Information Technology - Level 3 National Extended Diploma

This course focuses on developing your transferable skills in various business and IT work-related scenarios. You will develop program design and practical programming skills, as well as cover mathematics, data security, web and multimedia design, employability skills, and understanding of the role of IT in Business. You will use software tools such as Microsoft Access, Excel and Microsoft Project to solve complex business problems.

The second year of the course focuses on developing your analytical, design and evaluative skills. You will cover advanced programming concepts and techniques and have the opportunity to create a simple game using Apple`s X Code software for the iPad. You will also work on a project to meet a specific business need. This will involve producing a specification and design, which you will use to create either a website, database, spreadsheet, or complex multimedia presentation.

This course consists of two separate qualifications. In your first year of study, you will work towards the Level 3 90-Credit 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.

Topics covered can include:

Year One

• Information Technology Systems
• Creating Systems to Manage Information
• Using Social Media in Business
• Programming
• Website Development
• Computer Games Development

Year Two

• Data Modelling
• IT Project Management
• Cyber Security and Incident Management
• Software Testing
• IT Service Delivery
• Digital Animation and Effects

You will need:

• Four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths or an equivalent Level 2 qualification at Merit (and Functional Skills in English and Maths at Level 2/GCSE English Language and Maths at grade 4 or above)

All applicants must have an interview to confirm that the course is suitable for them.

There are three main forms of assessment that you need to be aware of - external, internal and synoptic.

Externally-assessed units
External assessment is to allow you to demonstrate breadth and depth of achievement. Each assessment is taken under specified conditions, then marked by Pearson and a grade is awarded. You are permitted to resit (x3) external assessments during their programme. 

Internally-assessed units
Most units in the qualification are internally assessed and subject to external standards verification. This means the college sets and assesses the assignments.

Synoptic assessment
Synoptic assessment requires you to demonstrate that you can identify and use effectively, in an integrated way, an appropriate selection of skills, techniques, concepts, theories and knowledge from across the whole sector as relevant to a key task.

School Leavers

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.

On successful completion of this course, you could progress to higher education, an apprenticeship or employment.