Level 4 Diploma in Internet of Things (Smart Home)

This diploma carries 52 credits, not 120, so start by adjusting your expectations of what it is. It is a substantial short qualification at Level 4, roughly two fifths of the volume of the other diplomas on this site, and it does not stand in for a first year of a degree. Within that space it is unusually hands-on: Network Device Installation and Debugging (Smart Home), Integrated Wiring of Information Networks (Smart Home), Embedded Technology Applications (Smart Home), App End Application Development (Smart Home), Engineering (Smart Home) and System Integration (Smart Home) are the six units, and every one of them involves equipment.

Every unit needs kit: controllers, sensors, actuators, a wiring frame and a mobile app you build to tie them together, so ask LSPM how and where it provides the practical sessions before you apply. Learners come from electrical installation, AV and security installation, and from IT support wanting a foothold in building technology. Qualifi's entry conditions are broad; the practical one is that you are safe and competent with low-voltage wiring or willing to be trained. Because it is 52 credits, it is quicker to finish than a 120-credit diploma, and its value is in the skills and the Level 4 badge rather than in university progression.

Qualifi sets the entry requirements for this qualification and LSPM, as the approved centre, applies them when it assesses your application. As published by the awarding body:

• Approved Centres are responsible for reviewing and making decisions as to the applicant’s ability to complete the learning programme successfully and meet the demands of the qualification. The initial assessment by the centre will need to consider the support that is readily available or can be made available to meet individual learner needs as appropriate.
• The qualification has been designed to be accessible without artificial barriers that restrict access. For this qualification, applicants must be aged 18 or over.

Source: the Qualifi specification. If you are not sure whether your qualification counts as equivalent, send us the details and we will put the question to LSPM's admissions team, who make the decision.

Applicants must be 18 or over and LSPM judges suitability. Expect it to look for either an electrical or installation background or an IT background with willingness to learn wiring; basic electrical safety is taught, not assumed.

Practical installation and integration tasks observed by LSPM's assessors, supported by short written reports and a final integration project. There are no exams.

Assignments are set and marked by LSPM's tutors, moderated within LSPM and sampled by Qualifi before LSPM claims certificates. Draft feedback and resubmission arrangements are LSPM's own practice; confirm them at enrolment. How assessment works in full.

A full 120-credit Level 4 diploma in IT or networking if you want the year-one equivalent for degree purposes.

Smart home installer, building technology technician or AV integration roles.

Vendor training with specific smart home and building automation platforms, which this diploma prepares you for but does not include.