Level 3 Information Technology

Course Overview

The Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Information Technology (Extended Certificate) allows students to study the fundamental knowledge of Information Technology covering the role and implications of using Information Technology systems and cyber-security threats and how to manage attacks.

Students will develop important skills for creating websites to meet a specific purpose and to manage data through the development of a relational database solution. There are two examined units and two internally assessed units where students will engage in practical tasks to develop their Information Technology skills and knowledge.

Today’s BTEC Nationals require commitment and hard work. You will have to complete a range of units, be organised, take some formal assessments that we will set and mark and undertake practical tasks and assignments. However, you can feel proud to achieve, whatever your plans in life : whether you decide to study further, go on to work or an apprenticeship : your BTEC National will be your passport to success in the next stage of your life.

Entry Requirements

New Students: 4 GCSE at Grade 4 including maths and English

Progressors: Students should achieve at least a Merit on their L2 Computing course and have at least a GCSE Grade 3 [or equivalent] in maths and English. Students will be able to resit both on their L3.

What the course covers

This one-year qualification is equivalent to one ‘A’ Level and is designed for students who are interested in learning about the Information Sector, with a view to progression onto a two-year T Level or apprenticeship and/or full-time employment. The course is composed of a number of key units including: Information Technology Systems, Cyber security and Incident Management, Website Development, and Relational Database Development. These are supplemented by a series of Instructor-Led and Independent CISCO short course packages.

During the academic year, students will also complete an AQA Extended Project Qualification [EPQ]. The completion of an EPQ is beneficial to those students considering progressing onto a T Level. The value of the EPQ is also recognized by Higher Education; the EPQ is equivalent to one half of A-level qualification in terms of UCAS points and may universities now include the EPQ as part of a UCAS offer.

At NESCOT, our tutors have extensive industry experience, ensuring that your learning is practical, relevant, and up-to-date. Guest lecturers from the computing and IT sectors will provide valuable insights into real-world career opportunities.
Trips will take place throughout the year to exhibitions, and guest speakers will also come into the college.

Use of The IoT (Institute of Technology) as a NESCOT Student

As a NESCOT student, you will have access to the IoT campus, a state-of-the-art facility that immerses you in the latest digital technologies, robotics, cyber security, AI, networking, cloud computing, and much more.

The IoT campus offers a wide range of advanced learning environments, including Virtual Reality Suites, where you can explore cutting-edge technology, and Cyber Security Labs, designed to simulate real-world security challenges. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with our very own robots, gaining hands-on experience that enhances your understanding of digital systems.

Assessment

There are two examined units and two internally assessed units where students will engage in practical tasks to develop their Information Technology skills and knowledge.

Work Experience

Work experience is an important part of this course. You will have the opportunity to gain 100 hours of external work placement, for which support will be provided.

Fees and funding

Please note:

• Students aged 16 to 18, or those aged 16 to 24 who have a valid EHCP, and are studying Further Education courses are not normally charged course fees
• Adults may need to pay a fee depending on their personal circumstances. This will be assessed against the relevant Funding Body eligibility criteria at point of enrolment

If you don’t qualify for fee remission, the fees for 2026/27 will be:

£3,024 (plus registration fee to be advised at enrolment)

Fees are for 2026/2027 entry and apply to students eligible for home fee status enrolling to funded programmes. The fees quoted are subject to personal circumstances and will be confirmed at the time of your enrolment, depending on eligibility criteria. For more information about financial support for students, please click here or email studentfinance@nescot.ac.uk