HND Computing: Technical Support
- Location
- Cardonald Campus
- SCQF Level
- 8
- Start Date
- 24 Aug 2026
- Qualification Type
- HND
- Course Type
- Full-Time
- Duration
- 2 Years (August to June)
Applications for Aug 2026 courses open Wednesday 14th January 2026
Ready to turn your tech skills into a career? This two-year course is designed for problem-solvers and tech enthusiasts who want to work in IT support and infrastructure. Through hands-on, practical learning you'll master everything from networking and operating systems to troubleshooting, virtualisation and cyber security. You'll also gain industry-recognised vendor certifications including Cisco CCNA, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Windows Server Palo Alto Firewall and Virtualisation.
You'll also have the opportunity to join our PC Repair Clinic, gaining real-world experience, and compete in WorldSkills UK events.
What will I learn?
During HND Computing: Technical Support you'll learn subjects including:
- Networking and data communications
Learn to design, configure, and maintain secure networks using industry-standard technologies. You’ll master IP addressing, routing, switching, and network security - skills which are essential for network administration and infrastructure roles. - Operating systems (Windows and Linux)
Gain hands-on experience managing client and server environments. You’ll install, configure, and troubleshoot Windows Server and Linux systems (including Red Hat and Debian), learning command-line administration and automation techniques for enterprise IT. - Troubleshooting and technical support
Develop structured problem-solving skills to diagnose and resolve hardware and software issues. Through real-world scenarios and our student-led PC Repair Clinic, you’ll learn how to support users effectively and manage incidents professionally. - Virtualisation and cloud
Explore private cloud and virtualisation technologies, including Type 1 Hypervisors. You’ll learn to deploy and manage virtual machines, preparing you for modern IT environments and cloud-based infrastructure roles. - Cybersecurity fundamentals
Understand the principles of securing systems and networks. You’ll configure firewalls (including Palo Alto Firewall Essentials), implement access controls, and apply best practices to protect data and prevent cyber threats. - Professional practice
Develop essential workplace skills such as teamwork, communication, and project management. These transferable skills ensure you’re ready for collaborative environments and leadership roles in IT. - Vendor certifications
Gain industry-recognised certifications embedded in the course:- Cisco CCNA: Networking fundamentals and routing/switching
- Red Hat Enterprise Linux: Command-line administration
- Windows Server: Enterprise system management
- Palo Alto Firewall Essentials: Network security
- Virtualisation: Cloud and virtual infrastructure
Entry requirements (minimum)
- One Higher, or equivalent, from Computing, Maths, English, IT or a science subject, plus National 5 English, or equivalent, OR
- A relevant computing NC or NQ at Level 6, or equivalent, OR
- We will consider your application if you have relevant experience but no formal qualifications
- If English is not your first language, you should have a minimum of ESOL Higher.
- If you do not meet the entry criteria for your chosen course, you may be offered an alternative course in the same subject area.
The Scottish Credit and Qualifications (SCQF) Framework can help you to check if you're choosing the right level of study. Take a look at the SCQF Interactive Framework here.
Employer and industry links
During this course you'll gain exposure to industry-standard technologies and potential partnerships with local employers. You'll also benefit from guest lectures, training opportunities, and networking through WorldSkills UK and vendor certification programs.
Jobs and further study
Third year entry to various degree courses at University of the West of Scotland, Glasgow Caledonian University or Abertay University
Second year entry at University of Glasgow, University of Edinburgh or University of Strathclyde is also possible, depending on maths qualifications
You will have the potential to move on to jobs including:
- Technical support
- Helpdesk analyst
- Infrastructure engineer
- Systems administrator
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. This will normally be sent out in June.