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Computing

Course Code: FDCC
  • Level: 3
  • Qualification: Diploma
  • Awarding body: Business & Technology Education Council (BTEC)
  • Duration: One year
  • Course type: Full-time
  • Time of day: Daytime

What's it all about?

Have you got a passion for code? Interested in the world of cyber security? Fancy working with AI, robotics or technology that is yet to be invented?


This Level 3 BTEC Foundation Diploma in IT is the right choice for you and offers the perfect stepping stone into the industry. It’s a diverse and interesting foundation to all things computing and will help you to take the next steps into work or higher level study. 


Course information

In the first year, you’ll gain an understanding of a range of areas completing the following modules: Principles of Computer Science, Fundamentals of Computer Systems, Planning and Management of Computing Projects and Software Design and Development Project alongside a range of other units.


After successful completion of the first year you will be able to progress to the full extended diploma, which is equivalent to three A Levels.

In our experience in order to be successful on this level of course you will need one of the following:

  • four to five GCSEs at grades 9-4 (A*-C) (including English and maths)

  • an intermediate GNVQ in a related subject

  • a BTEC first diploma in a related subject

  • an NVQ Level 2/technical certificate in a related subject

  • successful completion of an Apprenticeship course

  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

You will be assessed via a portfolio of evidence and four exams that are spread across the two-year programme. 

You could progress to a Foundation Degree in software development, computer systems or cyber security here at the College or another related degree at higher education institutions here at the College. The course is also a suitable progression route onto a wide range of computing Apprenticeships.

Please note fees are quoted for one year only.

Download course PDF

Future careers

What you could earn:

IT Business Analysts, Architects and Systems Designers

£77,032.25

Potential salary

£27,362.18

Entry level salary

£46,659.99

Average salary

12

Annual openings in Plymouth

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