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Computing

Level 3 Diploma ICT Systems and Principles for IT Professionals CG

Level 3 Diploma · City & Guilds · Full-Time · 1 year

The specialist Level 3 for anyone serious about a career in tech. You'll build on Level 2 with web development, database, software testing, system architecture and network engineering, alongside the customer support work that ties it all together. By the end of the year you'll be ready for Level 4 study, a Higher Level Apprenticeship, or a specialist IT role.

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

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Key Facts

  • Level Level 3
  • Duration 1 year
  • Study Mode Full-Time
  • Awarding Body City & Guilds
  • Entry 4 GCSEs Grade 4-9 including English & Maths + Level 2 ICT or equivalent
  • Assessment Coursework + Practical Assessment
  • Age 16+

Six specialist lanes covered, from Web Developer to Network Engineer to Databases.

Admissions

Entry Requirements

What You'll Need

  • 4 GCSEs at Grade 4-9 including English and Maths
  • Level 2 Diploma in ICT Systems and Principles, or equivalent
  • Initial assessment in Maths and English at application
  • Successful interview with our team
Level 3 assumes you already have your key GCSEs. If you need to top up any Maths or English work, we can build it in alongside your course.
What You'll Learn

Specialist Skills, Real Pathways.

Level 3 is where you start to specialise. You’ll cover routing and switching configuration, networking fundamentals, system architecture, software testing, databases, security, and web development. Customer support runs alongside as a mandatory unit, because the skill that connects everything is being able to explain and fix real problems for real users.

By the end of the year you’ll have skills tailored to a specific job lane: Web Developer, IT Technician, Helpdesk Support, Network Engineer, Software Testing, Databases, or Customer Support. Assessment is coursework and practical observation, not one big final exam. And you’ll be positioned for either a Level 4 Diploma, a Higher Level Apprenticeship, or a specialist role in the sector.

Core Skills

  • Routing and Switching Configuration
  • Networking Fundamentals
  • System Architecture
  • Software Testing
  • Database
  • Security
  • Web Development

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.

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.

Cyber Security Professionals

Up to £72,302 /year

Cyber security professionals design, implement, test and maintain cyber security systems and track, investigate and analyse data linked to cybercrime.

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. Level 3 Level 3 Diploma ICT Systems and Principles for IT Professionals CG
  2. University or Employment
Our Facilities

Modern Computing Labs

You'll be based in our on-campus computing labs, working with the equipment and software the Level 3 curriculum needs.

  • Modern computing labs

    on-campus, set up for hands-on work with networking, web development, databases 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

Financial Support Available

Bursaries are available, and free meals are provided for those who qualify. If cost is a concern, there's help — and it's straightforward to apply.

Financial support info

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 3

Duration

1 year

Study Mode

Full-Time

Awarding Body

City & Guilds

Entry

4 GCSEs Grade 4-9 including English & Maths + Level 2 ICT or equivalent

Assessment

Coursework + Practical Assessment

Age

16+

Progression Routes

Route A: L3 → Level 4 Diploma OR HNC/HND (UCNL) OR Higher Level Apprenticeship OR industry

Ready to Specialise?

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

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