How it Works
On our IT and Web Design programme, you can work through a Level 4 diploma (120 credits), a Level 5 diploma (120 credits), or combine both for a Level 4 & 5 diploma (240 credits). It’s designed to build the skills you’ll need to compete in the IT world.
You’ll study online, and the best part is you can begin whenever you’re ready. There are no rigid start dates. Each module at Level 4 and Level 5 includes 40 hours of structured online learning. Alongside that, you’ll also get an extra 30-50 hours of optional content, such as practice tasks, recommended reading, digital resources, and quick self-check activities.
To finish the qualification, you’ll submit 10 online assignments at Level 4 and 6 online assignments at Level 5. These are typically around 2,000 to 3,000 words each. Once you’ve passed everything, you’ll receive your diploma. After that, you may be able to top up your qualification to a bachelor’s degree at selected UK universities.
Throughout the course you’ll have access to 1-2-1 tutor support and webinars, plus social learning forums and further materials to help you stay on track. If you want to see exactly what support is available, take a look at our Student Resources page. You can also read through the academic standards we follow and the associations we’re part of, so you know you’re learning with confidence.
Course Modules
Level 4 Module Listing
Computer systems and software: This module helps you understand how hardware and software work together, and why that integration matters.
Computer programming: You’ll learn how to use tools and different approaches to create, test, and refine programmes, following a recognised system life cycle.
Relational database systems: You’ll build your understanding of how database systems work, plus how to analyse and model data.
Software engineering: You’ll get a clearer picture of why software engineering is needed and the main methods and techniques used in the real world.
Systems analysis and design: This module explains key IS concepts and connects them to organisational needs, especially around business processes and managing information.
E- commerce applications: You’ll explore what e-commerce looks like today and how businesses set objectives. You’ll also look at the design challenges that come up when requirements are defined.
Human computer interaction: This module develops your understanding of HCI principles and models. You’ll review existing HCI design ideas, then use what you learn to plan your own prototype multimedia user interface.
IT and society: You’ll consider how technology affects society. You’ll also look at emerging trends and changes, alongside management topics such as security and data handling.
Information systems theory and practice: This module focuses on project management elements that support successful development and delivery of specific IT projects.
Management information systems: You’ll learn how information systems are structured and how they support business needs, particularly around information processing and data processing.
Level 5 module listing
Technopreneurship: The purpose of this unit is to help you learn the knowledge and skills to set up a new tech business. You’ll cover topics like what entrepreneurs have in common, plus planning, marketing, and finance.
Network Security: This unit looks at common network security problems in connected environments. You’ll also study how to prevent issues and identify incidents when they happen.
C.Net Programming: This unit introduces you to the core ideas behind ASP.NET programming using C#. By the end, you should be able to create dynamic web pages using server-side programming techniques.
System administration: You’ll start by looking at the main elements of system administration, including what an administrator role actually involves, and the key parts of managing systems.
Content management systems: This unit is all about learning how to use Content Management Systems (CMS) to create digital content. You’ll learn how CMS roles work, along with content modelling, content aggregation, publication management, and content migration.
Web design: This unit focuses on helping you build the skills and understanding you need to study effectively at higher education level. You’ll develop reflective and critical thinking skills too, so you can reach your full learning potential.
Assignment Unit titles:
The assignment unit titles for the Level 4 course are:
Information technology and IT ethics
Mathematics and statistics for IT
PC maintenance and operating systems
Computer graphics editing and database concepts
Logical IT networking
Web design
The assignment unit titles for the Level 5 course are:
Technopreneurship
Network security
C#.NET programming
System Administration
Content management systems
Web design
Am I eligible for this programme?
To join the Level 4 IT and Web Design course, you need to be at least 18 years old and have completed full secondary education. In practice, that means you’ll need at least 2 A-levels, or qualifications that are considered equivalent.
If you don’t have 2 A-levels, you might still be able to enrol based on your experience. For example, NVQ Level 3 can sometimes be accepted. If you’d like to check your situation, speak with one of our team members on: 0333 772 1158
To enrol on the Level 5 IT and Web Design course, you must have completed the Level 4 diploma in IT and Computing.
Career Progression
A Level 4/5 Diploma in IT and Web Design from Online Business School can lead you into a range of roles across digital and creative tech. The programme helps you build practical abilities in web development, design, and IT systems, putting you in a strong position for roles like:
Web Designer
Web Designer
Front-End Developer
Front-End Developer
UX/UI Designer
UX/UI Designer
Web Developer
Web Developer
SEO Specialist
SEO Specialist
Website Administrator
Website Administrator
You can also move forward to a full bachelor’s degree using a university top-up year. If you want to sharpen your skills even further, you can look into industry-recognised certifications in areas like design, development, or IT.
Overall, the Level 4/5 qualification gives you a solid base for a creative and technical career in the fast-moving world of IT and web design.
University Progression
After you complete your online Level 4 & 5 IT and Web Design course, you may be able to continue to a third-year top-up degree. This is often called a BA top up, and it’s available through a number of UK universities.
You can apply to any university that offers the BA top up. You’ll also have a choice of how you study, including online or studying on campus in person.
If you’re topping up to a full undergraduate degree via an accredited UK university, the costs are listed below.
Middlesex University
BSc (Hons) Information Technology and Business Information Systems (Top-up) – ON CAMPUS – £9,250 (UK)/ £14,700 (INT/EU)
University of Derby
BSc (Hons) Computing and Information Technology – £5,250
University of Roehampton
BSc Honours Web Design and Development (top up)
University of Huddersfield
BSc (Hons) Information Technology (Top-up) – ON CAMPUS – £9,250
NOTE: UK/EU students may be eligible for student loans for the top-up portion of their studies. Visit www.slc.co.uk for more information.
