- Location
- Cardonald Campus
- SCQF Level
- 5
- Start Date
- 25 Aug 2025
- Qualification Type
- NQ
- Course Type
- Full-Time
- Duration
- 1 Year (August to June)
Applications open 15th January 2025
The NQ Computing Fundamentals course provides you with an introduction to a broad range of areas in computing. You will gain knowledge and skills in new and upcoming tools and technologies such as software development, web design, cyber security, and networking fundamentals to prepare you for progression to industry or for further study.
Whether you are just starting your career or are an IT professional wanting to retrain to update, refresh or enhance your existing IT skills, then this is the course for you.
What will I learn?
- Hardware and software
Fundamental knowledge of core components of a computerised system - Networking
Introduction to core concepts and practical development related to networking - Programming
Introduction to a variety of languages and core concepts of programming - Web design and development
Development lifecycle of webpage creation - Cyber security
An introduction to the fascinating world of cyber security.
Hear more from computing lecturers Violet and Paul about this course.
Entry requirements (minimum)
- Three National 4, or equivalent, passes - one must be English (or ESOL equivalent), and another in Computing, Maths, or a science
- We will consider your application if you have relevant experience but have no formal qualifications.
Entry requirement equivalency table
If you do not meet the entry criteria for your chosen course, you may be offered an alternative course in the same subject area.
Employer and industry links
Studying NQ Computer Fundamentals Level 5 with us is about more than gaining a certificate; it is about getting a job you will want to do and continue to develop. Throughout your time here, we will help you to build your employability skills. These are the skills employer's rate, and we will ensure you are given the best chance to succeed.
Not only will we equip you with the skills you will need but you will get access to a host of other activities, from meeting employers to taking part in WorldSkills competitions. Our highly trained staff will give you the best preparation for further study or employment.
Jobs and further study
Successful students may progress to the following courses:
- NC Cyber Security (Level 6)
- NQ Computing and Esports (Level 6)
- Depending on individual skill set there is the possibility to progress to HND courses at Glasgow Clyde College.
- You will have the potential to progress to jobs in computing.
Take a look at the course progression map for computing courses.
Making an application
For courses starting in August, you can make up to two applications.
Applications are made to a course and a first choice of campus. If the course is oversubscribed at your first choice you will be automatically considered for alternative sites and may be made an offer without a further application.
I've applied — what happens next?
When you apply
You will receive an automated email confirming that we have received your application (remember to check your SPAM folder).
Your application will be reviewed by the admissions team and you will either be:
- Made a direct offer (unconditional or conditional)
- Invited to book an interview session
- Advised that your application is unsuccessful – you have not met the entry requirements for this course and are advised to contact the College Student Advice Centres to discuss alternative options which may be available to you.
- We aim not to reject an application and if you don’t meet the entry requirements you may be referred to a different course or level.
If you are invited to interview, you will be informed of the outcome of your interview by email within 14 working days. The outcome will be one of the following:
- Unconditional offer of a place – you have met all the entry requirements and your place is guaranteed. You will be required to accept this offer to secure your place.
- Conditional offer of a place – your place is secured pending you meeting the entry requirements. This may mean achieving school or college qualifications which you may not be able to provide to us yet. You will be required to accept this offer to secure your conditional place. Once your conditions are met this will change to an unconditional offer of a place which you must accept before you can enrol on the course.
- Waiting list – you have met all entry requirements, and have been interviewed however, the course is now full so you have been placed on a waiting list. If any spaces become available you may be contacted, usually around the course start date. We would advise that you also consider other application options.
- Reserve list – following your interview, you have unfortunately not been successful in this round of recruitment. We have placed your name on a Reserve list and your application may be reconsidered at a later date. This could happen any time up to the start date of the course but it is very possible that you will not be offered a place. We would advise that you also consider other application options.
- Unsuccessful – your interview has been unsuccessful. You may be offered a place on a course at a different level, or advised to contact the College Student Advice Centres to discuss alternative options which may be available to you.
Once an offer is received, you must reply within 14 working days or risk losing your place, as the system will automatically decline your offer after 14 days.
Once you have accepted your offer, you will be sent out instructions about student funding, joining instructions and induction date.