Undergraduate Advanced Diploma in IT Systems Analysis and Design

This Oxford University Advanced Diploma gives you essential grounding in the principles of systems analysis and design, without requiring programming experience. You will explore the full lifecycle of system development: how software systems are planned, modelled and organised, which is a crucial skillset across all industries. 

The course introduces you to the key techniques used to plan and design systems, from mapping how data moves through a system to structuring databases and designing user interfaces. You’ll also explore both traditional methods still found in existing systems and modern approaches such as Agile and object-oriented design. 

Rather than writing code, you’ll focus on the logic, design and problem-solving skills that underpin software development. Through case studies, assignments and a collaborative team project, you will learn how to shape system requirements, design effective solutions, and work effectively with developers, stakeholders and end users. 

This course is delivered entirely online and is taught at third-year undergraduate level (FHEQ Level 6), providing an excellent bridge to further study as well as preparation for professional roles in IT systems analysis, design and management.  

The Advanced Diploma is designed for professionals who want to formalise and extend skills they might already use in the workplace (such as interacting with databases, spreadsheets or management systems), while also opening up new opportunities for career progression or further study. There are no formal entry requirements, but you will need some prior experience of interacting with software in a work or academic setting. When you apply, you’ll be asked to outline your experience so we can make sure this Level 6 course is the right fit. 

The course prepares you for a wide range of roles in any industry that sit at the intersection of business and technology, from analysis and database design to systems architecture, application planning, and technology-focused management. 

 Many students go on to work as systems or business analysts, database or application designers, project team members, or in bridge roles that connect users and technical teams. 

Students join this course from across the world and come from diverse professional backgrounds, creating a collaborative and stimulating learning environment. It is a rigorous, year-long programme that requires around 10–15 hours of study each week, but the fully online format is designed to be flexible enough to fit around your other commitments. 

The course is delivered entirely online in five modules, each lasting around seven weeks and including time to complete each module assignment. As the course is asynchronous, you study at the times that suit you, supported by your personal tutor and tutor group. 

Each module is guided by online learning materials and combines reading web-based resources, completing self-study exercises, taking part in group activities with other students, and writing and submitting the module assignments. Some collaborative exercises are time-bound to help you engage with your peers in a structured way, alongside the more flexible discussions that run throughout the course. 

The virtual classroom forms an integral part of the course, allowing you to discuss topics with your fellow students and course tutors. In common with undergraduate life here at Oxford, a 'virtual common room' is available so that you can chat with others in your group on more wide-ranging matters, an ideal way of getting to know each other. 

Course Director: Dr Sepideh Chakaveh 

Along with Dr Sepideh Chakaveh, the teaching panel includes a number of experienced tutors – not only in their subject but in teaching adult students. They understand the learning needs of students returning to education and will be able to advise you on subject-based study skills throughout the course. 

If you are returning to learning after a period of time, we run a number of Study Skills workshops to help you with study techniques or to write essays. You can obtain information by contacting studyskills@conted.ox.ac.uk or +44 (0)1865 280728. 

Click the 'Apply' button to request the online application link. We will email you the form and application guidance, usually by the next working day.  

You should allow plenty of time to complete the application form, and upload any supporting documents required. You should also allow sufficient time for your referee(s) to submit their reference by the application deadline. 

You will need to upload the following documents as part of your application: 

English language requirements

Please check the information on the specific English language requirements for this course. Applicants are required to have the standard level scores.

Students who successfully complete this course will be awarded an Oxford University Undergraduate Advanced Diploma in IT Systems Analysis and Design. You will be invited to celebrate at the annual Awards Ceremony, held at Oxford’s Sheldonian Theatre. 

The Advanced Diploma carries a Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS) rating of 60 points at FHEQ Level 6. Outstanding performance will qualify for a Distinction. These credit points are widely recognised in terms of credit for transfer to other higher education institutions, including the Open University and modular universities such as Oxford Brookes University.  

Opportunities vary for the transfer of credit, so students who are considering taking this course in order to transfer credit are advised to discuss the possibilities with the Course Administrator at undergraduate@conted.ox.ac.uk.  

Learn more about the Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS points). 

On 11 May 2021 the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) published new regulations and guidance to be used in assessing the fee status of students commencing courses in August 2021 and later. We will be using this guidance to carry out fee status assessments for students commencing courses in 2026/27, including students from the EU, EEA and Switzerland. If you are an EU national and do not live in the UK then you are likely to be charged Overseas fees. Students with settled and pre-settled status in the UK and some other categories of students who work in the UK can qualify for Home fee status as long as they meet the residence criteria. 

Information on financial support can be found on our website here. 

We offer many courses in technology across various study formats and at different levels of study. 

Some students choose to continue their studies with an MSc in Software Engineering. 

If you are planning on embarking on a new career as a result of your studies, or hope to progress in your current field, you can access help and advice through the University Careers Service.