Business Intelligence and Databases (MAP)

This course is part of the Modular Acceleration Programme (MAP) that enables learners to study modules from a Higher Technical Qualification. More information on the MAP programme can be found here.

This module addresses the theoretical and practical design and use of information systems in a variety of contexts from small businesses to large scale operations. The use of database software will include an understanding of the structure and creation of relational database applications, as well as their uses, hosting, management and security. 

You will develop the skills to contribute to the design and development of data systems. You will study modern engineering methods, tools and systems used for statistical computing including predictive and strict analytics. Students will learn how organisations use Power BI as a tool for undertaking descriptive analytics through Business Intelligence. 

Delivery will be face-to-face and consist of a mixture of lectures, practical workshops and skills-lab sessions. Course delivery and assessment will run over 2 days per week, each 4.5 hours timetabled sessions, for 10 weeks. 

The module will comprise two 20 credit units from our HNC Applied Computing which is validated by the University of Plymouth.  

The component modules are: 

• EXCE1160 Business Intelligence and Big Data
• EXCE1159 Databases and Information Systems

There will be 3 assessments in total. A test, a written report on the analysis of an information system and a database product with supporting report. The assessments will be those used for full time learners studying the corresponding module. 

If learners fail any assessment, they will have the opportunity to resit over the summer referral period which finishes mid-August 2025. 

*Free tuition fees, with nothing for the student to pay. However the funding accessed for MAP will reduce the amount remaining in a future Lifelong Learning Entitlement account. 

You will need 64 UCAS tariff points. GCSE Maths and English is required at grade C (or 4) or above (or equivalent O Level). Relevant industry experience may also be considered an alternative.

Learners will be dual registered with the University of Plymouth as the validating University. This will permit learners access to further online resources to support learning. You will have access to a Learning Resource Centre (LRC) with a range of books and journals including many available electronically. Additionally, there is a suite of computers that can be booked to carry out individual work and research. You will also benefit from the faculty’s IT lab facilities, with technical support on hand. The IT Lab allows students to investigate the workings of modern PCs and networks in an accessible, controlled environment. There are multiple food outlets on the Hele Road site that sell refreshments and light snacks. 

A reading list will be provided and there will be a number of recommended textbooks that you are encouraged to purchase. Some of these texts will be available through our Learning Resource Centre, both in print and electronically. The College provides every student with free access to Office 365 and associated OneDrive storage. In addition, students have access to Microsoft Imagine software resources, e.g. operating systems, development tools at no additional cost. Students may freely access vendor specific learning resources, e.g. Microsoft Technical Associate (MTA) and sit related certifications exams at a reduced price. Throughout the course students are encouraged to participate in educational visits which may be separately priced.