West Suffolk College
UCAS Code: P007 | Higher National Diploma - HND
Entry requirements
A level
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)
UCAS Tariff
About this course
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is at the forefront of digital transformation, shaping industries and redefining how we work, communicate, and solve complex problems. The BTEC Higher National in Digital Technologies (AI Solutions and Applications) is designed for individuals who want to develop technical expertise in AI driven solutions, preparing them for roles in software development, machine learning, data analytics, and intelligent system design.
This qualification offers a practical, industry aligned curriculum that combines core AI principles with hands on applications in intelligent systems, deep learning, and automation. By studying with us, you will gain the critical thinking and problem solving skills required to succeed in an AI driven job market.
Through practical assignments, real world projects, and engagement with industry tools, you will explore theoretical foundations of AI, learn how to deploy intelligent systems, and understand the ethical and societal implications of AI in modern technology landscapes.
Graduates of this programme will be well prepared for progression into AI related roles, further study at university level (such as BSc in Artificial Intelligence or Computer Science), or professional certifications in AI and data science.
Take your place in the future of AI. Join a programme designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to innovate in the digital age.
Modules
Level 4 (Year 1)
Unit 1 – Professional Practice in the Digital Economy - Examining the impact of the Fourth Industrial Revolution on work environments, emphasising the importance of professional development, transferable and communication skills, problem-solving, and collaboration to enhance workplace competence and career success in the digital age.
Unit 2 – Innovation and Digital Transformation - Integrating digital technology across operations to enhance innovation, agility, leadership, and customer experience—enabling them to adapt to market changes and maximise ROI.
Unit 3 – Cyber Security - Equips with knowledge of cyber threats, vulnerabilities, and defence strategies, focusing on cybercrime, information assurance, and strategic responses to enhance cyber resilience and protect ICT infrastructure.
Unit 4 – Programming - Introducing core programming concepts, algorithms, and paradigms, designing and implementing algorithms using an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) while developing critical thinking, analysis, and problem-solving skills essential for academic and professional success.
Unit 5 – Big Data & Visualisation - Using industry tools to analyse and present data, address ethical challenges, and develop skills essential for roles in the digital sector.
Unit 7 – Cloud Fundamentals - Introducing the fundamentals of cloud computing, including its architecture, deployment models, and services, equipping students with critical skills for understanding, managing, and leveraging cloud technologies in academic and professional contexts.
Unit 11 – Software Development Lifecycles - Focusing on different models and methodologies to enable them to implement and manage projects effectively, while developing critical skills for professional and academic success.
Unit 15 – Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Intelligent Systems - Exploring machine learning, ethical challenges, and real-world problem-solving while equipping students with the skills to evaluate and deploy AI technologies.
Level 5 (Year 2)
Unit 19 – Business Intelligence - Exploring tools and techniques for acquiring, processing, and analysing data to support decision-making and business performance, equipping students with skills to optimise organisational processes and contribute to effective problem-solving.
Unit 20 – Internet of Things - Exploring its concepts, benefits, and design methodology, enabling students to develop and simulate IoT applications while understanding their impact on society, business, and technology
Unit 21 – Emerging Technologies - their impact on software development, and their potential to disrupt industries, while equipping students with the skills to analyse their benefits, challenges, and societal effects.
Unit 28 – Risk Analysis & System Testing - Teaches students how to apply risk-based testing (RBT) to prioritise software tests based on potential system failure impact, equipping them with skills to develop and evaluate testing procedures for improved software quality
Unit 36 – Application Development - Simulating the role of a commercial developer to analyse, design, and create business applications, while fostering teamwork, critical thinking, and the use of appropriate development methodologies and tools
Unit 37 – Application Program Interfaces - Developing a proof-of-concept application that integrates existing APIs for common tasks, focusing on design, development, testing, and critical review.
Unit 41 – Digital Sustainability - Explores sustainability challenges in the digital technologies sector, focusing on low-impact solutions, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the development of a low-carbon economy
Unit 22 – Work-based Learning in the Digital Economy - Applying skills, attitudes, and behaviours in professional settings while reflecting on their experiences to adapt to the evolving demands of the digital industries
Assessment methods
Assessment Methods Projects, Report, Portfolio, Review, Reflection, Action Research.
Tuition fees
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The Uni
University Studies and Professional Development Centre
Creative Technologies
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