IT Extended Diploma Level 3

Subject : IT Practitioners/Computing | Course Code 9005251 | Print Version

Course Overview

Gain an in-depth knowledge of the computer industry as well as the academic and technical skills which you'll need for the advancement in today's high tech world.

Start Date Duration Venue
September 2011 2 Years Skelmersdale Campus, College Way, Skelmersdale, WN8 6DX

Who The Course is for

The course is ideal for those who are looking for training in up-to-date computer skills and want to study selected areas for today's computer industry. It's also good preparation for a degree or Foundation Degree course, and is equally suitable for those who wish to progress to a career in a computer-based environment.

Successful students tend to:
• have a good understanding of computer hardware and software
• be patient and persistent
• be good at working with their hands
• be able to work quickly and efficiently
• be interested in computer technology.

Course Content

Year 1
Principles of Computer Networks - Learners thinking of careers within network technical support or network management must have a good understanding of the underlying principles of networking and how data travels around networks. This unit starts by exploring the different types of networks and the standards relating to network systems, including local and wide area networks. Networks can be either wired or wireless systems and this unit does cover both.

• Computer Systems - Most IT practitioners will at some stage have to set up, use, customise and maintain a computer system or systems. In order to do so effectively they will need to understand the components that make up a computer system. The operating system interacts with the hardware components in order to make a functioning machine. This unit develops skills in hardware components and the operating systems.

• Communication Technologies – Communications technology includes a large range of devices, which are used in the business and social communities. Devices include many of the next generation wireless devices, games consoles and newer generations of mobile phones with voice and video streaming. This unit focuses on these communication technologies, examining their use within social and business communities.

• Organisational Systems Security- Ensuring the security of computer systems and, crucially, the information that is held on computer systems is vital. Organisations and customers require confidence in these matters and it is critical to the successful deployment and use of ICT. Security in this unit covers physical security of computer systems as well as software-based security using, for example, passwords, access rights and encryption.

• Network Management - This unit examines the principles of network management, which allows learners to understand the different functions and types of activities that network managers need to understand. In particular, learners need enough knowledge in order to make appropriate judgements when planning and designing a new network.

• Communication and Employability Skills for IT- This unit provides an opportunity for learners to understand the range of such non-technical soft skills and to appreciate what other skills and knowledge they will need to develop in order to be an effective employee. By the end of the unit, learners will have had opportunity to identify and consider their own set of skills and, where necessary, improve them.

• Information Systems – Organisations use combinations of software, hardware and communication networks used to collect, organise and distribute useful information. The availability of reliable information presented in an appropriate format is the basis for good decision making. It can be used by organisations for obtaining a competitive advantage and promoting efficiency. This unit covers these areas as well as exploring the formal ways that internal and external information flows can be represented.

• Computer Architecture - This unit explores the fundamentals of how computer systems work. The focus is on the technical detail including how the components function at an electronic level. Learners will examine the use of simple logic gates to create logic circuits and examine how these simple circuits can then be used. Machine and assembly code languages are investigated. Learners will have the opportunity to develop simple programs in a low-level language.

Computer Games Design - Understand games design, be able to generate gaming ideas - all on X-BOXES. Use the game documentation correctly and present game concepts to stakeholders.

Entry Requirements

A minimum of 4 GCSEs at Grade C or above (preferably including English and/or maths); or a First Diploma in a related subject; or equivalent qualifications. Candidates will be interviewed to assess their suitability for the course. Mature students without these qualifications may be admitted at the discretion of the course team.

West Lancashire College will also accept credits previously gained through the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF).

Learning & Assessment Methods

Each module in the programme each will be assessed through a range of methods including assignments, projects, presentations and role-plays. Two of the units are externally set and assessed by Edexcel.

Qualifications Gained

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in IT (Edexcel)
Tutorial & Enrichment Studies
Functional Skills

Progression Opportunities

If you would like to continue your studies, you could progress to Higher Education.

If you successfully complete a level 3 course at West Lancashire College you may be eligible to apply for an appropriate Foundation Degree at Skelmersdale & Ormskirk College (subject to satisfactory interview).

Career Opportunities

If you choose employment or training, the course prepares you for a job in careers such as: Computer operator/technician, User helpdesk assistant, Database designer, PC support, Business IT, Application development, Programmer, Website designer, Networker or Business Administrator.

Course Costs

If you are 16-18 years old you do not have to pay course tuition fees*.

If you are 19 or over please call 01695 52300 or email enquiries@westlancs.ac.uk to confirm the fee for this course. Course costs may be subject to change.

If you need information on any financial support that may be available to you with fees or study costs on this course, please contact the Learner Zone (see contact details below) who can offer advice and assistance on accessing any financial support that may be available.
*exam and registration fees will be paid by the college subject to satisfactory attendance and course completion.

How to Apply

Please complete and return a College application form. Application forms can be obtained college Admissions – contact details below.

Further Information: If you have a query about this course or would like advice on your study options please contact college Admissions:

In Person:
Until 19 August 2011: West Lancashire College, Westbank Campus, Yewdale, Skelmersdale WN8 6JA.
From 22 August 2011: West Lancashire College, Skelmersdale Campus, College Way, Skelmersdale, WN8 6DX
                

By Phone: (01695) 52300

By Email: enquiries@westlancs.ac.uk

By Post: The Principal, West Lancashire College, FREEPOST, Skelmersdale WN8 6BR

Website: http://www.westlancs.ac.uk

Every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained in this leaflet is correct at the time of printing. We reserve the right however, to make alterations or amendments to the information contained in this leaflet. This course will run subject to sufficient numbers.