BTEC National Diploma IT Practitioners (Networking)

BTEC National Diploma IT Practitioners (Networking

Examination Board: EdExcel

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How long is the course?
2 Years, full-time.

Is there an interview?
Yes

What can I progress to?
Higher Education
Employment
The BTEC National Diploma is highly valued by employers and Higher Education. It will aid progression directly into careers in many IT-related disipliners or to professional status through taking a degree or BTEC Higher National at University.

Cost
 £30 approx for textbook plus visits, etc.

Extra Curricular Activities
All students can add to their main programme of study by taking part in a wide range of clubs, groups, societies and courses. Not only are the activities fun, they also develop skills and provide new and fulfilling experiences, as well as enhancing applications to Higher Education and employment.

What is the course about?
The course is the equivalent to 3 A Levels.
The BTEC National Diploma is made up of 18 units. 9 units are delivered in Year 1 and the remaining 9 in Year 2. The units given below are provisional. These may be replaced with similar units.
·Communication and Employability Skills for IT
·Computer Systems
·Communication Technologies
·Organisational Systems Security
·Network Management
·Principles of Computer Networks
·Advanced Database Skills
·Advanced Spreadsheet Skills
·Computer Architecture
·Client Side Customisation of Web Pages
·Controlling Systems Using IT
·Maintaining Computer Systems
·Mathematics for IT Practioners
·Principles of Software Design and Development
·Event Driven programming
·Installing and Upgrading Software
·Digital Graphics and Computers
·IT Technical Support

Computing Resources
Computer Lab with internet access in a computer suite with one computer for every learner. We are currently using Win XP operating system with MS Office 2003 on all computers. In addition some laboratories have Adobe CS3 (Photoshop, Dreamweaver, Acrobat Pro etc) installed.

Learning Resources
Students are provided with various learning and self-study materials that support the programme. All students have free and open access to the Learning Centre to utilise the library computer facilities.

Study Skills
As part of Stanmore College's excellent support network, Literacy and Numeracy support is available to any student enrolled on a course, depending on the students individual needs (determined during Induction by an assessment). Support is provided through the Skills for Life Study Plus Programme. Students can attend either one-to-one or group sessions in a friendly, stimulating and supportive environment.

What are the course outcomes?

How will you be assessed?
The BTEC National Diploma is divided into 18 units. All units are assessed through Assignments, Projects and Performance Observation. Possible Grades: Distinction, Merit & Pass.