Home » Courses » Computing for England Higher National Certificate (HNC) Full-time
Computing for England Higher National Certificate (HNC) Full-time
Course Overview
Computing for England Higher National Certificate (HNC) Full-time
This is a contemporary, cutting-edge programme aimed at those eager to follow a career in various job roles within the high tech and ever-changing world of Software Development, Cybersecurity and Networking.
This course revolves around an everchanging industry of profession practice and techniques alongside ever-changing technology and computer advancements within the computing industry. We use the latest equipment and software, reflecting use within industry with a practical approach to the course for certain pathways and practices.
Our connections with clients across Barnsley allow us to sync our units with client briefs and needs to implement real work practice of what we learn in the classroom.
You will use industry standard equipment and technology; we have networking and data labs equipped with testing tools, practice networking components and cables, programming software and computers to run testing and set up from and robotics components to build and programme. Utilising this practical approach to teaching in these areas allow for a hands-on learning environment where learning meets the needs of industry and new knowledge can be tested and visualised in a safe environment.
Students on this programme will have a range of different backgrounds and interests meaning the programme will have a rounded approach to delivery and content.
This course is delivered as part of the South Yorkshire Institute of Technology (SYIoT). Our Computing HNC has been aligned to the occupational standard for the industry. It has been approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE). Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) are Level 5 qualifications that have been approved as meeting occupational standards for the relevant sector. To Achieve the HTQ status both level 4 and level 5 pathways must be completed.
Located at: Barnsley College University Centre
Course Start:
September 2026
Course length:
1 Years
Study Mode: Full-time
Course Code: HCOMPHNC
UCAS Course Code: COMP
Course Fees and Funding
How much does the course cost?
£6,995 per year.
Other funding information
As a Higher Education student living in England you may be eligible for the non-means tested Tuition Fee Loan from the Government and a Maintenance Loan.
Students with children or dependant adults may qualify for a Childcare Grant or Adult Dependants' Grant. Students can apply for these at the same time as applying for a Maintenance Loan.
Remember: Eligible students will not have to pay tuition fees in advance and can apply for the Maintenance Loan before they start the course.
We offer a service to any student who has a diagnosis of anything persistent or long-term which might interfere with how they study and manage their day-to-day academic engagement. The service is flexible and shaped around the needs of each individual; it might be consistent support or intermittent support.
64 UCAS points from either subject-relevant A Level, T Level or BTEC equivalent qualifications or an Access to HE Diploma.
GCSE English and Maths at grade C/4 or above.
We welcome applications from students with prior learning and/or previous experience. Evidence should be submitted through the application and interview process.
Specific assessment strategies include practical work, written assessments, examinations, case studies, presentations and reports offering the opportunity for students to demonstrate knowledge, understanding and application of both general and specific business principles. Such methods will also allow you to indicate both the breadth and depth of your directed and independent research.
Some modules are assessed partly using group activities as well as independent activities.
All equipment will be provided.
Higher National Certificate
After successfully completing the first year and achieving the Level 4 National Certificate in Computing for England, you can progress onto the Level 5 Higher National Diploma, which allows you to specialise by committing to a specific career path in Cyber Security/networking and progression routes directed towards degree level study.
Other Resources
For further details, please contact our Information Unit by calling 01226 216 123 or emailing: info@barnsley.ac.uk
Barnsley College has a range of sports opportunities for all students to take part in, gain professional training and compete nationally and internationally. We also have a state-of-the-art fitness village, the Sports Village, where students can make use of our fitness suite, spinning studio and classes for competitive rates.
Barnsley Sports Academy offers state-of-the-art facilities and diverse sports programs, enabling students to achieve academic and athletic excellence. Remember, you don't have to be studying Sport to join Barnsley Sports Academy.
Disclaimer: Please note we reserve the right to change details without notice. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.
The course information on this page was last updated
23 January 2026.
Are you applying to study at Barnsley College University Centre only?
If you only wish to apply to Barnsley College University Centre, you can apply directly via our website, using OnTrack.
Simply select the course you wish to apply for and click the “Apply direct” button.
You will then be asked to complete an online application form and create your Barnsley College OnTrack account.
You will need to upload your qualification certificates and a form of ID. Once you have applied, your application will be reviewed by a course lecturer and you may be invited in for an interview.
Are you applying to more than one institution?
If you would like to apply to more than one university, you will be required to apply via the UCAS website.
As a general guide, applications can be made via UCASbetween September and late January.Please check the UCAS website for further information.
We do consider applications throughout the year, although the earlier you submit, the earlier you will receive a decision and can start to plan accordingly.
The UCAS Code for Barnsley College University Centre is: B13.
