
This course focuses on developing your IT skills to enable you to progress to Higher Education in IT.
In the first year, you will work towards the National Foundation Diploma, studying the relationship between hardware and software, managing and communicating information and data, and the principles of designing and developing computer programs.
In the second year, you will build upon this knowledge, as well as covering processes to support organisations, relating your studies to the world of work.
This course consists of two separate qualifications. In your first year of study, you will work towards the Level 3 Foundation Diploma. Following successful completion of this qualification, you will be able to progress to the Extended Diploma. Our Extended Diplomas offer equivalent UCAS points to studying 3 A Levels.
In the first year, topics covered include:
In addition, you can choose two of the following:
In the second year, topics covered can include:
In addition, you can choose six further topics, such as:
You will need:
All applicants must have an interview to confirm that the course is suitable for them.
The course is assessed in three forms: external, internal and synoptic.
The below units are external assessment examinations and tasks:
Most of the other units are assessed internally through coursework tasks, such as:
If you will be aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31 August in the year you begin your course, and have been resident in the UK/EU/EEA for the past 3 years, it will be free. Some courses will have other costs associated, such as for materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support when studying at college – please click here for more information.
This course will help you to move on to higher level courses, such as a Bachelor of Science, or to pursue employment in the industry.