The BTEC National Diploma is a course that has become popular over the years. Since ICT has evolved dramatically over the years, the BTEC National Diploma in ICT has become one of the most popular courses run by Edexcel. The National Diploma dates back to the 1930's when it was a full-time course, mainly participated by 16-18 year olds. Then it was known as Ordinary National Diploma. This became BTEC National Diploma after both Business Education Council (BEC) and Technician Education Council (TEC) combined to make BTEC.
The BTEC National Diploma is a Level 3 course. This means that the final grade is equivalent to three A Levels. The students are graded on their understanding of each unit. Overall, there are 18 units to complete in the course (9 units each year). The students are graded with pass, merit and distinction (distinction being the highest achievable mark). If the unit is not attempted, or doesn't achieve a pass mark, then the unit is failed. Each grade is equal to points. A pass is 2 points, merit is 4 points and a distinction is 6 points. A fail is obviously 0 points. However, there are two units that are worthed double. These are known as IVA (Integrated Vocational Assignment). Therefore, a pass is 4 points, merit is 8 points and a distinction is 12 points. The final grade of the BTEC National Diploma depends quite a lot on the IVA units.
Click here for BTEC National Diploma page in Edexcel
© Owen Davies, 2007
Business Calculations Author Information Business Calculations (Continued) Feedback Staff