Four students sat round a table during class using Chromebooks

COMPUTING

Course Duration
2 Years

Entry Criteria
Grade 5 in English (language or literature)
Grade 5 in maths

Home » Welcome to our Sixth Form » Curriculum Subjects » Vocational (L3) Computing

Why study Level 3 Computing?

What will I study during the course duration?

The objective of this qualification is to provide learners with access to subject knowledge and skills in computer science and computer systems, enabling learners to progress to further study of the sector or other sectors. Initially, learners study three core units (Units 1, 2 and 7), plus one optional unit from the list below. These units allow progression to a variety of degrees when combined with other suitable Level 3 qualifications.

  • Unit 1: Principles of Computer Science (External)
  • Unit 2: Fundamentals of Computer Systems (External)
  • Unit 7: IT Systems Security and Encryption (Internal)
  • Unit 10: Human-computer-interaction (Internal) Optional
  • Unit 11: Digital Graphics and animation (Internal) Optional
  • Unit 14: Computer Games Development (Internal) Optional
  • Unit 15: Website Development (Internal) Optional
  • Unit 17: Mobile Apps Development (Internal) Optional
  • Unit 20: Managing and Supporting Systems (Internal) Optional
  • Unit 22: Systems Analysis and Design (Internal) Optional

How will I be assessed?

Assessment is specifically designed to fit the purpose and objective of the qualification. It includes a range of assessment types and styles suited to vocational qualifications in the sector. There are three main forms of assessment that you need to be aware of: external, internal and synoptic.

Achievement in the qualification requires a demonstration of depth of study in each unit, assured acquisition of a range of practical skills required for employment or progression to higher education, and successful development of transferable skills. Learners achieving a qualification will have achieved across mandatory units, including external and synoptic assessment. 

Career opportunities and Future study

Today’s BTEC Nationals are demanding, as you would expect of the most respected applied learning qualification in the UK. You will have to choose and complete a range of units, be organised, take some assessments that we will set and mark, and keep a portfolio of your assignments. But you can feel proud to achieve a BTEC because, whatever your plans in life – whether you decide to study further, go on to work or an apprenticeship, or set up your own business – your BTEC National Extended Certificate in Computing will be your passport to success in the next stage of your life

4 out of 5 BTEC students go on to receive a First or Second class degree (The outcomes associated with the BTEC route of degree level acquisition, London Economics 2013)

37% of businesses prefer recruits to hold a mix of academic and vocational qualifications or value them equally (Inspiring Growth: Pearson/Skills CBI Skills survey 2015)