BCS Diploma in IT
Select the modules that match your chosen career path when you study the Diploma in IT – comparable to the second year of a university degree course.
Who is it for?
- The Diploma in IT is for students who understand the fundamental principles in IT and are ready to start developing specialist skills.
What are the entry requirements?
- You need to have passed, or been made exempt from, the BCS Certificate in IT
- You must be a BCS member to sit the exam
- You must be aged 16 years old and over
While not a requirement, it is recommended that those studying HEQ are working at International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Level 5.5 or above.
Apply for membership
What is the professional IT project?
- If you’re not going on to study the Professional Graduate Diploma in IT, you’ll need to complete a 5000-word professional IT project as part of your Diploma in IT.
Project guidance
Is there any exemption?
- If you already hold a qualification that covers the HEQ syllabus, you can apply for exemption from specific modules (no more than two).
Check exemption criteria
What will I learn?
A core module and three selected modules allowing you to tailor your learning.
Core module
Selected modules (choose three)
- Big data management syllabus
- Computer networks syllabus
- Database systems syllabus
- IT project management syllabus
- Object oriented programming systems syllabus
- Principles of internet technologies syllabus
- Smart systems syllabus
- Software engineering (part 1) syllabus
- Systems analysis and design syllabus
- User experience syllabus
- Web application development syllabus
Our qualification guide provides further information.
How do I get this qualification?
Complete training programme (recommended)
Complete your study with a BCS approved training provider - they're located around the world.
How long will it take?
We recommend a minimum of 225 hours of study for each module.
An additional 200 hours of study will be required if you need to complete a professional project in IT.
Where can I study?
We have BCS approved training providers in:
- Ghana
- Mauritius
- Nepal
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Sri Lanka
- Zimbabwe
How much does it cost?
Course prices vary depending on your chosen training provider and course format.
Exam and project only (study on your own)
Ideal if you’re self-motivated and already an understanding of the subjects of your chosen modules.
How long will it take?
- To prepare for your exam, we recommend a minimum of 225 hours of study for each module.
- You’ll sit a two-hour exam which covers all modules.
When can I sit my exams?
Find out more about the annual availability for HEQ exams.
Where do I sit my exam?
We have exam venues across the world, including Colombo and Reduit.
Where do I submit my project?
There are two assessment periods each year: March and September.
How much does it cost?
Exam price: £50
Project submission: £75
What format is the exam?
Written exam covering each module
- Two hour 'closed book' per module
- Pass mark: 40% per module
Need some help?
Read our guidance on exam technique for tips on what to do when you open your exam paper.
"Studying for BCS qualifications was the wisest decision I made - coupled with excellent teaching support, I was able to achieve the highest accolades."
What's next?
Complete your HEQ journey with the internationally-recognised BCS Professional Graduate Diploma in IT.
Professional Graduate Diploma in IT
- Demonstrate your knowledge and practical skills at degree level.
- You're eligible to sit the Professional Graduate Diploma in IT when you've achieved your Diploma in IT