I do?
Elevate your tech career with theDigital Technologies HNC – Software Development. This higher-level course, equivalent to the first year of a software development degree, equips you with the practical skills and knowledge sought after in the digital sector.
- Programming
- Software Development Lifecycles
- Database Design and Development
- Data Structures & Algorithms and Advanced Programming: Dive deeper into complex coding courses and learn key problem-solving techniques.
Gain real-world experience through:
- Research projects
- Independent study
- Live project briefs from local employers.
Develop transferable skills valued by employers:
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Research and analysis
Prepare for success in higher education or launch your tech career in the thriving tech industry.
Is it for me?
Passionate about digital technologies and ready to kickstart your software development course? Then our offering is the perfect launchpad! Flexible full-time and part-time study options cater to your schedule.
Not ready to apply yet? Why not give us an email, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. We’ll be able to advise on whether the course is right for you and take it from there.
To ensure you are prepared for entering the industry, learners will join BCS The Chartered Institute for IT as a student member and will have the option to complete the following accreditations:
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals: Cloud computing essentials
- Microsoft Data Fundamentals: Data management and analysis skills
- Microsoft AI Fundamentals: Artificial intelligence foundations
- Microsoft Power Apps Fundamentals: Low-code app development proficiency
What’s next?
After studying a Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Digital Technologies you’ll have sound knowledge of the basic concepts of digital technology. You’ll be able to demonstrate a range of subject-specific skills as well as general skills and qualities relevant to digital employers.
Once you’ve completed your HNC, you can progress your learning by moving on to Higher National Diploma, progress on to study at university or onto employment in software development.
What types of jobs could you expect afterwards?
You could expect roles with titles such as software developer, software tester, lead developer, technical architect, systems engineer. Don’t feel limited by this list, with the Digital Technologies HNC you’ll be anything ready.
During these jobs you could be responsible for working in a dynamic and agile environment, with constant exposure to new technologies and plenty of opportunities to grow your skills and learn from others. You could be involved in the full software development lifecycle, from rapid prototyping of new ideas to testing and continuous integration. Liaising closely with the other developers, you could be part of a multi-disciplinary team, focused on delivering fantastic products and a great user experience for customers.
Did you know?
- Software developer is the most in-demand role sought by employers and makes up 6% of all advertised digital tech roles (Tech Nation Jobs and Skills Report 2020).
- UK tech employs 2.93m people, with 40% growth in two years (Tech Nation Jobs and Skills Report 2020).
Entry Requirements
Students are assessed on a case by case basis. Students who have recently been in education need to be a minimum of 18 years old.
The most important thing for us is passion, dedication and commitment to learning about digital technologies at a higher level.
It all starts with a conversation with our admissions team to find out about your interests and aspirations, and we’ll match you to the right pathway.
Software Development HNC
This course is offered at Bletchley in partnership with MK College and Oxford and Reading in partnership with Activate Learning.
More information
What’s the learning experience like?
Digital Technologies HNC learners at the South Central IoT will benefit from:
- Project based learning: You will manage projects from beginning to end, solving employer-generated problems and maximising higher skills.
- Active partnerships with employers: Our previous projects include working with Microsoft. Learners will be given opportunities to complete Microsoft relevant certifications. Our projects are co-delivered with employer partners which means you get trained directly by industry professionals.
- Confidence to learn, forget and relearn – as you would in industry: You will be treated as a unique investor in your working future rather than individuals accessing courses.
- Real research and development: You will undertake detailed research, enquiry, writing and analysis and communicate results effectively.
- Friendly and approachable: The South Central Institute of technology team is welcoming, and will encourage you at every step.
How will the programme be assessed?
All of our programmes are assessed by assignments or coursework. Projects completed as part of the course are based on live briefs from industry employers, ensuring relevant workplace experience and potential job prospects.
How much time will I spend being taught and how much self-study?
At Level 4 entry, total qualification time is estimated at 1,200 hours per academic year, of which 480 hours are guided learning hours. This equates to approx. 15 hours per week taught (face-to-face and e-learning) and 15+ hours per week independent self-study during term time.
This course can be studied both full-time in one-year and part-time in one year.