The majority of businesses around the world, of all sizes, will make use of an integrated office suite to organise their information systems. The Microsoft Office suite is the most commonly used by all, whether in the work place or at home. As a result, there is a great demand for staff with skills in using such suites, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases and presentation packages to design, create, manage and present all aspects of a company's information. This Higher National programme specialises in developing these skills taking you to advanced levels in all of these applications and in particular concentrating on how to develop complete and meaningful information systems using databases. Such skills will open up a wide range of opportunities in many companies, wherever an office suite is used.
PROGRESSION As mentioned above, successful completion of this course will prepare you for trainee posts in a wide range of IT functions including both the design and management of a company?s information base; and also prepare you for careers in office systems support. Successful completion of the HNC will also provide you with the entry qualifications required for direct entry into the 2nd year of the HND in Information Technology or one of a range of related degree programmes in Information Technology at Glasgow Caledonian University, and the University of the West of Scotland, both on a part-time and a full-time basis.
COURSE CONTENT A selection of core units includes:
As expected all of the office suite applications will be included, with special emphasis on databases, along with classes in delivering front line support to the many users of such suites in business. As with many new HN programmes, there will also be an exam with questions on the key topics in the programme. Extra qualifications based on office applications will also be included such as the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) and you will also be prepared for specialist Microsoft qualifications such as the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) and the Microsoft Certified Application Specialist (MCAS).
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS EITHER 1 SQA Higher preferably English or a highly literate subject, and 3 Standard Grades, all at Pass standard or above; OR 12 NC credits which should contain either a Communications unit, or an acceptable literary equivalent, and include at least 8 Computing / IT credits; OR In the case of mature applicants, at least 1 year's suitable IT work experience or possession of the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) will also be considered.
ATTENDANCE and COSTS This part-time course is available in two different modes.
Mode A If you are in employment and are able to get day release, then attendance will be required on one day per week for two years. The course will cost £510 per year, but is also eligible for ILA funding.
Mode B If you are unemployed then you may be eligible to enroll for the programme which requires attendance on two days per week, such that the HNC programme will be completed in one year. This mode is funded by the European Social Fund (ESF), which means anyone receiving benefits will still be able to continue receiving them. If you are eligible, the ESF may also provide assistance with child care and travelling costs. We will check your eligibility prior to enrolling for the course.
£200 accounts - If you are interested in learning something new or brushing up your skills. There is a wide range of courses available so why not have a look at our Course Search to get an idea of what's available in your area.
£500 accounts - If you are studying a part-time higher education course such as an Higher National Certificate (HNC), Higher National Diploma (HND) or a Degree course at ILA Scotland approved colleges or universities. You must be studying 50% or more of the time needed to complete a full-time course.
