Level 3 Diploma in Computing (L3DC) ( MQA Approval in Progress )

The NCC Education Level 3 Diploma in Computing (L3DC) is an Ofual regulated qualification. It is an Applied General qualification which allows candidates to demonstrate key transferable study skills, mathematical competency and applied cultural understanding, especially in the area of digital culture, as well as an understanding of the essential concepts of computer programming.

In addition, successful candidates will fulfil the main entry requirements for the NCC Education Level 4 Diploma in Computing (L4DC) or Level 4 Diploma in Computing with Business Management (L4DB BM), 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
• 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
• Repair Technician

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

Study and Communication Skills

Equips students with the essential study skills needed to succeed at university level. They 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.

Introduction to Computer Science

Provides 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.

Foundation Mathematics

This module builds upon student’s knowledge of mathematics whilst introducing new topics appropriate across a range of academic disciplines and for their future career.

Culture Studies

Enables students to gain awareness and increased understanding of other cultures and their own alongside the impact of a more digitised world on those cultures. Students will be able to apply their understanding of culture to other aspects of their course and to their plans for further study and work. The course will, in part, help prepare students for studying and/or working abroad or working for multi-national companies in our highly interconnected, digitised world.

Introduction to Programming

exposes students 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.

Completed their GCSE/IGCSE ‘O’ Levels or an equivalent* qualification in their own country and passed 5 subjects with minimum grades of ‘C’, ‘4’ or equivalent* in each. These should include Mathematics and English.

Have a valid score of 5.5 or above in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examination or equivalent for students whose first language is not English. Alternatively, students 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.

Assessment

Assessments for all units will be offered in a number of assessment cycles throughout the year. The units are all assessed by either examination or assignments.

Accreditation Status

NCC Education is regulated by Ofqual (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) to award the Level 3 Diploma in Business in England. Ofqual Qualification reference number 600/6416/X.

Level 4 Diploma in Computing (L4DC) ( MQA Approval in Progress )

The NCC Education Level 4 Diploma in Computing (L4DC) is an Ofqual regulated qualification. The qualification (with specialisms) makes up the first year of a Computing/ IT degree pathway. The qualification is equivalent to the first year of an IT degree in the UK university system.

Students 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 qualification will allow them 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 qualification students will be able to embark on NCC Education’s Level 5 Diploma in Computing (L5DC), which is equivalent to the second year of a UK Bachelor’s degree, transfer to a university or pursue a career in the IT industry.

Approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IFATE) in England as a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ). Find out more here.

Accreditation Status

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

For entry onto the NCC Education L4DC qualification students must have at least one of the following:

Skills for Computing

This module provides essential skills required by computing students. The skills taught include study, presentation, report-writing and data handling skills. It will prepare students for successful outcomes in their studies and provide them with skills that can be applied in the workplace.

Computer Networks

This module helps students to develop a good understanding of basic theory and useful practical skills of networking and communication that are vital in today’s connected world.

Computer Systems

This module addresses 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

This module provides students with the practical skills required in website design such as understanding of mark-up languages, style sheets, design techniques and testing.

Databases

This module provides students with thorough training in practical techniques for the design and development of database systems and develops a sound understanding of the underpinning theory.

Designing and Developing Object-Oriented Computer Programmes

This module provides students with a thorough grounding in programming methods, and a detailed knowledge of developing programs using C#.

Software Development Techniques

This module addresses the wider issues of software development together with a language-independent survey of useful data structures and algorithms.

Office Solutions Development

This module teaches students to develop practical skills in the automation of common office applications to support a variety of tasks.

Skills for Computing

This module provides essential skills required by computing students. The skills taught include study, presentation, report-writing and data handling skills. It will prepare students for successful outcomes in their studies and provide them with skills that can be applied in the workplace

Computer Networks

This module helps students to develop a good understanding of basic theory and useful practical skills of networking and communication that are vital in today’s connected world

Computer Systems

This module addresses 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

This module provides students with the practical skills required in website design such as understanding of markup languages, style sheets, design techniques and testing.

Databases

This module provides students with thorough training in practical techniques for the design and development of database systems and develops a sound understanding of the underpinning theory.

eBusiness

This module gives students the opportunity to examine how organisations can use all aspects of eBusiness to create new products and services, reduce the cost of existing business processes and improve the efficiency of their operations using typical revenue models.

Essentials of Management

This module covers the principles and functions of management, teaching students the key elements in planning and decision making and the significance of different controls required in an organisation.

Understanding Business Organisations

This module provides an introduction to the objectives, roles, functions and various forms of business organisation as they adapt to a dynamic and changing environment and also considers information and technology in regards to efficiency and performance.

Assessment

Assessments for all units are offered in a number of assessment cycles throughout the year. All units are assessed by assignments and/or examinations.

Academic Progression

The qualification allows students entry to either the NCC Education Level 5 Diploma in Computing, (which is equivalent to the second year of a UK Bachelor’s degree), or the second year of many UK university degree courses, or enables you to pursue a career in the IT industry.

Level 4 Diploma in Computing (with Business Management) (L4DC BM) ( MQA Approval in Progress )

The Level 4 Diploma in Computing (with Business Management) (L4DC BM) (previously the Level 4 Diploma in Business Information Technology (L4DBIT)) makes up the first year of the NCC Education degree journey. The qualification is equivalent to the first year of an IT degree in the UK university system.

Students will be given the opportunity to develop essential thinking and study skills in IT and business through a balance of academic and vocational subjects. They will be able to contribute to the development of computer systems and networks, databases and websites in a business context, whilst also developing an awareness of business needs. The qualification will allow them to understand and enter the IT and business 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 qualification students will be able to embark on NCC Education’s Level 5 Diploma in Computing with Business Management (L5DC BM), which is equivalent to the second year of a UK Bachelor’s degree, transfer to a university or pursue a career in the IT industry

Accreditation Status

NCC Education is regulated by Ofqual (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) to award the Level 4 Diploma in Business Information Technology in England. Ofqual Qualification reference number 600/0624/9.

For entry into the L4DBIT / L4DC BM qualification, students must have at least one of the following:

NCC Education Level 3 International Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies

OR

NCC Education Level 3 Diploma in Business

OR

NCC Education Level 3 Diploma in Computing

OR

1 GCE ‘A’ Level pass

If a potential student’s first language is not English, they must also reach the English Language requirements of either:

IELTS min score of 5.5 or above

OR

GCE ‘O’ Level English C6

Mature applicants will also be considered for entry if they are able to demonstrate over two years of relevant work experience and have a GCE ‘O’ Level / IGCSE English and Maths or equivalent.

OR

The Oxford Test of English is recognised for acceptance onto NCC Education programmes. An affordable, personalized test that fits you – it’s 100% online, flexible, fast, and available at Approved Test Centres across the globe. Plus, it’s the only language proficiency test certified by the University of Oxford.

Skills for Computing

This module provides essential skills required by computing students. The skills taught include study, presentation, report-writing and data handling skills. It will prepare students for successful outcomes in their studies and provide them with skills that can be applied in the workplace.

Computer Networks

This module helps students to develop a good understanding of basic theory and useful practical skills of networking and communication that are vital in today’s connected world.

Computer Systems

This module addresses 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

This module provides students with the practical skills required in website design such as understanding of markup languages, style sheets, design techniques and testing.

Databases

This module provides students with thorough training in practical techniques for the design and development of database systems and develops a sound understanding of the underpinning theory.

eBusiness

This module gives students the opportunity to examine how organisations can use all aspects of eBusiness to create new products and services, reduce the cost of existing business processes and improve the efficiency of their operations using typical revenue models.

Essentials of Management

This module covers the principles and functions of management, teaching students the key elements in planning and decision making and the significance of different controls required in an organisation.

Understanding Business Organisations

This module provides an introduction to the objectives, roles, functions and various forms of business organisation as they adapt to a dynamic and changing environment and also considers information and technology in regards to efficiency and performance.

Assessment

Assessments for all units are offered in a number of assessment cycles throughout the year. All units are assessed by assignments and/or examinations.

Academic Progression

Progression routes can be found here.

Level 5 Diploma in Computing (L5DC) ( MQA Approval in Progress )

The NCC Education Level 5 Diploma in Computing (L5DC) is an Ofqual regulated qualification. The qualification (with specialisms) makes up the second year of the NCC Education degree journey and builds upon the knowledge gained during the NCC Education Level 4 Diploma in Computing (L4DC) or the NCC Education Level 4 Diploma in Computing with Business Management (L4DC BM), exposing students to greater detail and more advanced topics in a range of areas including database development, information systems analysis, network security and cryptography.

Students will study a balance of academic and vocational subjects in order to provide the necessary knowledge and skills to play a significant role in IT organisations.

On successful completion of the qualification students will be able to complete the final year of a degree with the NCC Education Business Computing and Information Systems Top Up validated by the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), the University of Greenwich Computing Top-Up delivered at our Accredited Partner Centres, at one of the many universities that recognise NCC Education qualifications, or pursue a career in the IT industry.

Only students who complete the Level 5 Diploma with Cyber Security (L5DC CS) specialism can then progress onto BSc (Hons) Cyber Security and Networking Top-Up Degree.

Accreditation Status

NCC Education is accredited to award the Level 5 Diploma in Computing by Ofqual (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) in England. Ofqual Qualification reference number 600/3055/0.

For entry onto the NCC Education L5DC qualification students must have at least one of the following:

NCC Education Level 4 Diploma in Computing (L4DC).

OR

A local or international qualification which is deemed to be of a similar level to the NCC Education L4DC qualification. This must be agreed with NCC Education in advance.

If a potential student whose first language is not English, they 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 our Accredited Partner Centres.

OR

The Oxford Test of English is recognised for acceptance onto NCC Education programmes. An affordable, personalized test that fits you – it’s 100% online, flexible, fast, and available at Approved Test Centres across the globe. Plus, it’s the only language proficiency test certified by the University of Oxford.

Direct Entry at Other Points

The majority of students are expected to join the NCC Education Information Technology Journey at Level 4 or earlier. However, applications will be accepted for entry at any point and will be accepted, by means of documented evidence, using the following criteria:

• The applicant’s general educational background is appropriate for the level of entry.
• The applicant’s knowledge of computing is both equivalent to, and appropriate for, the level of entry.

Computing Project

This unit provides students with the opportunity to utilise the skills needed to develop a computing artefact to solve a problem, which involves research, analysis, design, coding, testing and project management knowledge and expertise.

Database Design and Development

This unit allows students to develop skills in the design and development of databases and database management systems, as well as investigating enterprise applications of databases.

Information Systems Analysis

This unit equips students with a range of tools to analyse the function and requirements of information systems, as well as the skills to compare systems analysis models and to examine them in the wider context of the Internet and the social, economic and political climate of an organisation.

Network Security and Cryptography

This unit provides students with the underlying theory and practical skills required to secure networks and to send data safely and securely over communications networks.

Agile Development

This unit explores the processes, people, practices and principles of agile development systems. It prepares students for future trends in software development and reinforces their understanding of the information systems development process.

Analysis, Design and Implementation

This unit provides students with in-depth knowledge, skills and experience in the use of object-oriented techniques for the development of software. It develops students’ expertise in object-oriented analysis, design and coding, and the testing of systems.

Artificial Intelligence

This unit aims to provide an introduction to fundamental methods used in Artificial Intelligence: knowledge representation, reasoning, search and learning. The unit introduces the underpinning concepts and techniques, the problems for which they are applicable and their limitations. The unit will prepare you for entry positions in AI application design and development and enable you to pursue more advanced topics in this exciting field.

Dynamic Websites

This unit builds on existing knowledge of both databases and web design in order to build dynamic websites and also equips students with a range of skills to present content on the World Wide Web.

Professional Issues in IT

This unit highlights the professional issues that impact the development, deployment, maintenance and use of computer systems. It equips students with the knowledge surrounding social, ethical and legal issues applicable to the IT field and also a working understanding of software quality.

Information Systems Analysis

This unit equips students with a range of tools in order to analyse the function and requirements of information systems, as well as the skills to compare systems analysis models and to examine them in the wider context of the Internet and the social, economic and political climate of an organisation.

Dynamic Websites

This unit builds on existing knowledge of both databases and web design in order to build dynamic websites and also equips students with a range of skills to present content on the World Wide Web.

Database Design and Development

This unit allows students to develop skills in the design and development of databases and database management systems, as well as investigating enterprise applications of databases.

Business IT Project

This unit provides students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in developing system solutions to open-ended problems derived from the real world.

Information Systems and Organisations

This unit introduces students to the subject of information systems and technology in organisations, taking a broad perspective on how it can be managed effectively within the organisational context. Students will be able to demonstrate an appreciation of the role of information systems in the modem organisation, including the management of social, cultural and political aspects that are important to the successful adoption of technology.

Principles of Business Operations

This unit helps students to appreciate and understand business operations in both the manufacturing and services sectors. It will cover the basic principles of operations within a global context from three key perspectives: understanding operations, designing operations and managing operations.

Business IT Project

(Unit 1 core) – This unit provides students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in developing system solutions to open-ended problems derived from the real world.

Information Systems Analysis

(Unit 2 core) – This unit equips students with a range of tools to analyse the function and requirements of information systems, as well as the skills to compare systems analysis models and to examine them in the wider context of the Internet and the social, economic and political climate of an organisation.

Network Security Threats and Defence Mechanisms *

(Unit 3 core) – Provides students with the skills to eliminate or reduce the risks associated with network vulnerability and protects valuable information held by organisations.

Computer Forensics and Incident Investigation *

(Unit 4 core) – Understanding the investigation requirements and prosecution of cyber criminals. Students will learn the necessary processes required for the acquisition, inspection, and reporting of information stored across computer networks related to criminal incidents.

Ethical Hacking and Information Security Assessments *

(Unit 5 core) – Understanding of the concept of ‘ethical’ hacking and the essential elements; such as information security, threats and attack vectors of information security, hacking and ethical hacking concepts including risk management.

Professional Issues in IT (1 elective)

This unit highlights the professional issues that impact the development, deployment, maintenance and use of computer systems. It equips students with the knowledge surrounding social, ethical and legal issues applicable to the IT field and also a working understanding of software quality. It is recommended that students take this unit if they have progressed from the L4DC(BM).

Analysis, Design and Implementation (2 elective

Provides students with in-depth knowledge, skills and experience in the use of object-oriented techniques for the development of software. The unit also develops expertise in object-oriented analysis, design and coding, and the testing of systems.

*The teaching and learning materials for core units three, four and five have been developed by the EC Council for NCC Education. Once students have completed these units they will be awarded a certificate of completion from the EC Council.

The EC-Council (L5DC CS specialism only)

The International Council of E-Commerce Consultants, also known as EC-Council, is the world’s largest cyber security technical certification body. Operating in 145 countries globally, they are the owner and developer of the world-famous Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Computer Hacking Forensics Investigator (C|HFI), Certified Security Analyst (ECSA), Licence Penetration Testing (Practical) programmes, among others. They have trained and certified over 200,000 information security professionals globally that have influenced the cyber security mindset of countless organisations worldwide.

Assessment

Assessments for all units are offered in a number of assessment cycles throughout the year. All units, except the project, are assessed by assignments and/or examinations.

Academic Progression

The L5DC and L5DC BM 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.

The L5DC CS qualification allows entry onto NCC Education’s final year top-up in Cyber Security and Networking.

Level 5 Diploma in Computing (with Business Management) (L5DC BM) ( MQA Approval in Progress )

The Level 5 Diploma in Computing (with Business Management) (L5DC BM) (previously the Level 5 Diploma in Business IT (L5DBIT)) makes up the second year of the NCC Education degree journey and builds upon the knowledge gained during the NCC Education Level 4 Diploma in Business Information Technology (L4DBIT).

Students will be exposed to more advanced topics in a range of areas including information systems analysis, database development and the principles of business operations.

Students will study a balance of academic and vocational subjects in order to provide the necessary knowledge and skills to play a significant role in IT and business organisations.

On successful completion of the qualification, students will be able to complete the final year of a degree with the NCC Education Business Computing and Information Systems Top Up validated by the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), the University of Greenwich Business Information Technology Top Up delivered at our Accredited Partner Centres, at one of the many universities that recognise NCC Education qualifications, or pursue a career in the IT industry.

Accreditation Status

NCC Education is accredited to award the Level 5 Diploma in Business Information Technology by Ofqual (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) in England. Ofqual Qualification reference number 600/3049/5.

For entry onto the NCC Education L5DBIT/ L5DC BM qualification students must have at least one of the following:

NCC Education Level 4 Diploma in Business Information Technology (L4DBIT) or an NCC Education Level 4 Diploma in Computing (L4DC)

OR

A local or international qualification which is deemed to be of a similar level to the NCC Education L4DBIT qualification. This must be agreed with NCC Education in advance.

If a potential student whose first language is not English, they 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 our Accredited Partner Centres.

OR

The Oxford Test of English is recognised for acceptance onto NCC Education programmes. An affordable, personalized test that fits you – it’s 100% online, flexible, fast, and available at Approved Test Centres across the globe. Plus, it’s the only language proficiency test certified by the University of Oxford.

Direct Entry at Other Points

The majority of students are expected to join the NCC Education Information Technology Journey at Level 4 or earlier. However, applications will be accepted for entry at any point and will be accepted, by means of documented evidence, using the following criteria:

• The applicant’s general educational background is appropriate for the level of entry.
• The applicant’s knowledge of computing is both equivalent to, and appropriate for, the level of entry.

Information Systems Analysis

This module equips students with a range of tools in order to analyse the function and requirements of information systems, as well as the skills to compare systems analysis models and to examine them in the wider context of the Internet and the social, economic and political climate of an organisation.

Dynamic Websites

This module builds on existing knowledge of both databases and web design in order to build dynamic websites and also equips students with a range of skills to present content on the World Wide Web.

Database Design and Development

This module allows students to develop skills in the design and development of databases and database management systems, as well as investigating enterprise applications of databases.

Business IT Project

This module provides students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in developing system solutions to open-ended problems derived from the real world.

Information Systems and Organisations

This module introduces students to the subject of information systems and technology in organisations, taking a broad perspective on how it can be managed effectively within the organisational context. Students will be able to demonstrate an appreciation of the role of information systems in the modem organisation, including the management of social, cultural and political aspects that are important to the successful adoption of technology.

Principles of Business Operations

This module helps students to appreciate and understand business operations in both the manufacturing and services sectors. It will cover the basic principles of operations within a global context from three key perspectives: understanding operations, designing operations and managing operations.

Assessment

Assessments for all units are offered in a number of assessment cycles throughout the year. All units, except the project, are assessed by assignments and/or examinations.

Academic Progression

Successful completion allows entry onto NCC Education’s final year top-up qualifications in Business Information Technology (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 business and IT industry.

Progression routes can be found here.