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Computing (Network and Cyber Security)

Course Code: AAQIT
  • Level: 3
  • Qualification: AAQ
  • Awarding body: Assessment & Qualifications Alliance (AQA), Pearson
  • Duration: One year
  • Course type: Full-time
  • Time of day: Flexible
  • When you'll study: Various days and times
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What's it all about?

This course is designed for 16-18-year-olds with a keen interest in the digital sector. It provides a pathway to higher education and, ultimately, graduate-level employment. You will develop fundamental IT knowledge and explore key areas such as the implications of IT systems and the management of cyber security threats. 

Equivalent to two A Levels. The curriculum has been developed in collaboration with higher education institutions and industry experts to ensure students gain the skills currently in demand by employers and universities, including critical thinking and problem-solving. 

Course information

Information Technology Systems 

You’ll explore the relationship between hardware and software and the broader implications of using IT systems. 
Cyber Security and Incident Management 
You’ll focus on the different types of cyber attacks, system vulnerabilities, and how to plan for and respond to security incidents. 
Website Development 
You’ll learn how to use industry tools and techniques to design, build, and test websites that meet specific client needs. 
Relational Database Development 
You’ll study data structures and design, requiring you to create and test database solutions. Beyond technical skills, you’ll also develop transferable skills such as creativity, written communication, and personal responsibility. 
This course is worth the equivalent of one A Level and attracts UCAS tariff points, making it a valuable addition for university applications. There will also be the opportunity to complete a computing BTEC alongside this qualification. This allows you to gain additional UCAS points and broaden your technical expertise, further strengthening your profile for higher education or employment. 

In order to be successful on this course, you will need to have GCSEs at grade 4 or above (including maths and English).

You’ll be assessed through a combination of exams and practical assessments.  

Upon successful completion, you may progress to AAQ Computing, A Level Statistics / Computer Science, an Apprenticeship or employment within the sector.

Please note fees are quoted for one year only.

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Future careers

What you could earn:

IT Business Analysts, Architects and Systems Designers

£111,232.09

Potential salary

£38,215.96

Entry level salary

£66,327.00

Average salary

13

Annual openings in Plymouth

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