Diploma of Higher Education in Computing and IT Practice
Open University
Key Information
Campus location
Online United Kingdom
Languages
English
Study format
Distance Learning
Duration
2 - 4 years
Pace
Full time, Part time
Tuition fees
GBP 6,924 / per year *
Application deadline
Request info
Earliest start date
Request info
* cost per year full-time; £3,462 - cost per year part-time
Introduction
This foundation degree is about acquiring skills and learning to use them at work. If you want to gain confidence using and managing IT, grasp new opportunities or develop software solutions, there’s a route for you. This qualification provides a broad-based foundation in computing and IT. It includes a work-based element and builds on your existing skills. The modern world depends on computers and IT systems to function. Gain the skills to work with computing and IT systems and you’ll open up a huge variety of careers and other opportunities.
This qualification might be of particular interest to students living and working in Scotland. This programme of study is also offered as the Foundation Degree in Computing and IT Practice (X15).
Key features of the course
- Includes work-based learning and is developed in partnership with employers.
- Develop the computing and IT skills you already have.
- Choose options that meet your particular needs and interests.
- Build a solid foundation for further study – e.g. our Top-up BSc (Hons) Computing and IT Practice (Q68).
Accessibility
We make all our qualifications as accessible as possible and have a comprehensive range of services to support all our students. The Foundation Degree in Computing and IT Practice uses a variety of study materials and has the following elements:
- studying online – some modules have a mixture of printed and online material, and others are entirely online. Online learning resources may include websites, audio/video media clips, and interactive activities such as online quizzes
- face-to-face tutorials/day schools/workshops and/or online tutorials
- using mathematical and scientific expressions, notations and associated techniques
- working in a group with other students
- using and/or producing diagrams and/or screenshots
- practical work
- finding external/third party material online
- using technology for research purposes involving access to catalogues and databases online
- continuous and end-of-module assessment in the form of essays, short answer questions, and in some cases an examination
- using feedback: continuous assessment involves receiving detailed feedback on your work from your tutor and using this feedback to improve your performance
- engagement with learning and assessment within a pre-determined schedule or timetable – time management will be needed during your studies and the University will help you to develop these skills
- some modules may require you to use specialist software (for example the NetBeans IDE).
Program Outcome
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
- Knowledge and understanding
- Cognitive skills
- Practical and professional skills
- Key skills
The level and depth of your learning gradually increase as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; e-learning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Curriculum
Course details
This diploma of higher education has two stages, each comprising 120 credits.
- You’ll start Stage 1 with two introductory 30-credit modules, followed by a 30-credit work-based learning module. You’ll finish Stage 1 with another 30-credit module in computing and IT or mathematics.
- In Stage 2, you’ll study 90 credits in a specific area of computing and IT plus a 30-credit complementary module.