Overview
Computing Advanced (Level 3)This study programme will provide you with the knowledge and experience required to start building a career in a range of IT jobs including programming, web design, technical support, and networking. You will acquire a range of IT related skills to equip you for progression to employment or Higher Education. This Level 3 Extended Diploma is equivalent to 3 A-Levels.
Please note: If you are specifically looking to get a career in digital software development, then please look at our alternative Level 3 full-time course, the Pearson T Level in Digital Production, Design and Development, available at Bedford College.
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Apply NowCourse information
Need to know
Entry requirements
4 GCSEs grades 9-4 OR similar qualification at Level 2.
What qualification will I gain?
Computing BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma
Plus:
English and maths qualifications if required
You can also gain up to 168 UCAS points.
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed through coursework, assignments and tests. During the study programme you will be expected to work and develop assignments outside timetabled lessons.
Course content
What will I study?
During this study programme you will spend two years studying a range of units in different areas of computing. You can expect to study a range of units some of which are listed below.
Subject units:
Year 1
- Principles of Computer Science
- Fundamentals of Computer Systems
- IT Systems Security and Encryption
- Business Applications of Social Media
- HCI
- Website Development
Year 2
- Planning and Management of Computing Projects
- Software Design and Development Project
- The Impact of Computing
- Mobile Apps Development
- Relational Database Development
- Managing and Supporting Systems
- Systems Methodology
English and maths:
If you don’t already have GCSE English and maths grade 9-4, we will work with you to help you develop your maths and English skills.
Work experience.
Personal development skills, study skills and employability skills.
Additional vocational learning and qualifications.
During the programme there will be the opportunity to participate in trips. Over the past few years students have enjoyed trips to Thorpe Park, RAF Duxford and Worldskills in London.
Next steps
Course progression
On successful completion you can progress on to our HNC/HND in Computing or a computing related degree.
Career progression
You can also progress into careers in many IT-related disciplines at technician level or in a technical support role, and progress to professional status in your chosen field. Examples include systems analysis and design, software engineering, computing, computer networking, computer user support and helpdesk technician.
This qualification attracts up to 360 UCAS points towards entry to a degree-level course.
Additional information
There will be an additional charge of £25 to cover the cost of trips.
Any questions?
If you would like to find out more about this or other courses, please use our Livechat below, or contact info@bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk.
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Disclaimer
Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information on the Website is correct, some details may be subject to change. The Bedford College Group reserves the right to make amendments to the courses, dates, fees or other details, and to make cancellations or changes if numbers are insufficient. In the unfortunate situation that we have to cancel a course we will refund your fees in full, but we regret we are not able to offer any refund if you withdraw from your course or fail to start, and you will be liable to pay any outstanding fees that may be due.
Funding Information
All full-time Level 1 and Level 2 courses are now FREE for everyone, whatever their age. If you are looking to study a Level 3 qualification, courses might still be free if you’re under 19 or 19-23 and studying your first full Level 3 qualification. Whether you need to pay a fee and how much will be dependent on the programme you choose to study. For more information call 0345 658 8990.
If you’re over 23 or studying a second Level 3 qualification, you will need to pay a fee. Find out more on our financial support page at: www.bedfordcollegegroup.co.uk/finance or view the Full-time Fee Flow Chart below.
If you are unsure whether you need to pay or not then please contact our Customer Contact team on 0345 658 8990.
Full-time Fee Flow ChartIf you are aged 19 or over you may qualify for an Advanced Learner Loan to help you pay the tuition fees for this course. You can also pay by instalments to help make the cost of this course more affordable.
Find out moreIf you live in any of the following areas and wish to apply for or enrol onto one of our courses, please contact our Customer Contact team on 0345 658 8990 to check if your course is funded or not (Please note that if your course is not funded then you will pay a higher fee than what is listed, please contact our Customer Contact team for more information):
- Cambridgeshire and Peterborough
- Greater Manchester
- Greater London
- Liverpool City Region
- Tees Valley
- West of England
- West Midlands
- Sheffield
- Newcastle Upon Tyne
- Barnsley and Doncaster
- West Yorkshire
Harry
When I was 14 I built a computer by myself. My interest has grown ever since and I now know I want to work in hardware, possibly for an architect company building networks.
As I was homeschooled, the College environment was very different for me at first, but my tutors were understanding. What I like about College is that, although there is a set structure to lessons, you can still use your own creativity and there is flexibility within the units.
The highlight so far for me has been representing the College at the Skills Show in Birmingham. We were presenting demos on computer hardware, which tied in with the Hardware unit we were studying where a problem would be created within a computer and we’d have to fix it and put it back together.
Problem solving was also a big part of my recent work experience placement with the trade union, Affinity. I spent three days taking an IT consulting approach to problems they were experiencing and coming up with solutions.
The Computing department at Bedford College is excellent. The whole floor has been renovated, we have new equipment and people come from a long way away to study here. I’m definitely going to stay on for the HNC/HND and hopefully gain a BSc here at the College. I know the staff here and the software we use, and so I’ll be able to focus on my work without any change, plus financially it makes more sense to stay local.
Additional Learning Support
If you have a specific learning difficulty or disability, are deaf or hearing impaired, our Additional Learning Support team are on hand to give you assistance whenever you need it.
Any questions?
If you would like to find out more about this or other courses, please use our Livechat below, email info@bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk or call us on 0345 658 8990.
Accessibility
We have access arrangements in place to help students with disabilities or any other particular needs. Call us on 01234 291000 or 01536 413123 for more information.
Additional formats
Course information sheets are also available in large print and audio formats. Call us on 01234 291000 to order your copy.
