Digital Technologies and Computer Science - Access to HE
B01384
This course will be delivered online.
This course will develop your skills and knowledge in Digital Technologies and Computer Science - an industry with growing opportunities for employment. This includes roles in computer science, games design, cybersecurity, AI, Data Science, programming and web development.
This is an advanced level course designed to prepare you for university, and the completion of this Level 3 diploma will give you the qualification required to do so. The course can also be used to support your entry into employment or into an apprenticeship or degree apprenticeship within your chosen sector.
Many students progress onto their chosen field of study at university, with others progressing into employment or into an apprenticeship related to their course of study. In 22/23, access learners received offers from a range of universities, including from Sheffield, Bournemouth, St Mary's, Queen Mary's, University of the Creative Arts, UAL, Brunel, Goldsmiths, Greenwich, Ravensbourne, Kingston, Westminster and Portsmouth. For Digital Technologies learners, this has included offers in Cybersecurity, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Computer Science and Games Design and Development.
Course Content
The Access to Higher Education courses are designed to develop both your practical and theoretical knowledge in a range of different topics related to your chosen subject area. This includes the development of your study skills, as well as the opportunity to work and study in a collaborative environment across the academic year.
The Digital Technologies and Computer Science course will include the following units (subject to change):
Sourcing and Reading Information
Preparing for Higher Education
Maths for Computing
Website Design and Creation
Cybersecurity
Structured Query Language (SQL)
Programming Fundamentals (Python)
Spreadsheets
Statistics
Introduction to Social Media
Delivering Seminar Papers
Visual Programming
Data Analysis and Descriptive Statistics
Numerical Methods
Extended Project
Please note that whilst the course is online, this is not a distance learning course. You will be required to attend all timetabled classes and complete your assignments by each specified deadline, taking part in classroom discussions and activities via Microsoft Teams.
Entry Requirements
For your application to be considered you must be 18 or over on 31st August prior to the course start date
You should have a grade C or above at GCSE English and Maths gained within the last five years. If you do not have this you may still apply and provide evidence of any other qualifications you have done. All applicants will also be asked to undertake a screening test in Maths and English. You should be able to write fluently and understand business materials including financial information.
You will be interviewed to assess whether the course is appropriate for you. Access courses are designed for learners aged 19 and above, however if you are 18 years old, we may be able to consider your application for the on-site programme on a case by case basis.
First Class Requirements
There will be software required for the modules - tutors will always recommend open source and free software/ educational licenses where possible. You will also receive information of how to access our Microsoft 365 academic offer for students.
Attendance Requirements
Regular attendance of 100% (apart from exceptional circumstances) is needed to ensure that you are able to cover all of the course content and assessment successfully.
Regular attendance is essential and will be closely monitored. Students not meeting the attendance requirement will be withdrawn from the course.
Assessment Methods
Learners will be assessed formally through coursework which will be a combination of written work, production of artefacts, presentations, projects, observations etc. This is a level 3 course and all student work is externally moderated by the relevant board. There are approximately 15 assignments to complete across the year.
Further Study Options
Completing this course allows you to apply for university degree courses. One big advantage of this course is that you can complete it in a much shorter time than A-levels.
Many students progress onto their chosen field of study at university, with others progressing into employment or into an apprenticeship related to their course of study. In 2023, access learners received offers from a range of universities, including from Sheffield, Bournemouth, St Mary's, Queen Mary s, University of Creative Arts, Brunel, Goldsmiths, Greenwich, Ravensbourne, Kingston, Westminster and Portsmouth. For Digital Technologies learners, this has included offers in Cybersecurity, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science and Games Design and Development.
Additional Information
If you require further course information or advice & guidance that is not answered in this outline, please email bit@rhacc.ac.uk. You can also make an appointment for further information or tutor approval on our Open Days.
If you would like general information about the college, for example, fees & finance, funding, term dates or opening times please email info@racc.ac.uk or drop in to our main reception area.