BCS or distance learning education?

[djones123]

Hi,

I am working as a Application and Database developer. My department gets training budget every year and my manager has asked me if I am willing to attend any training courses.
I have been looking for different courses. I have got a computer science degree (equal ant to Uk undergraduate) with over three years experience in software development. I work with .Net and Oracle. I have also got Oracle certification in PL/SQL Development.
I have got following options and wondering if someone can pls advise which one would be a good one.
1- BCS Course (ISEB Diploma in Solution Development )
Has anyone studied BCS courses through training provider called ‘Assist Knowledge Development ‘

2- Undergraduate Advanced Diploma in Data and Systems Analysis from OXFORD UNIVERSITY. It is a one year distance learning course.

3- Post graduate certificate in Computer Science via distance learning. This course is offered by Hertfordshire University.

4- Microsoft self study certification.

I have also looked into Open University courses and they are quite expensive.

I am looking to get some skills in system analysis and design. It would be great to have some skills with professional certification.

[rog007]

Firstly, you're very priveleged to have been offered a (fully?) funded training opportunity; so many organisations are cutting back on their training budgets just at a time when it may be one of their better investments during these challenging times. With regards to what to do; as you're already in-role, is this about improving current outputs or preparing yourself for your next steps? It would be difficult or anyone to advise not knowing what your trajectory is. Have you asked your employer what they think? Good luck!