IT: Computer Networking and System Support
LEVEL 3 EXTENDED DIPLOMA (BTEC)
This is a two-year course and equivalent to 3 A Levels.
What makes a computer work? This course will focus on designing computing and networking solutions. You will analyse business systems, learn how to support users of computer systems and develop software solutions. If you want a career in designing, implementing and maintaining computer and network systems, this course is ideal for you.
Key topics
principles of computer science
fundamentals of computer systems
IT systems security and encryption
business application of social media
computer games development
managing and supporting systems
planning and management of computing projects
software design and development
the impact of computing
object-oriented programming
relational database development
virtualisation
You will
create your own software program
gain practical work experience
attend visits to discover how computers are used in industry and commerce
discover how reliant the world is on technology and how important technological experts have become
+ Entry requirements
A minimum of 5 GCSEs (average score of 4)
These must include:
- Maths at grade 5
- English at grade 4
Students currently taking a Level 2 vocational course will need a minimum of a Merit in a related subject.
+ Assessment
Assessment methods include:
- Coursework
- Exams
- Controlled Assessments
+ Why study at NewVIc
NewVIc has over 1000 PCs and technical devices dedicated to students. There has also been heavy investment in our technical infrastructure to keep up-to-date with the latest technological advances. We are on track to becoming completely wireless across the whole campus to allow students to work from any location.
Best in the country
Our Computer Science programme is in the top 10% for all providers across the UK. Our Networking and System support has been in the top 15% for the past six years, improving continuously in teaching and professional experiences.
Develop in demand skills
- IT is at the forefront of all future careers.
- The development of IT has reached all industries and your skills can be transferred to almost all job roles.
- Learn computerised languages for programming, coding and software development including Java, C# and .net
Unique links and partnerships
- IBM
- London South Bank University
Expert practitioners
The IT team has over 100 years of teaching experience, supporting students with university applications, apprenticeships and employment. Over 40% of the IT team are also external verifiers for BTEC programmes, providing expertise and knowledge to the subject.
+ How we support you
Whatever support you need, we’re here for you and will make sure you get the most out of your time at college.
We have expert teams in place to look after every single one of our students.
Our specialist teams can help with:
Learning difficulties and disabilities
Exam access arrangements
Mental health, counselling and wellbeing
Money, finance and bursary advice
Careers advice, job and university applications
+ Next steps
On completion, you will be able to progress to university to study a range of degrees including networking, data Communications, Software Engineering, Games Software Development, Information Systems, Business or Computer Systems Engineering. You could also seek employment as a Technician, Trainee Manager or Junior Network Support Technician.
+ Top universities for Information Technology and Systems
The Complete University Guide give university rankings each year. If you are planning on progressing to university, find out which universities are ranked most highly for Information Technology and Systems.