Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National Extended Certificate in Information Technology

The Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Information Technology supports you to develop fundamental knowledge and practical skills related to modern information technology systems. It is suitable if you are interested in IT and want to study a qualification alongside other fields of study, with progression in mind to a wide range of higher‑education courses. 

During the course, you can explore how information technology systems are used within organisations and the implications of using digital technologies. Learning includes an introduction to cyber security threats and incident management, helping you understand how cyber attacks occur and how they are prevented and managed in professional environments. You will also develop practical skills in website development, learning how to design and create websites to meet specific purposes and user needs. Data management is another key area, where you can build skills in designing and developing a relational database solution, helping you understand how data is structured, stored and used effectively. 

The course includes a mix of externally assessed units and internally assessed practical work, allowing you to apply theory through hands‑on tasks and projects. The qualification is equivalent in size to one A Level and forms part of a broader programme of study alongside other subjects.

By the end of the course, you will have developed a strong foundation in information technology systems, cyber security, website development and database design. This qualification supports progression to higher education across a range of subjects and provides valuable digital and analytical skills relevant to further study and modern workplaces. This course is delivered at our Thurrock campus, and at our Centre for Digital Technologies in Basildon.