BTEC Level 3 National Diploma for IT Practitioners

BTEC Level 3

Learn how IT affects every area of our lives from browsing the Internet to effective use of spread sheets in a business environment.  There are huge social and ethical consequences to its use and these will be exciting new concepts to study during this two year diverse course.  This course gives an insight into the large and vibrant world of IT for students interested in working in this industry. Learn about employability and structure of the industry, gain an understanding of computer and information systems, and gain the skills to tackle web customisation, communications technology, and advance database and spread sheet management.  You will get the fantastic opportunity to go for a work experience placement as a BT apprentice for a week in an area of expertise, of your choice. 

You will learn a range of skills, use a variety of tools, consider computer architecture and work on an advanced and detailed project.

Entry requirements

5 GCSE A* - C including Maths and English.

What will I study

Some of the things you might do on the course include:

  • Develop an understanding of computer systems, their components, processors and buses
  • Assess human computer interaction and the impact on society, the economy, and culture
  • Develop data modeling techniques and create your own models for the capture and management of data. Discuss the impact of the gaming revolution on society, in terms of education, time, cost and psychological factors
  • learn how data is represented in control systems, such as coding, logical operators and  numerical sequencing
  • Learn about the potential threats to ICT systems and security and learn how to keep systems and data secure

Which subjects complement this

  • Maths
  • Art and design
  • Modern Foreign languages
  • Science
  • Business studies

Assessment

100% coursework

Each unit contains a pass, merit and distinction criteria for unit assessment and grading. All units are internally assessed through coursework assignments, projects or practical activities.

Progression

This Level Three course is equivalent to three A-Levels, and has the same UCAS accreditation. The BTEC Diploma will allow you to either access employment or further work-based qualifications such as NVQ’s or will allow you progression onto Degree courses in this subject area.