AAQ Level 3 Cambridge Advanced National Level 3 Extended Certificate

If you are interested in developing expertise in data analysis, statistical interpretation, and digital insights with a view to progressing onto higher education courses or entering the rapidly growing data science sector, then the OCR Level 3 Cambridge Advanced National in IT: Data Analytics is the right course for you. It is a nationally recognised qualification which will prepare you for many careers in data-driven industries and further study at degree level and beyond.

You will study the field of data analytics, which involves extracting meaningful insights from large datasets to inform business decisions and solve real-world problems. You will be looking at the fundamentals of data collection, processing, visualisation, and interpretation, as well as how organisations use data to drive strategic decisions. This will involve studying database management, statistical analysis, data mining techniques, business intelligence systems, and the ethical considerations surrounding data usage. You need to have a keen interest in mathematics, statistics, and how data can be used to understand patterns and trends in the modern digital world.

Course Content

Five units comprising:

• Fundamentals of Data Analytics (External Assessment)
• Big Data and Machine Learning (External Assessment)
• Spreadsheet Data Modelling (NEA - mandatory)

Plus two optional NEA units chosen from:

• Relational Database Design
• Data and the Internet of Everything (IoE)
• Data Visualisation
• Data and Digital Marketing

 

Examinations

You will be assessed through units of work comprising both externally assessed examinations and Non-Examined Assessments (NEA):

Externally Assessed Units:

• Two units are externally assessed through written examinations (paper-based).
• Each examination is available in January and June assessment series.
• Students may resit each external assessment twice before certification, with the best result counting towards the final grade.

Non-Examined Assessment (NEA) Units:

• Three to five units are internally assessed through moderated coursework.
• OCR sets all NEA assignments, with each assignment remaining live for two years.
• Teachers assess students' work against specific assessment criteria, with OCR moderators reviewing samples from each centre.

Grading System: Unit grades range from Near-Pass to Distinction*, and the overall qualification grades are Distinction*, Distinction, Merit, Pass, or Unclassified. The final qualification grade is determined by the combined Uniform Mark Scale (UMS) points from all units, meaning every mark counts towards the overall outcome.

 

Exam Board: OCR

Entry Requirements: Level 2 merit in IT or 4 in GCSE computing/computer science, and grade 4 in GCSE English and mathematics.

Suitable course if you are interested in: understanding how data drives business decisions; developing analytical and problem-solving skills; statistical analysis and forecasting; database design and management; data visualisation and business intelligence; working with big data and emerging technologies

Leading to a career in: data science, machine learning engineering, artificial intelligence science, data engineering, data architecture, database administration, digital marketing, business intelligence development, IT consultancy, data visualisation design

This subject goes well with: maths, business, psychology, economics