Computing - Introduction to: NQ (Level 4)
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Course overview
Ready to build your digital confidence and learn how businesses really work?
This beginner-friendly course introduces you to the essentials of computing and business in a supportive, hands-on environment. It’s perfect for learners who are new to digital skills and want to understand how technology is used in modern workplaces.
Across the year, you’ll explore how organisations operate, learn practical IT skills using Microsoft Office 365, and discover how business, marketing, customer service and teamwork all connect. You’ll take part in activities, group projects, and problem-solving tasks that help you build the confidence employers look for.
Whether you want to move into computing, administration, business, marketing, or customer service, this course gives you a strong foundation — and clear progression routes — to take your next step.
This course is ideal if you are:
- New to computing and digital skills
- Interested in business, administration, or IT
- A school leaver looking for an SCQF Level 4 pathway
- An adult returner wanting to build confidence with technology
What you will learn
You will build core digital, business and communication skills that employers value. Topics include:
- Microsoft Office 365 Essentials - Learn how to create documents, spreadsheets, presentations and work with Teams for communication
- Marketing Fundamentals - Discover how businesses promote products and connect with customers
- Business Enterprise and Organisations - You’ll learn what businesses are, how they work, and what makes them successful.
- Teamwork and Problem Solving in Business Contexts - You’ll learn how to work well with others, share ideas, and complete tasks as part of a group. You’ll also practise solving simple business problems by planning, communicating, and thinking through different solutions together.
- The Business Environment — internal and external influences
- Computer Hardware and Operating Systems - Get to know the main parts of a computer, how they work
- Software Development Fundamentals - Learn basic coding concepts in a simple, friendly way
- Customer Service and Communication - Build confidence in dealing with people, writing clearly, and working in a professional way
By the end of the course, you’ll be more confident using technology, communicating with others, and understanding how organisations operate.
Entry requirements
You do not need previous computing experience.
✅ National 3/4 qualifications or relevant life experience
✅ A general interest in IT, business or administration
✅ A positive attitude and willingness to learn
ℹ️ For this course, if English is not your first language
- you need to have SQA ESOL National 5 (or equivalent, click here to see equivalent qualifications)
- If you do not have a formal ESOL qualification but your language skills meet this level, you should apply for your course and then contact our Admissions team to organise an internal language assessment here at the College.
Career Opportunities
This course can help you move towards a range of entry-level roles, including:
💼 Administrative Assistant
🖥️ Junior IT Support / Helpdesk Assistant
📞 Customer Service Assistant
📊 Marketing or Social Media Assistant
📚 Business Support Assistant
🧾 Finance/Office Support
With further study, you can progress to roles such as HR Assistant, Business Support Officer, Marketing Assistant, or Junior IT Technician.
Future prospects
After successful completion, you can progress to:
- NQ Level 5 Computing
- NQ Level 5 Business
- NQ Level 5 Business Administration
- Other SCQF Level 5 study pathways
Many learners continue toward Level 6 and then HN qualifications.
Real Industry Connections
Guest speakers, employer visits, and project-based learning linked to local businesses.
