Open University

Certificate of Higher Education in Computing and IT

Knowledge and understanding

On completion of this certificate, you will have an:

• Understanding of some fundamental principles, concepts and techniques underlying computing and IT
• Awareness of the range of models and languages to support the analysis and design of computing and IT systems
• Awareness of the range of situations in which computing and IT systems are used, and how people interact with them
• Awareness of the ethical, social and legal issues that can be associated with the deployment of computing and IT systems
• Awareness of major trends in computing and IT and of the implications of these trends.

Cognitive skills

On completion of this certificate, you will be able to:

• Apply key concepts from computing and IT in specified contexts
• Apply appropriate techniques and tools for problem-solving, designing and testing ubiquitous computing systems
• Carry out a project in ubiquitous computing that applies and extends your knowledge and understanding.

Practical and/or professional skills

On completion of this certificate, you will be able to:

• Develop and test a simple computer system
• Plan and organise yourself and your work appropriately
• Undertake ongoing learning in order to keep up to date with computing and IT
• Identify the ethical, social and legal issues that may arise during the development and use of computing and IT systems
• Use ICT tools and numerical skills as appropriate, to help you learn effectively.

Key skills

On completion of this certificate, you will be able to:

• Communicate information, arguments ideas and issues clearly and in appropriate ways
• Work in a group, communicating effectively in a distance setting where the communication is computer-mediated
• Work independently, planning, monitoring, and reflecting on improving your own learning
• Find information from a variety of sources, using information technology where necessary
• Use appropriate numerical techniques to solve problems.

This certificate of higher education has one stage, comprising 120 credits.

• You’ll study three 30-credit computing and IT modules and a 30-credit mathematics module.

Stage 1 (120 credits)

You'll study all three of the following:

• Introduction to computing and information technology 1 (TM111)
• Introduction to computing and information technology 2 (TM112)
• Technologies in practice (TM129)

You'll choose one from:

• Discovering mathematics (MU123)
• Essential mathematics 1 (MST124)

Assessment

Our assessments are all designed to reinforce your learning and help you show your understanding of the topics. The mix of assessment methods will vary between modules.

Computer-Marked Assignments

• Usually, a series of online, multiple-choice questions.

Tutor-Marked Assignments

• You’ll have a number of these throughout each module, each with a submission deadline.
• They can be made up of essays, questions, experiments or something else to test your understanding of what you have learned.
• Your tutor will mark and return them to you with detailed feedback.

End-of-Module Assessments

• The final, marked piece of work on most modules.
• Modules with an end-of-module assessment won’t usually have an exam.

Exams

• Some modules end with an exam. You’ll be given time to revise and prepare.
• You’ll be given your exam date at least 5 months in advance.
• Most exams take place remotely, and you will complete them at home or at an alternative location.
• If a module requires you to take a face-to-face exam, this will be made clear in the module description, and you will be required to take your exam in person at one of our exam centres.

Skills for career development

This certificate will equip you with the basic introductory skills and knowledge for a wide variety of careers relating to computing and IT. It will also develop your mathematics skills, which are particularly highly valued by employers – and you’ll be well prepared for further study should you decide to continue (for example, towards a diploma of higher education, a foundation degree or an honours degree).

Career relevance

Computing and IT is a rapidly growing sector of employment, and the UK is recognised as a world leader in producing talented graduates. You could develop your skills and knowledge in the key employment areas in need of skilled candidates. Employers highly regard Open University computing and IT graduates for their ambition, time management and organisational skills.

Finance, government, business, commerce, public services such as health and education, and the voluntary sector are all critically dependent on computing and IT systems. The Certificate of Higher Education in Computing and IT will enhance your employability whatever your current role, and is an ideal starting point for a career in information technology, computing, communication technology and related fields.

Other careers

The range of organisations employing people with computing and IT expertise is extensive. A qualification in computing and IT has many applications beyond pure technology roles, such as roles in corporate or management consultancy firms, technical writing or freelance work.

In addition to improving your career prospects, studying with the OU is an enriching experience that broadens your horizons, develops your knowledge, builds your confidence and enhances your life skills.

With our unique approach to distance learning, you can study from home, work or on the move.

You’ll have some assessment deadlines to meet, but otherwise, you’ll be free to study at the times that suit you, fitting your learning around work, family, and social life.

For each of your modules, you’ll use either just online resources or a mix of online and printed materials.

Each module you study will have a module website with

• A week-by-week study planner, giving you a step-by-step guide through your studies
• Course materials such as reading, videos, recordings, and self-assessed activities
• Module forums for discussions and collaborative activities with other students
• Details of each assignment and their due dates
• A tutorial booking system, online tutorial rooms, and your tutor’s contact details
• Online versions of some printed module materials and resources.