The Higher National Diploma in Computing (Software/Network Engineering) is a Full-Time two-year course awarded by Pearson. The programme is delivered within an approx. 14-hour workshop/lecture programme with staff contact over a period of 30 weeks. This two year HND in Computing leading either towards a 'software engineering' or 'network engineering' pathway is designed to enable you to demonstrate knowledge, skills and behaviours and develop employability skills to attain the HTQ (Higher Technical Qualification) status recognised by employers. In year 1, students on both pathways study the same 7 core units and elect to choose either the 15 credit 'Software Development Lifecycles' (Software Engineer pathway) or 'Computer System Architecture' (Network Engineer pathway). In year 2 this pathway specialisation increases.Higher technical qualifications are primarily designed for entry into skilled employment or those looking to retrain or upskill, you could also progress to further study and/or training. It will give students an opportunity to further academic progression as well as career progression in computing and software engineering. We will work with employers to provide the opportunity for practical skills to be learnt through a work placement/work-based environment.Due to the practical nature of the course, you will be required to have access to an personal computer running the most current Windows operating system that will be able to run software development environments like Visual Studio and Packet Tracer.