Computing and IT Advanced Technician

Course summary

Information technology is essential to the global economy, with businesses relying on IT and valuing those who work in the industry. There are around 87,000 people in the West Midlands working in IT. It is expected that employment in the IT sector will grow nearly five times faster than the UK average over the next ten years, and this will provide more jobs in the West Midlands too. This BTEC Level 3 two-year course is based on unit learning on a range of IT topics which will give you a solid foundation of skills and knowledge. Each unit has a range of internally assessed related assignments where you will demonstrate and reflect on your learning. You will complete 12 units in total (120 credits). The course provides you with an advanced level of understanding of the IT industry and the key functions required of someone wishing to take their career into this varied industry. You will be developing your skills in hardware and networking as well as software applications for a broad foundation in a range of sub skills and specialisms. As well as studying mandatory core units, and the basics of networks and hardware systems, you will learn to create a website using different coding languages; design digital graphics and animation; create design a database and use spreadsheets for a variety of applications for IT in the workplace. You will learn how to present and communicate your work as you would do in the workplace. Each unit will develop your IT skills, competence and confidence in the following key areas: • Computer systems and networks • Information systems • Data analysis and database design • System security • Website design and production • Communication and employability skills