Share This Page

IT Extended Certificate and Diploma

The use of computers to make our interactions more efficient or rewarding

Why study IT?

The course has been designed to cover predominant themes in the IT industry. Students have the chance to study a range of topics, develop excellent practical skills and be ready to progress to either industry or university.

What will I study?

Extended Certificate in IT (one A-level equivalent) and Diploma in IT (two A-Level equivalent).

All students will initially work towards a four-unit extended certificate qualification. This will be achieved in the first year for diploma students.

Extended Certificate in IT units:

IT systems (EX 33%)
Creating systems to manage information (CA 25%)
Using social media in business (INT 25%)
Website development (INT 17%)

Extra units will be offered to allow you to study the Diploma in IT which consists of 8 units. The units chosen could support a particular path such as cybersecurity and programming or creative and games design.

Diploma in IT units:

Programming (INT 25%)
Cybersecurity and incident management (CA 33%)
IT project management (INT 25%)

Additional diploma units (1 from) (INT 17%)

Computer games development
mobile apps development
IT technical support and management
software testing
programming
digital 2D and 3D graphics
digital animation and effects

Entry requirements

No specific entry requirements (other than the College entry points) for this course but there is coursework involved

Which exam board & how will I be assessed?

Pearson BTEC.

Each of the units above are assessed using either:

(INT) College-based tasks.

(CA) Practical tasks in time-based, controlled exam conditions.

(EX) Written answers to theory questions in exam conditions.

Where could it take me?

Studying the IT Extended Certificate and Diploma at Winstanley College equips you with a broad range of subject knowledge and practical skills. You’ll be able to follow a path that suits your interests, whether that’s moving into employment, an apprenticeship, or continuing to degree-level study. The course opens opportunities in traditional areas like computer science or software development, as well as fast-growing fields such as cyber security, web design, or social media. With the skills and experience gained, you’ll be well-prepared for a successful future in the ever-evolving tech industry, confident to specialise in whatever area inspires you most.

For further information on careers in IT Extended Certificate and Diploma, please visit:

What can I do with an information systems degree? | Prospects.ac.uk

To explore top-ranked universities for studying IT Extended Certificate and Diploma and view available courses, please visit:

Best UK universities for computer science & information systems – league table | Computer science and IT | The GuardianTo see the current jobs available with a IT Extended Certificate and Diploma degree, please visit:

What Can You Do With an IT Degree? | Indeed.com

Subject combinations

IT combines well with Business Studies, Graphics, Media Studies and Music Technology.

What support is available?

IT students are welcome to use any of our computers at any time. Drop-in sessions are also available whereby teachers and student mentors can assist with aspects of the course.

We provide resources which can be accessed 24/7 to help you to study at any time and maximise your potential in the subject including lesson content, practice exam questions (by topic) and tutorial videos.

We also work closely with our colleagues across college to provide additional learning support as appropriate. Please let us know if there is something that we can do to make the course more accessible.

What extracurricular activity is available?

Our academy provides opportunities for our students to learn new skills and cover content which may not be part of the curriculum. The weekly competitions, guest speakers and activities will enhance your overall employability skills and enjoyment of the subject.