Computing BTEC 90 Credit Diploma/Extended Diploma Level 3/Career Academy

A Level 3 BTEC Diploma is a nationally recognised qualification combining practical and theoretical study.This challenging programme will introduce you to a range of areas needed in a career as an IT professional. This advanced Computing Extended Diploma programme allows you to learn through a variety of methods including assignments and practical activities that are based on workplace situations. You will develop your existing skills in order to prepare you for an exciting career within the IT and Computing industries. Delivery is through practical work, classroom activities and group teaching.

You will study 18 units, equivalent to three A Levels. This course will help you develop the skills you need in order to understand the variety and complexity of the IT industry. Delivery is through practical work, classroom activities and group teaching. Each unit is individually assessed through coursework. You will also engage in GEM and GAP activities to develop your English, maths and employability skills.

You will study the 90 Credit Diploma in year one and the Extended Diploma in year two. Students who intend to continue to the Extended Diploma will also have the opportunity to apply to join the IT Career Academy. If you choose to study at our Colchester campus you will also have the opportunity to join the IT Career Ready UK scheme, a national programme that provides exceptional benefits to enhance your future employment opportunities. You will complete a 4 – 6 week internship as well as business mentoring and guru lectures.

Course Content
Computing Extended Diploma Level 3 modules may include:

Year 1

• Communication and Employability


• Computer Systems


• Procedural Programming


• Website Production


• Information Systems


• Computer Networks


• Developing Computer Games


• Animation


• Computer Architecture

Year 2

• Computer Games Design


• Managing Networks


• Event Driven Programming


• Analysis and Design


• Digital Graphics


• Systems Security


• Database Design


• Client Side Customisation of Web Pages


• Project Planning with IT


• Human Computer Interaction

Entry Requirements

Normally 5 GCSEs (grades A*-C), including English and maths, or satisfactory results in a relevant Level 2 qualification, and an interview.

Career Opportunities

Students may go into careers in many IT related disciplines in a wide variety of businesses. Areas of employment may include business systems and IT project management, system administration, networking, IT user support, software engineering and web development.

Course Progression

Successful completion of the Extended Diploma may enable entry onto the BSc (Hons) or Foundation Degree in IT Systems at Colchester Institute, or application to other degree programmes.

How To Apply

Our aim is to make it as easy as possible to secure your place on your ideal programme.
Simply download and complete the relevant application form and return it to our Admissions team as early as possible.
You can return your completed application form in person or by post to our Colchester
(for applications to Colchester and Clacton) or Braintree campuses:

Admissions

Colchester Institute

Sheepen Road

Colchester

CO3 3LL

Admissions

The College at Braintree

Church Lane

Braintree

CM7 5SN

If you are currently at school, please check with them as some schools will be coordinating applications centrally.
If you have any further questions about the application process, please visit our
Frequently Asked Questions page.

Applying for a Full-Time course

Our term starts the week commencing 5th September 2016,
however you may have different start dates depending on the course.
You will receive the details of your first day over the summer period,
but if you are unsure please call our Course Enquiries line on (01206) 712777.

You will need to complete an application form for our full-time courses,
our full-time application form can be downloaded here:

Download Application Form - Full-Time Courses, Apprenticeships & Access Courses (PDF)

Applicants will receive an acknowledgement email or card within one week of the application being received by our Admissions team,
if you do not receive this you should contact the team on (01206) 712777 to check that your application has been received.

*Are you 19 or over?

If you are 19 or over on the day your course starts, and your course is an approved qualification at level 3 or above, you may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan to cover the cost of your tuition.

Please call (01206) 712777 for more information.