Level 3 Diploma in Computing

Overview

The NCC Education Level 3 Diploma in Computing (QCF) is an Applied General qualification which allows candidates to demonstrate key transferrable study skills, mathematical understanding and applied IT competency, as well as an understanding of the essential concepts of computer programming.

In addition successful candidates will fulfil the main entry requirements for NCC Education’s Level 4 Diploma in Computing or Level 4 Diploma in Business IT, as well as opening up opportunities to access a range of higher education courses or employment. Examples of higher education opportunities include, but are not limited to, progressing to university degrees in Software Engineering or Computer Science, Computer Networking Systems, Digital Media Technology, Computer Forensics and Security. Examples of employment opportunities include roles such as IT Helpdesk Professional, Data Entry Clerk, IT Support Technician and Computer Service and Repair Technician.

The Level 3 Diploma in Computing syllabus and assessment is suitable for students aged 16-19 as well as adult learners.

 

Entry Requirements

For entry onto the NCC Education L3DC qualification you must:

  • Have previously studied in English at secondary school level.

OR

  • Have a valid score of 5.5 or above in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examination or equivalent. Alternatively you can take the free NCC Education Higher English Placement Test which is administered by our Accredited Partner Centres.

The Level 3 Diploma in Computing syllabus and assessment is suitable for students aged 16-19 as well as adult learners.

 

Units

You must study the following five core units:

    • Study and Communication Skills - equips you with the essential study skills needed to succeed at university level. You will learn the basic skills necessary to conduct independent research, write academic papers, give formal oral presentations and apply what has been taught during lectures to your studies.

 

    • Mathematical Techniques - develops your basic mathematical competence and confidence, for further study. Focusing on ensuring you have a functional level of mathematics will be valuable in your everyday life and future career.

 

    • IT Skills - provides you with an introduction to the key IT skills that will be required in your studies. You will learn basic skills in word processing, spreadsheets and presentation software. The unit will focus on the Microsoft Office suite, but has been designed to allow you to gain the relevant skills regardless of the software version being used.

 

    • Introduction to Computing - provides you with a basic introduction to a range of IT topics including organisation of a computer system, the relationship between hardware and software, applications of computers, databases, networking (with a focus on the Internet), graphics and multimedia.

 

  • Introduction to Programming - exposes you to extensive practical use of the modern programming language Visual Basic to illustrate the classic programming principles of sequencing, selection and iteration in the context of object-oriented computer programming.

 

Academic Progression

The qualification allows entry onto NCC Education's final year top-up qualifications in Computing (further entry requirements may apply), or to a third year of many UK university degree courses, or enables you to pursue a career in the IT industry.