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Digital Innovation and Computing

Digital Design and Development HND

Campus Granton Campus

Qualification SCQF Level 8

Study mode Full time

Start date Aug 2026

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Course overview

The Digital Design and Development HND will teach you several contemporary skills necessary for working in the modern digital design workplace. The digital landscape is constantly evolving, and this course provides you with an up-to-date award that reflects recent developments within the sector. Your design potential will be pushed to a professional standard, and your work could be part of the digital future. You will be taught by industry-experienced College lecturers and learn a diverse range of knowledge in:

  • Web Development
  • Audio and Video Production
  • 3D Modelling
  • 2D Animation
  • Software Development
  • App Development
  • Arduino Development.  

You will be introduced to project management, working in teams, and learn about User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) design, as well as graphics for a variety of environments. Additionally, you will gain hands-on experience with Arduino development. Each subject area you cover is tailored towards jobs available in the industry to make sure you get the best education to progress towards a successful career. This course leads to second- or third-year entry into university courses, depending on your choice of university and course.

What you will learn

  • Software Development
  • UI and UX Design
  • Graphics Creation using Adobe Software
  • Audio and Video Production
  • Project Management
  • 2D and 3D Animation
  • Web Development
  • App Development
  • Arduino Development

How the course is assessed

  • You will be assessed on your practical skills
  • There will be some written assignments and multiple-choice tests
  • There will be one exam

Number of days per week

  • Approximately 18 hours per week, which we try to timetable into 3 days.
  • However, the course is demanding, and you should allow 4.5 days of study per week for this course.

Entry requirements

  • For school leavers: Three C passes at Higher, preferably one in Computing or a numerate subject, and you will also need to have the Communications Core skill at Level 6 or equivalent.
  • For college learners: SCQF Level 6 pass in a relevant subject such as Software and Digital Design or Computing.
  • For everyone else: All enquiries are welcome regardless of qualifications. Edinburgh College computing staff can assess where you can start or progress in your computing career and find the right course for you

Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements

  • During the interview, you will be asked to participate in a Skills and Experience screening exercise, which will be conducted on a computer.

English Proficiency Requirements

IELTS 5.5

Progression and Articulation Routes

  • Second or third year of various university degree courses
  • BSc Web Development year 3 at Napier University
  • BSc Interactive Design year 3 at Glasgow Caledonia University (with a portfolio)

Career options

  • Employment in an interactive media role or related area
  • Web and multimedia developer

Study Options

Campus Study mode Start date
Granton Campus Full time 24/08/26

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