BTEC National Diploma Information Technology

 

To study this course you should also have an interest in developing the knowledge and skills you need to be a competent and informed ICT user and practitioner.

 

On the BTEC course you will study 12 units of work over 2 years.

 

What qualification will I get?

The full two year course is the equivalent to 2 A levels but there may be the flexibility to obtain the BTEC National Certificate (equivalent to 1 AS) or the BTEC National Subsidiary Diploma (equivalent to 1 A level) by reducing the number of units covered.

 

 

Compulsory Units

 

There are 3 compulsory units that you must study on this course. They are:

 

Unit 1 - Communication & Employability Skills in IT

In this unit you will identify and learn about the non-technical skills and attitudes seen as being key to employability as well as the technical skills and knowledge required for specific jobs in IT.  You will also improve your general communication skills and understand how to exploit specific application packages and tools.

 

Unit 2 - Computer Systems

In this unit you will learn about the components of computer systems and the suitability of the different components for a business purpose.  You will also learn practical skills such as installing system components.

 

Unit 3 - Information Systems

Information systems are combinations of software, hardware and communication

networks, used to collect organise and distribute useful information in organisations. In this unit you will manipulate data to generate meaningful information by using an IT tool such as a spreadsheet or database to process the data.

Optional Units

 

The remaining 9 will be made up of Optional units. They will include units of work that covers topics such as:

 

  • Computer Networks
  • IT Technical Support
  • Database Design
  • Spreadsheet Modelling
  • Website Production & Management
  • Human Computer Interaction
  • Digital Graphics and Computers
  • Computer Animation
  • I.T. Project Management

 

 

 

 

Assessment details

 

To complete the units successfully you will be given a variety of assignments to complete which are assessed and graded either Pass, Merit or Distinction by your ICT teacher. 

 

Progression

BTEC National Diplomas are valued by employers and higher education (universities and colleges). Students go into careers in many IT related disciplines as technicians and technical support and progress to professional status in their chosen field.

If you want to get a job you could work areas such as Computer Networking, User Support or Software Development.

If you decide to go to university or college you could take a degree or a BTEC Higher National

in subjects such as Computing, E-Commerce, Information Technology or Networking.

 

Exam board

Edexcel