HNC Digital Technologies for Artificial Intelligence
Key details
Award
Higher National Certificate
UCAS Course Code
P006
Fees
£6,360 per year
Awarding Body
Pearson
Course Length
1 year
Course Start Date
September 2026
Course overview
The HNC in Digital Technologies for Artificial Intelligence is an internationally recognised qualification designed to prepare you for a wide range of roles within the rapidly evolving digital technology sector. As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly embedded across industries and services, this course provides a strong and relevant foundation for those seeking to work in primary, secondary and tertiary digital technology environments.
You will develop core knowledge of artificial intelligence concepts alongside practical skills in digital technologies, data, and systems that underpin modern AI solutions. The course places equal emphasis on technical capability and ethical awareness, ensuring you understand not only how AI systems are developed and applied, but also the wider social, legal and ethical implications of their use.
With a clear focus on employability and progression, the HNC equips you with industry relevant skills that are in growing demand across the job market. It is well suited to learners looking to enter the digital technology sector, as well as those already working in the field who wish to upskill and progress their careers. The course also supports engagement with industry, reflecting real world applications and helping you develop the professional confidence needed to succeed in a technology driven economy.
Why study with us?
Industry-led qualifications from Pearson
Small class sizes with experienced tutors guiding your learning
Strong links with local employers and industry experts
State-of-the-art XR Lab facilities in Suffolk
What you’ll study
Across this one-year programme at Level 4, you will build a strong foundation in digital technologies with a focus on artificial intelligence and its applications in the modern digital economy. You’ll develop essential technical skills while also improving your professional, analytical, and ethical understanding, preparing you for further study or progression into digital technology roles. Modules include:
- Professional Practice in the Digital Economy
- Innovation and Digital Transformation
- Cyber Security
- Programming
- Big Data and Visualisation
- Cloud Fundamentals
- Software Development Lifecycles
- Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence and Intelligent Systems
Following successful completion of this HNC course, students can progress to HND Digital Technologies for Artificial Intelligence.
Future careers
Graduates of HNC Digital Technologies for Artifical Intelligence can progress to HND Digital Technologies for Artificial Intelligence, or various rewarding careers in the digital industry. Typical careers could include:
CYBER SECURITY SPECIALIST
Salary: £30,000-£60,000+
SOFTWARE DEVELOPER
Salary: £25,000-£55,000+
JUNIOR ANIMATOR
Salary: £20,000-£30,000+
Data collected by Lightcast. Lightcast is a leading provider of labour market analytics, offering data-driven insights to connect people with jobs. It integrates economic, labour market, demographic, and job posting data from various sources
Facilities
Study in a vibrant and welcoming space at our University and Professional Development Centre, designed to support learners of all ages and backgrounds. From our well-equipped library and quiet study zone, to social spaces like Costa Coffee, to dedicated computer areas and an innovative XR Lab, you’ll have everything you need to excel. You’ll have access beyond timetabled hours, giving you the freedom to study, collaborate and work on projects whenever inspiration strikes.
Explore our creative resources in more detail using our interactive 3D map:
Hear from our students
Jake Mills
Danilo Francisco
Ben Loft
Fees and entry requirements
UCAS Tariff: 96
BTEC Level 3 Ext. Diploma: MMM
A-Levels: CCC
Applicants who do not meet the published entry requirements will be considered on an individual basis based upon prior learning and relevant experience.
Tuition Fees
This course is £6,360 per year. Find out how to secure student finance here.
Course Related Costs
Please see the Course Factsheet for details on other course-related costs.
Funding and Bursaries
Please see Additional Funding and Bursaries for more information.
Click here to view the full Course Factsheet.
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How to apply
Apply for this course through the University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), using the UCAS Hub. UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for the full-time undergraduate courses at University and Colleges in the United Kingdom.
Please search for ‘West Suffolk College‘ as the institution name on UCAS.
Progressing students at Eastern Education Group
If you are already a student within the Eastern Education Group (West Suffolk College, Abbeygate Sixth Form College or One Sixth Form College), or have been within the last three years, you can apply directly through our Internal Application Form and save up to £1,000 off your first-year tuition fees*.
*This course is Subject to Validation.
**The College offers a discount to students who have studied a full-time qualification within the Eastern Education Group in the past three years. Fixed discounts of £1,000 on the first year of a degree course and £500 for first year of a HNC, HTQ or HND course. Students are only allowed to benefit from one discount within any three-year period. Higher or degree apprenticeships are not eligible for this award. The College reserves the right to remove this offer at any time. Other terms and conditions are not affected by this offer.
Disclaimer: There is no need to apply for this award. Full terms and conditions as outlined apply. The progression discounts are in place for students applying to start at University Centre at Eastern Education Group for entry in the same year as their application. Students must be enrolled and in attendance at University Centre at Eastern Education Group.