Computing (Application Development) : AAQ Extended Certificate (= 1 A Level)

What will I study?

Through a combination of theoretical study and hands-on experience, you will develop the necessary knowledge and skills that can support progression to higher education computing study. In the examined unit, you will study key knowledge and understanding relevant to application development. In the non-examined assessment (NEA) unit, you will demonstrate the knowledge and skills you learn by completing a practical assignment.

You must complete three mandatory and two optional units to be awarded the Extended Certificate in Computing: Application Development.

The three mandatory units are:

• Unit F160: Fundamentals of application development

This unit is assessed by an exam. The exam is 1 hour and 15 minutes and has 60 marks in total. All questions in the exam are compulsory.

• Unit F161: Developing application software

This unit is assessed by an exam. The exam is 1 hour and 30 minutes and has 60 marks in total. All questions in the exam are compulsory.

• Unit F162: Designing and communicating UX/UI solutions

Assessed by written assignments

The two optional units are:

• Unit F163: Game Development

Assessed by internal assignment

• Unit F166: Software Development or F164: Website Development

Assessed by internal assignment

How will I study?

This course is taught using lectures, demonstrations, practical work, group activity and individual study. Teachers are not only well qualified and experienced but also provide students with a high level of professional support.

How is the course examined?

This AAQ in Computing: Application Development is assessed by 2 written exams, one of 1 hour and 15 minutes and one of 1 hour and 30 minutes, and three portfolios of assignments. It is graded: Pass, Merit, and Distinction. Students can obtain a Distinction* grade overall.

In addition to the standard College entry requirements (see below), this course requires students to have achieved grade 4 or above in GCSE Mathematics.

Where next?

Level 3 courses earn you UCAS points allowing you to take on HND/ HNC or honours degrees.

What does the course combine well with?

Complementary subjects are any other level 3 subjects.

Equivalents

This course is equivalent to one A level.