IT BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate (Single)

The Applied General in IT 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 also develop important skills for creating websites to meet a specific purpose and to manage data through the development of a relational database solution. The objective of this qualification is to enable learners to develop their analytical, problem-solving and evaluative skill sets. This course provides a route to advance to further study and a wide range of employment sectors.

Unit 1: Information Technology Systems (external exam)

You will explore the relationships between the hardware and software that form an IT system, how systems work individually and together, and the relationship between the user and the system. You will examine issues related to the use of IT systems and the impact that they have on organisations and individuals.

Unit 2: Cyber Security and Incident Management (external exam)

You will examine the many types of cyber security attacks, the vulnerabilities in networked systems, and the techniques that can be used to defend an organisation’s networked systems. You will examine scenarios and explain appropriate protection measures for networked systems. You will also look at the forensic methods used to investigate cyber security incidents and analyse the suitability of those methods for a given scenario.

Unit 3: Website Development

You will explore how existing websites use the principles of website development to appeal to their intended audience and meet their specific purpose. You will plan, design and develop a website in response to a client brief by applying website development tools, techniques and processes. You will also reflect on the usability, functionality and fitness for purpose of the website using a testing and review process.

Unit 4: Relational Database Development

In this unit, you will examine the structure of data and how an efficient data design follows through into an effective, useful database. You will investigate database management systems (DBMS) and apply practical skills in designing and developing a database within a given DBMS.

Unit 1 and unit 2 are assessed by external exams. Unit 3 and unit 4 are internally assessed.

You will need to meet the Applied General entry requirements of 4 GCSEs at grade 4 including English Language and/or Maths

You could progress to university, higher apprenticeship or employment