Level 3 Diploma in Computing (L3DC)
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 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.
- 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.
- Foundation Mathematics – This module builds upon student’s knowledge of mathematics whilst introducing new topics appropriate across a range of academic disciplines and for their future career.
Please note:
Learners sitting their first assessment from the Autumn 2019 assessment cycle onwards will need to pass the Foundation Mathematics unit to be awarded the qualification. Learners who sat their first exam prior to this assessment cycle may be awarded the qualification if they complete the Foundation Mathematics unit or the Mathematical Techniques unit. The Mathematical Techniques unit will not be available for first-time assessment after the Summer 2019 assessment cycle.
Assessments for all units will be offered in a minimum of four assessment cycles throughout the year. The units are assessed by either written examination or assignment.
Past papers and sample assessments:
Study and Communications Skills
IT Skills
Introduction to Computer Science
Introduction to Programming
Foundation Mathematics
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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