MCA COURSE OUTLINE · 601/4257/1
iCQ Level 3 Certificate in Learning and Development (RQF)
Learning and development practitioners planning and delivering learning.
Qualification at a glance
- Qualification number
- 601/4257/1
- Awarding organisation
- iCQ Awards (iCan Qualifications Limited)
- Minimum credits
- 30
- Guided learning hours
- 120–171
Entry requirements and assessment access
The published specification includes the 18+ age category. You need access to learning and development practice and evidence opportunities matching your selected units.
What you will learn
- Plan and facilitate learning for individuals or groups
- Reflect on practice and identify professional development
- Select assessment or employer-engagement units relevant to your role
Qualification structure and unit choices
Structure: attain at least 30 credits. Learners must achieve the mandatory units attaining 12 credits, plus at least a further 18 credits from the optional units (of which at least 6 credits from the optional group OB). If optional group OC and/or OD are chosen, both optional units contained in the group(s) must be achieved.
Mandatory units form the core. Optional units, where available, are selected with your assessor to match your role and the rules of combination; the full optional list is not a requirement to complete every unit.
| Unit code | Unit title | Level | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| J/502/9552 | Reflect on and improve own practice in learning and development | 4 | 6 |
| Y/502/9541 | Understand the principles and practices of learning and development | 3 | 6 |
Group OB: Optional Units (2 units)
| Unit code | Unit title | Level | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| F/502/9548 | Facilitate learning and development in groups | 3 | 6 |
| J/502/9549 | Facilitate learning and development for individuals | 3 | 6 |
Group OC: Optional Units (2 units)
| Unit code | Unit title | Level | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| D/601/5313 | Understanding the principles and practices of assessment | 3 | 3 |
| H/601/5314 | Assess occupational competence in the work environment | 3 | 6 |
Group OD: Optional Units (2 units)
| Unit code | Unit title | Level | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| D/601/5313 | Understanding the principles and practices of assessment | 3 | 3 |
| F/601/5319 | Assess vocational skills, knowledge and understanding | 3 | 6 |
Group OE: Optional Units (9 units)
| Unit code | Unit title | Level | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| A/502/9547 | Develop and prepare resources for learning and development | 4 | 6 |
| D/601/5313 | Understanding the principles and practices of assessment | 3 | 3 |
| F/502/9551 | Engage learners in the learning and development process | 3 | 6 |
| K/502/9544 | Identify individual learning and development needs | 3 | 3 |
| L/502/9553 | Evaluate and improve learning and development provision | 4 | 6 |
| R/502/9554 | Provide information and advice to learners and employers | 3 | 3 |
| R/600/1764 | Understanding the Employing Organisation | 3 | 3 |
| T/502/9546 | Plan and prepare specific learning and development opportunities | 3 | 6 |
| Y/502/9555 | Engage with employers to develop and support learning provision | 3 | 6 |
How you are assessed
Portfolio of practical learning and development activity, observation, learner resources and reflective evidence. Practical units must meet their workplace assessment conditions.
Your assessor records decisions against the unit criteria. All required outcomes must be achieved; assessment evidence is reviewed through internal and awarding-body quality assurance. Prior learning may be considered where permitted and supported by valid evidence.
Delivery and learner support
MCA offers tutor-supported online and blended learning. Your agreed study plan sets the tutorial format, workplace visits or teaching observations, independent study and review arrangements. Practical assessment cannot be replaced by online study alone.
Discuss accessibility needs, reasonable adjustments and learning support with MCA at the application stage.
Duration, start dates and fees
Start dates, fees, payment options and the planned completion period are confirmed in writing before enrolment. Qualification learning hours describe the study requirement; they are not a promise of a fixed calendar duration. Ask MCA for a personalised quotation and timetable.
Progression
Consider the Level 4 Diploma when your role offers greater autonomy and wider learning-cycle responsibilities.
Apply or ask a question
Tell us your chosen qualification, experience and current role so we can check the right pathway.
Request your course planUnit titles, credits and qualification structure checked against the published iCQ specification on 3 October 2026. This MCA outline explains the learner journey; the registered assessment plan controls the exact unit selection and assessment criteria.