| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Software Development (Extended Diploma) is a two-year, Level 3 program designed for individuals interested in computing, IT, and software development. The program emphasizes industry links, providing students with core technical skills and preparing them for work placements with local IT service providers. Students will acquire hands-on experience in web design, application development, and potential mobile app development, preparing them for further education or employment in the IT industry.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This course, the Software Development (Extended Diploma), is designed for individuals interested in computing, IT, and software development. It provides insight into application development across various platforms and sectors. The program emphasizes industry links to foster awareness of professional practices, preparing students for work placements with local IT service providers. Students will acquire core technical skills aligned with leading vendors, skills highly sought after in the IT sector. The course is equivalent to three A-levels and serves as a pathway to higher education or specialized computing disciplines. The objective is to equip students with the knowledge, understanding, and skills to design, build, test, and implement applications. Students will learn to create websites using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript; develop applications using C#; and potentially develop mobile apps. The course aims to enable students to take their first step into the IT industry or progress to Higher Education.
Outline:
The two-year program consists of 8 units in the first year and 9 units in the second year. The course uses a variety of learning methods, focusing on practical workshops in a supportive environment. Independent learning is encouraged through problem-based exercises and relevant scenarios. A sample of modules covered includes: Application Design, Project Management, Software Engineering for Business, Web Design and Prototyping, Product Development, Cognitive Computing, Mobile Technologies, and The Internet of Everything.
Assessment:
Assessment is ongoing throughout the course and utilizes written assignments, practical assessments, and four examined units.
Teaching:
The course employs a wide range of learning methods with a focus on practical workshops designed to develop skills and knowledge in a supportive environment. While contact hours are tutor and group-based, independent learning is increasingly developed and actively encouraged. Problem-based exercises and relevant scenarios aid this independent learning process.
Careers:
Successful completion of this course can lead to progression to further study, apprenticeships, or employment within the IT industry.
Other:
The course is a Level 3, full-time program starting in September 2025 and held at the David Hockney Building. The entry requirement is 4 GCSEs at grade 9-4 (or A -C), including GCSE English and Maths, or a Level 2 IT qualification at a merit grade, along with GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C or above. If students lack a grade 4 or above in English and/or Maths, these subjects will be included in their timetable. Students will participate in work experience at a local employer. The course is specifically aimed at people with an interest in Computing, IT and Software development.
Entry Requirements:
Entry to this course requires 4 GCSEs at grade 9-4 or A -C, including GCSE English and Maths or a Level 2 IT qualification at a merit grade as well as GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C or above. English and/or Maths will be included in your timetable if you have not achieved a GCSE at grade 4 or above in these subjects when you start your course.
