Computing BTEC Level 3

• What will I study and learn?

  The course is made up of three mandatory units and fifteen units selected by the IT team to cover a wide variety of topics and meet your interests and aspirations.

  The mandatory units are:

  • Communication and employability skills for IT – The aim of this unit is to ensure that you understand both the personal qualities valued by employers and how to communicate effectively.
  • Computer systems – At some stage most IT professionals will have to set up and customise a computer system or systems. To do this effectively they will need to understand the components that make up computer systems and how the operating system interacts with the hardware and software components, in order to make a functioning machine. The aim of this unit is to enable you to understand the components of computer systems and develop the skills needed to recommend the right systems for a business and then set up and maintain computer systems.
  • Information systems – Information systems are combinations of software, hardware and communication networks, used to collect, organise and distribute useful information within organisations. The availability of reliable information, presented in an appropriate format, is the basis for good decision making, which can give a business an advantage over its rivals.

  The aim of this unit is to ensure that you understand how organisations use information and the surrounding use of information, know about information systems and develop the skills necessary to produce management information.

  Optional units could include:

  • Developing computer games
  • E-commerce
  • Systems analysis and design
  • Project planning with IT
  • Database design
  • Computer animation
  • Digital graphics
  • Website production
  • Computer systems architecture
  • Object oriented programming
  • Computer networks
  • Software development and design
  • Installing and upgrading software
  • Communication technologies
  • Human computer interaction

• How is the course assessed?

  The assessment of the course is by means of written or practical assignments marked by teachers in College. There is then a verification process to ensure that work is of a good standard. All units are graded at pass, merit and distinction. To progress on to a higher education it is likely you will have to achieve at least merits.

• What skills will I need for the course?

  No specific ICT skills are needed for this course although we will expect you to have used a personal computer at home or school and to be familiar with the Windows operating system. Although ICT is not a mathematical subject at this level, we find that a maths aptitude is helpful, particularly in programming. Remember that the 'C' in ICT stands for communication so we will expect you to develop your communication skills during the course.

  What is vital is a genuine curiosity in and enthusiasm for ICT, an interest in how ICT supports businesses and a desire to become an ICT professional.

• What formal entry requirements will I need?

  Minimum Requirements - 5 GCSEs at grade A*-C/9-4 including English and Maths at grade 4.

  OR

  Level 2 qualification at Distinction/Merit plus GCSE English and Maths at grade 4.

• What could the course lead to in higher education or careers?

  If you are successful on this course you could go on to university to study for a degree in computer science, information systems or any related degree programme.

  You could join an IT apprenticeship offered by the college. You may prefer to go directly into work. The ICT industry is growing at a fast rate and there is increasing demand for ICT specialists. It is also an area of work that has a multitude of options to suit all talents and skills.

• Are there any costs involved?

  You will need a memory stick £5, two text books approximately £40. You will also need portfolios, dividers and stationery £20, fares for visits £10 and you will need your own headphones for online tutorials.

• Are you aged over 19?

  Students aged 19 or over on 31st August directly preceding their academic year may be required to pay tuition fees for that year of study. Advanced Learner Loans may be available for students studying at Level 3. If you are aged 19-23 as at 31 August and this is your first full Level 3 you may not have to pay fees.

  
  

  Students who are 19-24 years old with Education Health and Care Plans (EHCP) issued by the Local Authority are not required to pay course fees (ie tuition fees are free). Students will be required to provide a final copy of their EHCP provided by the LA as evidence.