ECDL
The European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) is the fastest-growing IT user qualification in the world. Internationally recognised and available in 148 countries, ECDL certifies that you have the knowledge and skills needed to use popular business computer applications.
Staff and students at the university can register with us and sit ECDL examinations on the Edinburgh campus.
The ECDL is managed and promoted in the United Kingdom by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT on behalf of the ECDL Foundation. We are an A-Status, BCS-accredited Test Centre for ECDL.
To find out more, register, or book a test contact ishelp@hw.ac.uk.
An intermediate level qualification demonstrating proficiency in popular business applications.
| Target Audience | Staff and students |
| Course Overview | ECDL is designed specifically for those who wish to gain a benchmark qualification in computing to enable them to develop their IT skills and enhance their career prospects. The ECDL consists of 7 modules - all of which must be passed to obtain the ECDL. Module 1 assesses your understanding of IT security from a user perspective. Modules 2 -7 assess your practical IT skills. |
| Content | M1 – Security for IT Users M2 – IT User Fundamentals M3 – Word Processing M4 – Spreadsheets M5 – Databases M6 – Presentations M7 – Using Email and the Internet |
| Tests | There are 7 tests - one for each module. Each module is tested under exam conditions in the teaching room on the 3rd floor of the library (Edinburgh campus) You are allowed 45 minutes to complete each test. The tests are automated. You get your result - pass or fail - at the end of the test. The pass mark for each test is 75% |
| Fees | Staff and students £50 registration fee (one-off) Staff - tests/resits - no charge Students £20 per test (7 tests for complete ECDL) £12 per resit |
| SCQF | ECDL is accredited on the SCQF - see BCS IT qualifications accredited in Scotland |
| Prerequisites | Basic computer skills would be an advantage. |
| Duration | The course fee includes access to the course materials for one year You must complete your ECDL within 3 years of your first test date |
ECDL surgeries and exams are currently held in the Library Training Room.
Surgery: we can help you with your exam preparations at these sessions or you can use this time to sit a mock test.
Exam: these sessions are for sitting ECDL examinations only.
| Month | Date | Time | |
| January | Surgery Exam |
Thursday 16 Friday 17 |
14:15 - 16:15 14:15 - 16:15 |
| February | Surgery Exam |
Monday 17 Friday 21 |
10:15 - 12:15 10:15 - 12:15 |
| March | Surgery Exam |
Wednesday 18 Friday 20 |
14:15 - 16:15 14:15 - 16:15 |
| April | Surgery Exam |
Wednesday 22 Friday 24 |
10:15 - 12:15 10:15 - 12:15 |
| May | Surgery Exam |
Tuesday 12 Thursday 14 |
10:15 - 12:15 10:15 - 12:15 |
| June | Surgery Exam |
Monday 15 Wednesday 17 |
14:15 - 16:15 14:15 - 16:15 |
| July | Surgery Exam |
Tuesday 14 Thursday 16 |
10:15-12:15 10:15-12:15 |
| August | Surgery Exam |
Monday 17 Wednesday 19 |
10:15-12:15 10:15-12:15 |
An advanced level qualification demonstrating high skill levels in popular business applications.
| Target Audience | Staff and students |
| Course Overview | The Advanced ECDL courses are supported self study with optional tutorials as required. You will be guided through a text book and a suggested programme of study. Staff and students will also be given access to supporting information on the VLE |
| Content | You can choose to study: AM3 - Word Processing AM4 - Spreadsheets AM5 - Databases AM6 - Presentations See Syllabus and mock tests for more information. |
| Tests | Each module is assessed by a one hour, closed book exam which is externally marked. |
| Fees | £65 per exam |
| SCQF | ECDL Advanced is accredited on the SCQF - see BCS IT qualifications accredited in Scotland |
| Prerequisites | ECDL or intermediate level of competence in application. |
| Duration | Depending on your level of competence each module will take approximately 30 hours to complete. |