NPA Data Science SCQF level 4, 5 and 6
National Progression Awards (NPAs) assess a defined set of skills and knowledge in specialist vocational areas, linked to National Occupational Standards
The NPAs in Data Science at SCQF levels 4, 5 and 6 provide foundation knowledge and skills in data science to increase awareness of the discipline among learners and provide practical skills in data analysis. The qualification will also raise awareness of the societal aspects of this important, emerging technology
They are the first school-based national qualifications in Data Science to be developed and will prepare learners for further studies and future employment in this area.
No previous experience of data science or statistics is required (at any level). However, direct entry to higher levels (particularly Level 6) will require appropriate computational and numeracy skills. Level 4 and Level 5 may be entered directly without previous experience of the subject area; it is recommended that learners undertake the Level 5 before attempting Level 6, however direct entry to Level 6 is possible for suitably qualified learners.
Given the multi-disciplinary nature of data science, a wide range of subjects may provide the necessary foundation for attempting this award.
This qualification is suitable for a wide range of learners including adults who wish to retrain in this field and people in employment who wish to acquire data skills. The entry requirements for these learners will vary from learner to learner, depending on their individuals experiences and motivations.
The qualification is available through schools, colleges and training providers.
Qualification structure
| Group award code | SCQF credit points | SCQF level | Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| GP8N 44 | 12 | 4 | Two mandatory units:
|
| GP8P 45 | 18 | 5 | Two mandatory units:
One optional unit (6 SCQF credit points). |
| GP8R 46 | 18 | 6 | Two mandatory units:
One optional unit (6 SCQF credit points). |
See the group award specification for the full list of mandatory and optional units.
Group award specification (526 KB)
How to assess
Assessment will be a combination of practical and knowledge assessments under closed- and open-book assessment conditions. See the assessment and evidence requirements for each unit.
E-assessment support packs are available for this qualification.
Qualification Verification Summary Report
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Learning and teaching materials
Learning and Teaching materials for the NPA Data Science are currently under development.
If your centre is already delivering the NPA Data Science and requires support, this is available through the Data Education in Schools project.
Resources
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Why study this qualification
The NPA is suitable for:
- learners wishing to develop and enhance data science skills to support their learning across a wide range of curricular areas
- S4 to S6 school pupils who will undertake the qualification as a broadening of the Computing Science curriculum.
- students at colleges who will be using the NPAs within full or part-time college programmes such as part of a NC Computing qualification
- adults returning to education with an interest in developing fundamental skills relevant to accessing a career in data science.
- employees in the industry wishing to gain knowledge in cyber security and expand their range of specialisms
Access
Entry is at the discretion of the Centre, no previous experience of data science or statistics is required (at any level). However, direct entry to higher levels (particularly level 6) will require appropriate computational and numeracy skills. Level 4 and level 5 may be entered directly without previous experience of the subject area; it is recommended that learners undertake the level 5 before attempting level 6, however direct entry to level 6 is possible for suitably qualified learners.
It is desirable for learners to possess computational and numerical skills before attempting this award (at any level). This may be evidenced by possession of one or more of the following qualifications:
- Core Skills in Information and Communication Technology and Numeracy at an appropriate level
- National Units in Computing or Mathematics or a related subject area
- National Progression Award in a range of subjects at SCQF level 4, 5 or 6
- National 4/5 in Computing Science
- National 4/5 in Mathematics
Given the multi-disciplinary nature of data science, a wide range of subjects may provide the necessary foundation for attempting this award.
The recommended entry for each unit defines the knowledge and skills that learners should possess before attempting specific units within this award.
Employment and progression
There are no formal articulation routes for this award. However, the qualification could lead to a number of potential destinations including Modern Apprenticeships and degree courses in data science or related disciplines.
The main progression for this award is from level to level. For example, progressing from level 4 to level 5 to level 6. Learners could exit the award and progress to other National Certificates, HNCs or degree courses as illustrated below.
There is no professional recognition for this award.
Qualification structure
| Group award code | SCQF credit points | SCQF level | Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| GP8N 44 | 12 | 4 | Two mandatory units:
|
| GP8P 45 | 18 | 5 | Two mandatory units:
One optional unit (6 SCQF credit points). |
| GP8R 46 | 18 | 6 | Two mandatory units:
One optional unit (6 SCQF credit points). |
See the group award specification for the full list of mandatory and optional units.
Group award specification (526 KB)