Level 3

Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification (AAQ) BTEC National in Information Technology

Duration Age Group Study Start Cost Available Locations
1 YEAR SCHOOL LEAVERS FULL TIME 01/09/2025
£FREE Centre for Digital Technologies – Basildon
Duration Age Group Study Start Cost Available Locations
1 YEAR SCHOOL LEAVERS FULL TIME 01/09/2025
£FREE Centre for Digital Technologies – Basildon

Overview

Shape the Digital Future – Study Level 3 AAQ

The Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Information Technology (Extended Certificate) allows students to study the fundamental knowledge of Information Technology covering the role and implications of using Information Technology systems and cyber-security threats and how to manage attacks.

Students will also develop important skills for creating websites to meet a specific purpose and to manage data through the development of a relational database solution. There are two examined units and two internally assessed units where students will engage in practical tasks to develop their Information Technology skills and knowledge.
 

Entry Requirements

  • 4 GCSEs including either grade 4 or above in English or Maths, or 
  • Relevant L2 Diploma including either grade 4 or above in English or Maths.

Course Structure

The Extended Certificate is for students who are interested in learning about the Information Technology sector alongside other fields of study, with a view to progressing to a wide range of higher education courses, not necessarily in Information Technology-related subjects. It is designed to be taken as part of a programme of study that includes A Levels.

  • 360 GLH (468 TQT) Equivalent in size to one A Level
  • 4 units of which 4 are mandatory and 2 are external
  • Mandatory content (100%)
  • External assessment (66.6%)

The four units covered on the course are:

  1. Information Technology Systems - Externally assessed 
  2. Cyber Security and Incident Management - Externally assessed 
  3. Website Development - Internally assessed
  4. Relational Database Development - Internally assessed

Assessment & Feedback

  • Assignments
  • Controlled assessments