Free Level 3 Information Technology Course in Blackburn

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 BTEC National Foundation Diploma in Information Technology Course in Blackburn. Classes run at Blackburn College, full-time during the day. You'll need a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade C/4 including English Language and Maths, or a Level 2 qualification with merit plus English Language and Maths. Over two years, you'll cover software design, web design, and programming, with opportunities to visit universities, enter WorldSkills competitions, and take trips in the UK and abroad. This Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Foundation Diploma in Information Technology qualification opens doors to roles in cyber security and software development.

Who this course is for

The Computing and Information Technology with Programming, Games Development & Cyber Security Level 3 Extended Diploma is an intensive 2 year full-time study programme. Designed to offer you support in concentrating your learning within areas of IT, you will be able to specialise in software design, web design and programming.

Alongside your academic studies, you will have the opportunity to visit Universities, take part in World Skills competitions and go on trips within the UK and abroad.

If you are successful in enrolling to Blackburn College's Career Academy, you will benefit from listening to expert guest speakers from the professional digital world, mentoring schemes, invaluable six week paid internships and various external visits and seminars. There is also an option to visit a European organisation to study their business systems.

Entry requirements

A minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade C/4 including English Language and Maths, or completion of a Level 2 course with merit (plus English Language and Maths).

What you will learn

  • You'll develop skills in software design and programming.
  • You'll build knowledge of web design and development.
  • You'll explore cyber security principles and practices.
  • You'll gain an understanding of IT systems and networks.
  • You'll apply programming concepts to real projects.
  • You'll develop problem-solving skills relevant to software and systems work.

How you will learn

You'll study in the classroom full-time across two years. Learning is delivered through a combination of taught sessions, practical projects, and coursework assignments. Assessment is largely assignment-based, as is standard for BTEC qualifications, with units assessed through evidence portfolios and practical tasks. You'll also have the opportunity to take part in university visits, WorldSkills competitions, and study trips.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Blackburn College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Cyber Security Analyst: monitor and protect IT systems from threats.
  • Software Developer: design and build applications and software solutions.
  • Web Developer: create and maintain websites and web-based tools.
  • IT Support Technician: troubleshoot hardware, software, and network issues.
  • Junior Programmer: write and test code across a range of platforms.
  • Network Administrator: manage and maintain computer networks.

What you could study next

  • Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Extended Diploma in Information Technology (Level 3): a larger qualification that strengthens your profile for university entry or higher-level technical roles.
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Computing (Level 4): a step into higher education, often available at college or university, covering specialist computing topics.
  • Degree in Computer Science or Cyber Security: for those aiming at graduate-level roles in software development, cyber security, or data analysis.

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