• Access Duration:  1 Year
• Awarded by: Qualifi
• Qualification Level: Level 5 
• Qualification Number: 603/4791/0
• Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 600
• Total Qualification Time (TQT): 1200
• Credits: 120

• Understand and apply IT principles across a range of business and professional environments. 
• Understand and apply IT principles within specific professional or organisational contexts. 
• Enhance employability by exploring how management and IT theories connect with real-world IT practice. 
• Analyse and apply problem‑solving techniques that are relevant to business and industry. 
• Select, collate, review, and analyse information from a wide range of sources to support IT decision‑making. 
• Communicate effectively using appropriate verbal and written skills in IT settings. 
• Work independently and collaboratively as part of a team. 
• Manage personal development and growth, reflecting on learning and improving transferable skills. 

This course is ideal for:

• Further academic study in IT, computing, networking, cyber security, data, or related digital disciplines
• Progression to Level 6 IT, computing, or technology-focused qualifications, including university top-up programmes
• Entry to senior or specialist IT roles, such as IT support officer, network administrator, systems analyst, or digital operations specialist
• Roles requiring advanced IT knowledge, applied problem-solving, effective communication, and professional workplace skills

• Entry to this programme is through a friendly interview process conducted by South London College.  
• Learners are typically expected to have: A Level 4 qualification, such as a Qualifi Level 4 or a similar vocational award, or relevant experience in an organisational or workplace role, demonstrating motivation and the ability to develop further. 
• We warmly welcome applications from individuals without formal qualifications who have significant work experience, and upon applying, you will have the opportunity to demonstrate your readiness for the academic demands of the course through an interview.
• A good standard of English language knowledge is expected to support your academic success. If you would like advice or additional support, our dedicated Learner Support Team at South London College is always here to guide and assist you.  
• We are committed to ensuring you feel supported, confident, and fully prepared to take the next step in your educational journey. 

• This course can be completed through two flexible study options to suit your lifestyle:
  • Standard Course Plan (9 months) – ideal for learners balancing other commitments.
  • Fast Track Option ( 4 months) – perfect for those who can dedicate intensive study time.
• Most learners complete within their chosen timeframe, though some may finish earlier depending on personal circumstances and available study time. We accommodate your pace with unlimited support for 12 months. This Level 5 Diploma requires approximately 600 guided learning hours.

T&C apply

• There are no formal exams.
• QUALIFI provides written assessment tasks for each unit of the qualification, and South London College will conduct the assessments. All Learning Outcomes and Assessment Criteria must be met to successfully achieve the qualification. Assessment tasks are designed to be work-related, using practical examples wherever possible. Some units include practical assignments that will be observed by an assessor. Learners are required to use real organisational examples or case studies to support their answers. South London College will provide relevant case studies to the learners. A Candidate Workbook will be provided for each unit to record answers and supporting evidence.
• All assessments are internally marked by South London College. Final results are externally moderated by QUALIFI before certification.

Mentor Guidance and Support

Our experienced mentors will guide and support you throughout the assessment process. You can reach them via email

The Qualifi Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology is designed to deepen your understanding of IT systems, software development, networking, databases, and digital tools, while learning how to apply this knowledge effectively in complex, real-world, and organisational environments. This programme equips you with the practical skills, problem-solving ability, and professional confidence needed to progress to further academic study at Level 6.

Next Steps for a Potential Academic Progression Pathway  

• Step 1 – Level 6 Diploma in Information Technology
• Step 2 – BSc (Hons) Information Technology Top Up Degree
• Step 3 – Master’s in information technology

Alternative Pathways

• Level 5 Diploma in Cyber Security 
• Level 5 Diploma in Artificial Intelligence  

Step Up to Advanced IT Skills and Career Opportunities 

The Qualifi Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology is designed for learners who already have a solid IT foundation and want to develop advanced, workplace-ready skills. This hands-on programme covers areas such as IT systems, software development, networking, databases, and digital technologies, helping you apply your learning confidently in professional and organisational environments. 

Career opportunities and potential salaries in the UK (approximate, source: Glassdoor): 

• IT Analysts / Technical Consultants – £38,000 
• Digital Operations or Technical Support Officers – £36,000 
• Network or Systems Administrators – £35,000 
• IT Support Officers / Senior IT Technicians – £33,000

(Salaries vary by location, sector, and experience and are indicative only.) 

Graduates of the Level 5 Diploma in IT can progress to Level 6 study, top-up degrees, or specialised IT pathways in Computing, Networking, Cyber Security, or Data. They are also equipped for advanced junior to developing IT roles, with practical skills, problem-solving ability, and professional confidence that employers value. 

The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) is a non-ministerial government department responsible for regulating qualifications, exams, and assessments in England. Ofqual ensures that all qualifications offered by recognised awarding organisations meet rigorous national standards, giving you confidence that any Ofqual-regulated certificate is high-quality and widely accepted by employers and universities.