Open University

Diploma of Higher Education in Computing & IT and Design

This diploma of higher education has two stages, each comprising 120 credits.

• In Stage 1, you’ll study two 30-credit computing & IT modules and a 60-credit design module.
• In Stage 2, you’ll study two 30-credit modules from a choice of computing & IT focus areas and a 60-credit design module.

Stage 1 (120 credits)

Computing & IT

You'll study both of the following:

• Introduction to computing and information technology 1 (TM111)    
• Introduction to computing and information technology 2 (TM112)    

Design

You'll study the following:

• Design thinking: creativity for the 21st century (U101)

Stage 2 (120 credits)

Computing & IT focus

Choose one of four computing & IT focus areas:

Communications and networking

You'll study both of the following:

• Cisco networking (CCNA) part 1 (TM257)    
• Communication and information technologies (TM255)    

Computer science

You'll study both of the following:

• Object-oriented Java programming (M250)    
• Algorithms, data structures and computability (M269)    

Software development

You'll study both of the following:

• Object-oriented Java programming (M250)    
• Managing IT: the why, the what and the how (TM254)    

Web development

You'll study both of the following:

• Object-oriented Java programming (M250)    
• Web technologies (TM252)    

Design

You'll study the following:

• Design Essentials (T217)

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 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.

This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:

• Knowledge and understanding
• Cognitive skills
• Practical and professional skills
• Key skills

The level and depth of your learning gradually increase as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; e-learning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.

Skills for career development

This qualification will equip you with a sound grasp of the principles of technologies in your specialist area, an ability to apply the principles and an awareness of surrounding issues. Depending on your choice of second subject – business, design, mathematics, applied psychology or statistics – you’ll have a unique and focused skill set that will enhance your existing career and put you in a strong position in the jobs market, which increasingly depends on computing technologies across all sectors.

During the course you will gain a range of valuable transferable skills in communication, time management, analysis and problem-solving, and be well prepared for further study should you decide to top up to 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. Employers highly regard Open University computing and IT graduates for their ambition, time management and organisational skills.

This diploma course opens the way for a wide range of IT-related careers. Growth areas and areas of high demand include cyber security, mobile development, cloud computing and the management of Big Data.

Other careers

The range of organisations employing computing and IT specialists is extensive. Beyond pure technology roles, people with computing and IT expertise also enter management consultancy firms or corporate roles, while others go into technical writing roles or work freelance.

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.

• Applications Programmer
• Information Systems Manager
• Database Administrator
• Information Technology Consultant
• Multimedia Programmer
• Software Engineer
• Systems Analyst
• Systems Designer
• Computer Support Specialist
• Webmaster
• Applications Developer
• Web Designer
• Technical Consultant
• Network Engineer
• Technical Sales

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.