The NCC Education Level 3 Diploma in Computing (RQF) is an Applied General qualification which allows candidates to demonstrate key transferrable study skills, mathematical understanding and applied IT competency, as well as an understanding of the essential concepts of computer programming.
In addition successful candidates will fulfil the main entry requirements for NCC Education’s Level 4 Diploma in Computing or Level 4 Diploma in Business IT, as well as opening up opportunities to access a range of higher education courses or employment. Examples of higher education opportunities include, but are not limited to, progressing to university degrees in Software Engineering or Computer Science, Computer Networking Systems, Digital Media Technology, Computer Forensics and Security. Examples of employment opportunities include roles such as IT Helpdesk Professional, Data Entry Clerk, IT Support Technician and Computer Service and Repair Technician.
The Level 3 Diploma in Computing syllabus and assessment is suitable for students aged 16-19 as well as adult learners.
The above purpose is stated in the Qualification Specification, Section 1.1, and Page 4. The Qualification Specification is published here on our website.
NCC Education is regulated by Ofqual (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) to award the Level 3 Diploma in Computing (RQF) in England. Ofqual Qualification reference number 600/6407/9.
For entry onto the NCC Education L3DC qualification a student must:
- Have previously studied in English at secondary school level.
OR
- Have a valid score of 5.5 or above in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examination or equivalent. Alternatively a student can take the free NCC Education Higher English Placement Test which is administered by our Accredited Partner Centres.
The Level 3 Diploma in Computing syllabus and assessment is suitable for students aged 16-19 as well as adult learners.
Students must study the following five core units:
- Study and Communication Skills – equips a students with the essential study skills needed to succeed at university level. They will learn the basic skills necessary to conduct independent research, write academic papers, give formal oral presentations and apply what has been taught during lectures.
- Mathematical Techniques – develops your basic mathematical competence and confidence, for further study. Focusing on ensuring they have a functional level of mathematics will be valuable in everyday life and future career.
- IT Skills – provides an introduction to the key IT skills that will be required in studies. They will learn basic skills in word processing, spreadsheets and presentation software. The unit will focus on the Microsoft Office suite, but has been designed to allow students to gain the relevant skills regardless of the software version being used.
- Introduction to Computer Science – provides a basic introduction to a range of IT topics including organisation of a computer system, the relationship between hardware and software, applications of computers, databases, networking (with a focus on the Internet), graphics and multimedia.
- Introduction to Programming – exposes students to extensive practical use of the modern programming language Visual Basic to illustrate the classic programming principles of sequencing, selection and iteration in the context of object-oriented computer programming.
Assessments for all units will be offered in a number of assessment cycles throughout the year. The units are all assessed by either examination or assignments.
Past papers and sample assessments:
Study and Communications Skills
View a Sample Assessment here.
View a Sample Mark Scheme here.
Mathematical Technicals
View a Sample Assessment here.
View a Sample Mark Scheme here.
IT Skills
View a Sample Assessment here.
View a Sample Mark Scheme here.
Introduction to Computer Science
View a Sample Examination here.
View a Sample Mark Scheme here.
Introduction to Programming
View a Sample Examination here.
View a Sample Examination Mark Scheme here.
View a Sample Assignment here.
View a Sample Assignment Mark Scheme here.
The L3DC qualification allows admission to the NCC Education Level 4 Diploma in Computing and Level 4 Diploma in Business IT (each equivalent to Year 1 of a UK Bachelor’s degree).
Progression routes can be found on our University Progression page.
To start studying the NCC Education Level 3 Diploma in Computing
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