BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Cloud Computing

Who are these qualifications for?

The purpose of the Pearson BTEC Higher Nationals in Cloud Computing is to develop students as professional, self-reflecting individuals able to meet the demands of employers in the cloud computing sector and to adapt to a constantly changing world.

The BTEC Level 4 HNC course is delivered over 2.5 days.

What could these qualifications lead to?

The Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Cloud Computing offers students a broad introduction to the subject. This builds underpinning core skills while preparing students for subject specialisation at Level 5. Students will gain a wide range of sector knowledge tied to practical skills gained in research, self-study, directed study and workplace scenarios. Graduates successfully completing the Pearson BTEC Higher National Certificate in Cloud Computing will be able to demonstrate a sound knowledge of the foundational concepts of cloud computing, including hands-on practical experience. They will be able to communicate accurately and appropriately and will have the qualities needed for employment that requires some degree of personal responsibility. Students will have developed a range of transferable skills to ensure effective team working, to take independent initiative, organisational competence and problem-solving strategies. They will be adaptable and flexible in their approach to computing, show resilience under pressure, and meet challenging targets within a given resource.

The HNC Level 4 qualification has been aligned with the Cloud Practitioner Certification from AWS and the Cloud Support Associate job role. On completion of the Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC), students will be suitably prepared to attempt the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner examination, although it is recommended that students have six months of fundamental AWS Cloud and industry knowledge before taking it.

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

AWS are leaders and innovators in developing the broadest and deepest, as well as one of the most mature, cloud platforms. They have one of the largest global communities of customers and partners, making them best placed to collaborate on the development of the Pearson BTEC Higher Nationals in Cloud Computing. Pearson collaborated with AWS to ensure that the qualifications offer students progression to entry-level jobs in the sector after completing Levels 4.

Course Units

At Level 4, students develop a broad knowledge and awareness of key aspects of the cloud sector.

These include:

• Cloud Fundamentals
• Networking in the Cloud
• Security in the Cloud
• Programming
• Database Design and Development in the Cloud
• Deploying and Operating in the Cloud (Pearson Set)
• Website Design and Development in the Cloud
• Strategic Information Systems

 

Teaching, Learning and Assessment

We are committed to delivering excellence in teaching and providing high-quality learning environments, resources, and support. You will be taught by experienced lecturers who are experts in their field, ensuring that you benefit from both academic knowledge and industry-relevant expertise.

Flexible Learning

Our flexible approach to learning reflects the evolving nature of education and prepares students for an increasingly digital world. UKBC enhances the learning experience through providing access to a range of digital resources, including e-textbooks and recorded content.

Face-to-Face Delivery

Students will attend classroom-based lectures, seminars, and tutorials delivered by qualified and experienced lecturers. Sessions are designed to be interactive, engaging and reflective, and combine presentations, demonstrations, group activities, and open discussion, enabling students to explore key theories and concepts while applying them to real-world business contexts.

Independent Study

Independent study is an essential part of the programme. Students are expected to take responsibility for managing their own learning and organising their time effectively alongside their scheduled classes. Through independent study, students will:

• Consolidate and reinforce learning from taught sessions.
• Prepare for upcoming topics and assessments.
• Extend their understanding through wider reading and research.
• Reflect on feedback to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
• Develop the academic, professional, and transferable skills required for successful completion of the qualification and future employment.

Assessment

Assignments on the course may take different forms, such as written reports, presentations, practical activities, case studies, or group work, depending on the requirements of the unit, and where applicable, reflect real industry practice. Each assignment is issued as an assignment brief, which includes the release date, submission deadline, learning outcomes, assessment criteria, and clear guidance on the evidence students are required to produce.

 

Entry Requirement

We encourage applications from people with a variety of backgrounds at UKBC. We would be pleased to review your application on an individual basis if you have recently been in education or are returning after a long time.

 

Application based on Previous qualifications:

• A BTEC Level 3 in Computing
• GCE Advanced level profile that demonstrates strong performance in a relevant subject or adequate performance in more than one GCE subject. This profile is likely to be supported by GCSE grades A* to C (or equivalent) and/or 9 to 4 (or equivalent) in subjects such as maths and English.
• Other related Level 3 qualifications
• An Access to Higher Education Diploma from an approved further education institution.
• Relevant work experience or;
• An international equivalent to the above qualifications.

Mature learner 21+

Through our assessment-based admissions process, mature applicants over the age of 21 without qualifications must demonstrate how their prior experiences are relevant to the course they have chosen. We will take into account your prior experiences (job, volunteer, life, and other experiences) that are relevant to the course.

You will be required to provide the following:

• Demonstrate two or more years+ of UK work experience.
• Provide a Personal Statement.
• For applicants from non-majority English speaking countries will be required to undertake an assessment of reading and writing.
• Complete a SAPE Assessment (Screening for Accreditation of Prior Experience).
• Applicants will also be invited to attend an Interview.

English Language Requirements:

Applicants applying for a Pearson BTEC Higher National qualification at UKBC is taught and assessed in English. Therefore, all applicants are expected to have a certain level of English language skills.

Applicants from non-majority English speaking countries will be required to undertake an assessment of reading and writing proficiency. Applicants are expected to score no less than IELTS 5.5 in each of these components.

For more information related to our Admissions Process, please visit https://ukbusinesscollege.org/students/how-to-apply/

Dates and Fees:

Starting Date: September 2026

Tuition Fees: £6,350 per Year