Diploma in Forensic Computing (Level 3)

Are you interested in securing network traffic? Recovering lost data files? Investigating computer systems for incriminating data? Finding out how data encryption actually works? If the answer to any of these questions is “Yes”, then the Diploma in Forensic Computing qualification is the right choice for you! A full-time course, the Diploma in Forensic Computing is a programme equivalent to studying three AS-Levels. Successful completion of the one year course enables you to enrol on the Extended Diploma in Forensic Computing for a second year of full-time study. Achievement of the Extended Diploma is equivalent to completing 3 full A Levels and represents good progression for either work or Higher Education (e.g. Edexcel Higher National Certificate (HNC), Higher National Diploma (HND) or BSc Degree). Because it is a vocational programme it builds your practical skills, teaching you the knowledge you will need to become successful as a Forensic Computing specialist. The college supports you by providing well-equipped labs and up to date computer systems and networks which you can investigate and explore without restriction. Over the two years, you will study 18 units. Further details of these units will be given to you at Interview or Induction. Methods of Assessment: Typically Diploma programmes have no formal exams, preferring to test your knowledge and understanding through a mixture of vocationally relevant assignments and projects. Assignments usually involve a high-degree of practical work although some will require you to complete background research before starting the task. Most assignments will involve you doing work outside scheduled classes although your lecturers are fully committed to give you support when you need it. You will be expected to spend at least 12 hours per week studying outside of attendance at classes.

Exam fee is for BTEC Registration. Materials fees levied for: USB Memory stick, CD's and printed resources Students will have the opportunity to attend one or more course related day trips or activities during the year. A fee is charged at enrolment as a contribution towards these events. INDUSTRY INFORMATION Key facts: •There is a total IT and Telecoms workforce of 1.5 million of which: ?890,000 people are in IT and Telecoms products and services ?600,000 IT and Telecoms professionals are working in organisations outside of the IT and Telecoms industries •There are around 105,000 businesses in the UK offering IT and Telecoms products and services. •IT-intensive sectors represent 55% of the UK's total Gross Value Added. •Less than 1% of those employed in IT and Telecoms occupations are under 18. •22% of companies who are trying to recruit IT and Telecoms professionals report difficulties in attracting applicants with the right skills. •58% of the workforce has a degree or higher education qualification. •The IT industry is predicted to grow at a rate of 2.5% per year for the next ten years. •There are 100,930 IT manufacturing and services establishments in the UK employing 600,000 people. •The IT workforce accounts for 4% of the UK workforce. Jobs in the IT industry include: Business analyst; Games developer; CAD/CAM Programmer/Trainer; IT trainer; Service technician; Software engineer/architect; Technology consultant; Web designer; Systems architect; Technical author.

5 GCSEs at grades A* to C including Maths and English, or Level 2 Diploma for IT Practitioners (Merit or Distinction, plus functional skills in Maths and English at level 2)

The Diploma is a one year course, with successful completion allowing students to progress onto a second year of study to complete the Extended Diploma - equivalent to 3 full A Levels. Successful completion of the Extended Diploma can lead to a rewarding career as a Forensic Computing specialist in data recovery services and various government and private agencies as well as being useful for the IT System Support and Networking industry. It will also generate sufficient UCAS points for studying a HND or HNC in Computing (either at Gloucestershire College or elsewhere) or a Degree in various Computing disciplines at University. Further careers advice and guidance is available from the College.