Computing - Level 3 (Extended Diploma)

If you are interested in a career in computing in specialist areas such as systems analysis, software development, database development, technical support, network management, and web development, this course is for you.

What will I study?

This is a two year programme, with example units including:

Year One

• Principles of Computer Science

• Fundamentals of Computer Systems

• IT Systems Security & Encryption

• Business Application of Social Media

• Website Development

• Systems Analysis and Design

Year Two

• Planning and Management of Computing Projects

• Software Design and Development Project

• The Impact of Computing

• Human-computer Interaction

• Mobile Apps Development

• Computer Networking

• Managing and Supporting Systems

Where opportunities naturally occur, you will be able to study towards the Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) certification, and if making sufficient progress you will be given the opportunity to take the Microsoft examinations.

Two of the first year modules are examined. All other modules are assessed via coursework (a range of technical reports and project based work).

Coursework will be either externally or internally assessed.

How many UCAS points will I achieve on this course?

Our level 3 vocational courses qualify for UCAS tariff points to apply for university in the same way as A-Levels. This course is an extended diploma which is delivered over two years and you could achieve up to 168 UCAS points (which is equivalent to three A* grades at A-Level).

BTEC extended diplomas are graded as a pass, merit, distinction or distinction star (with distinction star being the highest grade) with the overall grade being a combination of three grades which represent an aggregation of your performance on mandatory and optional units on the course.

The following table gives some examples on the amount of UCAS points you can achieve on a BTEC extended diploma:

| BTEC grade | UCAS Points |
| --- | --- |
| DDD* | 168 |
| DDD | 160 |
| D*DD | 152 |
| DDD | 144 |
| DDM | 128 |
| DMM | 112 |
| MMM | 96 |
| MMP | 80 |
| MPP | 64 |
| PPP | 48 |

Depending on your circumstances, you may study a smaller qualification, such as a subsidiary diploma (for example, if you only complete one year) or general diploma which may carry less UCAS tariff points.

You can find more details and examples on the UCAS tariff points calculator here.

You will need:

• 5 or more GCSEs at Grade 4 or higher, including English and maths

Or:

• A Merit or higher in a full level 2 computing qualification studied at CWA or another further education provider. This does not include level 2 courses studied at school alongside GCSEs.
• GCSE grade 4 or higher in English and maths