IITHE Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND) in Information Technology – Level 5

Overview

The IITHE Level 5 HND in Information Technology (IT) provides learners with a comprehensive understanding of key IT concepts, technologies, and practices. The course equips students with the skills needed to pursue a career in IT, including programming, networking, database management, and cybersecurity. It also emphasizes business and professional development, preparing learners to meet the demands of the rapidly evolving tech industry.

This qualification combines both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring that learners are well-prepared for various IT roles. Upon completion, graduates can progress to higher-level qualifications or enter the IT workforce directly in specialized fields such as systems administration, software development, and IT project management.

Entry Requirements:
  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 18 years old.
  • Educational Qualifications: A relevant Level 4 Diploma or equivalent qualification in Information Technology or a related field.
  • Work Experience (optional): Mature learners (over 21) with substantial IT experience may also apply without formal qualifications, subject to approval by the institution.
  • English Language Requirements: If English is not the learner’s first language, they must provide proof of proficiency in English.
Qualification Structure:

The IITHE Level 5 HND in Information Technology consists of 12 mandatory units and totals 120 credits. These units cover essential IT topics and provide learners with both practical and theoretical knowledge necessary for success in the IT field.

Mandatory Units (12 Units):
  1. Information Systems (10 credits)
    • Understanding the role of information systems in organizations and their management.
  2. Database Design and Development (10 credits)
    • Learning how to design and manage relational databases and manipulate data efficiently.
  3. Networking Technologies (10 credits)
    • Exploring the fundamentals of networking, including protocols, design, and management.
  4. Cybersecurity and Risk Management (10 credits)
    • Developing skills to identify, manage, and mitigate cybersecurity risks in IT systems.
  5. Programming in Java or Python (10 credits)
    • Gaining proficiency in object-oriented programming using Java or Python.
  6. Web Development and Design (10 credits)
    • Building websites using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and web development frameworks.
  7. Cloud Computing and Virtualization (10 credits)
    • Learning the principles of cloud computing, virtualization, and their applications in IT.
  8. IT Project Management (10 credits)
    • Understanding the methodologies and tools used in managing IT projects.
  9. Business and Professional Development in IT (10 credits)
    • Equipping learners with professional skills for career development in the IT industry.
  10. Data Analytics and Business Intelligence (10 credits)
    • Exploring data analysis techniques and their application in business intelligence systems.
  11. Software Engineering (10 credits)
    • Learning the principles of software engineering and the software development lifecycle.
  12. Research Project in Information Technology (10 credits)
    • Conducting a comprehensive research project on an IT topic to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Duration and Delivery:

The IITHE Level 5 HND in Information Technology is designed to be completed over a period of 18 to 24 months for full-time learners, though part-time and distance learning options are available to accommodate flexible study schedules.

  • Full-time Learning: Typically completed in 18-24 months.
  • Part-time Learning: Allows learners to complete the course over an extended period.
  • Blended Learning: Combines online learning with in-person workshops, lectures, and tutorials.
  • Distance Learning: Fully online study option for learners who need flexibility in their schedules.
Assessment and Verification:
  • Internal Assessment: Learners are assessed through a variety of methods, including practical projects, assignments, presentations, and exams. Each unit has specific learning outcomes and assessment criteria.
  • Practical Projects: Some units involve hands-on projects where learners apply their knowledge to solve real-world IT challenges.
  • External Verification: The qualification is externally verified by recognized awarding bodies to ensure consistency and quality in assessment practices.

To achieve a pass for each unit, learners must provide evidence that demonstrates they have met the required learning outcomes. Assessments are criterion-referenced, and learners are judged based on their ability to meet specific performance standards.

Progression Opportunities:

Upon successful completion of the IITHE Level 5 HND in Information Technology, graduates have several progression pathways, including:

  • Direct Entry into Year 3 of a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related fields at universities in the UK or internationally.
  • Further Study: Learners can progress to advanced qualifications such as a Master’s degree or industry certifications in areas such as networking, cloud computing, cybersecurity, or software development.
  • Career Opportunities: The diploma prepares graduates for roles such as:
    • Systems Administrator
    • Network Engineer
    • Software Developer
    • Database Administrator
    • IT Project Manager
    • Cybersecurity Specialist
    • Web Developer

Graduates of the IITHE Level 5 HND in Information Technology are equipped with the knowledge and practical skills required to excel in a wide range of IT careers, enabling them to meet the growing demands of the technology industry.