What you will learn
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Level 4, Unit 1: Computer systems and software
You’ll begin your course by developing your understanding if how hardware and software integrate together.
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Level 4, Unit 2: Computer programming
You’ll become familiar with the various tools and techniques used in the designing, implementation, and testing of individual programs. You’ll also learn how these follow the system life cycle.
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Level 4, Unit 3: Relational database systems
Take your understanding of database systems further and learn how to conduct data analysis and modelling.
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Level 4, Unit 4: Software engineering
Gain an understanding of the need for software engineering and the methods and techniques used in this key practice.
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Level 4, Unit 5: Systems analysis and design
This module provides an understanding of IS concepts and how they relate to the needs of the organisation’s processes and how information is conveyed.
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Level 4, Unit 6: E-commerce applications
Learn the importance of e-commerce in today’s business world and identify aims and objectives associated with the implementation of this technology business-wide. You’ll also understand how these are developed from defining requirements.
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Level 4, Unit 7: Human computer interaction
Understand and develop your knowledge of the principles and models of human-computer interaction. You’ll learn how to evaluate existing HCI design and its principles. From here, you’ll plan your own prototype multimedia user interface.
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Level 4, Unit 8: IT and society
Examine the impact of technology on society and the trends that this creates. You’ll examine management issues and conflicts that may arise, factoring in principles of security and data management.
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Level 4, Unit 9: Information systems theory and practice
Explore elements of project management and how these are applied in the successful implementation of specific IT projects.
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Level 4, Unit 10: Management information systems
In this final Level 4 module, you’ll understand the concepts if information systems and how they support business requirements in terms of processing information and data.
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Level 5, Unit 1: Innovative technologies in computing
In this first Level 5 module, you’ll look at the innovative trends and disruptive advancements in technology. You’ll also examine the future generation of skills and knowledge required for success in the IT sector.
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Level 5, Unit 2: Computing research methods
Explore the knowledge and skills needed to conduct research and the differences between qualitative and quantitative approaches, including literature and research proposals.
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Level 5, Unit 3: Software development methodologies
Here, you’ll explore the role of systems engineering in the development of software. You’ll also begin to learn more about the numerous modelling approaches in development.
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Level 5, Unit 4: Managing a computing project
Find out about the various tools and techniques involved in managing a computer project from start to complete implementation.
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Level 5, Unit 5: Strategic management information systems
Develop your understanding of management information systems (MIS) used within an organisation and how these influence the wider objectives and strategic focus the business has.
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Level 5, Unit 6: Ethical, legal and professional issues in IT
Explore current issues within the IT sector and the effects these have on security, confidentiality, privacy and the law.
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Level 5, Unit 7: Network Design
Understand the principles of network design and how network systems are implemented across multiple sectors.
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Level 5, Unit 8: Web-based development
Here, you’ll explore the concepts of virtualisation and the potential impact of designing, deploying, and managing new developments.
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Level 5, Unit 9: Cyber security
Understand the importance and the significance of digital security within business operations and develop the skills needed to recommend improvements to security policies.
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Level 5, Unit 10: Database design and development
Extend your understanding of database design and development by researching the various systems available and how the design will need to meet the requirements of implementing complex data.
Awarding Body
Qualifi is a leading 21st century Awarding Organisation founded to meet the developing education and training needs of learners and employers from the UK and around the globe serving the needs of learners and employers in the UK and worldwide every year.
You’ll learn from Qualifi 603/4781/8 and 603/4791/0 course syllabuses recognised by Ofqual. These syllabuses have been selected for their suitability to online learning.
This online course also carries up to 240 UCAS credits, which are used as part of university applications.
Course Outcome
This combined Level 4 and 5 combined diploma in IT & computing is the equivalent to the first two years of undergraduate study. You can then progress to complete your degree at one of the UK’s top universities. With technological advancements, a career in computing is becoming more appealing to learners of all ages, resulting in more students choosing computing at A-level.
How is this course assessed or examined?
This course is made up of a total of 20 modules – 10 at each level. The modules studied at level 4 are equivalent to those studied at year one of university, with the level 5 modules equivalent to the second year of a undergraduate course. You’ll be assessed based on six written assignments at each of these.
You’ll benefit from 40 guided learning hours of material with an additional 30-50 hours of optional learning material.
Entry requirements
To enrol on the Level 4 course, you must be at least 18 years of age and have a full secondary education. Before enrolling in level 5, you must complete level 4.
