Course overview
Build practical skills for the digital economy.
Develop applied technical expertise across cyber security, networking, programming, big data, cloud systems, cryptography, business intelligence and the Internet of Things through a two-year Pearson HND.
Year One
Build a broad technical foundation in cyber security, networking, cloud infrastructure, programming, big data and digital transformation while developing professional skills for the digital economy.
Year Two
Move into applied cloud security, cryptography, information security management, business intelligence, digital sustainability, emerging technology and the Internet of Things.
Applied learning
Develop technical and transferable capability through software development, case studies, work-based projects, research, teamwork and practical problem-solving.
Progression
The Pearson BTEC Higher National Diploma covers Levels 4 and 5 and can support entry into digital technology roles or progression to an eligible degree-level programme, subject to the receiving provider’s requirements.
Curriculum
Two years from digital foundations to applied cloud security.
01Year 1
Level 4
120 credits
Year 1
Level 4
- Big Data and Visualisation15 credits
- Cyber Security15 credits
- Innovation and Digital Transformation15 credits
- Networking15 credits
- Networking in the Cloud15 credits
- Professional Practice in the Digital Economy15 credits
- Programming15 credits
- Security15 credits
02Year 2
Level 5
120 credits
Year 2
Level 5
- Applied Cryptography in the Cloud15 credits
- Applied Security in the Cloud15 credits
- Business Intelligence15 credits
- Digital Sustainability15 credits
- Emerging Technologies15 credits
- Information Security Management in the Cloud15 credits
- Internet of Things15 credits
- Work Based Learning in the Digital Economy15 credits
Module availability and content may change as part of the provider’s ongoing academic review.
Assessment
Practical ways to show what you know.
There are no formal examinations on this course. Assessment is designed around applied digital technology and cyber security work.
Methods can include presentations, written assignments, case-study analysis, in-class tests, work-based projects, software development, portfolios of evidence and reports.
Independent research, homework and group work form an important part of the programme, supported by guidance from the course team.
Entry requirements
Your route onto the course.
Applicants aged 18+
- A Level 3 qualification or an Access to Higher Education certificate.
- GCSE English grade 4/C or CEFR B2. An English test at a partner campus may be available if you do not hold this qualification.
- A successful academic interview.
Applicants aged 21+
Applicants without the standard qualifications may be considered if their commitment and related academic, professional or vocational experience demonstrate readiness for the programme. The same English requirement normally applies.
Application process
- Complete the application form.
- Provide supporting documents when requested.
- Attend the academic panel interview.
- The course provider makes the final admissions decision.
Fees & funding
Understand the full cost.
Fees shown apply to new and continuing Home students from August 2026.
Tuition fees may increase in later years in line with government policy and inflation.
Funding your study
Eligible students may be able to apply for a UK Government Tuition Fee Loan to cover course fees.
A Maintenance Loan may also be available to help with living costs while studying. Eligibility depends on personal circumstances, the course and the provider.
What you’ll achieve
Skills for ideas that move forward.
Gain an applied Pearson higher education qualification combining cyber security, programming, networking, cloud systems, data, business intelligence and work-based learning, with a potential route to degree-level study.
Career opportunities
Where this course can take you.
Career outcomes depend on your experience, further training and the requirements of each role.
Cyber security and risk
- Cyber security support analyst
- Risk analyst
- Information security support
- Security operations technician
Networks and IT support
- IT support technician
- Network technician
- Cloud support technician
- Database administrator
Software and web
- Software developer
- Software tester
- Web developer
- IoT developer
Data and digital business
- Data analyst
- Business analyst
- Data analytics consultant
- Digital technologist
Frequently asked questions
Course questions.
Who is this HND designed for?
It suits applicants starting a technology career, professionals who want to expand their technical skills and students seeking an applied route towards further degree-level study.
Are there formal examinations?
No formal examinations are currently required. Assessment uses practical formats such as projects, programming, presentations, written work, case studies, portfolios and reports.
Can I progress to a degree?
The HND covers Levels 4 and 5 and may support progression to an eligible degree or top-up programme. The receiving provider’s exact entry requirements should be confirmed before applying.
What is the study schedule?
A two-day weekday timetable is published for this course, while the main course information also notes that weekday and/or evening classes are subject to availability. Confirm the current timetable for your chosen location and intake.