The OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology develops advanced IT knowledge and practical skills through six mandatory units, preparing learners for employment, further study, and business-re...
This Ofqual-regulated qualification is a one-year, 120-credit diploma with six mandatory units, 1200 TQT, 480 GLH, English assessment, pass/fail grading, and coursework-based evaluation.
Ofqual-regulated OTHM qualification
120 credits over 1 year
1200 Total Qualification Time (TQT)
480 Guided Learning Hours (GLH)
6 mandatory units only
Assessed by coursework with pass/fail grading
The OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology is designed to provide learners with an excellent foundation for a career in a range of organisations. OTHM states that it is intended to make each learner business ready, with detailed knowledge of information technology and the ability to adapt rapidly to change.
Builds detailed Level 5 knowledge across core IT disciplines
Develops business-ready technical and analytical capability
Covers software, databases, systems, networks, and projects
Supports roles in private and public sector organisations
Regulated and recognised on the UK RQF by Ofqual
Creates progression opportunities to higher study and employment
The diploma develops knowledge and applied skills across the six mandatory units published in the official specification. Learners build capability in design, development, analysis, networking, management information, and IT project delivery.
Understand modelling languages and apply UML and object-oriented software development techniques.
Understand database concepts and design, develop, test, and document relational database systems.
Analyse business requirements and produce documented system requirements, functional models, and data models.
Understand organisational information system requirements and use systems to produce management information.
Understand networking principles, protocols, standards, monitoring, and practical network setup and configuration.
Analyse business objectives, plan and manage IT projects, and evaluate project outcomes and lessons learned.
This qualification is aimed at learners seeking a strong Level 5 IT pathway for career development or further study. OTHM identifies it as suitable for those already in, or planning to enter, private or public sector business environments.
Learners progressing from a relevant Level 4 qualification
Aspiring IT professionals seeking broader technical and business capability
Junior practitioners wanting formal progression in information technology
Learners preparing for senior study at Level 6 or university top-up routes
Individuals planning careers in private sector organisations
Individuals planning careers in public sector organisations
Entry to the qualification is based on OTHM’s published requirements for prior study, age, and English language competence.
Relevant NQF/QCF/RQF Level 4 Diploma or equivalent
Learners must be aged 18 or over at the start of the course and, where applicable, provide evidence of English language competency
The official specification confirms that all units are assessed by coursework, internally assessed by the centre, and externally verified by OTHM against all learning outcomes and assessment criteria.
All units are assessed by coursework
Assessment is internally carried out by the centre
Assessment decisions are externally verified by OTHM
Learners must achieve all learning outcomes and meet all assessment criteria for a pass
Successful completion of the qualification provides academic and career progression routes. OTHM confirms progression to the Level 6 Diploma in Information Technology and eligibility for direct entry to the final year of a three-year UK Bachelor’s degree.
Progress to the OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Information Technology
Gain eligibility for direct entry to the final year of a three-year UK Bachelor’s degree
Progress to further higher education opportunities
Progress into relevant employment in IT and business environments
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