How this Diploma Works
If you join our online IT and Computing programme, you’ll be able to work towards a Level 4 diploma (120 credits), a Level 5 diploma (120 credits), or the full Level 4 and 5 combined option (240 credits). It’s set up to teach you what you need to succeed in the IT industry.
You’ll study online, and there’s no pressure to start at a specific time. Everything is flexible, so you can fit it around your life.
Each module at Level 4 and Level 5 includes 40 hours of structured, guided online study. On top of that, you’ll usually have an extra 30 to 50 hours of optional resources, including recommended activities, helpful readings, digital tools, and self-check tasks.
To finish the online computing course, you’ll submit 6 assignments at each level. Each assignment is typically around 2,000 to 3,000 words. After you pass, you’ll receive the OTHM diploma in IT and computing, and you can then top up your qualification to a bachelor’s degree at a selection of universities across the UK.
Throughout the programme, you’ll also have access to 1-2-1 tutor support and webinars, along with social learning forums and additional materials. This makes it easier to stay on track and complete your diploma. If you want to see what support is available, have a look at our Student Resources page.
You can also review the academic standards we meet and the organisations we’re connected with, so you know you’re getting a quality learning experience while working through your diploma in IT and computing.
Online Computing Course Modules
Level 4 Diploma in IT and Computing course modules:
Cyber Security
Learn how to keep data and systems safer from online risks, attacks, and security weaknesses.
Principles of Computer Programming
Get comfortable with the basics of coding, logical thinking, and building simple software applications.
Systems Analysis and Design
Understand how to identify what users need and then design practical IT systems and solutions.
Web and Mobile Applications
See how websites and mobile apps are planned, built, and maintained so people actually want to use them.
Computer and Network Technology
Explore how computers and networks run, including the hardware, software, and connectivity side.
Managing Digital Information
Learn how to collect, organise, store, and protect digital information in a business setting.
Level 5 Diploma in IT and Computing course modules:
Software Engineering
Learn how to design, develop, and maintain software that’s built to a high standard.
Database Systems
Understand how data is organised, managed, and retrieved using database technologies.
Advanced Systems Analysis and Design
Go deeper into analysing complicated systems and creating stronger IT solutions.
Management Information Systems
Explore how information systems support day-to-day business activity and help with decision-making.
Network Information Systems
Learn how computer networks are built, administered, and used to share information.
IT Project Management
Develop the skills to plan, lead, and deliver IT projects successfully, including meeting deadlines and staying within budget.
Assignment unit titles:
Level 4 assignment unit titles:
Cyber Security (20 credits)
Principles of Computer Programming (20 credits)
Systems Analysis and Design (20 credits)
Web and Mobile Applications (20 credits)
Computer and Network Technology (20 credits)
Managing Digital Information (20 credits)
For more details on the Level 4 units, visit: https://othm.org.uk/qualification/othm-level-4-diploma-in-information-technology
Level 5 assignment unit titles:
Software Engineering (20 credits)
Database Systems (20 credits)
Advanced Systems Analysis and Design (20 credits)
Management Information Systems (20 credits)
Network Information Systems (20 credits)
IT Project Management (20 credits)
For more details on the Level 5 units, visit: https://othm.org.uk/qualification/othm-level-5-diploma-in-information-technology
Am I eligible for this online Information and Technology course?
To enrol on our Level 4 IT and Computing course, you need to be at least 18 years old and have completed full secondary education, which typically means you’ll have at least 2 A-levels or an equivalent qualification.
If you don’t have 2 A-levels (or an equivalent), such as NVQ Level 3, you may still be considered based on your work experience. For more information, give our team a call at: 0333 772 1158
To join the Level 5 online Computing course, you must have successfully completed the Level 4 OTHM diploma in Information Technology.
Career Progression
Completing a Level 4/5 Diploma in Computing with Online Business School can lead you into lots of different paths across IT and digital technology.
The programme is designed around practical learning and real-life applications, helping you prepare for roles like:
Software Developer
Network Administrator
Cybersecurity Analyst
Data Analyst
Business Analyst
Digital Community Manager
Junior Animator
Software Tester
Technician in Engineering and Computing
You can also move into a full bachelor’s degree through a top-up year at a university. And if you want an extra boost, professional certifications such as CompTIA A+, CCNA, or MCSA can help strengthen your employability.
Overall, the Level 4/5 qualification gives you a solid starting point for a career in the constantly changing tech world.
University Progression
After you finish your online Level 4 and Level 5 IT and Computing course, you may be able to complete a third-year top-up degree programme. This is often referred to as a ‘BA top up’ and it’s available through a number of universities in the UK.
You can apply to any university that offers the BA top up, and you can usually study either online or attend classes on campus if you prefer.
If you choose to go on to a full undergraduate degree at an accredited UK university, here’s a quick look at the costs:
Middlesex University
BSc Information Systems (Top-up) – £7,600
BSc (Hons) Information Technology and Business Information Systems (Top-up) – ON CAMPUS– £9,250 (UK)/ £14,700 (INT/EU)
University of Gloucestershire
BSc (Hons) Computing – ON CAMPUS – £9,350
University of Derby
BSc (Hons) Computing and Information Technology – £5,750
University of Hertfordshire
BSc Honours Information Technology top up
BSc (Hons) Computer Science (top-up)
University of Huddersfield
BSc (Hons) Information Technology (Top-up) – ON CAMPUS– £9,250
University of Northampton
University College Birmingham
Computer Science (Top-Up) BSc (Hons)
University of Portsmouth (London)
NOTE: If you’re studying as a UK/EU student, you might be eligible for student loans for the top-up part of your degree. For more information, visit www.slc.co.uk.
