Level 4 Diploma in Computing (L4DC)

Overview

Oxfordian College is pleased to offer the Level 4 Diploma in Computing (L4DC), awarded by NCC Education. This qualification forms the first year of a comprehensive Computing/IT degree pathway and is equivalent to the first year of an IT degree in the UK university system.

The L4DC provides students with the opportunity to develop critical thinking and study skills in both computing and business contexts, combining academic and vocational subjects. This qualification, which includes specialisms, prepares students for further study or employment in the IT and business sectors.

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Students will be given the opportunity to develop essential thinking and study skills, not only within the computing domain, but also within the context of business through a balance of academic and vocational subjects. The qualification will allow them to understand and enter the computing profession with the necessary knowledge expected within the industry and the ability to apply the skills to a range of IT-related functions.

On successful completion of the qualification students will be able to embark on NCC Education’s Level 5 Diploma in Computing (L5DC), which is equivalent to the second year of a UK Bachelor’s degree, transfer to a university or pursue a career in the IT industry.

Approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IFATE) in England as a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ). Find out more here.

Accreditation Status

NCC Education is regulated by Ofqual (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) to award the Level 4 Diploma in Computing in England. Ofqual Qualification reference number 600/0406/X.

Entry Requirements

Holders of the NCC Education Level 3 International Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies (L3IFDHES).
Holders of the NCC Education Level 3 Diploma in Computing (L3DC) (RQF).
Holders of any local or international qualification deemed to be a similar level to either L3DC or L3IFDHES. These is to be agreed in advance with NCC Education.

Holders of one ‘A’ level or equivalent or an appropriate School Leaver’s certificate deemed to be of a similar level passed and approved by NCC Education.
Mature students, able to demonstrate over two years’ relevant work experience and have an ‘O’ Level/GCSE/iGCSE English and Maths or equivalent.

For candidates whose first language is not English:

IELTS 5.5 or equivalent.

GCSE/iGCSE ‘O’ Level English ‘C’ ‘4’ or equivalent*

Alternatively, students can take and pass the free NCC Education Higher English Placement Test, at one of our Accredited Partner Centres.

*Centres need to provide evidence to justify any equivalency decision (both qualification equivalency and grade equivalency) they make pertaining to any enrolments via non-GCSE or non-standard routes.

Units

Students must complete the 5 core units and the 3 specialist units

Five core units

Algorithms and Mathematical Concepts for Computing
Computer Networks
Computer Systems
Databases
Front End Web Development

Mandatory Specialist Units –

- - Object Oriented System Analysis and Design
  - Software Engineering
  - Designing and Developing Object-Oriented Computer Programmes

Academic Progression

The qualification allows students entry to either the NCC Education Level 5 Diploma in Computing (which is equivalent to the second year of a UK Bachelor’s degree), or the second year of many UK university degree courses, or enables you to pursue a career in the IT industry.

Progression routes can be found on our University Progression page.