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Level 3
Computing – Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma
COURSE OVERVIEW
The Extended diploma in computing is a subject specific course that is tailored for those to have an ambition and drive to study computing across a broad spectrum of areas and disciplines. This course covers a wide variety of topics that are sought after within industry. It covers modules and content such as…
- Games design and development
- Principles of computer science
- Management and maintenance of computer systems
- Systems security and encryption
- Social media and the applications in business
Across all of these topics we are a small team of specialists that focus all of our efforts in ensuring that you learn the most relevant and up to date skills and techniques, and that you are ready for the next step of your journey. This course covers industry standard skills and aspects such as…
- VR and AR technologies
- Unreal and Unity game engines
- High level programming languages used within industry
In addition to computational skills, English and Maths skills will be embedded throughout the course, and you are required complete Work Experience during your time on the course.
In the second year of the two year computing programme you will work through a number of more advanced stages of the computing industry paying particular attention to…
- Using Computing aspects to support project management
- Software centred design and agile projects
- Systems development processes and procedures
Alongside this you will also have the chance to be able to fulfil one of two possible streams…
- Digital technician; covering aspects such as network management, technical support strategies, maintenance and security of systems, and virtualisation of networks.
- Creative technologies; encompassing aspects such as website design and development, scripting languages, graphics creation and manipulation, and animation skills.
FURTHER INFORMATION
All learners will need to have achieved a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above that must include English Language and Maths. Entry is also subject to a successful interview with the Study Programme Leader.
We recommend that all learners should be working at a Merit grade by the end of the first year of study.
Following on from this course, the majority of candidates enrol within either University, or one of our internal HE programmes of study where they can focus more specifically on their subjects of choice.
Numerous learners have also gone on to work full time at a number of different workplaces within the Computing industry, as well as higher level apprenticeships.
Assessment takes place through a mixture of both internally assessed coursework, which can range from a showcase and demonstration of the practical skills learnt to theoretical elements assessed through a mixture of methods including reports, audio delivery, and content visualisations.
There are also some modules that are assessed through externally marked controlled assessments which take place within the college following Pearson guidelines and using their materials.
All equipment will be supplied, although access to a modern PC with the capability of running the suggested software would be strongly advised.
All learners below the age of 19 on the 1st of September will be able to undertake this course with no additional charge, however those that are 19 or older will have to secure funding to support them. Please see our financial support team with any queries or questions in regards to this.
Work experience is a key and fundamental core to this course, and as such every learner is expected to undertake a minimum of 30 hours work outside of the College during each year of study.
This would ideally be within the computing industry, however, work experience of a transferable skill set would also be acceptable following a discussion at interview.
It is therefor advisable to attempt to secure your work placement for the academic year following acceptance onto the course.