BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma / Extended Diploma in Computing
Overview
This specialist IT programme provides content and structures that helps you acquire the skills and knowledge needed to work as a professional in the IT sector or progress to further study in the sector. You will undertake the National Foundation Diploma in the first year progressing onto the Extended Diploma in the second year.
The course is designed to introduce you to a wide range of computing disciplines, giving you the opportunity to learn skills and practices in computer science and systems, website development, mobile apps development, computer games development, networks and social media for business.
Course Content - What will I learn?
Year 1:
- Principles of Computer Science
- Fundamentals of Computer Systems
- IT Systems Security and Encryption
- Business Applications of Social Media
- Human-computer Interaction
- Website Development.
Year 2:
- Planning and Management of Computing Projects
- Software Design and Development Projects
- Computer Networking
- Computer Games Development
- Object-oriented Programming
- The Impact of Computing
- Managing and Supporting Systems
Am I right for the course?
You should have a keen interest in information technology and a career goal to work in the IT industry or progress on to university. It is expected that you would have a good working knowledge of industry standard application software.
Four GCSEs at Grade 4 or Grade C or above including English and Mathematics, or a relevant level 2 qualification at Merit or higher.
Assessment is through a combination of internally assessed coursework, set tasks and externally verified written exam papers. You must achieve a minimum of a Pass, Merit or Distinction in all the units/assessments to achieve the qualifications; your overall grade will be determined by the average of all units studied.
Functional Skills: You will be taught a functional skill in either English, Mathematics or Information Technology.
Oaklands College has a team of highly qualified ICT teachers. All are experts in Microsoft software, as well as networking, programming and hardware installation. Most have come from the ICT and business industry and have a wealth of experience to share with you. They are supportive and motivational tutors who will do their best to make your time at Oaklands enjoyable, interesting and an excellent learning experience. You will also receive support in finding employment or a university place of your choosing.
What Next?
If successful, you can progress onto further study at Foundation Degree or Degree level. Some of our previous learners went on to study, IT and Business, Robotics, Computer Science, Software Engineering and Software Systems for Art and Media Degree courses at universities around the country. This course can also lead to ICT employment.
Successful completion of your chosen course could lead onto a higher level course, university or into employment.
Potential careers:
- Computer Games Designer
- Computer Hardware Engineer
- Database Administrator
- Interactive Media Designer
- IT Product Developer
- IT Trainer
- Network Manager
- Software Developer/ Programmer
- Systems Analyst
- Technical Support Person
- Web Designer/ Developer
Ready to take the next step?
Reaching your career goals is just a click away.
Fees
16-18 years old, no tuition fees apply to Full Time courses and fees subject to confirmation. Additional costs applicable to BHS courses.
For all two year courses fees shown above are per year.
Aged 19+ and planning to take a level 3 or above a different fee may apply. You may be eligible for an Advanced Learning Loan.
All HE courses (full and part time) are subject to tuition fees.
In need of more advice?
Contact our Admissions team to find out more about student fees and how they might apply to you.
Other courses you may be interested in
Experience what the future
has to offer at Oaklands College
Studying at Oaklands is about finding out what you enjoy learning, with a huge range of courses including A Levels, BTECs and Apprenticeships our students are given the opportunity to make their own academic choices, and thrive in a subject they enjoy.