Diploma in Computing (Level 5)

Re Open for 2010 - Limited places available

Programme Code: PC9633
Level: 5
NZQA credits: 120
Programme length: 52 wks full-time, 2 years part-time
Fee: $7,500

Download a Course Information Sheet here

Programme Content:

Studying the Diploma in Computing Level 5 will develop your practical skills associated with software, hardware, programming and data storage. The core part of the programme focuses on gaining an understanding of IT business, past, present and future.

The Hardware and Networking elective focuses on technical skills needed to understand LAN design and gain skills and knowledge to carry out the duties of a supervisor on a server based network. It also provides an overview of operating system concepts and how to troubleshoot Windows XP and applications running on Windows XP. This elective includes preparation for the internationally recognised Microsoft Certified Desktop Technician qualification and a component dealing with wireless and telecommunications technology.

The Programming elective focuses on providing you with a thorough knowledge of Visual Basic .NET programming language; the ability to translate a procedure specification into this language, to solve compilation errors, to conduct program testing and to fix program bugs.

Programme Delivery and Examinations:

The Learning Post Diploma is delivered entirely by distance. Your materials are both electronic and hardcopy. Textbooks, student handbooks and some notes will be couriered to you, plus you will be involved in online lessons and assessments. Students are required to have a broadband internet connection.

The Hardware and Network User Support elective will require you to travel to a testing centre in Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch for assessment, and the MCDST examination. You need to plan ahead for this and establish whether or not you can cover this cost with a student allowance. The examination entry fee is included in your programme fee (one attempt only).

Support:

Learning Post tutors are specially trained to support distance students. They understand the challenges of studying from home and juggling work and family commitments. Your tutor will help you from the time you start studying until you finish, not only with technical expertise but also as a source of motivation and encouragement.

You will be part of a cohort of students studying the diploma. You can ‘meet’ them online at elearningpost.ac.nz, to socialise and talk about your programme.

Outcomes:

• Learning Post Diploma in Computing
• National Diploma in Computing Level 5 (with the Programming elective)
• Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST) (with the Hardware elective)

Further study options include:

Diploma in Computing Level 6-7
Bachelor of Information Technology
Bachelor of Business
Bachelor of Applied Science
Industry Certifications - Microsoft, CompTIA

Job opportunities:

Systems Support and Development
Network Administrator
Computer Retail
Junior Service Technician
Helpdesk Operator
Trainee Programmer

Programme Structure:

Core Courses:

Explain the principles of business and the role of IT
Explain ethics and professionalism for the computing industry in NZ
Demonstrate an understanding of computer software development
Explain how data is stored on computers
Demonstrate an understanding of emerging computerised business information systems
Demonstrate an understanding of the implementation of a new computer system
Manage text processing and production of business information
Assist a person to learn to use a computer application

Hardware and Network User Support Electives:

Demonstrate an understanding of computer hardware components for personal computers
Explain local area computer networks and install network workstations
Install a single user computer and peripherals
Administer a local area computer network
Apply the principles of supporting users of a LAN
Wireless and Telecommunications
User Support Operating Systems (MCDST)
User Support Applications (MCDST)
Demonstrate an understanding of computer database management systems
Test a computer application

Programming, Software Development and Database Design Electives:

These 3 units are compulsory
Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of computer programming
Demonstrate computer programming skills using a third generation language
Demonstrate computer programming skills using an object oriented language

Choose 2 of the following 3 units
Demonstrate computer application design skills
Apply the principles of system analysis using a structured methodology
Demonstrate an understanding of computer database design

Additional Information and Programme Requirements:

Entry Criteria:

Applicants must have completed a Level 4 Certificate in Computing and/or equivalent academic achievement and/or appropriate level of related work experience and/or pass the Learning Post aptitude test.

Software:

Office Professional 2003 or Office Professional 2007 (including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access), and MS Project.

Hardware:

A computer capable of running Windows XP or Vista, and Office XP Professional/Office Professional 2003/Office Professional 2007. (Including a monitor, mouse, CD-RW drive and modem)
In order to install .NET software you will require 3G of free hard drive space.

If you choose to study the Hardware and Network elective you will also require a second computer - capable of running Windows XP, either Home or Professional. NIC Card and Networking cables.

Other:

A printer plus A4 paper and printer cartridges/ink
A telephone (mobile or landline).
A broadband internet connection and e-mail is essential