Belfast Metropolitan College
Profile
Isn’t it time we Met?
Belfast Metropolitan College is one of the largest Further and Higher Education Colleges in the United Kingdom with over 49,000 full-time and part-time enrolments.
The College offers local, national and international students the opportunity to select from a comprehensive programme of both full-time and part-time courses in a wide variety of disciplines. In addition to this, Belfast Met provides a full range of adult education courses in its buildings across Belfast, including around 100 outcentres.
Belfast Met has six main buildings located in Belfast City i.e. Millfield, College Square East, Brunswick Street, Whiterock, Tower Street and Castlereagh and each of these are easily accessed by public transport.
All of the College’s buildings provide state-of-the-art learning and teaching facilities. Where students study will depend on the programme they have chosen and all students have access to the wide variety of services and facilities available within each building.
There is a wide range of support available to our students which include: Guidance and Counselling, Careers Guidance, Disability Services, Student Finance Support, Childcare and Crèche provisions and Learning Resource Centres.
You can make it at the Met!
Belfast Metropolitan College is committed to not only providing students with a world-class academic experience but also to offering you a path to future employment. The range of employment support services includes Knowledge Transfer Partnerships, Mentoring and Coaching, Graduate Employment Services, Student Placements, Professional Development and Adult Apprenticeships.
For more details about the Belfast Met, check out the website: www.belfastmet.ac.uk or ring the College’s Course Hotline Tel: 02890 265 265
Featured courses
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HND in Administration and Information Technology (SQA)
Degree Title:
HND in Administration and Information Technology (SQA)
Degree description:
The rapid growth of information and communications technology and the increased emphasis given to administrative management and information processing has influenced the knowledge and skills required in the modern workplace. This SQA Higher National qualification gives you the broad spectrum of knowledge and skills involved in the administrative management and IT management process. It includes study of administrative and business methods and management, human resource and marketing management, issues in relation to business planning, statistics and law.
The course also covers extensive usage of the IT software currently used in the modern business for management, analysis and projection eg database and spreadsheet as management tools.
Administrative and IT management is an integral part of every employment sector so there are opportunities in every field and you may wish to progress into a junior management role in such a business. Alternatively, on completion of your HND you may wish to progress to a related university degree programme, e.g. students progress to point 3 on the BA Business Administration or Business Studies degrees at Edinburgh and Glasgow universities.
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Foundation Degree in Science, iMedia
Degree Title:
Foundation Degree in Science, iMedia
Degree description:
Multimedia technologies and techniques are now part of mainstream business, for example, interactive web sites, e-commerce, promotional videos, etc.
The Foundation Degree in iMedia consists of a number of units covering the areas of creativity and design in this field: the implementation of multimedia systems, the use of the Internet and Website management, and the design and implementation of multimedia systems, including the use of sound, music, animation and video.
The course will be delivered in a modular format within two semesters per year and includes a Work Placement component during the last semester.
Students may progress to BSc (Hons) Interactive Multimedia Design (Year 2) at University of Ulster, Jordanstown. -
HND in Interactive Media (BTEC)
Degree Title:
HND in Interactive Media (BTEC)
Degree description:
Multimedia technologies and techniques are now part of mainstream business, for example, interactive web sites, e-commerce, promotional videos, etc.
The BTEC Higher National qualification in Interactive Media consists of a number of units with an emphasis on the design and implementation of multimedia systems.
The remit of this course is to address the following:
• Provide education and training for a range of careers in Interactive Media through gaining a nationally recognised qualification.
• Provide opportunities for learners to develop the knowledge, understanding and range of skills and techniques for media assets such as animation, web site management, video and sound.
• Develop learners’ skills in communication and presentation.The course is delivered in a modular format within two semesters per year.
Students who have completed an HND in Interactive Media may seek employment in Design or Multimedia companies, Internet Service Providers or in-house IT Design Departments or may progress to BSc Honours Degree in Interactive Multimedia Design (University of Ulster, Jordanstown), or alternatively, they may apply to study a similar course at other Universities. -
Applied ICT Double Award GCE
Degree Title:
Applied ICT Double Award GCE (Applied A’ Level in ICT – equivalent to 2 A’ Levels)
Degree description:
Students will complete 12 units over 2 years i.e. 6 AS units and 6 A2 units.
Compulsory units include: The Information Age, The Digital Economy, The Knowledge Worker*, System Design and Installation, Web Development, Technical Support, Using Database Software*, Managing ICT Projects, Communications and Networks*, Multimedia, Using Spreadsheet Software, Programming. (* Externally assessed through examination)On successful completion of the course, students are ready for higher education at Foundation, Degree, or HND Level. Students may enrol on the following courses at Belfast Metropolitan College:
• Foundation Degree in Science and Multimedia
• Foundation Degree in Software Engineering
• SQA HND Administration and Information Technology
• BTEC HND Computing
• BTEC HND Interactive Media
Or students may enter employment in the Information Technology industry and other related sectors. -
HND in Computing (General) (BTEC)
Degree Title:
HND in Computing (General) (BTEC)
Degree description:
The Higher National Diploma in Computing will offer a level 5 qualification that provides access to university, careers in computing and higher level courses.
Current trends towards widespread communication, e-business and a proliferation of electronic devices in our society indicate the need for students to develop a detailed range of computing skills and techniques.
In order to develop the knowledge, understanding and skills of students in the field of computing, that are essential for successful performance in the modern workplace, the course will provide training in the areas of:
• Information systems and project management
• Understanding computer systems and computer networks
• Understanding and programming computing systems
• Multimedia and website design
• Understanding e-business and Internet technology
• Creating and accessing databases in e-business projectsThe two year course will be delivered in a modular format across two semesters per year.
Click here for more information
On successful completion of the first year, some specialisation may be possible in the second year. For information on second year HND Computing (General) units click here.
Students who have completed an HND in Computing may be able to transfer to the second year of the BSc Computing degree at Queen’s University, Belfast.
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National Diploma for IT Practitioners (Software Development) (BTEC)
Degree Title:
National Diploma for IT Practitioners (Software Development) (BTEC)
Degree description:
The National Diploma for IT Practitioners (Software Development) is for those who intend to have a career within commerce/industry in the area of Computing, Information Technology or Software Development. It can be considered as an alternative to study at A’ Level which will enable students to progress to Higher/Professional qualifications such as:
Foundation Degree courses in:Science and imedia
Software EngineeringHigher National Diploma courses in:
Computing
MultimediaThe course has been developed in the areas of Software, Computing and IT Systems and focuses on education and training for future IT practitioners who wish to be employed in a variety of types of technical work, such as analysis and design, programming, web site management etc.
The course consists of a number of units covering the areas of:
• Website design and management (Server and Client side)
• Advanced Spreadsheets
• Computer operating systems and hardware.
• Graphics and Animation
• Business Systems and the work of a Systems Analyst
• Programming in Visual Basic.Net -
Foundation Degree in Software Engineering
Degree Title:
Foundation Degree in Software Engineering
Degree description:
The aim of the Foundation Degree in Software Engineering is to provide students with the vocational knowledge and skills necessary for progression to employment in the Software Engineering industry or to an honours degree.
The course has been designed in conjunction with the University of Ulster and industrial partners from the software engineering sector.
Graduates may progress to an Honours Degree in Software Engineering or Communication Technology at the University of Ulster, Jordanstown.
Alternatively, graduates may apply to other universities to study a related honours degree, or, since this programme has been designed to meet the needs of the software engineering industry, graduates will be able to seek employment.
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National Diploma in Interactive Game Development (BTEC)
Degree Title:
National Diploma in Interactive Game Development (BTEC)
Degree description:
The Games industry is now the leading entertainment platform in the world.
The BTEC National Diploma Interactive Game Development qualification provides skills that are essential in this exciting sector.
For example, some units cover the areas of Game Design along with Game Platforms and Hardware. Other units cover key technical skills in Image Design, 3D Modelling, 3D Animation. Programming is also taught using Visual and Object orientated methods.
The course will be delivered in a modular format within two semesters per year.
Click here for more informationThis course can lead to the following higher level programmes:
Foundation Degree courses in:
Science and imedia
Software EngineeringHigher National Diploma courses in:
Computing -
Diploma in Digital Applications (DiDA)
Degree Title:
Diploma in Digital Applications (DiDA)
Degree description:
The Diploma in Digital Applications is made up of 4 units equivalent to 4 GCSEs. Students gaining a Diploma in Digital Applications will have access to a range of career and further education opportunities. Students learn and use a variety of skills throughout the course. These skills are in great demand and are recognised and highly valued by employers and colleges.
Many students choose to use their qualification to go straight into employment, rather than progress to Further Education, while others progress to either the Applied ‘A’ Level or National Diploma – Applied A Level ICT (Double Award) (Equivalent to 2 A Levels) – BTEC National Diploma in Interactive Game Development – BTEC National Diploma for IT Practitioners (Software Development).
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Certificate for IT Professionals (Software Development) OCR Level 3
Degree Title:
Certificate for IT Professionals (Software Development) OCR Level 3
Degree description:
OCR Level 3 Certificate for IT Professionals provides candidates with a high quality, industry-recognised award. It is a vocationally-related qualification that provides valuable opportunities for individuals to develop skills and gain underpinning knowledge and understanding which will support entry into the IT industry. This is an A level equivalent course which will help you to university or directly into a career in IT support and management. Six units for OCR Level 3 Certificate for IT Professionals, 80 UCAS points.
The course will be delivered in a modular format over two years and consists of a number of units covering the areas of:
• Website design and management
• Programming in Visual Basic.Net
• Database programming
• Business Systems and the work of a Systems Analyst
• Microsoft Accreditation -
Certificate for IT Professionals (ICT Systems Support) OCR Level 3
Degree Title:
Certificate for IT Professionals (ICT Systems Support) OCR Level 3
Degree description:
The OCR Level 3 Certificate for IT Professionals provides candidates with a high quality, industry-recognised award. It has been developed to address the needs of candidates wanting to gain employment in the IT support industry. This new qualification links closely to a candidate’s professional development and reflects the needs of employers. This is an A Level equivalent course which will help you to university or directly into a career in IT support and management. The course will be delivered in a modular format over 2 years. Six units for OCR Level 3 Certificate for IT Professionals, 80 UCAS points.
This is an intensive introduction to multi-user, multitasking network operating systems. Characteristics of the Linux Windows 2000, NT, and XP network operating systems will be discussed. Students will explore a variety of topics including installation procedures, security issues, back up procedures and remote access.
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Diploma for IT Professionals (ICT Systems Support) OCR Level 3
Degree Title:
Diploma for IT Professionals (ICT Systems Support) OCR Level 3
Degree description:
The OCR Level 3 Diploma for IT Professionals provides candidates with a high quality, industry-recognised award. It has been developed to address the needs of candidates wanting to gain employment in the IT support industry. This new qualification links closely to a candidate’s professional development and reflects the needs of employers. This is an A Level equivalent course which will help you get you to university or directly into a career in IT support and management. The course will be delivered in a modular format over 2 years. Eight units for OCR Level 3 Diploma for IT Professionals, 100 UCAS points.
This is an intensive introduction to multi-user, multitasking network operating systems. Characteristics of the Linux, Windows 2000, NT, and XP network operating systems will be discussed. Students will explore a variety of topics including installation procedures, security issues, back up procedures and remote access.
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Certificate for IT Practitioners (ICT System Support) OCR Level 2
Degree Title:
Certificate for IT Practitioners (ICT System Support) OCR Level 2
Degree description:
This course will prepare you for a career as a Junior PC technician. This specialist training course introduces you to PC building and troubleshooting, computer networking, and information systems. You will develop practical skills in problem solving and team working applied to computer networks. you can also study GCSE Maths/English as part of your course. You will also develop key/functional skills in Number, Information Technology and Communication.
You can progress to:
• Level 3 iPRO qualifications in Systems Support
• Other IT qualifications such as Applied ICT or Microsoft Certified Professional
• An IT career, for example as an IT Technician. -
Diploma for IT Practitioners (ICT System Support) OCR Level 2
Degree Title:
Diploma for IT Practitioners (ICT System Support) OCR Level 2
Degree description:
This course will prepare you for a career as a Junior PC technician. This specialist training course introduces you to PC building and troubleshooting, computer networking, and information systems. You will develop practical skills in problem solving and team working applied to computer networks. You can also study GCSE Maths/English as part of you course. You will also develop key/functional skills in Number, Information Technology and Communication. The course will be delivered in a modular format over 1 year. Three units for OCR level 2 Certificate for IT Practitioners.
The course consists of a number of units covering the areas of:
• Provide customer support
• Installing Hardware/Equipment and Systems
• Microsoft Certified Desktop Support TechnicianYou can progress to:
• Level 3 iPRO qualifications in Systems Support
• Other IT qualifications such as Applied ICT or Microsoft Certified Professional
• An IT career, for example as an IT Technician -
Games, Web & iMedia Technology (BTEC First Diploma in Media)
Degree Title:
Games, Web & iMedia Technology (BTEC First Diploma in Media)
Degree description:
The course is comprised of 7 units – 3 mandatory core units and 4 specialist units.
The core units are:
• Introduction to Media Industries
• Research for Media Production
• Introduction to Media Audiences and ProductsThe specialist units enable you to study particular areas in more depth and topics include:
• Website Design
• iMedia Production
• Computer Games TechnologyA BTEC First Diploma provides a good foundation to progress to a more advanced course such as a BTEC National Diploma or Certificate in a wide range of disciplines. With further training or study, students might go into careers which include:
• Web Design
• Game Design
• iMedia Production
• Software Engineering -
National Diploma for IT Practitioners (IT and Business) (BTEC)
Degree Title:
National Diploma for IT Practitioners (IT and Business) (BTEC)
Degree description:
The National Diploma for IT Practitioners (IT and Business) is for those who intend to have a career within commerce/industry in the area of Computing or Information Technology. It can be considered as an alternative to study at ‘A’ Level which will enable students to progress to Higher/Professional qualifications such as:
• Foundation Degrees courses in: Science and imedia or Software Engineering
• Higher National Diploma courses in: Computing or MultimediaThe course has been developed in the areas of Computing and IT Systems and focuses on education and training for future IT Practitioners who wish to be employed in a variety of types of IT employment. The course will be delivered in a modular format within 2 semesters per year. IT and Business units – Communication and Employability Skills, Computer Systems, Information Systems, Organisational Systems, e-Commerce, Impact of the Use of IT. Software Development units – Communication and Employability Skills for IT, Computer Systems, Information Systems, IT Systems Analysis and Design, Principles of Software Design and Development, Event Driven Programming.
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