This course focuses on the design and implementation of an organisation's IT infrastructure together with the activities and roles that are carried out in the workplace, such as selecting hardware and software to meet client?s needs, and learning how to build, upgrade or install computer systems and networks that are safe and secure.
-
What will I study?
You will look at emerging digital technologies and the development of virtual and augmented reality across a range of sectors, and discover why the smarter plant is important for a global community.
You will also develop professional, personal and social skills through interaction with peers, stakeholders and clients, as well theoretical knowledge and understanding to underpin these skills.
The units you will study are likely to include:
Core Units:
- Fundamentals of IT
- Global Information
- Cyber Security
- Cloud Technology
- Computer Networks
- Virtual and Augmented Reality
- Enterprise Computing
Specialist Units:
- Project Management
- Product Development
- Systems Analysis and Design
- Mobile Technology
- Social Media and Digital Marketing
- Developing a Smarter Planet
- Internet of Everything
- Computer Systems - Hardware
- Computer Systems - Software
- IT Technical Support
- Big Data Analytics
- Cognitive Computing
All units are subject to change and may be withdrawn.
-
Who is this course for?
This course is ideal if you have an interest in developing knowledge and understanding of the principles of IT and Global Information Systems. You will gain an insight into the IT sector as you investigate the pace of technological change, IT infrastructure, and the flow of information on a global scale and the importance of legal and security considerations.
-
How is the course assessed?
- The course is assessed by a mixture of internal and external methods.
- Internally assessed units will be in the form of between two and four assignments per unit.
- Externally assessed units will be examined units.
- There will be two examined units per year
-
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).
-
Knowledge
You will develop a thorough knowledge and understanding of:
- The concepts and fundamentals of data, including searching, storing, integrating and organising data
- The main features and benefits of digital information systems and how these are used to maintain information and to support organisations and best working practices
- The principles of organisational information security governance and the components of an organisation's cyber security technical infrastructure including hardware, operating systems, networks, software and cloud.
-
Skills
You will have the ability to:
-
Install and configure basic hardware system components, networks and devices
-
Write code following an appropriate logical approach to agreed standards
- Follow information security procedures.
-
-
Behaviours
What is required?
- Manage own time to meet deadlines and Manage stakeholder expectations
- Work independently and take responsibility for own actions within a given job role
- Work with a range of internal and external customers.
-
General info
Trips - £30: this cost is approximate and is payable at enrolment.
-
Progression and Career Opportunities
After successful completion at Extended Diploma with a Pass or at Diploma with a Merit - many students apply for courses in Higher Education and certain universities are very keen to offer our students a place on their degree or HND courses. Northampton College has HNC and HND courses in IT that may interested you.
The skills gained are also very relevant for seeking jobs in IT and Computing areas.
-
Entry Requirements for new students
- Four GCSEs at Grade 9-4 [A*-C] including English Language and Maths for direct entry to the Extended Diploma programme or
- 3 GCSEs at Grade 9-4 [A-C] including Maths plus GCSE English at Grade 9-3 [A-D] for entry to the Subsidiary Diploma/Certificate programme.
-
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.