HNC Data Analytics

The validation event for HNC Data Analytics took place yesterday afternoon. The meeting took place in the SQA offices in Glasgow.

The Validation Panel included representatives of colleges, universities, training providers and SQA (the industry representative was unable to attend). The Panel was convened by Vivien Gallagher of Forth Valley College. The Qualification Development Team (QDT) was led by Denise Doyle of City of Glasgow College.

It was a positive and constructive meeting, with both parties trying to improve the proposed qualification. The outcome is that the qualification will be validated once a few conditions are addressed. None of the conditions are arduous so we (the QDT) hope to have the conditions lifted in the near future and the award made available to centres from 1 November.

One of the features of this new HNC is that it was designed to permit full advanced standing between colleges and university. So, for example, college students who complete this qualification will be eligible for direct entry into the second year of the University of Strathclyde’s B.Sc. in Data Analytics (or Computer Science).

I’m delighted to add this qualification to the portfolio of vocational qualifications. It covers a new and exciting field in computing (big data) and will improve college to university articulation. I’m particularly grateful to Denise and Vivien for the success of yesterday’s event.

Please contact Helen if you want to know more about this new award or read the validation FAQ if you want to know more about validation events.

Bobby Published 29/09/2016