| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Business Computing (Extended Diploma) is a two-year, full-time course designed to develop critical thinking and vocational skills in students. It includes expert speaker sessions, mentoring schemes, work experience, and external visits, and emphasizes problem-solving and the application of theoretical and practical knowledge. Successful completion can lead to further study, higher education, or employment in the IT and Computing industry.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Business Computing (Extended Diploma) is a Level 3 course designed in collaboration with Higher Education providers and local businesses. Its objective is to develop critical thinking and vocational skills in students. The program includes expert speaker sessions from the industry, mentoring schemes, work experience, and external visits. Strong links with industry help students understand professional practices, preparing them for work placements. The course emphasizes problem-solving, both individually and in groups, using model-building and analysis, applying theoretical and practical knowledge to find solutions. The course is a two-year, full-time program starting in September 2025 and held at the David Hockney Building.
Outline:
The course content includes: Fundamentals of IT; Global Information; Business Computing; Cyber Security; Enterprise Business; Software Engineering for Business; Project Management; Product Development; Systems Analysis and Design; Internet of Everything; and Web Design and Prototyping.
Assessment:
Assessment is ongoing throughout the course and involves external examinations, assignments, and practical assessments.
Careers:
Successful completion of the course can lead to progression to further study, higher education, and employment in the IT and Computing industry.
Other:
The course requires 4 GCSEs at grade 4 or C, including GCSE English and Maths, or a Level 2 IT qualification graded at a Merit, along with GCSE English and Maths at grade 4 or C. If students lack a grade 4 or above in English and/or Maths, these subjects will be included in their timetable. The program is listed under the "School Leavers" course type.
