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Computing L3 Diploma

Calderdale College

Calderdale College, Francis Street, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX1 3UZ

National Extended Diploma (BTEC)
Level 3
Information and Communication Technology

Available start dates

Available start dates

Monday, 05 October 2026
Calderdale College
1 Year(s)
Full time
Daytime/working hours

Course Summary

Course Info

The Level 3 Extended Diploma in Computing is aimed at learners who are looking to progress into employment in one of the fastest growing sectors in the UK economy – either directly or following further training such as an Apprenticeship or Higher Education.

The Digital Sector employs 58,000 people in the Yorkshire and Humberside and has grown by over 30% in the last 5 years. It is estimated it will be worth over £2.88 billion. Local cities like Leeds are at the forefront of the digital sector, with companies such as SkyBet and Channel 4 using it as a base. It is also the host of one of the largest digital events in the UK: Leeds Digital Festival.

Throughout the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Computing course, you will work on projects with local employers such as Lloyds Banking Group and Covéa Insurance. Utilising agile project management, you will be asked to build systems or develop software to a brief set by IT professionals currently working in the industry. As part of a group you will develop a solution to the set problem and then present it to them as you would in the workplace. These industry links will give you the opportunity to experience first-hand what a career in this fast-paced sector can be like.

While an interest in the inner workings of computers is required – and some experience of programming helpful – you don’t need to have studied in this area previously. Through a range of practical and theoretical elements this course will give you the building blocks for a range of careers including software engineer, web developer, systems administrator or security analyst. During the first year you will study core units before selecting either a software or systems pathway to specialise in for your second year.

Modules of study include:

Principles of Computer Science

Computer Networking

IT Security & Encryption

Software Design & Development

Human-Computer Interaction

Website Development

Mobile Apps Development

Systems Analysis and Design

Course Details

https://www.calderdale.ac.uk/digital-skills-media-and-computing/

Entry requirements

An advanced course suitable for those with at least 5 GCSEs at grade A*-C or grade 9 -4 including Maths & English.

Your next steps...

Level 4 HNC in Computing, Access to HE Computing or an Apprenticeship in a relevant area.


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