BTEC Level 3 in IT – Extended Diploma

BTEC Level 3 in Information Technology – Extended Diploma

BTEC qualifications are designed to provide highly specialist, work-related qualifications in a range of vocational sectors. This qualification gives learners the knowledge, understanding and technical skills needed to prepare for employment in the IT and digital sector.

The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Information Technology is an Applied General qualification. It is designed for post-16 learners who want to continue their education through applied learning and aim to progress to higher education or employment in areas such as computing, cybersecurity, software development and IT support.

The qualification is equivalent in size to three A Levels and is delivered as a full two-year programme. It combines practical coursework with external assessment and is designed in consultation with employers and higher education providers to reflect current industry practice.

Curriculum Summary

Extended Diploma (1080 GLH)

Equivalent in size to three A Levels
13 units in total
Combination of coursework and external assessment

Units Covered

Students will study a broad and in-depth range of IT topics, including:

- Unit 1: Information Technology Systems
- Unit 2: Creating Systems to Manage Information
- Unit 3: Using Social Media in Business
- Unit 4: Programming
- Unit 5: Data Modelling
- Unit 6: Website Development
- Unit 7: Mobile Apps Development
- Unit 9: IT Project Management
- Unit 11: Cyber Security and Incident Management
- Unit 14: IT Service Delivery
- Unit 17: 2D and 3D Digital Graphics
- Unit 20: Enterprise in IT
- Unit 21: Business Process Modelling Tools

These units provide learners with both technical computing skills and an understanding of how IT systems are used in real organisations.

Progression Opportunities

This qualification carries UCAS points and supports progression to:

University degrees such as Computer Science, Cyber Security, and IT
Degree apprenticeships in digital and technology sectors
Careers in:
- IT support
- Software development
- Networking
- Systems analysis

Employability Skills

Students will develop:

Problem-solving skills

Designing IT solutions
Analysing systems and data

Communication skills

Presenting technical information
Working collaboratively

Personal skills

Time management
Independent learning
Adaptability in a fast-changing sector

Course Structure

Two-year full-time course
Combination of:
- Coursework assignments
- Practical projects
- External assessments

Students will apply their knowledge through realistic scenarios, preparing them for both higher education and employment.

Entry Requirements

At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including:

- English
- Mathematics