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HND COMPUTING: SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT

  • Start date:   August 2025
  • Level of Qualification:   SCQF Level 8
  • Course Type:   Full-time

HND COMPUTING: SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT

The HND in Software Development is your gateway to a dynamic and rewarding career in the tech industry.

Start date – August 2025
End date –  June 2026
SCQF Level -  8
Mode –  Full time
Duration: 1 year

This course equips you with essential skills in software development, object-oriented programming in C#, and techniques to manage/store/process big data, while also introducing you to cutting-edge areas like multi-user operating systems, SQL and database design.

With every industry relying on software, this programme prepares you for endless career opportunities across sectors like computing, IT, and Engineering. Gain practical experience with industry-relevant tools and technologies and take the first step toward becoming a sought-after software professional in a rapidly growing field.

At West Lothian College, we’ve partnered with industry giants like EC-Council, Palo Alto Networks, and Check Point Security to give our students access to cutting-edge materials and state-of-the-art digital labs. These world-class resources ensure you're learning with the tools and technologies that define the future of the IT and cyber security industries. 

 

  • What this course includes

    • Object-Oriented Programming 
    • Object-Oriented Analysis and Design 
    • Data structures 
    • Testing software 
    • Data Science 
    • SQL: Introduction 
    • Digital forensics 
    • Managing a webserver
    • Practically applying the knowledge gained in graded unit following object oriented principals.
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Why choose this course

HND in Software Development to prepare you for a thriving career in one of the most in-demand fields today. This course combines hands-on experience with theoretical knowledge, offering you the chance to master programming.

As part of this programme, you’ll may also study as an associate of Edinburgh Napier University, with the opportunity for direct entry into the third year of select degree courses at Napier.

Whether you're aiming to design cutting-edge applications, manage complex systems, or innovate in technology, this program equips you with the skills and knowledge to succeed in a fast-growing, exciting industry.  

Entry requirements

  • HNC computing

We also welcome applications from people with relevant experience.

If English is not your first language, ESOL Level 5 is an entry requirement for this course.

  • Where it leads

    Education:  

    • Associate Student getting automatic entry into third year of degree-level course at Edinburgh Napier University in, BEng software engineering 
    • As well as other computer degree programmes across all Universities in Scotland.

    Employment: IT technician, helpdesk support technician, trainee programmer or apps designer. 

Interview arrangements

If you're invited for an interview, please plan to spend around 2 hours at the college. 

The process includes a one-on-one interview, with time slots allocated on the day. We kindly ask you to bring evidence of your qualifications and any employment/character references you may have. 

This interview is an opportunity for us to get to know you better, assess your suitability for the course, and observe how you interact with lecturers and in group settings.

Please note: Meeting the qualification entry requirements alone does not guarantee a place on the course. 

Fees, Finance & Funding

There may be help available to assist with your study related costs. Impartial, confidential help and advice on financial matters is available from the Student Funding Team - including Bursaries, Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA), Student Awards Agency for Scotland, Student Loans Company and student support funds. Click here to find out more

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Take that next step in your career and apply for this course today. If the course is not yet open for applications, feel free to ask any questions by clicking make an enquiry.