Level 3 Certificate in Python

What is the Level 3 Certificate in Python?

The objective of the OTHM Level 3 Certificate in Python provide the learner with the essential skills necessary to write programs in the Python programming language, for a variety of purposes. This certificate is suitable for those who are new to Python, and have little programming knowledge, providing a comprehensive overview of the basics. This might include students, or professionals wishing to advance their technical skills and career.

The qualification provides learners with an understanding of the syntax, structure, and best programming practices in Python, and takes them from writing basic “Hello World” programs in interactive Jupyter notebooks, to more complex programs that make use of a range of data types, functions, classes and control flow, and are spread over multiple files.

As well as teaching learners how to program in Python, this certificate will give them the opportunity to practise and advance a variety of transferable skills, including problem-solving, logical thinking, and a better understanding of the structure and function of programming languages.

Upon completion of the certificate, learners will have the necessary skills to understand and build a range of essential programs, such as text-based games, simple automation scripts, and programs for data analysis and manipulation. The knowledge and skills they will gain as part of this certificate will provide them with a solid foundation that will also allow them to progress on to more advanced concepts and techniques in the Python programming language.

Who is this qualification for?

This Level 3 certificate suits school leavers, career changers and adult learners who want a regulated route into python or into Level 4 study without A-levels.

• Study fully online with tutor support from LSIB, with no fixed timetable.
• Assessment by assignments, so you can evidence learning from your own workplace.

Entry requirements

These qualifications are designed for learners who are typically aged 16 and above.

The entry profile for learners is likely to include at least one of the following:

• Relevant Level 2 Diploma qualification or equivalent qualification.
• GCSEs in 5 subjects or equivalent qualifications. Must include Mathematics and Physics at grade C/5 or above.
• Mature learners (over 21) with relevant management experience (learners must check with the delivery centre regarding this experience prior to registering for the programme)

English requirements:If a learner is not from a majority English-speaking country, they must provide evidence of English language competency. For more information visit the English Language Expectations page on the OTHM website.

Qualification structure and units

Unit details are published in the OTHM specification.

Source: OTHM qualification specification (PDF) · Ofqual qualification number 610/5280/2.

Duration and delivery

The qualification is designed to be delivered over six months full-time study, but it is also flexible in its delivery in order to accommodate part-time and distance learning.

The qualification is delivered face-to-face, through lectures, tutorials, seminars, distance, online by approved centres only.

At LSIB the qualification is delivered online: you receive the unit materials, assignment briefs and tutor support through the learning platform and submit assignments when you are ready. There are no fixed lecture times, so you can start in any month.

How you are assessed

All units within this qualification are assessed and internally quality assured by the centre and externally verified by OTHM. The qualifications are criterion referenced, based on the achievement of all the specified learning outcomes.

To achieve a ‘pass’ for a unit, learners must provide evidence to demonstrate that they have fulfilled all the learning outcomes and meet the standards specified by all assessment criteria. Judgement that the learners have successfully fulfilled the assessment criteria is made by the assessor.

Specific assessment guidance and relevant marking criteria for each unit are made available in the Assignment Brief document. These are made available to centres immediately after registration of one or more learners.

The assessor should provide an audit trail showing how the judgement of the learners’ overall achievement has been arrived at.

Progression and career routes

Successful completion of the OTHM Level 3 Certificate in Python provides learners with the opportunity to access a wide range of academic progression, including the OTHM Level 4 or Extended Level 5 Diploma in Cyber Security.

As this qualification is approved and regulated by Ofqual (Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulation), learners are eligible for a range of progression routes. For more information visit the University Progressions page on the OTHM website.

Fees and how to apply

The enrolment fee is £10 when you submit your application. It is separate from the course fee above.

1. Apply and pay the £10 enrolment fee Use Apply now to open the application form with this programme pre-selected. Complete the form, upload your ID and qualification certificates (or a CV showing relevant experience), and pay the £10 enrolment fee to submit.
2. Application review and course-fee link Admissions review your application within one working day. If you are approved, we email you a secure link to pay the course fee in full or on an instalment plan.
3. Start your course As soon as your course fee (or first instalment, if you chose a plan) is paid, you receive your learning-platform login and can begin the first unit. There is no fixed intake date.

Progression path

1. Level 3 Certificate
2. Level 6 Certificate in Python

Related OTHM qualifications

• Level 3 Award in Assessing Vocationally Related Achievement
• Level 3 Certificate in Principles of Aesthetics
• Level 3 Diploma in Adult Health and Social Care

Other OTHM Python qualifications

• Level 6 Certificate in Python