Computing: Software Development (NextGen)

Course description

This course will help you to develop a range of specialist software development skills to prepare you for a career in this fast-paced and changeable industry.

Software is everywhere! More and more devices are controlled by software and the industry is constantly evolving as we continue to move towards an era where computers and software dominate our lives.

You will learn programming languages that will prepare you for a career in this ever changing industry, as you focus on Human Computer Interaction and making your programmes and software more user friendly.

Smart home devices such as the Amazon Alexa, Google Home or even the Apple Homepod were developed using the skills you will learn on this course.

You will be able to take part in software events such as the Hackathon which are hosted at our partner universities.

Students on this course can apply for one our paid intern positions working on the student IT Helpdesk. This is a great opportunity to put into practice what you have learnt while supporting students at College.

This HND is part of the NextGen qualifications from SQA. It is a one year course at SCQF Level 8 and entry is via completing the one year course HNC Computing (NextGen) at SCQF Level 7.

NextGen qualifications allow more time in class focusing on larger, fewer subjects in more depth, increasing learning time, integrating learning, teaching and assessment approaches which reduces the assessment load. The traditional Graded Unit is also replaced with a Project and Portfolio that students work on throughout the year allowing students to develop and showcase their own work to Universities and potential employers.

NextGen courses offer more than just the traditional subjects, they are designed to develop the individuals Meta Skills, the skills to thrive in an ever changing environment, developing self management, social intelligence and innovation.

As this is a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) course you will require a laptop that can run virtual software, as well as running software compilers like Python IDLE.

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)

This course is a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) programme. This means that you are required to have access to your own laptop computer, netbook or similar device in class each day that you are in college.

Find out more about BYOD here

If you do not already own a suitable device you can apply for a student loan from SAAS, if eligible, to fund the cost of purchasing a device.

Find out more about student loans here

Learning outcome

HND Computing: Software Development (SCQF Level 8).

This is a SQA NextGen course.

NextGen is a new approach to Higher National qualifications introduced by the SQA and designed to be adaptable and flexible to respond to the needs of the employment market.

Find out more about NextGen HN courses

Whether you wish to progress in your studies or enter the world of work, North East Scotland College has excellent progression opportunities, with links to eight universities across Scotland and great relationships with industry employers.

Those who successfully complete this course often secure work as: