INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Advanced Technical Award Level 3 Extended Diploma

Level 3
Further Education
Armagh Campus
Newry Campus
Portadown Campus
Banbridge Campus
Pearson

Overview

The Advanced Technical Award is the gold standard in level 3 vocational education and training and will equip learners with the skills and qualifications necessary to embark on a career in IT or alternatively progress to higher education.

The Level 3 Extended Diploma in Information Technology Advanced Technical Award aims to help students develop the skills required to work in the IT industry through a range of practical and skills-based study methods. It also aims to enable students to develop both personally and professionally by providing the opportunity to enhance enquiry and investigation skills in solving complex problems both individually and in collaborative environments.

Throughout the course, students will engage in a wide range of IT disciplines, including systems analysis, network infrastructure, software development, database management, and IT project management. They will learn advanced programming languages, explore emerging technologies, and develop practical skills in designing, implementing, and maintaining IT systems.

Applicants must be at least 16 years of age on or before 1st July in the year of proposed entry to the course and have recently been in education to key stage 4 (completion of compulsory education).
The College will review the qualifications and/or experience held by applicants and will consider whether this profile shows an ability to progress towards a level 3 qualification.
Applicants must have achieved the following:

15 points or greater at GCSE, consisting of at least 4 GCSE at Grade C (or equivalent qualification profile from the Register of Regulated Qualifications). In certain circumstances the College may reduce this requirement if it is deemed that the candidate has demonstrated the commitment, understanding and knowledge of the subject. Applicants must have achieved at least a GCSE Grade C in Maths.
A BTEC Level 2 Diploma or equivalent at Pass or above with an overall profile equating to 15 points.
A NVQ Level 2 (in relevant subject area).
Leaving Certificate – a profile equivalent to 12 points (of which 3 subjects must be achieved at Grade C3 or better at Ordinary Level) pre-2017. From 2017 onwards, 3 subjects must be achieved at 04 or better at Ordinary Level.

Attendance at Individual or Group Pre-Entry Advice Sessions (IPEAS and GPEAS) may be required. These interviews may take place either on campus, via telephone or video call (Microsoft teams) and will play an important role in the selection of all courses.
Applicants who do not possess GCSE English Language at Grade C or higher (or equivalent) must be able to demonstrate as part of their application they can communicate in written and spoken English language to an acceptable level to succeed in the course. The College reserves the right to refer any applicant to appropriate English language or literacy classes until their level of fluency in written and spoken English is sufficient to allow participation in other areas of study.
Students entering a full time Level 3 programme are expected to have already achieved a minimum of GCSE Grade C in English Language and Mathematics (or equivalent qualification). Applicants admitted to a full-time programme of study without these qualifications in English Language and Mathematics will be required to undertake an Essential Skills course in Literacy and Numeracy respectfully. Applicants with a Grade D will also have the opportunity to undertake repeat classes in GCSE English Language and/or Mathematics. Applicants for this course must have achieved at least a GCSE Grade C in Maths.

Modules will include:

Information Technology Systems
Creating Systems to Manage Information
Using Social Media in Business
Data Modelling
Internet of Things
Mobile Apps Development
Programming
IT Project Management
Cyber Security & Incident Management
IT Tech Support and Management
Big Data and Business Analytics
Website Development
IT Service Delivery

In addition to the main extended diploma, students will have the opportunity to undertake:

Project Based Learning
Transversal and digital skills relevant for employment
Work placement with a local employer
Additional qualifications deemed necessary for work within a sector

Assessment in the Level 3 Extended Diploma is based on a combination of practical assessments, coursework, exams, and project work. Students will complete assignments, practical tasks, and exams that assess their technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of IT concepts and principles.

Upon successful completion of the Level 3 Extended Diploma in IT Advanced Technical Award, students will have acquired advanced technical skills, industry knowledge, and project management experience that will enhance their employability and prepare them for higher education. Graduates may choose to pursue further studies in computer science, software engineering, cybersecurity, or related fields.

On successful completion of this course, students may wish to progress into employment and this course will open many doors and opportunities. Career roles may include IT consultants, software developers, network administrators, cybersecurity analysts, IT project managers and much much more.