L3 Access to Higher Education in Computer Science

This is a 60 credit diploma, 15 of which are Study Skills (Pass/Fail) units which are designed to support universal skills which will be required at university, such as Academic Writing. The remaining 45 Credits are specific subject knowledge for Computing. These units are graded as Pass, Merit and Distinction. In total, the course is worth a maximum of 144 UCAS points which is more than enough to successfully apply to full university degree courses across the UK.

The course is designed for busy adult learners aged 19+ who we recognise will likely have other commitments. Delivery of the course will include both in-class taught sessions and online support. Course materials will be made available via Google Classroom, a virtual learning environment easily accessible via home PCs, laptops, tablets or mobile devices. This course is ideal for adults who are seeking a career change or who are looking for an entry route into University for a Computing-related degree.

If you do not meet the entry requirements, you could consider our Level 2 BTEC course, which will allow you to earn the Maths or English Language GCSE whilst also providing foundation knowledge which will aid you to complete your Access to HE Diploma the following year.

You will study the following Study Skills units:

• Academic Writing Skills: 3 Credits
• Researching and Understanding Opportunities in Higher Education: 3 Credits
• Communication Skills: 6 Credits
• Use of IT: 3 credits

Note: Many of the above credits will be earned as part of the graded units below. These are the specialist units chosen specifically to provide you a range of skills and knowledge that will support your university aspirations:

• Emerging Technologies: 3 Credits
• Computer Architecture: 3 Credits
• Components of Computer Systems: 6 Credits
• Networks: 3 Credits
• Pure Maths and Calculus: 6 Credits
• Software Development: 6 credits
• Project Development: 6 Credits
• Encryption and Security Concepts: 6 Credits
• Database Development: 6 Credits

You will be assessed via research reports essays and exams. You will also be assessed with practical assessments such as using a virtual tool to set of a network, creation of a database and the development of software, among others.

The entry requirements for this course are GCSE Maths and GCSE English Language, both a grade 4(C) or above. You also must be at least 19 years of age on August 31st of this year. |The entry requirements for this course are GCSE Maths and GCSE English Language, both a grade 4(C) or above. You also must be at least 19 years of age on August 31st of this year.