ECDL Advanced is designed to assess the core software applications required in the workplace. It is a flexible distance learning course, so you can start at any time and learn at your own pace.

The course is made up of four modules: word processing software; spreadsheet software; presentation software; and database software. ECDL Advanced is a full Level 3 qualification that builds on the knowledge acquired on the Level 2 ECDL Extra course. It is designed to assess the core software applications required in the workplace.

Key course features

Qualification: ECDL Advanced (European Computer Driving License)

Level: Level 3

Mode: Part-time

Start Date: September 2013 or by flexible distance learning (start any time and learn at your own pace)

Fees: To be confirmed. Sorry, no concessions are available.

Who is this course for?

For more advanced IT users who want to develop their skills and enhance their career prospects. The course will allow you to develop skills using the Microsoft Office Suite (including Word, Excel, Database and PowerPoint). You will work towards this nationally recognised qualification, which tests an individual's competence at a much higher level with particular applications.

Entry requirements

You should have successfully completed ECDL Level 2 (Intermediate IT) or be able to demonstrate significant competence in the use of Microsoft Office and IT skills. Please call Pal Singh on 020 8326 6459 or email pal.singh@west-thames.ac.uk for further details.

About the course

The European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) Level 3 is designed to cover the key concepts of computing. The modules covered for Level 3 are word processing software, spreadsheet software, presentation software and database software.

Word processing software (Microsoft Word) 

• Use text effects such as subscript and superscript, animated text, different orientation and text wrapping
• Use automatic text formatting and correction, using and creating macros and field codes, creating advanced mail merges, automated captioning
• Create templates and master documents, inserting tables of contents, using sections and columns
• Create bookmarks and indexes, using footnotes and endnotes
• Create forms, text boxes and tables
• Create simple drawings and using drawing and image tools
• Insert/embed spreadsheet data and charts.

Spreadsheet software (Microsoft Excel) 

• Name a cell range, use automatic and conditional cell formatting
• Import data from other applications
• Use one and two input data and what-if tables
• Sort and query data
• Multiple criteria
• Use pivot tables and dynamic crosstabs
• Freeze data headings, hide rows, columns and worksheets
• Protect worksheets or cells, password protect
• Link data in worksheets and between worksheets and other applications
• Consolidate data across worksheets
• Create charts and graphs and adjust presentation
• Use a range of functions including text, statistical and lookup functions
• Record and run macros.
• Trace precedent and dependant cells in a worksheet
• Edit and add worksheet comments.

Presentation software (Microsoft PowerPoint)

• Understand how room and audience size and lighting etc. impacts on planning for a presentation
• Understand how audience demography and knowledge of subject requires the need to deliver the message differently
• Use of text and graphics, ensuring there is a consistent design to enhance clarity
• Awareness of issues with fonts and colours, such as colour blindness
• Create presentation with background, logo etc
• Insert pictures and images, change position or layout of pictures
• Omit background graphics from a slide
• Apply 3D effects, shadows, background fill colours, textures and patterns Crop, resize, rotate, flip an image
• Convert and image to greyscale or black and white format.
• Create and change a chart or graph
• Create and edit a flowchart.
• Insert sounds and movies with entry animation
• Introduce animated objects, animate chart elements and dim bullet points.
• Insert navigation to slides, presentations and URLs
• Apply and edit timings
• Create a customised slide show
• Link, modify and update text or data from a document or spreadsheet
• Create and run a macro
• Assign a macro to the toolbar.

Database software (Microsoft Access)

• Understand the use of various data types, create input masks and validation rules, set mandatory fields
• Understand and create data relationships, apply inner, outer and self joins
• Apply and use referential integrity
• Create queries to update, append and delete data and create new tables based on query data
• Group data in a query; use functions and logical expressions in a query
• Show duplicate records and highest/lowest values
• Use crosstab and parameter queries
• Create bound and unbound controls, combo, list and check boxes and option groups
• Set arithmetic and logical expression controls
• Set sequential order of controls on a form
• Create and modify subforms
• Create arithmetic, logical and percentage controls on a report
• Use formulas such as sum, max and count
• Create running summaries and data headings
• Create and run macros
• Assign macros to form/report controls
• Import and export data
• Link data to an external database.

How will I be assessed?

All four modules will be assessed by British Computer Society set assignments. You will be entered for the tests by your tutor, with opportunities to prepare through practice assignments. Duration for each module is 60 minutes.

Where next?

The Advanced ECDL is a modular course and a certificate is awarded for successfully passing a test for each module. If you pass all four ECDL Advanced modules, you will receive a full level 3 certificate from the British Computer Society and then you may apply for the ECDL Expert Certificate, which will entitle you for Associate Membership of the British Computer Society (AMBCS).

How to apply?

You do not need an interview for this course and do not need to complete the application form.

Provided you have the entry requirements for this course, you can either enrol in person at the college during our opening hours, or enrol by telephone with your credit/debit card on 020 8326 2303, Monday to Friday: 10am-12pm or 2pm-4pm.

If you are not sure if this course is right for you and you need advice before you enrol, please call our advisers on 020 8326 2020 or email: ciag@west-thames.ac.uk