ATHE Level 7 Extended Diploma in Computing
Introduction
The Level 7 Extended Diploma in Computing (120-credit) offers a complete, more diverse computing experience, giving learners both generic, business-related breadth and specific, technical pathway depth.
Learners are required to study a mandatory core of business-related IT development and management themes and issues and then can build on this through options which either offer a deep dive into a specific computing pathway or the scope to choose a bespoke range of units pertinent to the learner’s own professional development/interests.
Grading
ATHE Level 7 Extended Diploma in Computing (120 credits)
Pass 360 – 431
Merit 432 – 539
Distinction 540
Advanced learner loans available in the UK – to check if funding is available see the latest Qualification Catalogue here.
For the progression routes visit our progression routes page.
Delivery Mode
This qualification can be delivered either in the classroom, via distance learning or blended.
Qualification Specification
To view the specification, please click here.
Typical Age
This qualification are designed for learners who are typically aged 19+
Qualifications
For learners who have recently been in education or training the entry profile is likely to include:
- A first degree in Computing/IT or a relevant Level 6 qualification
- Other equivalent international qualifications
Language
For those whom English is not their first language we recommend the following standards of proficiency in English language skills or an approved equivalent for this qualification:
- IELTs 5.5
- Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) B2
- Cambridge English Advanced (CAE) 162 or above
- Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic 42-49
Learners selecting this qualification must complete the 4 mandatory units, any 3 optional units and Unit 18 Independent Project.
| Unit Name | Unit Aims | Credits | Mandatory |
|---|---|---|---|
| Managing Innovation and Change in Computing | This unit aims to provide learners with the necessary knowledge and understanding to manage innovation and lead change in computing environments. | 20 | Yes |
| Professional Solutions Architect | With IT systems and solutions growing ever more complex, particularly with the increasing emphasis on the security of systems and solutions, the role of the solutions architect has emerged. Essentially the solutions architect is a project manager who not only has an understanding and can apply the principles of project management, but who also understands the technical requirements of the system and solution, bridging the gap between what the business needs to resolve the problem, and how the technological solution could be achieved. | 10 | Yes |
| Organisations, Technology and AI | This unit focuses on IT as an underpinning technology supporting organisations. Learners will explore the role of IT systems in the successful operation of organisations and will examine why organisations must take a proactive role in ensuring that their systems, data etc., remain secure. Learners will explore why user awareness and engagement in safe working practices are an essential part of this process. | 20 | Yes |
| Computer-Based Research Methods | This unit aims to provide learners with an understanding of different computer-based research methods. Learners will plan their own research using associated techniques. Learners will also carry out a research project based on an area of interest within the computing technologies field, for example future/emerging technologies, cloud-based technologies. | 10 | Yes |
| Business Intelligence Systems | This unit aims to help learners develop an understanding of business intelligence systems and the benefits of using such systems from an organisational point of view. | 20 | Opt |
| Agile Transformation | This unit aims to provide learners with the knowledge and uses of agile development within business environments. Learners will have the opportunity to explore the fundamental process of agile development including the methodologies used. Learners will develop the skills and knowledge to be able to embed and use agile approaches in a working environment. | 10 | Opt |
| Enterprise Resources Planning Systems | This unit provides learners with the knowledge and understanding of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems. Learners will learn system principles, their use and the benefits they can bring to an organisation. Learners will also focus on the cost, planning and training associated with implementing and running these systems in an organisation. This unit will cover professional practice and the role of ethics and codes of conduct in relation to computing systems. | 10 | Opt |
| Software Development for User Experience | This unit develops knowledge and skills in the development of software and focuses on how this is achieved using a range of software (and system) development life cycle models (SDLC). Note: The platform (i.e. development software) used for coding will be agnostic – enabling the learner to code for a diverse range of user focused software solutions. | 20 | Opt |
| Mobile Application Development | This unit aims to provide learners with an advanced understanding of the processes involved with developing and launching a mobile application to meet user requirements. Learners will have the opportunity to plan, develop and launch a mobile application of their choice to solve a problem. This unit will also focus on testing across all stages of the lifecycle. | 10 | Opt |
| Designing Mobile and Software Applications for Application Security | This unit develops knowledge and skills to help learners create a range of software applications that meet current industry and platform security standards. Learners will develop their skills in secure application development and gain knowledge and skills in the deployment requirements of a secure application. The learner will design, test and deploy a secure application, which could be mobile, desktop or browser based. | 10 | Opt |
| Networking and Infrastructure Development | This unit aims to provide learners with the knowledge and understanding of networks used within computing environments and the importance of ensuring a network is designed appropriately, is scalable and fit for purpose. Learners will also learn the considerations that must be made when designing an infrastructure environment including the hardware, software and communication elements within the structure. | 10 | Opt |
| Managing and Implementing Information Security | This unit provides learners with the necessary knowledge and skills to secure a computing-based infrastructure specifically by managing information security and implementing potential improvements within an enterprise environment. This unit focuses on core principles required to secure a range of different systems and the information they hold. | 20 | Opt |
| Cyber Security Operations: Threat Analysis, Testing, and Incident Response | This unit aims to provide learners with knowledge of the: 1. Principles associated with cyber security operations and incident response. 2. Security threats and vulnerabilities within contemporary organisational environments. 3.Principles of risk analysis and contingency planning as applied to business systems. It also aims to develop skills in: 4. Security testing of organisational infrastructure 5. Digital forensics. | 10 | Opt |
| Data Analysis and Big Data | This unit will focus on the importance and uses of big data in today’s world. This will include how data analysis and big data can be used to provide greater knowledge in certain areas, for example, with crime detection and police systems. Learners will also focus on the considerations that need to be made in relation to storing, searching and reporting on big data sets. | 10 | Opt |
| Practical Analytics for Data Science | This unit aims to help the learners develop an understanding of the characteristics of organisational data and the practical steps needed to extract actionable insights. It will introduce visualisation techniques and machine learning algorithms that are used in practical analysis of data to address organisational needs. | 10 | Opt |
| Security, Privacy and Ethical Concerns in Big Data and Artificial Intelligence | This unit aims to help learners develop an understanding of the security vulnerabilities and threats around the use of big data and artificial intelligence. It will also introduce the privacy and ethical concerns and how these are addressed. | 10 | Opt |
| Applications of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence | This unit aims to help learners develop an understanding of the methods and the organisation’s systems, tools, and processes used to support machine learning and artificial intelligence in practical implementations. | 20 | Opt |
| Independent Project | This unit provides learners with the opportunity to undertake an independent project. In the unit learners will utilise the knowledge and skills gained in previous units and from other areas of learning and experience to independently manage and complete a practical project. Learners will showcase the skills learned and their understanding of technologies whilst following formal project management techniques. | 20 | Mandatory synoptic unit |