FdSc Network Engineering

FdSc Network Engineering

About the course

This Foundation degree will prepare the student for a specialist role as a Network Engineer. On successful completion the candidate may progress to Level 6 BSc (Hons) in Digital & Technology Solutions (subject to validation).

At Level 4, modules will cover the main areas of computer science and information technology, including programming, security, maths and systems design, giving the student a breadth of experience which is shared with students entering at Level 4, who will go on to study specialist pathways at Level 5.

This specialist pathway at Level 5 will include computer architecture, covering elements of design and build of a network, including wireless devices, network protocols and the potential failure of these. Students will learn about security risks, and products and processes to ensure dependability. Use and maintenance of service including estimated traffic, and load, analysis and improvement of network performance and troubleshooting of issues, will be covered within the syllabus.

Students will learn a wide range of professional and transferable skills, including professional behaviours needed in the workplace, as well as application of academic skills. To this end, the programme structure includes modules of work-based learning at Level 4 and a project module at Level five that is also work-based, allowing students to connect to real life, real work situations and opportunities to enhance their understanding and professional competence, making them valuable employees.

The course will benefit from links to the professional workplace, including guest speakers.

This course sits within a suite of four Foundation Degrees, all designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and professional behaviours to enter or progress in the field of professional computing.

Assessments will include a range of work including, portfolios, artefacts and presentations as well as reports and open book exams to support students in providing many forms of evidence for academic and professional development, and these assessment methods are reflective of real work situations. Students will gain further understanding of the importance of effective communication both with external clients and within a team situation, and will be encouraged to practise these skills throughout the course.

YEAR 1 Titles of Modules:

• DT4001 Computers and Security
• DT4002 Principles of Programming
• DT4003 Maths for Data Science
• DT4004 Systems Design & Development
• DT4005 Independent Work-Based Project

YEAR 2 Titles of Modules:

• DT5010 Professional Issues
• DT5011 Managing the Security of Information
• DT5012 Agile Development
• DT5013 Further Programming
• DT5014 Supervised Professional Work Experience
• DT5022 Network Design and Configuration

Entry requirements

Extended Diploma or other full equivalent Level 3 qualification, in a discipline related to IT Engineering, with a minimum grade of DMM.

OR

Three A Level passes at grades BBC or above, in a relevant subject such as Computer Science, Maths or I.T.

PLUS

A minimum of three GCSE passes (grades 4 or above) to include Mathematics at grade 5 or equivalent and English Language.

Where next?

On completion of the Foundation Degree, students may wish to enter into a variety of computing roles where a Network Engineering qualification is desirable.

Those already in professional roles may progress into more senior positions. Students may also wish to progress into further study at Level 6, gaining a full BSc degree in a computing discipline (subject to individual providers entry criteria).

What additional resources will I need?

Additional costs may include students' own electronic storage devices, books, subscriptions or memberships other than those available through the College library.

Fees information

Tuition fees for 2023 entry: £7,000 per annum. Find Student Finance information on the Government website.

Contact

For general enquiries, please contact: headmissions@newcollege.ac.uk or enrolment@newcollege.ac.uk