Are you curious about how apps know what you want to watch next, how businesses make big decisions, or how scientists predict future trends? If you like solving problems, spotting patterns, and using technology to understand the world, Data Analytics could be the perfect course to study alongside your other A Levels. This course introduces you to the power of data - how it?s collected, processed, visualised, and used to shape almost every aspect of modern life.
Data is everywhere. Every industry, from healthcare and engineering to sport, gaming, business, and criminology relies on data to make smarter decisions. Studying Data Analytics strengthens your ability to think critically, evaluate evidence, and communicate insights clearly, which makes it a powerful complement to many A Level subjects.
Although not an A Level, this course is taken alongside two other A Levels and qualifies for UCAS points in the same way as A levels for students intending to progress to university.
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What will I study?
The units you will study are likely to include:
Core units:
- Fundamentals of data analytics
- Big data and machine learning
- Spreadsheet data modelling
Specialist units:
- Relational database design
- Data visualisation
*All units are subject to change and may be withdrawn.
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Who is this course for?
This two-year course is ideal if you have an interest in IT and wish to gain a Level 3 qualification in Data Analytics. The AAQ is equivalent to one A Level.
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How is the course assessed?
- Two examinations
- Three assessments completed under supervised conditions
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Your Study Programme
If you are aged 16-18, you will join a Study Programme this could be a vocational or technical qualification. We will make sure you are working at the right level on your core qualification and are challenged to achieve the highest level of qualification you can.
Work experience will be part of your study programme and complement your college study and prepare you for employment. You will also get involved in activities to help you develop life skills and to build your confidence so you can make progress in your career.
If you have chosen to study for a T Level qualification, this will involve college-based theory and practice lessons along with relevant work placement to enable you to gain the knowledge, skills and behaviours that employers are looking for.
Weekly timetables will include tutorial support which may comprise of full group activities or one to one sessions to discuss individual progress or support needs.
All students will continue to improve their maths and English and if you don't have a grade 4 (C) at GCSE, we will work with you towards achieving that goal (subject to specific entry requirements for particular courses).
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Knowledge
You will develop a thorough knowledge and understanding of:
- The principles of data modelling with spreadsheets.
- The principles of relational database design
- The challenges of managing big data and the role of artificial intelligence and machine learning in data science
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Skills
You will have the ability to:
- Collect, clean, and interpret data
- Use tools like Excel, and Power BI, to spot trends
- Visualise information using charts, maps, and dashboards
- Plan, design, create, test and review solutions that meet the needs of a specific client.
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General info
You may be required to go on trips or purchase a kit and uniform to undertake this course. Information about individual items and their associated costs will be sent to you in June/July before you enrol.
Some students may be eligible for support from the Student Bursary Scheme with the costs of coming to college. Applications are available on the college website under Student Support. If you require further assistance or would like to speak with a member of Student Services, please email financial.support@northamptoncollege.ac.uk or call 01604 734333.
If you are applying for financial assistance, please do not purchase any kit items. If your application is successful, the necessary items will be provided to you.
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Progression and Career Opportunities
Progress to university, further study or employment. Data Analytics is one of the fastest growing skill areas worldwide, opening doors to exciting careers such as: Data Analyst, Scientific Researcher, Financial Modeller, Marketing Analyst, Cybersecurity Specialist
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Entry Requirements for new students
The required point score to join our A Level programme is 4.25 across all your GCSEs. This must include a minimum of 5 grade 5s or above including a grade 5 or above in English Language and maths, with a grade 6 in another written subject desirable. An average point score will be calculated across your GCSE grades.
A BTEC qualification at Merit grade, or above, in a related subject may also be considered in exceptional circumstances.
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Admissions Process
We recommend that you attend one of our exciting open events so that you can look around the department, the college and meet the tutors. You are welcome to do this before or after you apply.
These events have proved very successful in ensuring students and their families see the best of what the college has to offer such as our inspirational teaching areas, teachers, library facilities and places to eat.
Once you have applied our experienced Enrolment Team will consider your application carefully and will let you know, by email, if the College would like to make you a conditional offer based on you meeting the specified entry requirements.
If your predicted grades or career aims suggest that an alternative subject area or course level would be more appropriate for you at this stage, we will contact you either by telephone, email or text. If you have told us that you have some additional support needs we will contact you to find out more so that we can help you.
