Course overview

Our innovative course combines academic rigour with extensive hands-on practical skill development to meet the networking needs of both medium and multinational organisations. In our dedicated networking laboratory, you will have access to an extensive range of networking equipment that will enable you to design and implement complex networks.

Our close relationship with Cisco Systems, the leading manufacturer of networking equipment for the Internet, has enabled us to develop a course that will enable you to gain the necessary skills to achieve Cisco Certification at Associate (CCNA) and Professional (CCNP) level.

The first year of our course focuses on providing a broad base of computing skills and understanding. You will learn about computer architecture, design principles, programming and soft-skill development. As your course develops, you will concentrate on the design and implementation of enterprise-wide computer networks. You will learn how to analyse network performance using advanced network simulation tools and develop techniques to meet customer requirements in converged voice and data networks.

The specific aims of this course are:

• to enable you to acquire a thorough grounding in the knowledge and concepts associated with computer networks and related technologies
• for you to acquire the knowledge and skills to develop as a specialist in the areas of design and implementation of converged enterprise-wide computer networks
• to enable you to acquire the specialist knowledge and skills to analyse, design, implement and test for a wide range of computer network solutions
• to develop you as a team member and develop individual creative and innovative skills;
• for you to follow a course which you will find interesting, stimulating and relevant to a wide range of disciplines within the field of computer networks
• for you to follow a course which, by providing a range of transferable skills, is pertinent to a wide variety of career developments;
• to enable you to prepare for employment in the IT industry with a particular emphasis on computer networking and related activities.

Additional course information

Upon completion of this course you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• the principles and technologies associated with the field of computer networks.
• the development processes, techniques and technologies appropriate for both small scale and enterprise-wide computer networks.
• network modelling and performance simulation.
• the security implications in the design and implementation of computer networks.
• how to critically discuss the ethical and legal issues relating to computer networks and their deployment within an enterprise
• how to exhibit a knowledge and understanding of being a member of a team involved in the design and implementation of computer networks.
• the scope, depth and the limitations of your knowledge and to access and interpret a wide range of information resources, including current research, to develop both your learning and knowledge in technical and professional areas.

Assessment

Our course is designed to provide industry with highly qualified and experienced personnel. Assessment will be primarily case-study based.

Special features

By undertaking this course, you will cover material that will enable you to prepare for Cisco Certification at both Associate (CCNA) and Professional Level (CCNP).

This course provides the option of taking a sandwich year placement in industry between years two and three. Sandwich placements are taken with an employer working in a field related to your study and can be accommodated when matching positions become available, or when organised by the student. Sandwich year placements are managed by the Faculty of Science and Technology.

Links with industry and professional recognition

Links with industry include Cisco CCNA and CCNP.

Associated careers

As well as working in the network industry as a certified networking engineer, there are numerous career opportunities in technical sales and support.

UCAS Tariff points:	200
Additional Requirements:	GCSE(s) Required: At least 3 GCSEs at C or above or equivalent including English and Maths

Entry requirements listed are for September 2013 entry. Entry requirements for other intakes may differ.

Please note AS levels are acceptable only when combined with other qualifications.

Our published entry requirements are a guide only and our decision will be based on your overall suitability for the course as well as whether you meet the minimum entry requirements.

We welcome applications from International and EU students. Please select one of the links below for English language and country-specific entry requirement information.

• International students
• EU students
• English language requirements

Extended Degree route

We offer an extended degree route to this course that requires 40 UCAS tariff points.

This extended route to a degree in Computing & Technology requires the study of an additional foundation year.

After successful completion of this foundation year you may transfer to this degree programme.

Please refer to: BSc Computer Gaming Technology (Extended)