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Level 2 Diploma ICT Systems and Principles for IT Professionals CG

Level 2 Diploma · City & Guilds · Full-Time · 1 year

Into tech and love solving problems? This is the year you build the practical skills that IT roles are built on: fixing computers, configuring networks, working with security, and understanding what's happening behind the screen. You'll get hands-on with hardware, networks, cloud and operating systems, and finish ready to move on to Level 3, an apprenticeship, or an entry-level IT role.

Next Open Event · 10th September 4:30pm to 7:00pm

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Key Facts

  • Level Level 2
  • Duration 1 year
  • Study Mode Full-Time
  • Awarding Body City & Guilds
  • Entry 3 GCSEs Grade 3-9 including Maths and English, or Level 2 English
  • Assessment Coursework + Practical Assessment + Exams
  • Age 16+

A recognised technical qualification. Your route into Level 3, apprenticeships or an entry-level IT role.

Admissions

Entry Requirements

What You'll Need

  • 3 GCSEs at Grade 3 or above including Maths and English, OR good comprehension of English at Level 2 standard
  • Initial assessment in Maths and English at application
  • Successful interview with our team
If you haven't yet achieved Grade 4 in Maths or English, you'll keep working towards them alongside your course, built into your timetable.
What You'll Learn

Fix It. Configure It. Understand How It Works.

This is a hands-on Level 2 in the practical side of IT. You’ll cover computer hardware, networking concepts, virtualisation and cloud computing, security, mobile and Linux and OSX operating systems, and Windows configuration. Customer support runs alongside as a mandatory unit, because troubleshooting is only useful if you can also explain it. Tutors teach through real problems and real kit, not theory in isolation.

You’ll be honest with yourself about which lane fits: System Support, Cyber Security, IT Technician, or Hardware Repair. Assessment is practical demonstration, online multiple-choice tests and assignments, not just written exams. By the end of the year you’ll have a real technical qualification and a real sense of where you want to go next.

Core Skills

  • Computer Hardware
  • Networking Concepts
  • Virtualisation and Cloud Computing
  • Security
  • Mobile, Linux and OSX Operating Systems
  • Windows Configuration

Mandatory units

  • Customer Support Provision
How You're Assessed

Assessment Methods

Coursework

Written assignments, research projects, and case studies that let you explore topics in depth.

Practical Assessment

Hands-on tasks and practical demonstrations in realistic working environments.

Exams

Formal examinations to test your knowledge and understanding under timed conditions.

Career Destinations

Where This Course Takes You

Information Technology Professionals

Up to £77,028 /year

Job holders in this unit group perform a variety of tasks.

Computer System and Equipment Installers and Servicers

Up to £49,450 /year

IT engineers install, maintain and repair the physical components of computer systems and equipment.

Database Administrators and Web Content Technicians

Up to £50,847 /year

Database administrators and web content technicians administer, maintain and provide user support for databases and websites and assist in the design and development of databases; and monitors social media sites […]

Your Progression Pathway

  1. GCSEs
  2. Level 2 Level 2 Diploma ICT Systems and Principles for IT Professionals CG
  3. Level 3 Level 3 Diploma ICT Systems and Principles for IT Professionals CG
  4. Employment or further study
Our Facilities

Modern Computing Labs

You'll be based in our on-campus computing labs, where the equipment and software are set up for hands-on work: hardware, networking, security and beyond.

  • Modern computing labs

    on-campus, set up for practical work with hardware, networking and configuration.

  • Real projects and work experience with local employers

    built into how the course is delivered.

  • Guest speakers and industry masterclasses

    connect what you learn to how the sector actually works.

Young Businesswoman Calculating Bill In Office
Modern Labs · Real Projects · Industry Speakers
Maksims

Maksims

Level 3 ICT Systems and Principles for IT Professionals

Student Voice

At Doncaster College, I learned a lot about IT, including hardware, software, networks, and some coding. I also explored website development. It was great learning new things, and the staff were really helpful. I’m hoping to get a job in IT in the future.

For Parents & Carers

Supporting Your Child's Journey

Qualifications That Count

These are nationally recognised qualifications with real academic weight. Your child will develop practical skills and knowledge that employers and universities genuinely value.

See the full unit list

Real Career Prospects

These qualifications lead to real jobs. Our courses are built around the skills that employers are actually hiring for — locally and nationally.

See career options

A Friendly, Welcoming Place

Students are often surprised by how friendly and welcoming college is. It's a supportive community where they'll build genuine friendships and feel part of something.

About student life

Come to an Open Event · 10th September 4:30pm to 7:00pm

See the facilities, meet the tutors, ask your questions in person.

Book Your Place
For Careers Advisers

Quick Reference Guide

Level

Level 2

Duration

1 year

Study Mode

Full-Time

Awarding Body

City & Guilds

Entry

3 GCSEs Grade 3-9 including Maths and English, or Level 2 English

Assessment

Coursework + Practical Assessment + Exams

Age

16+

Progression Routes

Route A: L2 → L3 Diploma ICT Systems and Principles → apprenticeship, HE, or industry

Ready to Start in IT?

Applications for September 2026 are open. Apply online in 10 minutes.

Questions? Call free 0800 358 7575 or email dcinfocentre@don.ac.uk