Information Technology/Computing - Level 3 Extended Diploma

Essentials

Duration: 2 Years Full-time
Start date: 2nd September 2024
End date: 5th June 2026
Information Event: Yes

Course fee: FREE (Eligibility criteria may apply)

Course Content

This course is ideally suited for those students seeking a career in Computing and IT industries whether that be in Cyber, Hardware, Software Development, Networking, Web Development.  Some examples of units include:

• Cyber Security
• Games Development
• Software Testing
• Using social Media in Business
• Website Development
• Digital Animation and Effects
• IT Systems

Additionally, students will also work towards Professional Qualifications from the Microsoft Office Specialist programme and optionally may undertake Microsoft Certification.

If you are accepted onto this course without a Grade C or above in Maths and/or English you will be required to complete the relevant Essential Skills qualification.  This will be a compulsory part of your timetable.

Course Aims

To provide students with a nationally recognised qualification in the fields of Computing which meets the needs of employees and employers. The course is a two-year full-time programme carrying UCAS tariff points equivalent to three A Levels.

This course has been designed to give students the opportunity to learn the technical and practical skills within the main areas of the Computing industry.

Special Features

This course encourages students to be entrepreneurial and develop projects and business ideas alongside developing IT skills.  In year one students will work with an employer to solve an IT issue as part of project based learning. In year two students will complete Young Enterprise NI and develop a business start-up idea.  Mentoring and support will be provided through lecturers, employers, Entrepreneurial Hub and other stakeholders. Students will complete the Generation Innovation programme with Catalyst to develop skills and support them in their projects.  Opportunities are available for work-based-learning with organisations such as Kainos.  This develops students’ IT skills and enhances their employability by developing independent thinking, problem solving and strong communication skills.

This course is supported by e-learning using the college DLE. Students gain a wide range of computing experience with theory combined with practical workshops to enhance the student learning experience.

To facilitate students learning in their own time, students are entitled to free Microsoft software for use at home. This includes Software Development, Web Development and the latest Microsoft Operating Systems.

This programme offers students progression to higher Education or to employment.

Assessment Methods

All units are assessed by a combination of continuous assessment using a range of assignments, projects and practical exercises and examinations.

Course Update

Applicants should have at least 4 GCSEs grade C or above (Maths and English desirable), or Level 2 BTEC Diploma with Merit Grades will be required.

Successful completion of this course will enable students to access a variety of higher-level courses such as Honour Degrees, our own Foundation Degrees in Computing (validated by Ulster University) or HND/Cs in Information Technology, Computer Science, Software Engineering and Business Information Technology (BIT). Alternatively, the qualification may enable students to gain entry to a variety of careers in industry.

Examples of Colleges/Universities that past students have progressed to include: Northern Regional College, Ulster University (Coleraine, Jordanstown & Magee Campuses), Bradford University, Dundee University and University of Caledonia.