Advanced Foundation Diploma in IT (Advanced) - Level 3
Overview
This qualification is designed for learners aged 16 years or over who want to pursue a career in various digital roles.
Ideal for anyone who prefers to study and be assessed in a way that is practical and relevant to the IT sector, this course offers great opportunities to be hands-on and develop a broad understanding which can support careers in key areas such as data and automation, digital marketing, games production, networking and IT, and software and web development.
This qualification is designed to give you a range of specialist knowledge and transferable skills in the context of applied IT, providing you with excellent progression opportunities.
On successful completion of Year 1 you will achieve a Foundation Diploma equivalent to 1.5 A Levels.
On successful completion of Year 2 you will ‘top up’ to an Extended Diploma giving you a qualification equivalent to 3 A Levels.
This course provides a progression route to university and generates UCAS points.
Career pathways this qualification could lead to include:
- Data science and automation
- Digital marketing
- Games design and development
- Networking and IT maintenance
- Software and website development.
Start dates and fees
This course is available free of charge to anyone meeting the eligibility criteria for the Lifetime Skills Guarantee programme.
You will be given access to all the software and hardware that you will need to complete this course, however we do suggest that you purchase a box file and several plastic document wallets to help you store and present your work.
A data stick, although not essential, is also recommended.
| Start Date | Code | Annual Fee (Age) | Actions |
| 16-18 | over 19 |
| Sep 2025 | 1492A1406 | FREE | FREE* to £3345.00 | Apply |
* If you are aged 19-23 and studying your first Level 3 course then that course may be free. Please contact us for more details. If you are aged 19 or over and either studying a second Level 3 course or qualifying Level 4, 5 or 6 course you may be able to apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to cover the costs.
What will I study?
- Cloud computing
- Cyber security
- Project management
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- Programming
- Website development
- Mobile app development
- Using social media in Business
- Databases
- Emerging technologies.
Entry requirements
- Four GCSEs with at least grade 4, including English language and maths.
- For those progressing from a Level 2 course, a relevant Level 2 Diploma with a Merit grade and English language or maths at grade 4.
If you are a young person who is not currently studying a traditional GCSE programme, we will consider alternative qualifications such as functional skills and vocational qualifications.
Please contact our admissions team for further information - admissions@wnc.ac.uk.
Study programmes - essential skills for employment
If you're a student between the ages of 16 and 18 (or 19 to 25 with an EHC Plan) we want to make sure you have the best possible chances of landing an awesome job once you finish college.
Students who haven't achieved a grade 4/C in GCSE maths or English to continue studying these subjects while you're here with us. By doing so, you'll be building a strong foundation of skills that will significantly boost your employability in the future.
Think of it as a chance to supercharge your knowledge and abilities. You'll be equipped with the tools necessary to tackle the world beyond college with confidence. Plus, we'll be right here to support you every step of the way.
In addition, to help you gain essential skills for employment, all students aged 19 and under and studying a full-time course with us will take part in our study programmes.
How long is the course?
1-2 years.
How will I be assessed?
This is a course that mixes theory with hands-on activities and will provide you with the building blocks to be successful in your chosen career. The course is assessed using a variety of written course work, videos, observations and presentations.
There are two external written exams.
What does the course lead to?
Possible career progression routes may include:
- Software and Website Development
- Games Design and Development
- Networking and IT Maintenance
- Data Science and Automation
- Digital Marketing
What can I progress onto?
*As we are a partner college of Nottingham Trent University (NTU), you may qualify for various benefits should you choose to apply to NTU after completing your college course. This could include a Progress NTU offer, where you would receive an offer one grade below their standard offer. For instance, a typical offer for one of their courses might require 128 UCAS tariff points. With Progress NTU, your requirements would be 120 UCAS tariff points. For further details, please call us on 0808 100 3626 or discover more about this benefit here.
Career opportunities