National Diploma in Computing (Level 5)

Aims of the Course

To teach students the essential skills for entering the IT industry, and prepare them for later higher-level skills (eg Level 7 Computer Systems Support (Advanced).

Student Outcomes

Students completing the course will:

• Be trained in communication with users, and group leadership
  
• Understand computer fundamentals
  
• Understand and be able to select and install hardware and software
  
• Configure and administer workstations and small networks
  
• Understand computer applications
  
• Understand the role and ethics of a computer professional
  

Entry requirements

International students over 16 years should have IELTS score of 5.5 with no less than 5.0 in individual bands or the completion of an equivalent course of study approved by ICA.

Students without these entry requirements must complete ICA entry test before enrolment is confirmed.

Course Start Dates

Students may start every four weeks.

Intake Date (2010) Completion Date Total Weeks

2^nd February 8^th October 2010 36

1^st March 5^th November 2010 36

6^th April (Tuesday) 10^th December 2011 36

3^rd May 25^th February 2011 43 (includes Xmas)

8^th June 1^st April 2011 43 (includes Xmas)

5^th July 29^th April 2011 43 (includes Xmas)

9^th August 3^rd June 2011 43 (includes Xmas)

6^th September 1^st July 2011 43 (includes Xmas)

11^th October 5^th August 2011 43 (includes Xmas)

8^th November 2^nd September 2011 43 (includes Xmas)

Christmas-New Year Break commences 13^th December, classes resume February 1^st, 2011

Student Computers

Students will be provided with a lap-top computer, complete with Microsoft software for the course, free of charge.

1. This computer is the student’s total responsibility.

2. If the computer is lost, stolen, or in any way is not returned at the end of the course, the student will be required to pay 50 % of the value of the computer to ICA.

3. The student is responsible for repairs and support

4. ICA will provide all software required within the course.

5. Students enrolling in further courses in ICA will be given the computer as their property.

(Students are not required to take ownership of the lap-top if they regard the responsibility as too high.)

Structure of the Course

To be awarded the National Diploma in Computing, students must be credited with a minimum of 120 credits at level 5 or above from the National Diploma in Computing subjects. These credits will be forwarded to the New Zealand Qualifications Authority, who award the Diploma. The Diploma is internationally recognised.

The teaching will be through a mixture of theory teaching and practical learning using a range of learning methods; such as: in class computer based exercises, projects, written exercises, case studies, simulations, open and closed book tests, practical assessments (eg communications etc) and presentations.

The balance of theory to practical learning is approximately 40/60.

The course is designed for:

takes 35 weeks to complete

4, 8-week semesters, with a one-week break between semesters for re-sit if necessary.

Students are expected to attend classes for 12 hours per week, and to engage in 15 hours self-directed study outside those times.

Each day’s work will comprise an introductory lecture (9-12) followed by a 2-3 hour laboratory

Computers (workstations and servers) will be available throughout for the self-directed study.

Higher Qualifications, and Industry Certification

ICA is a Microsoft Advanced Academy, with these benefits:

On-line learning material and support

Use of all Microsoft software

24/7 textbook resource

E-learning from Microsoft

All Microsoft training material

ICA is also a Prometric testing site, and can assess students for most industry-standard qualifications, including Microsoft, and CompTIA certification (which is taught within the class)

Employment Prospects

Graduation with the National Diploma in Computing prepares a student for employment at an entry level in:

IT-related businesses

Retail IT stores

Entry level support in larger businesses

IT Help desk support

Students who have completed the Industry Certification as well as the National Diploma in Computing will most likely get preferential interviews.