BTEC in Information Technology

The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Information Technology is a two-year vocational programme equivalent to three A levels. It provides a broad foundation in IT systems, data management, software development, and digital project management. The course is designed for students who wish to progress into higher education or employment in computing, IT, and digital industries. Learners develop both the technical skills and the applied problem-solving approaches needed in modern IT contexts.

Subject content

Learners complete 13 units in total: 7 mandatory and 6 optional.

Mandatory units (core content):

• Information Technology Systems – exploration of IT hardware, software, networks, the role of IT in organisations, and the impact of emerging technologies.

  
  

• Creating Systems to Manage Information – design, build, and test relational databases for real-world scenarios.

  
  

• Using Social Media in Business – investigate and apply social media tools to support business objectives.

  
  

• Programming – introduction to coding, algorithms, and software design principles using a chosen programming language.

  
  

• Data Modelling – development and use of spreadsheets for forecasting, financial modelling, and decision-making.

  
  

• Website Development – design and build functional websites with a focus on user experience and interactivity.

  
  

• IT Project Management – planning, executing, and evaluating a digital project using project management methodologies.

Optional units (examples):

• Mobile Apps Development

• Computer Games Development

• Cyber Security and Incident Management

• Digital Graphics and Animation

• The Internet of Things

• Cloud Storage and Collaboration Tools

• Systems Analysis and Design

• IT Service Delivery

• Business Process Modelling Tools

The optional units allow learners to focus on specific areas such as software engineering, cybersecurity, or creative digital media, depending on institutional provision.

Assessment

Assessment is through a combination of external and internal methods:

• External assessment (around 40%): Written examinations and Pearson-set controlled tasks, such as the IT Systems exam and the Database Design task.

  
  

• Internal assessment (around 60%): Coursework projects, practical demonstrations, programming assignments, and portfolio evidence.

This ensures that students are assessed both on applied technical competence and on their ability to demonstrate understanding under exam conditions.

Progression routes

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

• Higher education: Degrees in computer science, information systems, software engineering, digital media, cybersecurity, and business information technology.

  
  

• Employment and apprenticeships: IT technician, software developer, data analyst, systems administrator, web developer, digital marketing technician, or IT support roles.

  
  

• Professional pathways: Can support progression to industry certifications and vendor qualifications in networking, cloud, and cybersecurity.

Transferable skills gained

In addition to sector-specific knowledge, students develop a wide range of transferable skills, including:

• Technical skills: programming, database management, web development, data analysis, and IT systems administration.

  
  

• Problem-solving and analytical skills: designing solutions to meet user and business needs.

  
  

• Project management: planning, monitoring, and delivering IT projects to deadlines and budgets.

  
  

• Communication skills: producing technical documentation, presenting solutions, and collaborating with clients.

  
  

• Creativity and innovation: designing user-focused digital products and applying emerging technologies.

  
  

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