Introduction

This Advanced Diploma is designed to prepare students for a career in Computing, Information and Communication Technology (ICT). It is a practical course designed to meet the needs of employers world-wide. The Advanced Diploma is recognised by universities in the UK, USA, Australia and New Zealand as having credit towards degree courses. For example, students who have been successful in the NCC International Diploma in Computer Studies (IDCS) and the NCC International Advanced Diploma in Computer Studies (IADCS) may go on to the final year of study of the BSc (Hons) in Computing (on-line) awarded by the University of Portsmouth. 

The Advanced Diploma is intended for students who have a minimum of two years experience of working within the IT field. It builds on the foundation of the Diploma, emphasising the use of computing within the business environment. 

Delivery Model 

The IADCS is a fully modular course, consisting of 10 modules, 8 taught modules and a Practical Project, which is a double module. The taught modules are divided into compulsory modules and electives grouped into topic streams. To achieve the IADCS, students must pass all 4 compulsory modules and 4 elective modules and the Practical Project.

Each module is designed as a self-standing professional course, providing in-depth coverage of a specific IT topic and is intended for students who have already taken the NCC International Diploma or who have IT work experience.

Course Assessment 

Assessment is by practical assignment/s and formal examination for each of the taught modules, and the project is individually assessed. To achieve the IADCS, students must pass each element of the assessment.

IADCS Progression Chart

Module Descriptions and Objectives (Click on the title to view the detailed syllabus)

IADCSv2 - Compulsory Modules

IAD201 - Business Systems Analysis

This module will provide students with the technical, inter-personal and administrative skills required by systems analysts.

IAD202 - Business Systems Design

This module will provide students with the technical, interpersonal and management skills required by systems designers. Students will be able to select and use appropriate systems design techniques and tools, introduce controls to ensure availability, integrity and privacy of systems, and plan the implementation of systems.

IAD203 - Enterprise Networking

This module will provide students with an understanding of the basic functions and characteristics of the telecommunications networks used by businesses for transporting information.

IAD204 - Database Design and Development

This module will introduce students to modern database technology and the development of database systems. It focuses on the practicalities of using database systems in the ongoing development of information systems.

IAD205 - Practical Project

The project will provide students with practical experience in the planning, analysis, design, documentation and when possible, development, testing, implementation and project management of a computer-based system. Students will be able to play a significant role in a systems development project. 

IADCSv2 - Elective Modules

Elective Stream 1 – Advanced Programming

IAD221 - C++ Programming

This module will give students' extensive coverage of the three basic programming structures and variable declaration and types

IAD222 - Advanced Java

The purpose of this module is to prepare students for the real world Java.

IAD223 - Advanced Visual Basic

The purpose of this module is to give students in-depth knowledge of advanced programming design in Visual BASIC.

Elective Stream 2 – Internet Systems

IAD224 - Internet and Intranet Security

The purpose of this module is to give students with the knowledge to manage internet infrastructures.

IAD225 - Internet Systems Administration

This module will provide students with the skills required to avoid security breaches. Students will be able to develop strategies for secure systems.

Elective Stream 3 – Business Management

IAD226 - Business Management

This module covers general management. It includes the major market mechanisms that have impact on business change and development, and how organizations response in terms of their structure, strategy and operations. Students will develop their management techniques and competencies.

IAD227 - Managing Business Projects

The purpose of this module is to familiarise the student with the principles of project management and control, and to examine the impact of people on projects. Particular attention will be paid to information technology projects, such as systems development and implementation.

Weighting of Units

The following table shows the weightings for each of the units in the IADCS and the project, and the ratio of marks between the coursework and examination.