Oakswood College

ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Computing (120 Credits)

The ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Computing is a UK Ofqual-regulated qualification designed to develop advanced technical knowledge, practical computing skills, and professional capability for careers in the digital and technology sector.

The programme is intended for learners who have completed Level 4 study in computing or a related discipline, as well as professionals seeking to enhance their technical expertise and progress into specialist or supervisory roles within the IT industry.

Overview & Key Info
What You Will Study
Teaching & Entry Requirements
Progression & Fees

Qualification Overview

The qualification develops advanced knowledge in areas including digital transformation, information systems, innovative technologies, cloud computing, software development, data engineering, cyber security, and network infrastructure. It provides a strong balance of academic study and occupationally relevant learning, supporting both career advancement and progression to higher education.

The programme also includes an Advanced Project that enables learners to integrate and apply the knowledge and skills gained throughout the qualification to solve a substantial real-world computing problem. Optional specialist units allow learners to tailor their studies towards targeted career pathways.

Key Information

Course Details
Qualification	ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Computing (120 Credits)
Level	5
Credits	120
Duration	12 months (Total Qualification Time: 1200 hours, including 720 Guided Learning Hours)
Intakes	September, January & April
Study Mode	Full-time / Blended Learning / Distance Learning
Delivery Location	On-campus at Oakswood College, Tricorn House, 7th Floor, 51–53 Hagley Road, Birmingham B16 8TP
Awarding Body	ATHE (Ofqual-regulated UK awarding organisation)
Assessment	Coursework-based (including Advanced Project)

What You Will Study

This qualification includes five mandatory units, including the Advanced Project, together with optional specialist units selected in accordance with the qualification requirements. Each unit is assessed through applied assignments that require learners to analyse technical challenges, design practical solutions, and demonstrate core computing competencies.

Units within this qualification

Unit Title	Type	Level
Mandatory Units (All 5 Must Be Completed)
Computing Projects for Digital Transformation	Mandatory	5
Professional Development and Business Communication	Mandatory	5
Innovative Technologies and Connected Devices	Mandatory	5
Information Systems	Mandatory	5
Advanced Project (Synoptic)	Mandatory	5
Optional Units (Select Three From Below)
Advanced Database Practice	Optional	5
Programming for Data Engineering	Optional	5
Implementing Data Flows and Data Warehouses	Optional	5
Data Analytics and Machine Learning	Optional	5
Advanced Programming	Optional	5
Client and Server Technologies	Optional	5
Virtualisation and Cloud Computing	Optional	5
Cloud Native Solutions	Optional	5
Penetration Testing and Ethical Hacking	Optional	5
Digital Forensics	Optional	5
Network Developer and IT Operations (NetDevOps)	Optional	5
Network and Cloud Design and Configuration	Optional	5

Teaching and Learning Approach

The programme is delivered through structured teaching blocks supported by tutor-led sessions, practical workshops, guided learning, technical demonstrations, and independent study.

Learning combines theoretical understanding with practical application through coding exercises, systems analysis, cloud technologies, networking activities, case studies, research, and project-based learning. Learners are encouraged to apply industry best practice when solving realistic computing problems. The Advanced Project provides an opportunity to integrate learning from across the programme by planning, developing, and evaluating a substantial computing solution.

Entry Requirements

This programme is designed for learners aged 18 and above. Typical entry profile includes:

ATHE Level 4 Diploma or Extended Diploma in Computing, or
Another Level 4 qualification in computing or a related discipline, or
Equivalent international qualifications, or
Relevant professional experience in the computing or IT sector (subject to assessment)

Applicants without formal qualifications may be considered based on experience and demonstrated ability to study at Level 5.

English language requirement (for non-native speakers): IELTS 5.5 or equivalent (CEFR B2 level). Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) may be considered where appropriate.

Assessment Methodology

Assessment is completed through internally assessed coursework assignments. Learners are assessed against ATHE learning outcomes and may achieve Pass, Merit, or Distinction grades.

Assessment methods may include technical reports, programming tasks, systems design activities, case studies, practical coursework, presentations, and the Advanced Project, which integrates learning across the qualification.

Progression Opportunities

On successful completion, learners may progress to:

ATHE Level 7 Extended Diploma in Computing Technologies
Final year of undergraduate degree programmes in Computing, Software Engineering, Cyber Security, or related disciplines (subject to university entry requirements)
Employment in specialist computing roles such as software developer, systems analyst, cloud engineer, data analyst, cyber security analyst, infrastructure engineer, or NetDevOps engineer
Professional development and leadership opportunities within the digital technology sector