Level 3 90-credit Diploma in IT Course in Portsmouth

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start8 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 90-credit Diploma in IT course in Portsmouth. Classes run at COPC Highbury Campus, full-time during the day. The course takes one year and covers a broad range of IT topics, including communication and employability, computer systems, website production, programming concepts, digital graphics, and object-oriented and event-driven development. You'll work through projects and assignments based on realistic workplace situations, building the practical skills needed to start a career in IT. Entry requires four GCSEs at grade A* to C, including English and either Maths, Science, or an ICT subject (see entry requirements for alternative routes).

Who this course is for

During the programme you will learn by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands. As well as learning about the employment area you have chosen, you will develop the skills you need to start a career as a software engineer. Candidates for this programme study a variety of topics including:- Communication and Employability, Computer Systems, Website Production, Programming Concepts, Digital Graphics, Object-oriented and Event-driven Programming, Human-Computer Interaction, e-commerce, database management and Digital Graphics for interactive media (all units are subject to change).

Developing the vocational study skills of English, Maths and ICT is crucial to your success on this programme and in your future career. Employers and higher education institutions now recognise the value of these qualifications and look for evidence of competence in applications and at interview. Level two Functional Skills qualifications will be recognised by universities as evidence of your competence in these subjects.

It is important that you have achieved Functional Skills qualifications at appropriate levels if you wish to progress to higher level programmes at Highbury College. Your skill levels will be assessed during the first two weeks of your programme and you will be assigned classes or workshops to help you develop these skills at the levels most appropriate for you. Attendance at these classes or workshops is compulsory for students under the age of 19.

There are a number of work experience opportunities available to students at Highbury College for those who want to experience what it is like to work in the computing industry.

Entry requirements

Four GCSEs at Grade A* to C including English and either Mathematics or a Science or ICT based subject. An Intermediate GNVQ qualification at Merit/Distinction plus a Level 2 Certificate in Numeracy and Literacy; or a BTEC First Diploma (distinction/merit) in appropriate subjects; plus Level 2 Key Skills in Number and Communication and a good report from lecturers; or Consideration may be given to mature students or those not having all.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop communication and employability skills for the IT sector.
  • You'll learn how computer systems work and how to configure them.
  • You'll build and produce websites using industry-relevant techniques.
  • You'll apply programming concepts to solve practical problems.
  • You'll create and edit digital graphics for professional use.
  • You'll write object-oriented and event-driven programs.

How you will learn

You'll learn through projects and assignments based on realistic workplace scenarios. Classes are delivered in person at COPC Highbury Campus during the day. Assessment is coursework-based, with projects and assignments submitted throughout the year rather than through end-of-year exams.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. COPC Highbury Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Software developer: writing and testing code for applications and systems.
  • Junior web developer: building and maintaining websites and web applications.
  • IT support technician: diagnosing and resolving hardware and software issues.
  • Digital content producer: creating graphics and digital assets for online use.
  • IT administrator: managing systems, networks, and user accounts.
  • Junior software engineer: entry-level development roles in tech teams.

What you could study next

  • HNC/HND in Computing or Software Engineering: a higher-level qualification that deepens your technical knowledge and can lead to degree-level study.
  • Level 4 or 5 Diploma in IT or Computing: further vocational study for those moving into specialist IT roles.
  • Degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering: for those aiming toward graduate-level careers in development, systems, or IT management.