AAQ Computing - Application Development Extended Certificate (360 GLH)
BackCourse Information
What does the course involve?
The OCR Level 3 Cambridge Advanced National in Computing: Application Development (Extended Certificate) develops students’ knowledge and practical skills in designing, developing, testing and reviewing software applications. Learners explore how applications are planned and built to meet user needs, alongside the technical, legal and security considerations involved in modern application development.
Students will gain experience of real-world development practices, including analysing client requirements, designing user interfaces, working with data and APIs and creating functional software solutions.
The course covers five units, including:
Mandatory Units:
Fundamentals of Application Development (F160)
Covers the application development lifecycle, software development models, project planning, application design scoping, human–computer interaction, and job roles within application development.
Developing Application Software (F161)
Focuses on how applications are built and deployed, including data flow in applications, APIs and protocols, application security, legal considerations, and operational deployment.
Designing and Communicating UX/UI Solutions (F162)
Develops skills in user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design, including creating design documents, wireframes, and communicating design solutions to clients.
Optional Units (students must complete two):
- Game Development (F163)
- Website Development (F164)
- Immersive Technology Solution Development (F165)
- Software Development (F166)
Across these units, students apply their learning through practical assignments, creating and evaluating applications that meet specific user and client requirements.
Is it for me?
This course is designed for post-16 learners who are interested in how software applications are designed and built in real-world contexts. It is suitable for students who enjoy problem solving, creativity, logical thinking, and working with technology.
It suits students aiming to:
- Progress to higher education or higher apprenticeships in Computing, Software Engineering, Computer Science, or related disciplines
- Develop skills for careers in application development, web and mobile development, UX/UI design, or software testing
- Build transferable skills such as project planning, communication, independent learning, and analytical thinking
How will I be assessed?
The qualification includes a combination of externally assessed exams and internally assessed coursework (Non-Exam Assessment, NEA):
40% Exam: Units F160 and F161, externally set and marked by OCR
60% Coursework (NEA): Practical assignment-based units assessed internally and moderated by OCR
Where can this course take me?
This qualification provides a strong foundation for progression to further study or employment in the digital and computing sectors.
Possible progression routes include:
- Undergraduate degrees such as Computer Science, Software Engineering, Cyber Security, Web and Mobile Development, Game Development, or UX/UI Desig
- Higher apprenticeships in Software Development, Digital Technology Solutions, or Application Support
- Entry-level roles such as Junior Software Developer, Web Developer, Application Tester, or UX/UI Assistant
Entry Requirements
5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above (a grade 4 in IT/Computer Science and/or science would be an advantage).
Additional Costs
Costs for trips, workshops, or additional materials will be advised.
Additional qualifications
Subjects that complement this course:
- Computer Science
- IT Data Analytics
- Cyber Security and Networks
- Mathematics
- Business
- Design and Technology
UCAS tariff points
Yes
Why choose this course?
This qualification is equivalent to one A Level, making it an excellent addition to a wider Level 3 study programme.
The OCR AAQ in Application Development allows students to develop applied knowledge and practical skills that are directly relevant to higher education and the digital sector. It combines theoretical understanding with coursework-based learning, enabling students to demonstrate their abilities through real-world tasks as well as written assessment.
This course helps prepare students for progression to university study, higher apprenticeships, or employment in computing and digital industries.
