ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Quality Control Software Development
The ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Quality Control in Software Development is a specialized vocational qualification designed to provide learners with foundational skills and knowledge essential for ensuring the quality, functionality, and reliability of software products. This program equips aspiring software testers, QA analysts, and junior developers with the practical tools and methodologies required to identify defects, maintain coding standards, and contribute to the delivery of high-quality software solutions.
In today’s technology-driven world, quality control in software development is critical for ensuring user satisfaction, system security, and operational efficiency. This diploma introduces learners to core principles such as software testing fundamentals, quality assurance processes, defect lifecycle management, and documentation standards. Emphasis is placed on both manual and automated testing techniques, version control systems, debugging practices, and compliance with industry-standard development frameworks such as Agile and DevOps.
Ideal for individuals beginning their careers in software development or quality assurance, this qualification blends theoretical concepts with hands-on practice to prepare learners for real-world environments. It also lays a strong foundation for further studies and certifications in software quality engineering, software development, or IT project management.
The ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Quality Control in Software Development supports learners in becoming valuable contributors to software teams, ensuring that technology products meet the highest standards of performance, usability, and compliance.
Level 3 Diploma in Quality Control Software Development
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Quality Control Software Development, applicants must meet the following entry requirements:
These requirements ensure that learners can fully engage with the course material and succeed in building foundational skills in software quality control. The qualification is accessible to a wide range of individuals, including school leavers, career changers, and those seeking to enter the IT or QA field.
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Quality Control Software Development, consists of 6 mandatory units.
- Fundamentals of Software Quality Assurance
- Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) and Testing Methods
- Defect Tracking and Reporting Systems
- Functional and Non-Functional Testing Techniques
- Test Planning and Execution
- QA Documentation and Compliance Standards
Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:
1. Fundamentals of Software Quality Assurance
- Understand the key principles and objectives of software quality assurance (SQA)
- Identify the role of QA in software development and delivery
- Recognise quality standards and best practices in software environments
2. Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) and Testing Methods
- Explain various phases of the SDLC and their importance to QA
- Compare different software development models (e.g., Waterfall, Agile)
- Apply appropriate testing methods at each phase of the SDLC
3. Defect Tracking and Reporting Systems
- Understand the lifecycle of a software defect
- Use defect tracking tools to log, monitor, and manage bugs
- Generate and interpret QA reports to support development teams
4. Functional and Non-Functional Testing Techniques
- Differentiate between functional and non-functional testing types
- Perform usability, performance, security, and compatibility tests
- Select appropriate testing techniques based on project requirements
5. Test Planning and Execution
- Develop comprehensive test plans aligned with project goals
- Design effective test cases and execute them systematically
- Analyse test results and document findings accurately
6. QA Documentation and Compliance Standards
- Produce essential QA documentation including test plans, reports, and checklists
- Understand industry standards for software quality compliance
- Maintain proper documentation to support audits and reviews
The ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Quality Control in Software Development offers a strong entry point into the dynamic and rapidly growing field of software quality assurance and development. Upon successful completion of this diploma, learners can pursue various academic, professional, and certification-based progression pathways to further enhance their knowledge and career opportunities.
1. Academic Progression
Learners can advance to higher-level qualifications such as:
- ICTQual AB Level 5 Diploma in Quality Control in Software Development – for deeper understanding of software testing frameworks, quality metrics, automation tools, compliance standards, and team leadership in QA environments.
- Diploma Programs in:
- Software Engineering
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Cybersecurity
- IT Project Management
2. Professional Development Opportunities
Graduates will be qualified for junior-level positions and can develop into more specialized roles, including:
- Junior Software Tester
- QA Analyst
- Test Automation Assistant
- Software Quality Coordinator
- Support Engineer (QA Focus)
With further experience and learning, progression may lead to:
- Senior QA Engineer
- Test Automation Engineer
- Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)
- QA Team Lead
- Software Project Quality Manager
4. Freelancing and Entrepreneurship
With practical knowledge and additional experience, learners may also explore:
- Freelance QA Testing Services for mobile apps, web applications, or enterprise software.
- Start-up Roles in software testing or bug-hunting platforms.
- Consultancy Support for small-scale software firms in quality control implementation.
This diploma acts as a foundation for a long-term and progressive career in software development and quality control, opening doors to both technical and leadership opportunities in the global tech industry.