Course Summary

Computer networks are everywhere - they represent the backbone of modern information systems. This course has been designed to help students fully understand computer network design and development technologies, so you can pursue career opportunities in this rapidly expanding field.

This course consists of fundamental subjects combined with computer systems and networking; this approach allows you to direct your studies towards particular study goals that will enable you to specialise in a particular field, whilst maintaining the flexibility that the core study provides.

The course has also been designed to incorporate the professional Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) curriculum training - this is a professional qualification and is a basic requirement should you wish to progress in the computer networking field, or if you require a qualification to progress in your current job role.

You'll study at the technically-advanced University Centre Milton Keynes (UCMK) in a state-of-the-art, newly built networking Cisco Lab at the heart of the central Milton Keynes business district. It is equipped with all the latest hardware required for successfully completing the CCNA curriculum training along with highly specified computer teaching rooms to provide you with all the necessary resources required to achieve your potential. Milton Keynes College (MKC) is a dynamic and exciting place, committed to working in partnership with the University of Bedfordshire to deliver a highly valued Foundation Degree.

The course will also provide opportunities for students to undertake work placements with local employers in the city, enabling you to gain essential practical experience within a real working environment.

Milton Keynes College (MKC) is a dynamic and exciting place and with the partnership of the University of Bedfordshire is committed to providing a highly valued Foundation Degree.

Why choose this course?

The skills and knowledge you'll acquire on this course will enable you to pursue various careers in the computer networking and systems enginering field. This course has been designed to incorporate the professional Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) qualification training; the CCNA is a basic professional qualification required for individuals to work in the computer network industry. The training on these modules is provided by trained CCNA instructors only and the students are enrolled on the Cisco online academy.

The delivery of the networking CCNA curriculum will be carried out in a custom-built laboratory with live networking equipment. Simulation software will be used to aid in the analysis of real equipment and not as a replacement for such equipment.

The course will also provide opportunities for students to carry out work placements as part of their course. The work placements will be with an appropriate employer giving students experience of a working environment.

During the course you will:

• Benefit from the state-of-the-art facilities at University Centre Milton Keynes (UCMK)
• Work towards a professional Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) qualification
• Learn in a custom-built lab with live networking equipment
• Explore opportunities to undertake work placements available as part of the course
• Be registered on the Cisco online academy

FDCEN-MF

Assessment

Students will be assessed by two principal means over their course of study; formal time constrained examinations and coursework based assignments. Some units are assessed by both examination and assignment. Some units, due to the nature of the subject, will each consist of 100% coursework. Some units will be assessed through an electronic portfolio.

The assignments are designed to serve a dual purpose. Firstly, they contribute to students overall profile within a unit. Secondly, they are intended to help reinforce students understanding of the subject matter by making sure the relevant learning outcomes are covered for a unit. Completion of these assignments is seen, therefore, as an important factor in the successful completion of studies.

The examinations take place at the end of the period in which students complete the study of a unit and test their understanding of the subject matter developed over the preceding weeks.

Course Learning Outcomes

To enable students to maximise computer network design and development technologies in pursuit of new career opportunities being presented in this rapidly growing industry.

Therefore the course will provide the student with:

1. A sound educational experience which creates graduates with a critical understanding of the key components of computer networking and systems engineering.

2. An understanding of computer hardware / systems / software components.

2.1. Understand how the various components of a network inter-operate to deliver data.

2.2. Understand how a general purpose computer can be configured for a given set of applications.

2.3. Understand why network data and network security is so valuable.

3. A critical and informed awareness of contemporary issues, problems and opportunities afforded by a focus upon networking and implementation in recognition of the impact of the demands of industry.

3.1. Work-based skillsteam work, communication.

3.2. Application of Health and Safety considerations.

4. The technical skills to operate and manipulate software and hardware to best advantage which in turn is underpinned with a sound understanding of good design, programming, implementation and testing.

4.1. Select and configure network hardware / software and combine it to produce a functioning network .

4.2. Design a network to meet a specification and Secure it from malicious intrusion.

4.3. Administer, monitor and maintain a network.

5. Opportunities for academic and personal development through a variety of learning experiences, in particular, the development of communication skills and capability of analysis, problem solving, the presentation and justification of rational argument and alternative courses of action.

5.1. Problem solving.

5.2. Fault finding and fault diagnosis.

5.3. Integrate and evaluate critically techniques and processes for network design and development.

5.4. Find and integrate information from multiple sources.

6. The opportunity to pursue the level of study to a evaluative level and opportunities to conceptualise ideas and plans, demonstrating independence of thought, ability to undertake research and work towards a predetermined goal.

6.1. Study & Communication Skills, document investigations and solutions to a professional standard.

6.2. Personal Development Skills.

External Benchmarking

QAA subject benchmark group: Computing.

Sector Skills Councils endorsement still awaiting.

Educational Aims

Core units designed for this programme comprise fundamental subjects entwined around computer systems and networking as a central supporting pillar. This thematic approach to systems and networking enables students to orient their studies towards particular learning outcomes leading to the ability to progress towards specialisation whilst maintaining the flexibility that the core provides.

This programme aims:

• To develop personal skills so that students have confidence and ability to express their creativity both individually and as part of a team


• To promote a responsible attitude towards the use of the computer hardware, systems and networking software (allowing configuration / simulation of network problems and troubleshooting)


• To facilitate students' understanding of developments in computing technologies (especially those related to networking)


• To promote students awareness of the cultural, social, political, economic and ethical implications in the computing industries (of which networking is an important sub-sector)

Student support

We aim to offer a range of support mechanisms to help students to achieve the learning outcomes associated with this degree. Specifically the following support is provided:

• Students will have introductory sessions. Their purpose will be to familiarise them with the facilities available (including Learning Resource Centre, Virtual Learning Environment and other student services), what will be expected of the students to successfully complete the course, to answer their questions and to resolve any problems or difficulties they may have with respect to settling into their studies. Students will also be provided with a student handbook which will include general course information, detail of assessment methods and contact names


• Students will be provided with a personal tutor and tutorial sessions where their tutor will be available to support their progression whilst on the course


• If students have problems which are not course related then the College is able to offer them access to counsellors and Learning Support Services, which provide assistance and support for specific learning problems


• Many students find formal lectures delivered to a mass audience impersonal and difficult. We offer them the opportunity to learn in the context of small classes delivered in a more personal manner


• In addition (since the foundation degree students are also University of Bedfordshire students) the University provides for general help for learning skills through a centralised support tutor system as well as academic English modules mainly for International students


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

Team working

Group assessments are part of development module and the skills needed to work with others are specifically addressed as part of preparing for professional life and through work placement. Students 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 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:

• IT Operations Technicians (Network Support)


• Network / Systems Designers and Engineers


• IT User support technicians


• Junior software programmers

Further study:

On completing this course students are likely to progress into the following areas:

• Milton Keynes College BSc


• University of Bedfordshire BSc


• Professional Certification for Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and then Cisco Certified Network Professional


• SUN Java certification

Entry

Standard:

General principles of selection are that candidates are of an appropriate academic standard, are clear about the programme of study they are undertaking, will benefit from and are likely to be able to complete their programme and will be able to support the learning of others.

The standard College entry requirements, including skills and English language will apply.

Additional:

Acceptance for entry to the program would normally be on the basis of either:

• A Level Three qualification in a relevant field (UCAS tariff 120 minimum). Level 3 vocational awards are also appropriate


• At least 3 year`s experience of working relevant to computing and IT either on a paid or (substantial) voluntary basis

Applicants without the standard entry requirements will not normally be considered without evidence of their ability to complete the program satisfactorily. Non-standard entrant applications will be discussed with the University consultant before acceptance.

Applicants who do not meet the requirement for prior experience are given advice on obtaining further experience. The College has quality assurance policies which promote equal opportunities for all candidates.

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.
• Students who require a Tier 4 Student Visa cannot apply for our foundation courses. For these courses the University of Bedfordshire is not able to sponsor Tier 4 Student Visa applications.

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

Postgraduate taught courses

Postgraduate applications (MA/MSc) should be made direct to the University using the  standard University application form. There are some exceptions, please see individual course descriptions for details.

• UK/EU students application form
• International (non-EU) students application form
  

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

Teaching Strategy

The overall teaching and learning methodology is a theoretical exposition accompanied by tutor supported practical activity and work based learning. This is accomplished by a combination of lectures, tutorials, directed practical activity in dedicated computer laboratories and work experience in a local industrial company.

There is self directed research and computer based practical activity which can be assisted by the use of teaching packs in various multimedia forms.

The particular form of support is unit specific, however, all are characterised by tutor support and practical activity.

Students entering the programme should already have some experience of using computers and their operation. Therefore the approach to teaching and learning begins with student centred methods and progresses towards independent learning.

Our teaching is centred upon students, aiming to build their confidence by providing timely and informative feedback under the guidance of their teacher.

As students gain in knowledge and experience at HE Level 1, they build upon gained skills and knowledge to study in greater depth at Level 2 certain core topics in programming and design, whilst broadening their knowledge by studying some more generalised topics.

Other units taken at this level enable students to gain vocationally valid skills and experience by engaging in work based projects.

Progress in work based learning will be carefully monitored by College tutors on weekly basis.

Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Body Accreditation

N/A

Students with disabilities

Milton Keynes College is committed to ensuring that disabled people, including those with learning difficulties, are treated fairly. Reasonable adjustments to provision will be made to ensure that disabled students and other disabled people are not disadvantaged.

Students are encouraged to disclose their disability or learning difficulties in order to receive the required support. College has a Disability Statement which is readily available for student access.

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:

Written reflective reports are often required for in course assignments (using, for example, Microsoft Word). Students will also experience a wide range of computing specific packages and tools including the use of online library sources. To enhance students information literacy they will also have access to a wide range of Learning Resources courses (e.g. referencing) and the Essential Support Skills and Development will develop these abilities.

Research and Evaluation:

Being taught the basics of problem solving and lateral thinking, students are 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:

Students will be taught how to solve problems and will 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 personal development that looks at self appraisal, constructiong a development plan and portfolio building for each participant and seeks to enhance these. In addition, they will receive formative feedback on tasks that they undertake. Any assessed piece of work will always receive written comments and you should use these in order to improve their performance (if necessary) at the next available opportunity.

Professional standards

Please see http://www.e-skills.com/nvq/1124 for details.

Strategy for developing and embedding the professional standards

To ensure that standards are adhered to, the programme has been designed so that students will be educated about the professional standards of their field. Many of academic staff in both the University of Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes College are BCS members so are able to act as champions and role models in this area.