Course Summary

Computer networks have become part of our everyday lives - they form the backbone of modern information systems. As networks expand, there is a growing need for individuals who understand their practical benefits, as well as how to implement and manage them.

This course focuses on the technical aspects of network design, network installation and configuration, systems administration, maintenance and management, as well as how they can be applied in modern technologies. By studying this course, you'll develop the required skills to implement computer network infrastructures in all sectors of the community. Emphasis is placed on the development of strong technical skills in combination with the management of networks, implemented through design, and managing the needs of clients and businesses.

Why choose this course?

The skills and knowledge you acquire on this course will open career opportunities with computer helpdesks and in fields such as network support, network security, network and systems engineering, network and information systems management and other computing-related positions.

During the course you will:

• Benefit from our industry-level dedicated network test laboratory with the latest software and hardware
• Explore course content that enables you to gain academic qualifications and industry professional certifications (CompTIA N+, Security+, Microsoft and Cisco)
• Learn from industry-certified professionals, networking experts and researchers
• Integrate academic knowledge with the vocational and professional skills required by industry
• Explore enhanced computer networking job opportunities on completion of the course

Areas of study you may cover on this course include:

• Emphasis on the skills needed to design, implement, maintain and manage networks
• A solid grounding in core computing and information systems
• Employment focused study with a balance of theory and practice
• Preparation for a number of industry standard professional certification programmes
• The opportunity to study in our dedicated test network laboratory using the latest industry standard technologies

BSCNT-S

Assessment

The assessment strategy requires the students to articulate their analysis and response to complex situations in a context, which replicates a vocational environment. The assessment extends and promotes the students learning and is directly applicable to the environment of computer networks.

The course uses a variety of assessment strategies, which include computer based assessment, closed book examinations, practical tests, case study based coursework, group work and presentations. These will be used to ensure the learning outcomes of each unit are tested at the appropriate level.

At level one of the course the assessments have been adopted to test core knowledge and will prepare students for levels two and three of the course.

At levels two and three the core knowledge is built upon and conceptual themes are introduced to develop the students cognitive development and problem solving skills.

Complex problems and scenarios are introduced through industrial case studies and assignments, which will require the student to develop their problem solving techniques by applying the knowledge and understanding that has been developed in the units and throughout the course.

Educational Aims

The aim of the course is to develop competent computer professionals with the requisite skills to implement computer network infrastructures in all sectors of the computing community. Emphasis is placed on the development of strong technical skills in combination with the management of networks, implemented through design, client and business requirements.

To achieve this aim, a set of educational objectives have been developed to:

• Provide an intensive, intellectually demanding, and academically rigorous education involving a wide range of current theoretical and conceptual models related to the study of network disciplines


• Encourage the habit of continuous learning


• Provide a firm grounding for continuing vocational and professional education and training


• Develop the students academic potential and promote a learning ethos


• Develop the students ability to effectively identify, select, analyse and utilise sources of information for the benefits of implementing computer network infrastructure systems within the context of organisational requirements


• Develop skills in the effective management of relationships and interpersonal actions within the educational working environment

The Computing Networking course has been developed around three main themes: technical knowledge, analysis and design of client requirements, and the ability to project manage the entire life cycle of a computer network project. To achieve these, the following objectives have been established to develop:

• The benefits of a consistent approach to computer networking


• A detailed knowledge of the technical aspects of networking in design, hardware and software


• An ability to critically analyse all stages of the implementation process, make appropriate interventions, utilise resources and take computer network projects to a successful outcome


• An ability to understand the clients perspective for a network system in terms of needs and expectations


• An ability to analyse the benefits of using a variety of network operating systems

Student support

During the induction and PPAD there will be a series of diagnostic tests designed to identify the need for any specialist support (e.g. dyslexia). If identified, students will be referred to the University of Bedfordshire Disability Support Unit.

All students are supported by induction sessions at the start of each year, by personal and project tutors, by academic advice sessions and by dedicated technical support staff.

Student support is provided on a formal basis by the personal tutor system and in practical sessions as well as informal support in the use of Blackboard Virtual Learning Environment. The University provides general help for learning skills through a centralized support tutor system as well as academic English units mainly for International students.

All students undertake Computer Assisted Diagnostic assessment. The results of such diagnostics enable a personalized program to address individual learning requirements in basic Mathematical or Language skills. Academic advice is provided both at field level and also at Corporate level.

Team working

Group assessments are part of many units and the skills needed to work with others are specifically addressed as part of preparing for professional life. As such, students will come across group working as a core concept within this degree. They will be expected to contribute to team discussions, complete tasks as part of a team and, in general, be able to show that they are able to work with others.

Career Management Skills

This forms a consistent thread progressing through each year with opportunities of engaging with industrial and business projects or through engagement with an employer during a sandwich year placement. Students will also be encouraged to engage with the Careers Development unit (Job Shop) in order to assess the skills that they possess against positions within the current market. Any skills deficiencies can then be identified and students can begin to address these in order to progress to their chosen career.

Career/Further study opportunities

Career:

Graduates of this degree will be able to go into any of the following positions:

• Helpdesk and Network Support


• Network Security Specialists


• Network / Systems Engineering


• Systems / Internet / Network Administration


• Network / Information Systems Managers


• Project Management

And many other computing related positions.

Further study:

MSc in a Computer Networking, Mobile Networking, Security, Computer Science or any other related topic; MPhil / PhD.

Entry

Standard:

Standard entry requirements for UK students i http://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/ukugentryreqs

Students from the European Union - http://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/eu/guides

International students - http://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/international/apply

UK students Undergraduate entry requirements

Standard entry requirements for Foundation degrees (FD/FdSc)

A foundation degree will be of particular interest if you have completed a Modern Apprenticeship, vocational A levels, BTEC National or equivalent.

Foundation degrees are also particularly suitable if you want to qualify while working.

• As a guideline, a typical offer would require you to obtain a UCAS tariff score of between 80-120 points, based on your level 3 studies.

Many students studying for foundation degrees come to us through work-based routes so you can apply for a foundation degree even if you don’t have traditional academic qualifications.

We welcome applicants with relevant work experience.

Standard entry requirements for Undergraduate degrees (BA/BSc)

We will consider you as an individual and take into account all elements of your application, not just your qualifications. We are looking for both breadth and depth in your current studies as well as enthusiasm for the subject you wish to study.

The general requirement is one of the following:

• UCAS Tariff Score greater than 200, which should include either two A level passes or an AVCE Double Award
• An Access qualification
• Equivalent qualifications such as Irish Leaving Certificate, Scottish Highers, International Baccalaureate or BTEC National Diploma

Students from the European Union

Entry requirements

As a general guide, to apply for a place on an undergraduate course (BA/BSc) at the University you need to have completed your high school education and have the required English qualification.

We have students from all the European Union member countries so we are quick to make decisions on most qualifications.

How to apply

International students

• Undergraduate applications (BA/BSc) can be made direct to the University or via our representatives in your home country. If you intend to apply to more than one university in the UK you should apply via UCAS. If you want to apply to the University of Bedfordshire only you should apply directly using our international application form (link below) or via our representatives in your home country
• Postgraduate applications should be made directly to the University using our international application form (link below) or via our representatives in your home country
• Healthcare, nursing and midwifery students Many of these courses are not available to overseas students due to UK immigration law in regard to bursary funding. Please contact international admissions to find out if you are eligible to apply
• BA Nursing Studies Level 3 (with or without Overseas Nursing Programme) is available to overseas students - please contact International Admissions by email at international-admissions@beds.ac.uk for further information

(Please note that applicants on a full student visa are not eligible for part-time study)

Course application form for international students

We recommend that you apply directly to the University where possible, as this allows us to offer the quickest turnaround time for your application.

• Course application form for direct applications [PDF]

How to complete your course application

Please read the Direct application instructions before completing the course application form.

Application forms for accommodation in the student halls at Bedford campus and Luton campus are available in the Student life section

Accreditation of prior certificated learning (APL)

APL is available for international students applying for undergraduate (Bachelor degree) study. Please do not use this APL form to apply for postgraduate courses.

Use the APL form to tell us about any non-standard qualifications and/or work experience you have that you think should be taken into consideration with your application. `

The APL form should be submitted at the same time as the course application form.

We regret we are unable to process APL forms from students who have not submitted a formal course application form.

• APL application form for International students [100Kb] updated 041007

What next?

Return your completed application to:

University of Bedfordshire
International Admissions
Park Square
Luton
Bedfordshire
LU1 3JU
United Kingdom

Contact International Admissions

T: +44 (0)1582 489326 (non-EU Students)
F: +44 (0)1582 743469
E: international-admissions@beds.ac.uk

Awarding institution

University of Bedfordshire

Professional, Statuatory and Regulatory Body Accreditation

N/A

Students with disabilities

Physical impairment in the form of depreciated visual, audio, mobility and neurological cognitive faculties will, where identified and practicable, be ameliorated by the deployment of appropriate hardware, software and individual support. The department disability tutor is tasked with providing assistance for such students.

Skills Development

Communication:

Communication skills are assessed at the start of each course and individualised help is provided as required. In addition many assessments address the need for the development of both written abilities, especially with regard to technical subjects, and spoken and visual communication in presentations.

Information Literacy:

Create written reports for your assignments (using, for example, Microsoft Word, Visio). Students will also gain experience with a wide range of networking-specific tools and systems which will enhance their experience to develop throughout the course. Students will receive inductions from the University of Bedfordshire Learning Resources Team. To enhance their information literacy they will also have access to a wide range of Learning Resources courses (e.g. referencing) and their Professional Personal and Academic Development unit will develop their skills.

Research and Evaluation:

Be taught the basics of problem solving and lateral thinking during your course. Students will be expected to work independently and to produce assignments which show their ability to synthesise and evaluate disparate sources in order to come to a successful conclusion.

Creativity and Critical Thinking:

To help with the development of this students will be taught how to problem solve, be given general scenarios from which they need to devise solutions and generally be able to develop critical arguments to support their hypotheses.

Improving learning and performance

First year students undertake a personal development unit that looks at the learning styles of each participant and seeks to enhance these. In addition students will receive formative feedback on tasks that they undertake. Any assessed piece of work will always receive written comments and students should use these in order to improve their performance (if necessary) at the next available opportunity.

Progress files

Please see http://bridgescetl.beds.ac.uk/curriculum/curriculum_guides for details.

Professional standards

The Department of Computing and Information Systems adheres to the professional standards and codes of conduct and code of practice of the British Computer Society. As undergraduates on this course students will be expected to adhere to these standards at all time particularly when undertaking their final year project.

Strategy for developing and embedding the professional standards

To ensure that standards are adhered to, the course has been designed so that students will be educated about the professional standards of their field (this is covered within the Fundamentals of Computing unit at year 1, as well as the Social, Professional Project Management unit at year 3). It is also expected that students undertaking their final year project will sign an ethical form to show that the work they undertake during their project will be conducted in an ethically accepted manner.