Is this course for me?

The world is constantly changing in the way it works which is creating a huge demand for digital workers with up to date digital skills and the ability to adapt to a changing environment. The Government is predicting significant skill shortages for digital workers given the changing macro-economic environment that organisations will be operating in, especially as the way of working is changing as our circumstances change. This will mean there will be a sustained demand for skilled digital workers who are able to respond to new challenges. The use of ICT is constantly changing and becoming more diverse, specifically in fields of the internet of things, smart devices, digital skills, cloud based communication, cyber security and virtual reality.

This qualification is designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills in the growing applications of digital technology including programming, web design and mobile apps. The range of units provides variety and a suitable foundation for employment in the digital industry, enabling learners to take their first steps into employment or as a basis for further study, including university.

Study Overview

The course consists of 13 units over 2 years. The typical units you will study are:

• IT Systems
• Creating Systems to Manage Information
• Using Social Media in Business
• Programming
• Cyber Security and Incident Management
• IT Service Delivery
• Website Development
• Computer Games Development
• Digital 2D and 3D Graphics
• The Internet of Things
• IT Project Management

Plus in year two:

• Big Data and Business Analysis 
• Digital Animation and Effects

Progression and Employment Opportunities

BTEC Extended Diplomas are valued by employers and higher education (over 50% of our learners progress to university). Students go into careers in many ICT and digital related disciplines such as, technicians and technical support and progress to professional status in their chosen field.

If you want to get a job straight away you could get a junior post working in areas such as IT Support/Helpdesk, Business Systems, eCommerce, Management Information Systems, Database Management. If you decide to go to university or college you could take a degree or a BTEC Higher National in subjects such as computing, eCommerce, ICT & digital systems, web design, computer games design, networks and cyber security.

Additional Qualifications Studied

METIS

Maths and English – Take it Seriously!

At Chelmsford College we are dedicated to
helping all our learners achieve their ambitions and we acknowledge that in order to do well, some of our learners may need extra support in maths and/or English.

Please note that individual Level 2 literacy and numeracy may not be equivalent to a full GCSE qualification. We provide specialist teaching as a compulsory part of the study programme for all learners who have not achieved a grade 4 at GCSE in these subjects and we all take maths and English seriously.