BTEC in Computing

The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Computing is a two-year vocational programme equivalent to three A levels. It is designed for learners interested in pursuing computing, programming, cybersecurity, or data systems as a career or in higher education. The qualification develops both theoretical knowledge and applied skills in computer science, software development, networking, and digital technologies, with a strong emphasis on practical, work-related learning.

Subject content

Learners complete 15 units in total: 7 mandatory and 8 optional.

Mandatory units (core content):

• Principles of Computer Science – core computing concepts, logic, algorithms, and problem solving.

  
  

• Fundamentals of Computer Systems – structure and function of hardware, software, and operating systems.

  
  

• Planning and Management of Computing Projects – project management methodologies applied to IT and computing contexts.

  
  

• Software Design and Development Project – designing, coding, testing, and evaluating a significant piece of software.

  
  

• Building Computer Systems – practical skills in assembling, configuring, and troubleshooting hardware and software.

  
  

• IT Systems Security and Encryption – principles of cyber security, threats, vulnerabilities, and use of encryption technologies.

  
  

• Business Applications of Social Media – exploration of how organisations use social media technologies for communication, marketing, and branding.

Optional units (examples, chosen according to centre provision):

• Website Development

• Mobile Apps Development

• Human-Computer Interaction

• Computer Games Development

• Digital Graphics and Animation

• Managing and Supporting Systems

• Cloud Storage and Collaboration Tools

• Data Modelling and Big Data Analytics

• Internet of Things

• Computer Networks and Virtualisation

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This optional structure allows learners to specialise in programming, networking, systems support, or creative/digital development.

Assessment

Assessment is a mixture of external and internal approaches:

• External assessment (approximately 40%): Written examinations and Pearson-set controlled assessments (e.g. Principles of Computer Science exam, Software Design and Development project).

  
  

• Internal assessment (approximately 60%): Assignments, programming projects, technical reports, and practical demonstrations.

This combination tests both applied technical skills and the ability to demonstrate knowledge under exam conditions.

Progression routes

The qualification is widely recognised by universities, apprenticeship providers, and employers. Typical progression pathways include:

• Higher education: Computer science, software engineering, data science, cybersecurity, web development, games programming, or information systems.

  
  

• Apprenticeships and employment: Software developer, junior programmer, IT support technician, network engineer, cybersecurity analyst, or systems administrator.

  
  

• Professional pathways: Can support progression to vendor or industry qualifications (Cisco, CompTIA, AWS, Microsoft).

Transferable skills gained

In addition to specialist computing knowledge, learners develop a broad set of transferable skills:

• Programming and problem solving: writing, testing, and refining code to meet specified requirements.

  
  

• Analytical thinking: breaking down complex computing problems into logical steps.

  
  

• Technical competence: configuring systems, managing networks, and applying cybersecurity measures.

  
  

• Project management: planning, implementing, and evaluating substantial computing projects.

  
  

• Communication skills: documenting code, producing technical reports, and explaining solutions to both technical and non-technical audiences.

  
  

• Creativity and innovation: designing digital solutions, applications, and user experiences.

  
  

• Professional behaviours: teamwork, adaptability, resilience, and attention to detail.