Computing Extended Diploma

Quick facts

Is it for me?

This course will provide you with a broad experience across the full range of IT disciplines. It introduces professional skills and personal development to give you the widest possible opportunity to progress in higher education, employment or further training in the sector. 
You'll undertake a range of practical projects in our purpose-built and well-equipped computer labs. The design of the course promotes a hands-on practical and theoretical engagement with a broad spectrum of cutting-edge IT subjects. 
We will work with you in your first six weeks at college to place you on the appropriate diploma programme that best meets your individual needs and ensures your success.  
There is a skills shortage in the Computing and IT industries, so on completion of the course your skills will be highly sought after. There is a wide range of careers available that offer exciting opportunities all over the world. 

What you'll learn

18 modules will be covered in the course, which equates to 9 units per year. Module combinations are defined by the specialist programme you choose, and can include: 

• Use and configuration of industry standard hardware and software systems 
• Working with networks  
• Computer games and digital graphics 
• Computer systems 
• Web design and development 
• CCNA networking  
• Programming and software development 
• Cyber security
• Working within the IT industry 

Cisco certified networking is a useful additional session taught to all Extended Diploma learners as part of this qualification, and learners who show an aptitude in this subject will have the opportunity to gain an extra qualification. 

Equipment required for the course

Stationery (notepad, pen/pencil and ruler) and a storage device (memory stick). A home computer is not required but would be helpful to enable you to work at home.  
All other resources such as textbooks and software required for the course will be covered by the annual £40 enrolment fee. This fee also covers the costs of essential resources and field trips. There will be at least one field trip in each year of the course. In the past two years we have visited Bletchley Park, The Cambridge Centre for Computing History and EGX the European Gaming Exhibition at the NEC. 

Work experience placements

During each year you will take part in at least 45 days of industry placement. This will build on the skills you've developed in the classroom, give an insight into professional practices within the industry and will provide valuable experience evidence for your CV and skills portfolio. The industry placement is also a great opportunity to develop contacts with potential future employers in the IT sector. 

Assessment

There are three exams that you must sit for the mandatory units. You will sit these exams in January and then have the option to re-sit/improve your grades in May/June. You will then be assessed for other units using a diverse range of assessment methods, including written reports, online tests, creating software applications, practical demonstrations and professional discussions. 

Example careers

• Data Scientist
• Cyber Security Specialist 
• Solutions Architect
• Web Developer 
• Games Designer
• App Developer 
• Business Analyst
• Forensic Computer Analyst 
• IT Project Manager
• Digital Transformation Manager 
• Chief Technical Officer
• Chief Information Officer 
• Network Engineer
• UX Designer 
• Robotics Engineer
• IT Support Technician

Days & times

Starting September 2025