Level 4 Diploma in Computing (QCF)

Progression
The programme allows students entry to the second year of many UK university programmes, or enables you to pursue a career in the IT industry.

Overview
Level 4 Diploma in Computing (QCF) (L4DC) is equivalent to the first year of an IT degree programme in the UK university system. You will be given the opportunity to develop essential thinking and study skills, not only within the computing domain, but also within the context of business through a balance of academic and vocational subjects. The programme will allow you to understand and enter the computing profession with the necessary knowledge expected within the industry and the ability to apply the skills to a range of IT-related functions. On successful completion of the programme you will be able to transfer to a university, the second year of a UK Bachelor’s degree or pursue a career in the IT industry.

Entry Requirements
On entry you must have at least ONE of the following:

    • One ‘A’ Level or equivalent, or an appropriate School Leavers’ certificate deemed to be of a similar level.
    • Either the NCC Education L3DC or IFY qualifications.
    • Any local or international qualification deemed to be of a similar level to either L3DC or IFY.  These shall be agreed in advance with LEB Education.
    • Mature students, being 21 years of age or over, and able to demonstrate over two years’ relevant work experience.  Students should also have ‘O’ Level/ GCSE English and Maths or equivalent.

If you’re a potential student whose first language is not English, you will need to obtain a valid score of 5.5 or above in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examination or equivalent. Alternatively, take the free NCC Education Higher English Placement Test, which is administered by LEB.

Programme Structure
You must study the following eight core modules:

    • Skills for Computing – provides the essential skills for a computing student (including study, presentation, report-writing and data handling skills). Not only will this unit prepare you for successful outcomes in your studies, but it will also provide you with skills that can be applied in the workplace.
    • Computer Networks– networking and communication skills are vitally important in today’s connected world. In this unit you will develop a good understanding of basic theory, and also develop useful practical skills.
    • Computer Systems – supports the development of practical skills in the configuration, maintenance, fault-finding and trouble-shooting of modern computer systems and develops knowledge of computer architecture.
    • Designing and Developing a Website – develops practical skills in website design by providing a detailed understanding of markup languages, style sheets, design techniques and testing.
    • Databases – provides thorough training in practical techniques of the design and development of database systems together with developing a sound understanding of the underpinning theory.
    • Designing and Developing Object-Oriented Computer Programs– provides a thorough introduction to computer programming using Java.
    • Software Development Techniques– addresses the wider issues of software development together with a language-independent survey of useful data structures and algorithms.
    • Office Solutions Development – develops practical skills in the automation of common office applications to support a variety of tasks.

Assessments and Examinations
Assessments for all modules are offered in a number of assessment cycles throughout the year. All modules are assessed by both examination and coursework assignments.

Award Conditions
NCC Education’s Level 4 Diploma in Computing will be awarded when you have successfully passed all eight modules. A module is passed when an overall mark of 40% or more is achieved. You can resit modules if you need to but this must be done within three years of your first assessment in the programme.

Duration
The programme is designed to be delivered over one academic year for full-time study, but it is also flexible in its delivery in order to accommodate part-time learning.

Delivery Method
You will receive face-to-face teaching, including lectures, group discussions in seminars and tutorials, and will be guided through private study tasks.

Accreditation Status
NCC Education is regulated by Ofqual (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) to award the Level 4 Diploma in Computing (QCF) in England. Ofqual Qualification reference number 600/0406/X.

Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of Level 4 Diploma in Computing (QCF) you will be able to demonstrate a clear understanding of computing systems. You will also be competent in the development, testing and maintenance of software and database systems which will allow you to implement effective strategies for research and lifelong learning.