What Is ECDL Advanced?

ECDL Advanced Programmes are high-level certification programmes made up of modules for those who have successfully reached ECDL skills levels and wish to further enhance their expertise in any one, or all, of four commonly-used computer application types:  

• AM3 Word Processing
  
• AM4 Spreadsheets
  
• AM5 Database
  
• AM6 Presentation    

This programme builds on the skills covered in the ECDL Core qualification. ECDL is the logical progression for candidates who have achieved the ECDL Core certificate and who wish to further enhance their ICT skills and to demonstrate their competence in using a computer at a higher level.

The ECDL Advanced modules give candidates the opportunity to be certified at an 'expert level' in the use of the specific application type, acquiring skills sets over and above the routine features of the software.  Prospective candidates should ideally have the ECDL certification and/or previous experience using computers and common software applications.

Each module of the ECDL Advanced certification is separate. An ECDL Advanced certificate (e.g. ECDL Advanced Word Processing) is awarded to candidates who pass each specific module test.

Each module typically requires 20-25 hours of training prior to testing, although candidates may forego training if they wish, assuming they already have advanced-level skills.  Each module is assessed by a one-hour test.

ECDL Expert Certification

Candidates who successfully complete all four ECDL Advanced modules are awarded the ECDL  Expert certification, which signifies expert-level computer competence in all four applications