Level 3 University Access Diploma in Computing and Engineering Sciences

Perhaps you think you've missed your chance at university because you didn't get the qualifications needed to apply when you were at school.  Or you're stuck in a job you don't like because you lack the educational qualifications to change? Maybe you've lost your job, had a break from employment and want to change direction but don't know how to go about that change.  Or, perhaps, you're employed in an employment sector you love, but can't get any further than the position you're in now because you lack the necessary educational qualifications.

Academic Year: 2024/25
Course Code: 11133
Campus: Bangor, Lisburn
Study Type: Full-Time
Education Level Further Education
Department: Computing/Software Engineering/Networking
Course Overview

This is a two-year course which runs on a full-time basis of 15 hours per week spread over 4 days.   The full-time course is free to students, the only potential cost incurred would be examination fees for additional qualifications such as GCSE Maths or English. 

University Access Diploma in Computing and Engineering Sciences can help you with all the above dilemmas. It is a Level 3 (A Level equivalent) academic qualification, validated by Queen's University Belfast, specifically tailored to the needs of adults who must be out of full-time education for at least two years. The course is aimed at learners with an interest in the tech sector (Computing/engineering) and is focused on developing knowledge and skills in these areas, along with personal and academic confidence.  After studying a range of core subjects that give an understanding of computing and engineering disciplines, students have the option to chose a pathway in either computing or engineering based on their preference. 

Core Modules Year 1: 

  • Study and Employability Skills 
  • Maths 1 
  • Computer Engineering 

Core Modules Year 2: 

  • Maths 2 

Optional Modules Year 2 (Computing Pathway): 

  • Programming 
  • Computing Systems and Infrastructure 

Optional Modules Year 2 (Engineering Pathway): 

  • Mechanical and Electrical Principles 
  • Engineering Product Design and Manufacture 

You have been out of full-time education for at least two years, have an interest in computing or engineering, and you want to gain entry to Higher Education programmes at college or university. 

A range of knowledge and academic skills through subjects specific to the pathway you want to undertake. 

 

The development of your personal and academic confidence through a dynamic approach to teaching and assessment.  You will have the opportunity to develop skills practically via a range of projects.  You will have the opportunity to be involved in a range of enrichment activities such as guest speakers and industrial visits relevant to computing and engineering sectors. 

Upon successful completion and required level of programme performance, learners can progress to any computing or engineering Foundation Degree or Higher National Diploma within the college.  Learners can also progress to computing and engineering degree programmes at university, subject to achieving the required level of programme performance.  

  • To be out of Full-Time education for a minimum of 2 years 
  • GCSE English grade C or above OR equivalent Level 2 Literacy qualification 
  • GCSE Maths Grade C or above OR equivalent Level 2 Numeracy qualification 
  • 2 other GCSEs at Grade C or above in a STEM related discipline 
  • Successful completion of the College pre-entry assessment process 

Enquiries Information

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Available Sessions

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Terms & Conditions

Students will be required to comply with SERC's Terms & Conditions of study.

We strive to ensure the description of courses on SERC's website and in publications is accurate. However, for various reasons there may be occasions when the College may need to change arrangements or be unable to deliver classes due to circumstances such as reduced funding. If there are insufficient numbers applying for a course it may not be viable to deliver the class.

Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.

Further Education

Further Education

If you have just completed your GCSEs, Further Education is most likely the option for you. FE covers qualifications from entry to higher level qualifications such as Awards, Certificates, Diplomas, NVQ, BTEC and Apprenticeships.

Explore Further Education