Free Level 3 Computing Course in Manchester

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Computing Course in Manchester. Classes run at The Manchester College City Campus. This full-time daytime course takes one year and covers web development, programming, project management, and IT systems security. You'll work on live briefs and projects with industry specialists, gaining practical skills in the computing and digital sector. Units include Principles of Computer Science, Software Development, and Business Applications of Social Media. Assessment combines assignments, coursework, and exams.

Who this course is for

Our Level 3 Computer Science and Digital Development course is part of our Industry Excellence Academy and has therefore been co-developed and co-designed with our industry partners.

This means that you will be working with industry specialists and gaining consistent opportunities to learn the skills required to work in the computing and digital sector, specialising in web development and programming tools.

During your time on the course you'll have the opportunity to take part in a range of live briefs and projects that reflect what you'd be working on in your future career in the industry.

Throughout the course you'll cover a wide variety of development-related topics, diving straight into work with CSS and HTML, and exploring the functionalities of C# ASP .NET MVC applications.

You'll also get experience handling data with MongoDB, learn about SQL as well as JavaScript (including Node.js, Angular.js and Express.js.).

What you will learn

  • You'll apply principles of computer science to real development challenges.
  • You'll build skills in web development and programming tools.
  • You'll plan and manage computing projects from brief to completion.
  • You'll work with IT systems security and encryption concepts.
  • You'll explore the impact of computing on business and society.
  • You'll use social media tools in a business context.
  • You'll complete live briefs set by Greater Manchester employers.

How you will learn

Most of your assessment is project-based. You'll complete assignments and coursework set by the centre, alongside live briefs from industry partners. You'll also take part in guest lectures and workshops with employer representatives. Some units are assessed through externally marked coursework and exams. Work experience is a core part of the course, and the centre will support you in finding a relevant placement.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. The Manchester College City Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Junior web developer: build and maintain websites for businesses or agencies.
  • Software developer: write and test code across a range of applications.
  • IT support technician: troubleshoot systems and support users day to day.
  • Junior project coordinator: help manage digital or tech projects.
  • IT systems administrator: manage networks, security, and infrastructure.
  • Digital marketing assistant: use tech and data skills in a marketing role.

What you could study next

  • HNC/HND in Computing or Software Development: a higher-level qualification if you want to go deeper into a specialism before entering work.
  • Degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering: many universities accept a BTEC National Diploma for entry onto computing degrees.
  • Degree apprenticeship in Digital Technology Solutions: combines paid work with degree-level study in a tech role.

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