International Diploma in Computer Studies (IDCS) -NCC - UK.

IDCS Course Schedule

Here is the current IDCS study schedule identifying when each module will run during the next 18 to 24 months. By reviewing the schedule it is possible to select the timing of modules to suit your particular circumstances and thereby plan to complete the programme at your own pace.

Candidates working on one module at a time can expect to complete the course in around 18 months. If they work on two modules concurrently, the study time can be reduced.

More than 2 exams will be permitted at one sitting if students are required to re-sit subjects which they have failed.

IDCS Course Modules

Compulsory Modules

DCT201 - Computer Technology

(Current start dates are 18 Jun 2001, 17 Dec 2001, 17 Jun 2002 or 16 Dec 2002)

To give candidates a detailed and secured foundation in the various computer technologies that they must master in order to function effectively in a technical role.

DSD202 - Systems Development

(Current start dates are 16 Jul 2001, 14 Jan 2002 or 15 Jul 2002)

To give candidates knowledge of the methods, disciplines, techniques and skills used by IT systems development teams so that they have a thorough appreciation of how such teams operate, and the implications for the business users and customers of IT systems.

DBO203 - Business Organisation

(Current start dates are 17 Sep 2001, 11 Mar 2002 or 16 Sep 2002)

To give candidates an understanding of the various types of organisation, the principal functional areas within organisations, the information needs of organisations and the needs of employees in the workplace.

DBC204 - Business Communication

(Current start dates are 15 Oct 2001, 15 Apr 2002 or 14 Oct 2002)

To equip candidates with the necessary skills to communicate effectively with both IT practitioner and users of information systems and to understand the broader information needs of organisation.

Electives

(Current start dates for all Electives in 2001 are 18 Jun, 16 Jul, 17 Sep, 15 Oct or 17 Dec)

(Current start dates for all Electives in 2002 are 14 Jan, 11 Mar, 15 Apr, 17 Jun, 15 Jul, 16 Sep, 14 Oct or 16 Dec)

Topic - Computer Programming

• DEE001 - Structured Programming Methods (compulsory, within elective major)

This module focuses on the development of transferable ideas and skills. It aims to give students a thorough grounding in the key concepts, techniques and methods that have emerged over time. The skills and understanding developed in this elective should be sufficiently broad for students to be able to adapt to different software production situations with confidence and minimal adjustment to their understanding of the process.

• DEE002 - Visual Basic 6

This module provides students with a firm foundation and knowledge of the Visual Basic 6 programming environment based upon good programming techniques and practical exercises.

• DEE003 - Java

This syllabus has been developed with the aim of enabling students to understand the core principles of JAVA and to produce well-designed, effective applications using some of the more advanced features of the language.  

Topic - Computer Technical Support 

• DEE004 - A+ (PC Support Technician)

The syllabus aims to provide the student with a thorough understanding of the technical and practical skills involved in PC technical support and is divided into hardware and software support. It is based on the CompTIA (computing Technology Industry Association) A+ syllabus.

• DEE005 - Networking

The syllabus aims to provide students with the technical skill requirements for basic network operation. Topics will cover the basic concepts and technologies of transmission and communication, discuss the international standards used within the network environment, the physical design of 5 major networking topologies and compare common network protocols and networking hardware. Students will discuss the OST reference model and the stages and tools used in the network design process.

Topic - Internet and Multimedia

• DEE006 - Developing a Web Site

This module is intended to complement the e-commerce module. The syllabus is designed to enable candidates to design and build a relatively complex web site based on sound design and business principles. This module concentrates on the technical skills that are needed to create and manage a web site.

• DEE007 - Multimedia

This module is aimed at exploring the techniques involved in the design of effective multimedia interactive systems. Emphasis is placed on understanding the concepts of multimedia and its application.

Topic - E-Commerce

• DEE008 - E-Commerce

The syllabus of this module is intended to provide the candidate with a thorough understanding of the major issues associated with the development of e-commerce solutions and applications particularly in relation to both the business and commercial considerations and the technical requirements.

Topic - General

• DEE009 - Computerised Accounting

The aim of this module is to give the student an understanding of computer-based accounting systems. The module will not only cover the practical use of accounts in an information system, but will also give the student an insight into the basic accounting procedures and the need for financial control, and ensure that students appreciate the basic requirements of a computerised accounting program.

• DPJ200 - Practical Project

(Current start dates are 16 Jul 2001, 15 Oct 2001, 15 Apr 2002 or 14 Oct 2002)

The aim of this module is to provide students with practical experience in the application of the subjects studied as electives. All work undertaken for a project must be additional to any work produced during the course as assignments.