Level 4 Diploma in Computing (L4DC)
The NCC Education Level 4 Diploma in Computing (L4DC) is an Ofqual regulated qualification. The qualification makes up the first year of a Computing/ IT degree pathway. The qualification is equivalent to the first year of an IT degree in the UK university system.
Course Overview
Students will be given the opportunity to develop essential thinking and study skills, not only within the computing domain, but also within the context of business through a balance of academic and vocational subjects.
The qualification will allow them to understand and enter the computing profession with the necessary knowledge expected within the industry and the ability to apply the skills to a range of IT-related functions.
On successful completion of the qualification students will be able to embark on NCC Education’s Level 5 Diploma in Computing (L5DC), which is equivalent to the second year of a UK Bachelor’s degree, transfer to a university or pursue a career in the IT industry.
Approved by Skills England as a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ).
Units
Students must complete the 5 core units and the 3 specialist units
Five core units
- Algorithms and Mathematical Concepts for Computing
- Computer Networks
- Computer Systems
- Databases
- Front End Web Development
Mandatory Specialist Units
- Object Oriented System Analysis and Design
- Software Engineering
- Designing and Developing Object-Oriented Computer Programmes
Entry Requirements
- Holders of the NCC Education Level 3 International Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies (L3IFDHES).
- Holders of the NCC Education Level 3 Diploma in Computing (L3DC) (RQF).
- Holders of any local or international qualification deemed to be a similar level to either L3DC or L3IFDHES. These is to be agreed in advance with NCC Education.
- Holders of one ‘A’ level or equivalent or an appropriate School Leaver’s certificate deemed to be of a similar level passed and approved by NCC Education.
- Mature students, able to demonstrate over two years’ relevant work experience and have an ‘O’ Level/GCSE/iGCSE English and Maths or equivalent.
For candidates whose first language is not English:
- IELTS 5.5 or equivalent.
OR
- GCSE/iGCSE ‘O’ Level English ‘C’ ‘4’ or equivalent*
OR
- Alternatively, students can take and pass the free NCC Education Higher English Placement Test, at one of our Accredited Partner Centres.
Accreditation Status
NCC Education is regulated by Ofqual (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) to award the Level 4 Diploma in Computing in England. Ofqual Qualification reference number 600/0406/X.
Skill England approved technical qualification
NCC Education Level 4 Diploma in Computing is approved by Skills England as an HTQ.
- Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs), which are level 4 and 5 qualifications that prepare learners for entry into their chosen occupation or progression into higher education
Assessment
Assessments for all units are offered in a number of assessment cycles throughout the year. All units are assessed by assignments and/or examinations.
Past papers and sample assessments:
Computer Systems
View a Sample Assessment Assignment here.
View a Sample Mark Scheme Assignment here.
Designing and Developing a Website
View a Sample Assessment Assignment here.
View a Sample Assignment Mark Scheme here.
Databases
View a Sample Assignment here.
View a Sample Mark Scheme Assignment here.
View a Sample Assignment here.
View a Sample Mark Scheme Assignment here.
Designing and Developing Object-Oriented Computer Programs
View a Sample Assessment Assignment here.
View a Sample Mark Scheme Assignment here.
Front End Web Development
View a Sample Assessment Assignment here.
View a Sample Mark Scheme Assignment here.
Academic Progression
The qualification allows students entry to either the NCC Education Level 5 Diploma in Computing, (which is equivalent to the second year of a UK Bachelor’s degree), or the second year of many UK university degree courses, or enables you to pursue a career in the IT industry.
Progression routes can be found on our University Progression page.
Programme Fees
£1500