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Computer Science (Next Generation) HND

(SCQF level 8)

Computing and Digital Technologies, Creative Industries

Mode of Study

Full-time

Start Date

24th Aug 2026, 1 year

  • Applications from International Students Welcome
    •

    Overview

    The Higher National Diploma (one-year HND Next Generation) in Computer Science provides learners with high-quality technical and professional skills needed to meet the demands of modern computing. As organisations across every sector continue to expand their digital capacity, the need for skilled computer science professionals has never been greater.

    Computer Science is a fast-moving and wide-ranging field that underpins emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, cyber security, cloud services, virtualisation and data analytics. This programme provides learners with a solid foundation in the fundamental principles of computer science while also offering opportunities to specialise in areas such as AI, data science, software development, cyber security, or networking.

    The course combines theory with significant practical experience. Learners explore algorithms, data structures, computer systems, programming paradigms, mathematics for computing, and the role of professional practice in developing technical solutions. An extended team-based project forms a core part of the qualification, giving students experience of real-world problem-solving, project management, technical documentation, sustainability and collaborative working.

    This qualification aligns with the Next Generation HN design principles and develops the meta-skills and professional behaviours required for further study or employment in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

    Entry requirements

    Minimum entry requirements

    • HNC Computing (NextGen) – GT6G 47; OR
    • HNC Computing – GF3E 15; OR
    • Equivalent SCQF Level 7 qualification or industry experience.

    Direct entry requires an HNC. This is a mandatory requirement.

    Additional selection requirements

    • You may be invited to an individual or group interview to learn more about the course and discuss your interest in Computer Science. In some cases, an offer may be made based on your application.

    ESOL entry requirements

    Applicants whose first language is not English should have minimum SQA ESOL National 5 or equivalent for NC/NQ courses and ESOL Higher or equivalent for HNC/D courses.

    What you study

    Learners must complete two mandatory units and choose 8 SQA credits of optional units, including up to 3 credits from restricted options, as defined in the qualification framework (pages 3–4 of the Educator Guide).

    Mandatory Units

    Computer Science: Core concepts, programming, data, algorithms, ethical and legal consideration.
    Professional Practice in Computer Science: Extended team project, project management, sustainability, technical documentation, presentation and reflective practice.

    Optional Units

    Learners can choose a combination that suits their interests and progression route.

    • Algorithms and Data Structures.
    • Applied Mathematics in Computing.
    • Applied Artificial Intelligence.
    • Database Design and Development.
    • Emerging Technologies and Experiences.
    • Object-Oriented Programming.
    • Programming Paradigms.
    • Virtualisation Technologies.

    After the course

    Careers

    The qualification prepares you for a range of roles, including:

    • Junior Software Developer.
    • AI/Data Science Assistant.
    • Cyber Security Technician (entry level).
    • Network Technician.
    • Cloud/Virtualisation Support Assistant.
    • Systems Support Technician.
    • Database Support Assistant.
    • Technical Operations or Digital Solutions roles.

    The strong mathematical, analytical and programming foundations also support more specialised career pathways.

    Continuing Study

    Successful learners may progress to:

    • Year 3 entry to BSc Computer Science or related degrees (depending on university entry requirements).
    • Other degree pathways in Computing, AI, Data Science, Cyber Security, Software Engineering or IT Systems.

    Teaching

    How the course is taught

    Throughout the HND programme, learners will:

    Develop Core Computer Science Skills: You will explore essential concepts such as algorithms, programming languages, machine architectures, data structures, and problem-solving techniques. These underpin both advanced study and professional practice in computing.

    Engage in Practical, Hands-on Learning: The course is highly practical, with programming labs, database workshops, networking exercises, virtualisation tasks, and AI/data science tooling. Learners design solutions for real-world scenarios using contemporary tools and development environments (IDE, cloud services, AI libraries, databases, version control).

    Collaborative, Project-Based Learning: The mandatory Professional Practice unit includes a substantial team project. Learners plan, design, implement and evaluate a technical solution or research topic, mirroring real-world computing environments. This includes project management, documentation, sustainability analysis, presentation and reflective practice.

    Explore Emerging and Specialist Technologies: Optional units allow learners to dive deeper into areas such as web app development, AI/ML, virtualisation, programming paradigms, and database systems — all aligned to modern industry skills.

    Develop Meta-Skills: Aligned with the NextGen HN framework, learners develop:

    • Self-management (focusing, adapting, initiative).
    • Social intelligence (communication, collaboration, leadership).
    • Innovation (creativity, critical thinking, sense-making).

    These are embedded throughout learning and assessment.

    Assessment methods

    Assessments reflect real industry practice and include:

    • Practical programming tasks.
    • Database development and data analysis.
    • AI investigations and model interpretation.
    • Mathematical and algorithmic problem solving.
    • Network design, configuration and troubleshooting.
    • Creation of virtual machines and cloud deployments.
    • Full-stack web application development.
    • Extended team project with presentation and reflective report.
    • Question papers (where required).
    • Research or investigative portfolios.
    • Mode of Study:
      Full-time
    • Start Date:
      24th Aug 2026, 1 year
    • Applications from International Students Welcome