Computing (Computer Networks and Cyber Security) with Foundation Year

If you’re curious about protecting digital information and creating secure computer systems, our Computer Networks and Cybersecurity degree is a great choice. This course is perfect for those who want to build strong skills in networking and cyber security, with a focus on networking, cybersecurity, and forensics.

The degree begins with a foundation year, which is ideal for students who may want extra support. This year helps you gain the necessary skills and confidence for university-level study. The foundation year provides a solid introduction to key computing principles, covering essential basics, problem-solving, and IT fundamentals. You will develop essential technical skills that form the backbone of networking and cybersecurity. This broad foundation prepares you to progress confidently into more advanced topics as the course unfolds, ensuring you’re fully prepared before diving into the more technical aspects of the course.

In this programme, you’ll learn to develop networking solutions and gain hands-on experience with network administration. You’ll explore how to set up and manage network infrastructure, which is essential for any organisation today. The course covers everything from choosing the right networking technologies to implementing solutions that keep data safe.

Our strong industry links are a major benefit of this programme. We are a member of Cisco Academy, a well-known provider of networking certifications, and an EC Council Academy partner. This means our course includes content from certifications like CCNA Routing & Switching, CCNA Cyber Operations, and Computer Hacking Forensics Investigator (CHFI). These qualifications are highly valued in the IT industry and can significantly boost your career prospects.

A key feature of the course is our state-of-the-art cybersecurity lab. Here, you’ll work with the latest tools and technologies, gaining practical experience that will be invaluable when you enter the workforce. The lab provides a safe environment to learn about emerging technologies and understand complex IT infrastructure.

The course also emphasises real-world application. This means you’ll not only learn the theory behind network security but also how to apply it in practical situations. This approach helps you develop the ability to spot issues, design solutions, and analyse different networking technologies effectively.

Graduating from this degree programme will equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in network administration and cyber security. With a solid foundation in routing and switching, security, and forensics, you’ll be ready for a rewarding career in this dynamic field.

Modules

Our Computer Networks and Cybersecurity degree with a foundation year offers a blend of practical application and academic rigour. This structure ensures that you are well-prepared to tackle real-world challenges in the field of Computer Networks and Cybersecurity.

Year 1

The foundation year is designed to prepare you for university study. You will be introduced to key concepts in networking technologies and software development, alongside data analysis and basic visualisation principles. This foundational knowledge is crucial for building the skills needed for more advanced topics in subsequent years.

Compulsory

• Analysing and Solving Problems (20 credits)

• Introduction to Computer Programming (20 credits)

• Introduction to Computer Systems (20 credits)

• Introduction to Mathematics and Science (20 credits)

• Academic Skills (20 credits)

• Integrating Project (20 credits)

Year 2

In the second year, you will focus on the fundamentals of networking technologies and software development. You will learn about data analysis, basic visualisation principles, and an introduction to forensics. This foundational knowledge sets the stage for more advanced topics in the following years.

Compulsory

• Data Analysis & Visualisation (20 credits)

• Software Development (20 credits)

• Computer Architecture and Operating Systems (20 credits)

• Introduction to Web and Database Concepts (20 credits)

• Network and Cybersecurity Essentials (20 credits)

• Learning in the Digital Era (20 credits)

Year 3

The third year delves deeper into network administration and network infrastructure. You will engage in practical tasks, enhancing your skills and knowledge. This year also introduces more complex security measures and forensics techniques, preparing you for industry challenges.

Compulsory

• Network Operating Systems and Services (20 credits)

• Advanced Networking (20 credits)

• Network Programmability (20 credits)

• Changemakers: Creativity and Value Creation (20 credits)

• Data Security and Compliance (20 credits)

• Computer Forensics (20 credits)

Year 4

In the final year, you will focus on advanced topics in Cyber Security and networking solutions. You will work on an independent project in an area of interest to you. This year emphasizes the application of emerging trends and technologies and prepares you for professional roles in network administration and cyber security.

Compulsory

• Independent Project (40 credits)

• Emerging Trends (20 credits)

• Switching, Routing and Wireless (20 credits)

• Enterprise Networking, Security and Automation (20 credits)

• Industrial Based Research (20 credits)

• Advanced Cyber Security (20 credits)

https://www.uwtsd.ac.uk/programme-courses/foundation/computing/computing-computer-networks-and-cyber-security-foundation

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• British Computer Society