Level
Level 5
Credits
120
Guided Learning
600
Total Qualification Time
1200
Qualification overview
A simple summary of who this qualification is for and what learners can expect.
About this qualification
The IQA Level 05 Advanced Diploma in Automotive Communication Network Systems is an IQ Awards qualification at Level 5. It supports learners in developing knowledge, practical skills and professional behaviours in automotive engineering.
The qualification is structured for clear delivery, assessment and quality assurance through approved centres.
Who is it for?
- Learners with prior study, training or work experience who want to develop specialist knowledge.
- Professionals seeking career progression or a recognised route into higher-level study.
- Centres delivering practical, work-related learning for local or international learners.
Entry and assessment guidance
Centres should check learner suitability before registration.
Entry requirements
- Entry is at the discretion of the approved centre.
- Learners will normally hold a qualification at the previous level or have relevant work experience.
- Learners should be able to research, analyse and apply concepts within automotive engineering.
- Centres should confirm that learners have sufficient English language ability for higher-level study.
Assessment approach
Assessment may include assignments, projects, practical evidence, workplace evidence, portfolios, presentations or other centre-devised assessment methods approved under IQ Awards quality assurance.
Language requirements
Centres should ensure learners have sufficient language competency to complete learning and assessment.
Qualification units
Jump to any unit below. Each unit opens with its own learning outcomes, criteria and content where available.
Unit 1 of 6
Automotive Communication Network Fundamentals
ACN5501
Learning outcomes
- LO1 Analyse advanced principles, technologies and professional requirements relevant to Automotive Communication Network Fundamentals.
- LO2 Diagnose complex technical or operational problems using appropriate evidence and analytical methods.
- LO3 Design and justify an integrated technical, operational or management response.
- LO4 Evaluate implementation risk, performance, compliance and improvement requirements.
Assessment criteria
- 1.1 Analyse principal concepts, systems and professional requirements. 1.2 Compare alternative technical or management approaches and their limitations.
- 2.1 Interpret relevant technical, operational and quantitative evidence. 2.2 Diagnose root causes and distinguish symptoms from underlying problems.
- 3.1 Develop a feasible response using appropriate calculations, technical methods, controls and resources. 3.2 Justify the selected approach against realistic alternatives.
- 4.1 Evaluate safety, quality, cost, sustainability, compliance and implementation risk. 4.2 Recommend measurable improvements, controls and performance indicators.
Unit aim
This unit develops the learner's knowledge, analytical capability and professional judgement in Automotive Communication Network Fundamentals, with emphasis on applied problem solving, safe and ethical practice, evidence-based decision making and measurable performance.
Indicative content
Core principles and terminology of Automotive Communication Network Fundamentals; relevant engineering or management systems; professional standards and responsibilities; technical and operational analysis; data interpretation; diagnostics or problem solving; planning and implementation; health, safety and environmental considerations; quality assurance; legal and ethical responsibilities; stakeholder communication; risk management; sustainability; performance measurement; documentation and continuous improvement. Subject-specific coverage: CAN; LIN; FlexRay; Automotive Ethernet; gateways; topology; diagnostics; oscilloscopes; network traffic; UDS concepts; connected systems.
Assignment brief
- Assignment title: Automotive Communication Network Fundamentals - Applied Professional Assignment
- Scenario: The learner acts in a realistic engineering, automotive, transport, port, asset-management or HSE role relevant to Automotive Communication Network Fundamentals. A manager or client has requested an evidence-based response to a defined technical or organisational problem.
- Task 1 - Critical/technical analysis: explain and analyse the relevant principles, standards, systems and evidence; identify material risks, constraints and root causes.
- Task 2 - Applied output: produce a professional technical report, diagnostic plan, management framework, design, strategy, inspection, calibration, maintenance, project or improvement plan appropriate to the unit. Include assumptions, calculations, methods, controls and records where relevant.
- Task 3 - Evaluation: evaluate the proposed or completed work against safety, quality, cost, compliance, sustainability and performance requirements; justify recommendations and improvement actions.
- Evidence requirement: one coherent 3,000-3,500-word equivalent submission plus the named applied output and supporting technical evidence. Use an approved academic referencing style and map evidence clearly to all assessment criteria. Practical or diagnostic activity must be conducted through authorised supervised practice or realistic simulation where required.
- Assessment decision: Pass is awarded only when every assessment criterion is met with valid, authentic, current and sufficient evidence.
Unit 2 of 6
CAN and LIN Network Systems
ACN5502
Learning outcomes
- LO1 Analyse advanced principles, technologies and professional requirements relevant to CAN and LIN Network Systems.
- LO2 Diagnose complex technical or operational problems using appropriate evidence and analytical methods.
- LO3 Design and justify an integrated technical, operational or management response.
- LO4 Evaluate implementation risk, performance, compliance and improvement requirements.
Assessment criteria
- 1.1 Analyse principal concepts, systems and professional requirements. 1.2 Compare alternative technical or management approaches and their limitations.
- 2.1 Interpret relevant technical, operational and quantitative evidence. 2.2 Diagnose root causes and distinguish symptoms from underlying problems.
- 3.1 Develop a feasible response using appropriate calculations, technical methods, controls and resources. 3.2 Justify the selected approach against realistic alternatives.
- 4.1 Evaluate safety, quality, cost, sustainability, compliance and implementation risk. 4.2 Recommend measurable improvements, controls and performance indicators.
Unit aim
This unit develops the learner's knowledge, analytical capability and professional judgement in CAN and LIN Network Systems, with emphasis on applied problem solving, safe and ethical practice, evidence-based decision making and measurable performance.
Indicative content
Core principles and terminology of CAN and LIN Network Systems; relevant engineering or management systems; professional standards and responsibilities; technical and operational analysis; data interpretation; diagnostics or problem solving; planning and implementation; health, safety and environmental considerations; quality assurance; legal and ethical responsibilities; stakeholder communication; risk management; sustainability; performance measurement; documentation and continuous improvement.
Assignment brief
- Assignment title: CAN and LIN Network Systems - Applied Professional Assignment
- Scenario: The learner acts in a realistic engineering, automotive, transport, port, asset-management or HSE role relevant to CAN and LIN Network Systems. A manager or client has requested an evidence-based response to a defined technical or organisational problem.
- Task 1 - Critical/technical analysis: explain and analyse the relevant principles, standards, systems and evidence; identify material risks, constraints and root causes.
- Task 2 - Applied output: produce a professional technical report, diagnostic plan, management framework, design, strategy, inspection, calibration, maintenance, project or improvement plan appropriate to the unit. Include assumptions, calculations, methods, controls and records where relevant.
- Task 3 - Evaluation: evaluate the proposed or completed work against safety, quality, cost, compliance, sustainability and performance requirements; justify recommendations and improvement actions.
- Evidence requirement: one coherent 3,000-3,500-word equivalent submission plus the named applied output and supporting technical evidence. Use an approved academic referencing style and map evidence clearly to all assessment criteria. Practical or diagnostic activity must be conducted through authorised supervised practice or realistic simulation where required.
- Assessment decision: Pass is awarded only when every assessment criterion is met with valid, authentic, current and sufficient evidence.
Unit 3 of 6
FlexRay, Automotive Ethernet and Gateway Systems
ACN5503
Learning outcomes
- LO1 Analyse advanced principles, technologies and professional requirements relevant to FlexRay, Automotive Ethernet and Gateway Systems.
- LO2 Diagnose complex technical or operational problems using appropriate evidence and analytical methods.
- LO3 Design and justify an integrated technical, operational or management response.
- LO4 Evaluate implementation risk, performance, compliance and improvement requirements.
Assessment criteria
- 1.1 Analyse principal concepts, systems and professional requirements. 1.2 Compare alternative technical or management approaches and their limitations.
- 2.1 Interpret relevant technical, operational and quantitative evidence. 2.2 Diagnose root causes and distinguish symptoms from underlying problems.
- 3.1 Develop a feasible response using appropriate calculations, technical methods, controls and resources. 3.2 Justify the selected approach against realistic alternatives.
- 4.1 Evaluate safety, quality, cost, sustainability, compliance and implementation risk. 4.2 Recommend measurable improvements, controls and performance indicators.
Unit aim
This unit develops the learner's knowledge, analytical capability and professional judgement in FlexRay, Automotive Ethernet and Gateway Systems, with emphasis on applied problem solving, safe and ethical practice, evidence-based decision making and measurable performance.
Indicative content
Core principles and terminology of FlexRay, Automotive Ethernet and Gateway Systems; relevant engineering or management systems; professional standards and responsibilities; technical and operational analysis; data interpretation; diagnostics or problem solving; planning and implementation; health, safety and environmental considerations; quality assurance; legal and ethical responsibilities; stakeholder communication; risk management; sustainability; performance measurement; documentation and continuous improvement.
Assignment brief
- Assignment title: FlexRay, Automotive Ethernet and Gateway Systems - Applied Professional Assignment
- Scenario: The learner acts in a realistic engineering, automotive, transport, port, asset-management or HSE role relevant to FlexRay, Automotive Ethernet and Gateway Systems. A manager or client has requested an evidence-based response to a defined technical or organisational problem.
- Task 1 - Critical/technical analysis: explain and analyse the relevant principles, standards, systems and evidence; identify material risks, constraints and root causes.
- Task 2 - Applied output: produce a professional technical report, diagnostic plan, management framework, design, strategy, inspection, calibration, maintenance, project or improvement plan appropriate to the unit. Include assumptions, calculations, methods, controls and records where relevant.
- Task 3 - Evaluation: evaluate the proposed or completed work against safety, quality, cost, compliance, sustainability and performance requirements; justify recommendations and improvement actions.
- Evidence requirement: one coherent 3,000-3,500-word equivalent submission plus the named applied output and supporting technical evidence. Use an approved academic referencing style and map evidence clearly to all assessment criteria. Practical or diagnostic activity must be conducted through authorised supervised practice or realistic simulation where required.
- Assessment decision: Pass is awarded only when every assessment criterion is met with valid, authentic, current and sufficient evidence.
Unit 4 of 6
Network Diagnostics and Data Interpretation
ACN5504
Learning outcomes
- LO1 Analyse advanced principles, technologies and professional requirements relevant to Network Diagnostics and Data Interpretation.
- LO2 Diagnose complex technical or operational problems using appropriate evidence and analytical methods.
- LO3 Design and justify an integrated technical, operational or management response.
- LO4 Evaluate implementation risk, performance, compliance and improvement requirements.
Assessment criteria
- 1.1 Analyse principal concepts, systems and professional requirements. 1.2 Compare alternative technical or management approaches and their limitations.
- 2.1 Interpret relevant technical, operational and quantitative evidence. 2.2 Diagnose root causes and distinguish symptoms from underlying problems.
- 3.1 Develop a feasible response using appropriate calculations, technical methods, controls and resources. 3.2 Justify the selected approach against realistic alternatives.
- 4.1 Evaluate safety, quality, cost, sustainability, compliance and implementation risk. 4.2 Recommend measurable improvements, controls and performance indicators.
Unit aim
This unit develops the learner's knowledge, analytical capability and professional judgement in Network Diagnostics and Data Interpretation, with emphasis on applied problem solving, safe and ethical practice, evidence-based decision making and measurable performance.
Indicative content
Core principles and terminology of Network Diagnostics and Data Interpretation; relevant engineering or management systems; professional standards and responsibilities; technical and operational analysis; data interpretation; diagnostics or problem solving; planning and implementation; health, safety and environmental considerations; quality assurance; legal and ethical responsibilities; stakeholder communication; risk management; sustainability; performance measurement; documentation and continuous improvement. Subject-specific coverage: scan tools; DTCs; live data; freeze-frame; oscilloscopes; multimeters; pressure and mechanical tests; root-cause analysis; verification.
Assignment brief
- Assignment title: Network Diagnostics and Data Interpretation - Applied Professional Assignment
- Scenario: The learner acts in a realistic engineering, automotive, transport, port, asset-management or HSE role relevant to Network Diagnostics and Data Interpretation. A manager or client has requested an evidence-based response to a defined technical or organisational problem.
- Task 1 - Critical/technical analysis: explain and analyse the relevant principles, standards, systems and evidence; identify material risks, constraints and root causes.
- Task 2 - Applied output: produce a professional technical report, diagnostic plan, management framework, design, strategy, inspection, calibration, maintenance, project or improvement plan appropriate to the unit. Include assumptions, calculations, methods, controls and records where relevant.
- Task 3 - Evaluation: evaluate the proposed or completed work against safety, quality, cost, compliance, sustainability and performance requirements; justify recommendations and improvement actions.
- Evidence requirement: one coherent 3,000-3,500-word equivalent submission plus the named applied output and supporting technical evidence. Use an approved academic referencing style and map evidence clearly to all assessment criteria. Practical or diagnostic activity must be conducted through authorised supervised practice or realistic simulation where required.
- Assessment decision: Pass is awarded only when every assessment criterion is met with valid, authentic, current and sufficient evidence.
Unit 5 of 6
Connected Vehicle Communication and Cybersecurity Basics
ACN5505
Learning outcomes
- LO1 Analyse advanced principles, technologies and professional requirements relevant to Connected Vehicle Communication and Cybersecurity Basics.
- LO2 Diagnose complex technical or operational problems using appropriate evidence and analytical methods.
- LO3 Design and justify an integrated technical, operational or management response.
- LO4 Evaluate implementation risk, performance, compliance and improvement requirements.
Assessment criteria
- 1.1 Analyse principal concepts, systems and professional requirements. 1.2 Compare alternative technical or management approaches and their limitations.
- 2.1 Interpret relevant technical, operational and quantitative evidence. 2.2 Diagnose root causes and distinguish symptoms from underlying problems.
- 3.1 Develop a feasible response using appropriate calculations, technical methods, controls and resources. 3.2 Justify the selected approach against realistic alternatives.
- 4.1 Evaluate safety, quality, cost, sustainability, compliance and implementation risk. 4.2 Recommend measurable improvements, controls and performance indicators.
Unit aim
This unit develops the learner's knowledge, analytical capability and professional judgement in Connected Vehicle Communication and Cybersecurity Basics, with emphasis on applied problem solving, safe and ethical practice, evidence-based decision making and measurable performance.
Indicative content
Core principles and terminology of Connected Vehicle Communication and Cybersecurity Basics; relevant engineering or management systems; professional standards and responsibilities; technical and operational analysis; data interpretation; diagnostics or problem solving; planning and implementation; health, safety and environmental considerations; quality assurance; legal and ethical responsibilities; stakeholder communication; risk management; sustainability; performance measurement; documentation and continuous improvement. Subject-specific coverage: threat modelling; secure boot; CAN security; ECU security; cryptography; V2X security; firmware; penetration testing governance; incident response; ISO/SAE 21434 concepts; CAN; LIN; FlexRay; Automotive Ethernet; gateways; topology; diagnostics; oscilloscopes; network traffic; UDS concepts; connected systems; ECU architecture; sensors; actuators; signal processing; coding; adaptation; reflashing concepts; diagnostics; electrical testing; embedded control.
Assignment brief
- Assignment title: Connected Vehicle Communication and Cybersecurity Basics - Applied Professional Assignment
- Scenario: The learner acts in a realistic engineering, automotive, transport, port, asset-management or HSE role relevant to Connected Vehicle Communication and Cybersecurity Basics. A manager or client has requested an evidence-based response to a defined technical or organisational problem.
- Task 1 - Critical/technical analysis: explain and analyse the relevant principles, standards, systems and evidence; identify material risks, constraints and root causes.
- Task 2 - Applied output: produce a professional technical report, diagnostic plan, management framework, design, strategy, inspection, calibration, maintenance, project or improvement plan appropriate to the unit. Include assumptions, calculations, methods, controls and records where relevant.
- Task 3 - Evaluation: evaluate the proposed or completed work against safety, quality, cost, compliance, sustainability and performance requirements; justify recommendations and improvement actions.
- Evidence requirement: one coherent 3,000-3,500-word equivalent submission plus the named applied output and supporting technical evidence. Use an approved academic referencing style and map evidence clearly to all assessment criteria. Practical or diagnostic activity must be conducted through authorised supervised practice or realistic simulation where required.
- Assessment decision: Pass is awarded only when every assessment criterion is met with valid, authentic, current and sufficient evidence.
Unit 6 of 6
Automotive Network Systems Project
ACN5506
Learning outcomes
- LO1 Analyse advanced principles, technologies and professional requirements relevant to Automotive Network Systems Project.
- LO2 Diagnose complex technical or operational problems using appropriate evidence and analytical methods.
- LO3 Design and justify an integrated technical, operational or management response.
- LO4 Evaluate implementation risk, performance, compliance and improvement requirements.
Assessment criteria
- 1.1 Analyse principal concepts, systems and professional requirements. 1.2 Compare alternative technical or management approaches and their limitations.
- 2.1 Interpret relevant technical, operational and quantitative evidence. 2.2 Diagnose root causes and distinguish symptoms from underlying problems.
- 3.1 Develop a feasible response using appropriate calculations, technical methods, controls and resources. 3.2 Justify the selected approach against realistic alternatives.
- 4.1 Evaluate safety, quality, cost, sustainability, compliance and implementation risk. 4.2 Recommend measurable improvements, controls and performance indicators.
Unit aim
This unit develops the learner's knowledge, analytical capability and professional judgement in Automotive Network Systems Project, with emphasis on applied problem solving, safe and ethical practice, evidence-based decision making and measurable performance.
Indicative content
Core principles and terminology of Automotive Network Systems Project; relevant engineering or management systems; professional standards and responsibilities; technical and operational analysis; data interpretation; diagnostics or problem solving; planning and implementation; health, safety and environmental considerations; quality assurance; legal and ethical responsibilities; stakeholder communication; risk management; sustainability; performance measurement; documentation and continuous improvement. Subject-specific coverage: project lifecycle; scope; WBS; scheduling; critical path; cost control; risk; quality; contracts; procurement; stakeholders; governance; earned value.
Assignment brief
- Assignment title: Automotive Network Systems Project - Applied Professional Assignment
- Scenario: The learner acts in a realistic engineering, automotive, transport, port, asset-management or HSE role relevant to Automotive Network Systems Project. A manager or client has requested an evidence-based response to a defined technical or organisational problem.
- Task 1 - Critical/technical analysis: explain and analyse the relevant principles, standards, systems and evidence; identify material risks, constraints and root causes.
- Task 2 - Applied output: produce a professional technical report, diagnostic plan, management framework, design, strategy, inspection, calibration, maintenance, project or improvement plan appropriate to the unit. Include assumptions, calculations, methods, controls and records where relevant.
- Task 3 - Evaluation: evaluate the proposed or completed work against safety, quality, cost, compliance, sustainability and performance requirements; justify recommendations and improvement actions.
- Evidence requirement: one coherent 3,000-3,500-word equivalent submission plus the named applied output and supporting technical evidence. Use an approved academic referencing style and map evidence clearly to all assessment criteria. Practical or diagnostic activity must be conducted through authorised supervised practice or realistic simulation where required.
- Assessment decision: Pass is awarded only when every assessment criterion is met with valid, authentic, current and sufficient evidence.
Progression routes
Typical routes after completing this qualification.
Progression
Progression to Level 6 degree-level study, top-up routes where accepted, or professional roles.
Learning outcomes summary
- LO1 Analyse advanced principles, technologies and professional requirements relevant to Automotive Communication Network Fundamentals.
- LO2 Diagnose complex technical or operational problems using appropriate evidence and analytical methods.
- LO3 Design and justify an integrated technical, operational or management response.
- LO4 Evaluate implementation risk, performance, compliance and improvement requirements.
- LO1 Analyse advanced principles, technologies and professional requirements relevant to CAN and LIN Network Systems.
- LO1 Analyse advanced principles, technologies and professional requirements relevant to FlexRay, Automotive Ethernet and Gateway Systems.
- LO1 Analyse advanced principles, technologies and professional requirements relevant to Network Diagnostics and Data Interpretation.
- LO1 Analyse advanced principles, technologies and professional requirements relevant to Connected Vehicle Communication and Cybersecurity Basics.
- LO1 Analyse advanced principles, technologies and professional requirements relevant to Automotive Network Systems Project.