It and Computing,
University 1st and 2nd Year (Levels 4 and 5)

If you have the desire to turn your passion for computers into a career, the IT and Computing Diploma offered by College of Birmingham of Ivy is a course you should consider. The Level 4 modules and assignments of this course are equivalent to the first year of a University Degree and the Level 5 modules and assignments are equivalent to the second year of a University Degree.

Our online Level 4/5 IT and Computing Diploma course is a 240-credit course, it includes 10 modules and written assignments at each level. The course is designed to equip you with the skills you need to Top Up to a full Undergraduate Degree and go on to become an IT professional. While completing the course, students will have access to a variety of support services, including Tutor Support and Webinars, a Social Learning Forum, and additional materials to help in the completion of their Diploma course.

To enroll onto the level 4 course, you must be at least 18 and have a full secondary education. Before enrolling onto the level 5 course, you must have attained a level 4 or equivalent.

The fee for enrolling onto the level 4 and level 5 courses together is £1800. Alternatively students can enroll onto a single level (level 4 or 5) for £1500 each.

Students can make payment using one of the following methods:

• Credit or Debit Card
• Bank Transfer
• Interest Free Monthly installments
• Paypal
• Western Union

The Course Fee includes

• All Course Material, including online modules and written assignments.
• Personal tutor support with 1-2-1 Skype sessions
• Dedicated student support
• Access to an online Social Learning forum
• Assignment marking and feedback
• Free CV Writing help on completion of the course

Introduction to computing

This module will explore the functions of computing systems and the basics of design, configuration, and routine maintenance.

Introduction to programming

This module examines the basis of OOS and how programming fits into the broader aspects of the usage of applications.

Introduction to databases

This module will enable understanding of database design and development and enable students to develop and design a database and explore solutions to meet the client brief. Learners will learn how to design a database.

Requirements engineering

This module is concerned with the analysis of IT and computing needs to develop requirement specifications and develop and test prototypes.

Systems analysis and design

This module provides an understanding of IS concepts and how they relate to organization needs concerning business processes and the transformation of information.

E-Commerce applications

This module explores the role of e-commerce in the modern world and in particular the identification of aims and objectives within a business and the design issues arising from the definition of requirements.

Human-computer interaction

This module will develop students understanding of principles and models of human-computer interaction and evaluate existing HCI design and principles and use this to help them plan their prototype multimedia user interface.

IT and society

This module examines the impact of technology on society and explores trends and changes created. It will examine management issues and potential conflicts in terms of security and data management.

Information systems project management

This module explores elements of project management key to the successful development and implementation of specific IT projects.

Management information systems

This module focuses on understanding the concepts of information systems and how they support business needs in terms of information processing and data processing.

Innovative technologies in computing

This module looks at innovative trends and disruptive advances taking place and examines the new generation of skills and knowledge that will be required to work successfully in the sector.

Computing research methods

This module will explore the knowledge and skills required to research in this field and the qualitative and quantitative approaches required including the use of literature and design of research proposals.

Software development methodologies

This module looks at the role of systems engineering in the development of software and various models of data, software, and processes using modeling approaches.

Computing project planning

Creating and managing projects has changed over the years with the development of sophisticated IT software, this module focuses on how being a project manager in the ’80s differs from being a project manager in today’s world.

Strategic management information systems

This module is concerned with developing an understanding of the strategic role of MIS within the organization and how it impacts on the broader objectives and strategy of the business.

Ethical, legal and professional issues in IT

This module explores current issues in the IT sector and how these may impact on areas of security, confidentiality, privacy, and the law.

Network design and management

This module explores the principles of networks and network design and implementation and support of network systems.

Web-based development

This module will explore the design, deployment, and management of virtualization and explore its commercial and potential impact.

Cybersecurity

This module will enable an understanding of the importance of digital security to business, to understand industry standards of digital security and be able to recommend improvements in security.

Advanced databases

This module focuses on understanding database design and development includes advanced languages to analyze and query database data. Students will research database management and critically test and evaluate databases.

The ATHE Level 4/5 IT and Computing course is made up of 10 modules and 10 written assignments at each level. On completion of the modules, students will be given access to the assignments. The assignments are approximately 5,000-8,000 words each. Students are provided support on the modules and assignments via the ‘Tutor’ section of the learning platform

The Assignment unit titles for the level 4 course are:

• Management information systems
• IT and society
• Computer systems and software
• Computer programming
• Relational database systems
• Software engineering
• Systems analysis and design
• E-commerce applications
• Human-computer interactions
• Information systems theory

More information about the level 4 units can be found here www.athe.co.uk

The Assignment unit titles for the level 5 course are:

• Ethical, legal and regulatory issues and professional responsibilities in IT
• Network design
• Web-based development
• Database design and development
• Relational database systems
• Innovative technologies in computing
• Computer research methods
• Managing a computing project
• Software development methodologies
• Strategic management information systems

More information about the level 5 units can be found here www.athe.co.uk

Assessment at College of Birmingham of Ivy is a very straightforward process:

• After you have completed an online module, you will have an online assessment to complete. This assessment contains 30 multiple-choice questions. You will have one hour to complete these questions which are answered in sets of five so you will have plenty of time to review and edit your answers. After an hour the test will automatically time out.
• After you have completed the test, your results will be displayed immediately. If you have passed, you will receive a Certificate of Completion. If you didn’t pass, you will receive a notification of a “refer’’ where you will be told how to retake a module assessment. You can complete these modules at your own pace, as there is no deadline to complete the course.
• When the online modules have been completed, you will then be able to take the final written assignments, provided by College of Birmingham of Ivy, that test your knowledge and understanding of the modules. After the successful completion of these eight assignments, you will receive your Diploma (from the Awarding Organization).
• You will then be eligible to apply for progression onto a Top-up course through a recognized UK university on-campus or by distance learning

If you decide to top up to a full Undergraduate Degree through an accredited UK university, the costs are as follows. Please note, the below costs are for distance learning/online only. You have the option of finishing on campus; costs will vary depending on which university you wish to complete your final year

University of Derby

• Top up Final Year in Computing and Information Technology BSc (Hons) – £4400

Southampton Solent University

• BSc (Hons) Information Technology for Business, fee £9,000, duration 9 months

University of Lincoln

• BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Information Systems) Top-Up
• BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Network Technology) Top-Up

University of Portsmouth

• BA (Hons) Business and Computer Studies
• BSc (Hons) Applied Computing

University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)

• BSc (Hons) Business Computing and Information Systems top-up degree – £2900

Middlesex University

• BSc (Hons) Business Information Systems (final year)
• BSc (Hons) Information Technology & Business Information Systems (top up)

NOTE: UK/EU students may be eligible for student loans for the top-up portion of their studies. Visit www.slc.co.uk for more information

Whilst studying this course students will develop their skills in programming, systems analysis, and design, software development. Upon successful completion of the course, students can pursue a career in IT within the public or private sector.