Free Level 3 BTEC National Foundation Diploma in Information Technology course in Bradford. Classes run at Bradford College David Hockney Building, full-time during the day. Over two years, you'll cover computer networks, cyber security, cloud computing, virtualisation, mobile technologies, and IT technical support. The course builds technical skills aligned to what employers in the IT sector look for, and includes a work placement with a local IT service provider. This Pearson Edexcel level 3 btec national foundation diploma in information technology qualification carries the same weight as two A levels.
Who this course is for
The Extended Diploma in IT course allows students to gain an insight into Computer architecture, Networks, Systems Support, Cloud Computing, Virtualisation and Cyber Security. The IT Infrastructure course will help to develop your critical thinking and vocational skills. Throughout the course, our links with industry will help you to develop a greater awareness of professional practices in preparation for your work placement within a local IT Service Provider. You will learn a core set of technical skills aligned to leading vendors, which are increasingly sought after within the IT sector. This course is equivalent to three A levels and is an excellent opportunity to specialise in a computing discipline and enter Higher Education afterwards.
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of computer networks and how they're designed and managed.
You'll study cyber security principles and how to protect IT systems.
You'll explore cloud computing and virtualisation technologies.
You'll learn about mobile technologies and the Internet of Everything.
You'll practise IT technical support and systems troubleshooting.
You'll manage a project from planning through to completion.
You'll build critical thinking skills through problem-based exercises and real industry scenarios.
You'll gain awareness of professional practices in IT through a work placement with a local IT service provider.
How you will learn
Learning is classroom-based, with a strong focus on practical workshops. You'll work through problem-based exercises and industry scenarios, both in tutor-led group sessions and through independent study. Assessment is coursework-based across units completed in Year 1 and Year 2. You'll complete 8 units in the first year and 9 in the second, covering the full range of IT topics in the qualification.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Bradford College David Hockney Building will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
IT support technician: diagnosing and fixing hardware and software issues
Network technician: setting up and maintaining computer networks
Cyber security analyst: monitoring systems and responding to threats
Cloud support associate: supporting cloud-based infrastructure and services
Systems administrator: managing servers and IT infrastructure
IT helpdesk analyst: first-line technical support for users
Junior IT project coordinator: supporting delivery of technology projects
What you could study next
HNC/HND in Computing or IT (Level 4/5): a natural next step into higher-level technical study, often available at college or university.
BSc in Computer Science, Cyber Security, or Networking (Level 6): a full degree for those wanting to specialise further or move into graduate-level IT roles.
Vendor certifications (CompTIA, Cisco, Microsoft): industry-recognised credentials that complement your BTEC and strengthen your CV for specific technical roles.
