Level 3 Extended Diploma Software Development & Cybersecurity

Are you interested in a career in software development or cybersecurity? If so, then our Level 3 Software Development and Cybersecurity course is the perfect choice for you. This course will teach you the skills you need to succeed in these rapidly growing fields. The software development and cybersecurity industry is one of the fastest-growing industries in the UK. The demand for software developers and cybersecurity professionals is high and is expected to continue to grow in the future. This is due to the increasing use of technology in all aspects of our lives, from business to entertainment to healthcare. Software developers are responsible for creating and maintaining software applications. They use their knowledge of programming languages, software development methodologies, and software engineering principles to create software that meets the needs of users. Cybersecurity professionals are responsible for protecting computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. They use their knowledge of cybersecurity threats, vulnerabilities, and mitigation techniques to protect organizations from cyberattacks. There are many different types of software development and cybersecurity jobs available in the UK. Some of the most common jobs include: • Software Developer • Cybersecurity Engineer • Web Developer • Mobile Developer • Game Developer • Network Security Engineer • Information Security Analyst The salaries for software developers and cybersecurity professionals are typically very good. According to the National Careers Service, the average salary for a software developer in the UK is £35,000 per year. The average salary for a cybersecurity professional is £40,000 per year. The software development and cybersecurity industry is a great place to work. It is a fast-paced, challenging, and rewarding industry. There are many opportunities for career growth and advancement.

5 GCSEs at grade 9-4, including English or maths OR Relevant Level 2 at Merit grade, plus English and maths at a minimum of Level 2

The course will teach you the skills you need to succeed in these rapidly growing fields. You will learn about programming languages, software development methodologies, cybersecurity concepts, and more. You will also have the opportunity to specialize in one or more areas of software development or cybersecurity, such as web development, mobile development, game development, network security, or information security. Here are some of the specific topics you will learn about on a level 3 software development and cybersecurity course: • Programming languages: Java, Python, C#, and more • Software development methodologies: Agile, Waterfall, and more • Cybersecurity concepts: Malware, phishing, social engineering, and more • Web development • Mobile development • Network security • Information security • Data handling, analysis, and presentation • Problem-solving • Communication By the end of the course, you will be able to: • Design and develop software applications • Apply software development methodologies • Protect computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction • Work independently and as part of a team • Communicate effectively with technical and non-technical audiences • Analyze and interpret data • Solve problems using a variety of methods • Communicate effectively in writing and orally

Through the use of a variety of software packages and a mixture of practical and theory sessions with the aim of developing knowledge, understanding and application. Preparation for employment in the IT and digital sector is a key element of your learning.

Written Assignments and practical observations/tasks, external (exams), internal (assignments) and synoptic (projects) and some units are externally assessed via online exams.

Further Study: On completion with the appropriate pass plus English and maths grades, you can progress through the levels, you can then progress to Higher Education to study for an HNC/D, Foundation Degree or BA/BSc degree in a range of disciplines at Wakefield College or a centre of your choice.

Career Opportunities: Software Development, Programmer, Systems Analyst, Web Developer, Computer Engineer & Service Technician, IT Technician & User Support, Network Administrator & Technical Supp.