The Level 4 Diploma in Computing is a 120-credit Ofqual regulated qualification and is equivalent to the first year of a bachelor’s degree and has been designed with support from higher education providers.

Who the Extended Diploma in Business & Management - Level 4 qualification is for?

The Level 4 Diploma in Computing offers extensive assistance for your chosen career path within various IT sectors, such as programming, software engineering, network management, and E-commerce. This diploma delves deeply into essential modules like computer systems, software, systems analysis, design, and management information systems. It serves as a fundamental education in computing, preparing you for advancement into a second-year University degree program and a successful career in the computing field.

Progression

On successful completion of the Diploma in Computing - Level 4, there are a number of progression opportunities.

Students can progress to:

• A level 5 qualifications such as the ATHE Level 5 Diploma in Computing
• A degree programme
• Students can go directly into employment in areas of growth in computing

ATHE University Partners:

ATHE has a number of University partners, who offer online or on the campus Bachelor and Master courses including:

• Anglia Ruskin University
• Southampton Solent University
• University of Sunderland London Campus
• Northampton University
• Coventry University
• Cardiff Metropolitan University
• University of Bolton
• University of Bedfordshire
• Prince Edward Island University

Assessment

There is no external assessment (i.e. exams) attached to any unit. You will be required to submit a final written assignment for each module. 

Pass/Merit/Distinction

Course Content

Learners must complete all 10 mandatory units.

• IT and Society (Mandatory)
Learners will understand ethical, legal and regulatory issues relating to IT. They will also understand the impact of IT on society.
• Computer Systems and Software (Mandatory)
This unit will develop learners’ understanding of the integration of hardware and software components. Learners will explore how hardware serves specific computer processing functions and investigate the use of various software applications.
• Computer Programming (Mandatory)
Learners will use different tools and techniques to design, implement and test programs, following the system life cycle
• Relational Database Systems (Mandatory)
This unit will develop learners’ understanding of database systems and data analysis and modelling.
• Software Engineering (Mandatory)
Leaners will gain an understanding of the need for Software Engineering and the different methods and techniques.
• Systems Analysis and Design (Mandatory)
Learners will be able to understand the systems development life cycle and the role of systems methodologies within the life cycle. Learners will be introduced to different fact finding and problem-solving techniques and they will use these to analyse an existing system.
• E-commerce Applications (Mandatory)
Learners will learn about different e-commerce models and applications and how they can be used to develop e-commerce in a small business.
• Human Computer Interaction (Mandatory)
Learners will develop understanding of principles and models of Human Computer Interaction (HCI). They will evaluate existing HCI design and principles and use this to help them plan their own prototype user interface.
• Information Systems Theory and Practice (Mandatory)
Learners will understand the benefits of using information systems to plan a project
• Management Information Systems (Mandatory)
Learners will investigate different management information systems and evaluate the common features.

• IELTs 5.5 • Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) B2
• Cambridge English Advanced (CAE) 162 or above
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic 42-49

• Part 1: 6 Months
• Part 2: 6 Months

• January
• March
• April
• May
• July
• September
• November

This qualification is designed for students aged 18 and above.

For students who have recently been in education or training the entry profile is likely to include one of following:

• Age: 18 +
• a GCE Advanced level profile with achievement in 2 or more subjects supported by 5 or more GCSEs at grades C and above
• other related level 3 subjects such as ATHE Level 3 Diplomas
• an Access to Higher Education Certificate delivered by an approved further education institute and validated by an Access Validating Agency
• Applicants must also have an appropriate standard of English to enable them to access relevant resources and complete the unit assignments
• other equivalent international qualifications

All our Diploma courses are self-funded. You are considered to be a self-funded student if you are funding your own studies or you are getting financial help from family or friends or receiving financial assistance directly from an external funder excluding UK student loan

• Course Fee -

1. Part 1: £4250.00
2. Part 2: £4250.00

• Sterling College Registration Fee - £100.00
• Sterling College Administration Fee (if visa letter required) - £150
• ATHE Membership Registration Fee - £150.00