To Enroll in the ICTQual Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology Engineering 240 Credits – Two Years, candidates must meet the following entry requirements:
- A minimum of a Level 4 qualification (e.g., HNC, NVQ Level 4, or equivalent) in a related field such as information technology, computer science, software development, or a similar technical discipline. A solid foundation in IT concepts, programming, and systems is recommended, as the course builds on these skills and delves into more advanced IT engineering topics.
- Minimum age of 18 years to enroll in the course.
- Proficiency in English, as the program involves technical terminology, written assignments, and effective communication in IT contexts.
- A strong understanding of mathematics and problem-solving, as these subjects are crucial for system design, network management, and database development in IT engineering.
- While not mandatory, prior experience in IT, such as working with computer networks, programming, or related technical projects, can be beneficial and enhance the overall learning experience in the course.
Below are the learning outcomes for each of the study units in the ICTQual Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology Engineering program:
Year 1 (120 Credits)
Semester 1
- Fundamentals of Information Technology
- Understand the evolution of IT, key technological advancements, and the role of IT in modern industries.
- Recognize the core components of IT infrastructure and systems.
- Computer Hardware and Architecture
- Describe the key components of computer hardware, including processors, memory, and storage devices.
- Analyze the architecture of computer systems and how hardware interacts with software.
- Operating Systems and System Software
- Understand the role of operating systems in managing hardware and software resources.
- Demonstrate knowledge of system software, including file systems, device management, and system security.
- Networking Fundamentals
- Define basic networking concepts such as protocols, network topologies, and communication models.
- Understand the components of network infrastructures, including routers, switches, and cables.
- Software Development Fundamentals
- Develop basic programming skills using a high-level programming language.
- Understand core software development principles such as algorithm design and problem-solving techniques.
- Mathematics for IT Engineering
- Apply mathematical techniques such as algebra, logic, and basic calculus to IT engineering problems.
- Solve real-world IT problems using mathematical modeling and reasoning.
- Database Management Systems
- Understand the principles of database management systems (DBMS) and their role in data storage and retrieval.
- Use SQL to perform basic database queries and manipulate data.
- Introduction to IT Security
- Recognize common IT security threats and vulnerabilities.
- Understand basic security concepts such as encryption, authentication, and firewalls.
- Project Management for IT
- Apply fundamental project management principles, including planning, resource allocation, and scheduling.
- Understand the methodologies used in IT project management, such as Agile and Waterfall.
- Professional Development in IT Engineering
- Develop essential professional skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management.
- Understand the ethical considerations and professional responsibilities of IT engineers.
Year 2 (120 Credits)
Semester 2
- Advanced Networking and Network Protocols
- Analyze advanced networking concepts, including routing, switching, and IP addressing.
- Understand and implement network protocols such as TCP/IP, DNS, and DHCP.
- Systems Analysis and Design
- Use methodologies such as UML to analyze and design complex IT systems.
- Develop system requirements and specifications for software and hardware solutions.
- Software Development and Object-Oriented Programming
- Apply object-oriented programming (OOP) concepts to software design and development.
- Develop and debug software applications using advanced programming techniques.
- Cloud Computing Fundamentals
- Understand cloud computing architecture, deployment models, and services such as IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS.
- Apply cloud computing solutions for scalable and cost-efficient IT services.
- Database Administration and Optimization
- Perform database administration tasks, including backup, recovery, and performance tuning.
- Optimize database queries and manage large-scale databases efficiently.
- Cybersecurity Essentials
- Implement basic cybersecurity measures to protect IT systems and data from cyber threats.
- Understand risk management, threat detection, and prevention strategies.
- IT Infrastructure and Systems Management
- Design, deploy, and manage IT infrastructure components such as servers, storage, and networks.
- Develop strategies for systems management, including monitoring and troubleshooting.
- Mobile Application Development
- Develop mobile applications for platforms such as Android and iOS using development frameworks.
- Apply UI/UX design principles to create user-friendly mobile apps.
- Web Development Basics
- Create dynamic and responsive websites using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
- Understand basic front-end and back-end web development techniques.
- Advanced IT Support and Troubleshooting
- Apply diagnostic tools and techniques to troubleshoot complex IT issues in hardware, software, and networks.
- Provide effective IT support in diverse environments, including remote support and on-site troubleshooting.
Semester 3
- Advanced IT Security and Ethical Hacking
- Implement ethical hacking techniques to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in IT systems.
- Understand legal and ethical considerations involved in penetration testing and cybersecurity.
- Advanced Database Technologies
- Work with advanced database systems, including NoSQL databases, and manage large datasets.
- Understand database scaling techniques, including sharding and replication.
- Cloud Security and Virtualization
- Apply cloud security best practices to protect cloud infrastructures and applications.
- Understand and implement virtualization technologies for efficient resource management.
- Capstone Project
- Apply knowledge from all previous units to design and develop a comprehensive IT solution or system.
- Present and defend a final project, demonstrating practical problem-solving, project management, and technical skills in IT engineering.
Even if a centre is already registered with ICTQual AB, it must meet specific requirements to deliver the ICTQual Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology Engineering. These standards ensure the quality and consistency of training, assessment, and learner support.
1. Approval to Deliver the Qualification
- Centres must obtain formal approval from ICTQual AB to deliver this specific qualification, even if they are already registered.
- The approval process includes a review of resources, staff qualifications, and policies relevant to the program.
2. Qualified Staff
- Tutors: Must have relevant qualifications in Information Technology Engineering at Level 6 or higher, alongside teaching/training experience.
- Assessors: Must hold a recognized assessor qualification and demonstrate expertise in Information Technology Engineering.
- Internal Quality Assurers (IQAs): Must be appropriately qualified and experienced to monitor the quality of assessments.
3. Learning Facilities
Centres must have access to appropriate learning facilities, which include:
- Classrooms: Modern classrooms equipped with multimedia tools for delivering engaging theoretical instruction on programming, data structures, algorithms, and IT system design.
- Practical Areas: Advanced computer labs with high-performance systems, servers, networking equipment, and development platforms to provide hands-on experience in coding, software development, database management, and cybersecurity.
- Technology Access: Access to industry-standard software (e.g., Python, Java, SQL, cloud platforms) and cutting-edge tools for AI, machine learning, IoT, and big data analytics, along with reliable internet connectivity for seamless research and project work.
4. Health and Safety Compliance
- Centres must ensure that practical training environments comply with relevant health and safety regulations.
- Risk assessments must be conducted regularly to maintain a safe learning environment.
5. Resource Requirements
- Learning Materials: Approved course manuals, textbooks, and study guides aligned with the curriculum.
- Assessment Tools: Templates, guidelines, and resources for conducting and recording assessments.
- E-Learning Systems: If offering online or hybrid learning, centres must provide a robust Learning Management System (LMS) to facilitate remote delivery.
6. Assessment and Quality Assurance
- Centres must adhere to ICTQual’s assessment standards, ensuring that all assessments are fair, valid, and reliable.
- Internal quality assurance (IQA) processes must be in place to monitor assessments and provide feedback to assessors.
- External verification visits from ICTQual will ensure compliance with awarding body standards.
7. Learner Support
- Centres must provide learners with access to guidance and support throughout the program, including:
- Academic support for coursework.
- Career guidance for future progression.
- Additional support for learners with specific needs (e.g., disabilities or language barriers).
8. Policies and Procedures
Centres must maintain and implement the following policies, as required by ICTQual:
- Equal Opportunities Policy.
- Health and Safety Policy.
- Complaints and Appeals Procedure.
- Data Protection and Confidentiality Policy.
9. Regular Reporting to ICTQual
- Centres must provide regular updates to ICTQual AB on learner enrollment, progress, and completion rates.
- Centres are required to maintain records of assessments and learner achievements for external auditing purposes.
Route for Candidates with No Experience
This route is ideal for learners who are new to the Information Technology Engineering field and do not have prior work experience. The process is as follows:
Admission: The candidate enrolls in the program at an ICTQual Approved Training Centre.
Training: The learner undergoes formal training, covering all the essential study units. Training will include both theoretical instruction and practical activities.
Assessment: Learners will be required to complete and submit assignments based on the course’s learning outcomes. These assignments will test the learner’s understanding and application of the course material.
Certification: After successfully completing the required assignments and assessments, the learner will be awarded the ICTQual Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology Engineering.
Route for Experienced and Competent Candidates
For candidates who already have relevant work experience in the Information Technology Engineering industry, the following route is available:
Eligibility: The candidate must have at least 5 years of verified experience in Information Technology Engineering or a related field. This experience must be relevant to the learning outcomes of the qualification.
Assessment of Competence: The candidate does not need to undergo the full training program. Instead, the ICTQual Approved Training Centre will assess whether the candidate’s existing knowledge and skills align with the learning outcomes of the course.
Evidence Submission: The candidate must submit documentation and evidence of their work experience to demonstrate competence in the required areas. This can include job roles, responsibilities, and tasks performed that align with the learning outcomes of the course.
Knowledge and Understanding: Centres must ensure that the candidate is familiar with all the course’s learning outcomes. If necessary, a skills gap assessment may be conducted to determine if any additional learning is required.
Certification: Upon successful verification of experience and competence, the candidate will be awarded the ICTQual Level 2 Diploma in Information Technology Engineering without having to complete the full training course.
Both routes ensure that candidates either gain the necessary knowledge through training or demonstrate their existing competency to achieve the ICTQual Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology Engineering. This flexible approach caters to both new learners and experienced professionals seeking formal certification.