Computing
Access to Cyber Security, Software Development and Web (NPA and CISCO)
Campus Granton Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 5
Study mode Full time
Start date
Aug 2026
Course enquiry form
Course overview
This course introduces you to all the main areas of computing to build up your skills and help you find what you have a natural flair for and enjoy.
No matter where you choose to specialise in computing, the skills from this course apply to any job in the tech sector, as well as many other jobs in the world today. Digital and technology skills are in high demand across all sectors.
The course covers Cyber Security essentials, which we deliver as a CISCO certificate. For those not familiar with Cisco, it is the world's most prominent IT infrastructure brand and a household name among tech companies globally; it is the Microsoft of infrastructure.
Alongside Cyber Security, you will learn basic Web development, Computer Networking, and Software Development skills.
The underlying core of the whole course is Data Science. Data Science is the fastest-growing tech employment market, with demand outstripping the skills pipeline.
Data Science and data analysis skills are highly sought after across all sectors, especially in tech. The world is now heavily dependent on data for diagnosis, medicine, community support, innovation, marketing, and advertising. Any employer will be pleased to see such a qualification on a CV.
If you choose Cyber Security as your future path, you will be securing both physical infrastructure and Wi-Fi, which is where networking skills will come in. You will also be securing websites and apps against malicious attacks and malware, so knowing how to code is essential on both fronts, and an appreciation for web development is a valuable asset that few people studying in this area have.
If you are choosing to go into Web and Software next, you need to be aware of cybersecurity to build safe, secure websites and apps. It's a rare combination to have the networking knowledge to accompany these skills, and to know how your websites are delivered to the end user and the infrastructure that allows people to access the internet at home. This mix of skills makes you more employable and a greater asset to any business, including your own. Being your tech support to keep you and your customers connected to the internet is invaluable and a competitive edge.
Working as part of any company requires all employees to be cyber aware and actively fight the threats, and so the course is ideal, no matter what you choose to study next.
This course is designed to give you the foundational knowledge and the step-up you need to start your degree path.
What you will learn- Cyber Security (CISCO Certification)
- Computer Architecture
- Computer Networking
- Software Development
- Web Development
- Web Graphics and basic Digital media skills
- Data Science (NPA SQA qualification)
How the course is assessed
- Through practical assessments and multiple-choice tests.
Number of days per week
- Approximately 3 to 4 days per week, but students should allocate additional time for activities completed outside of class.
- We recommend at least one extra day per week.
Entry requirements
- 4 National 4, C grade passes or equivalent, preferably including Computing and maths.
- You will need to have the equivalent of a national 4-level mathematics qualification. If you don't have this formal qualification, this can be assessed from the screening activity at the interview.
- If you are not just leaving school, you will need to sit a screening activity to assess your current knowledge level.
- This course can be accessed via progression from a relevant Edinburgh College course.
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
- At the interview, you will be asked to take part in a Skills and Experience screening exercise online.
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 5.5Progression and Articulation Routes
- NPA Cyber Security, Networking and Forensics
- NPA Software Development and Web
- NPA Software Development and Digital Design
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date |
|---|---|---|
| Granton Campus | Full time | 24/08/26 |
