Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Information Technology
What is the Course About?
Prepare for a future in the fast-growing digital and IT industry. This nationally recognised Level 3 qualification is designed to develop specialist, work-related skills and knowledge, preparing you for employment or progression to university. The Extended Diploma consists of 13 units, equivalent to three A Levels, and carries a maximum of 168 UCAS points.
During this course you’ll learn technical expertise along with practical, real-world application.
What you’ll study:
The course is broken down into 7 mandatory units:
1. Information Technology Systems
2. Creating Systems to Manage Information
3. Using Social Media in Business
4. Programming
5. IT Project Management
6. Cyber Security and Incident Management
7. IT Service Delivery
You will also study a range of specialist units, which may include:
1. Data Modelling
2. Website Development
3. Computer Games Development
4. IT Technical Support and Management
5. Digital 2D and 3D Graphics
6. The Internet of Things
This combination of units allows you to develop both broad understanding and specialist expertise, helping you prepare for a wide range of careers in IT, digital media, and technology-driven industries.
Will I need a DBS check for this course?
No, you will not need a DBS check for this course
Will I need any specialist uniform and/or kit?
No, you don’t need any uniform or kit.
What are the days and hours of the course?
Timetabled days changes each year when the timetables are created, for this year they are in 3 days.
You will attend UCM for 3 days each week and should expect to undertake approximately 4 hours of independent study outside of timetabled sessions each week.
Timetables are issued during Induction in September.
Will I undertake a work placement as part of the course?
There are no work placement modules withing this course. You may have opportunities to engage with employers through industry projects, guest speakers, workplace visits, and other work-related learning activities designed to enhance employability skills and industry awareness.
Your lecturers will be able to provide useful advice for your employment journey, you’ll be able to build employability skills through our Student Services team, and our Careers Advisers will be able to provide advice. You will also benefit from other work-based encounters.
Useful links
What are my progression and career options?
You may progress to higher-level qualifications such our University degree programmes in:
• Computer Science
• Cyber Security
The qualification provides a strong foundation for junior IT roles in:
• IT Support Technician
• Helpdesk Analyst
• Software Developer
• Network Technician
• Cyber Security Assistant
• Web Developer
• Digital Content Creator
How will I be assessed?
Assessment is primarily through coursework, projects, practical assignments, presentations, and case studies that reflect real industry scenarios.
Four of the mandatory units are externally assessed, to achieve the qualification, you must successfully complete all required units.
To pass the course you need to pass every unit.
Entry requirements
For this course, you’ll need:
• 4 GCSE’s at grade C or above or
• A Merit at Level 2
The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in IT is primarily aimed at post-16 learners, typically those who have completed their GCSEs and want to gain A-Level equivalent qualifications to progress into Higher Education or employment in the digital sector.
Please note, Functional Skills Level 2 pass is equivalent to grade C.