Today’s businesses demand the ability to have computer systems and networks, which operate on a global scale – so there is a high demand for people with the skills to make this happen.

This subject area has been rated top in Wales for learning opportunities and academic support (WGU analysis of unpublished 2019 NSS data) and includes a mix of technology, security and networking modules with many hands-on practical opportunities.

Students will:

• develop critical skills and cutting edge thinking to gain the confidence to keep up with the fast pace of change in this field
• develop technical knowledge of the installation, operation security, and maintenance of computer systems and networks used in business and industry
• develop industry-critical key skills such as team working, communication and business skills
• have opportunities to work on real-life projects
• learn the fundamentals of data communications and how to apply this knowledge to manage, design, implement, configure and operate secure networks on a professional footing
• learn how to identify a range of significant threats to network security and formulate and implement defence strategies.
• have the opportunity to complete the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) qualification whilst studying for their degree
• have access to Cisco Systems state-of-the-art equipment is used in practical sessions
• have the option of an Industrial Placement Year 

YEAR 1 (LEVEL 4)

 Your first year contains essential fundamental material which is relevant in all of our computing programmes. You will learn both subject-specific skills along with transferable skills which will increase your employability prospects.

With the support of your tutors, you will learn about some of the essential facts, concepts, techniques, design process and context of computer networks. You will also learn about hardware issues, including interfacing and data communications, and their impact on the overall design and performance of computer-based systems.

MODULES

• Computer Systems
• Managing Data
• Problem Solving with Programming
• Information and Systems Engineering
• Web Design and Development
• Fundamentals of Networks and Security

YEAR 2 (LEVEL 5)

Your second year continues teaching you the fundamentals of the discipline, and more specialist modules start to be introduced. You will enhance your computing and investigative skills by applying them in the laboratory and practical work to areas such as network design. You will also undertake a group project, incorporating a feasibility study, to design, produce and test a prototype of a network system or product. By the end of your second year, you will be able to demonstrate the fundamental interpersonal, organisational and study skills needed for undergraduate study and for lifelong learning in a career as a professional networking engineer.

MODULES 

• Server Technology
• Networking: Scaling Networks
• Network Protocols and Algorithms
• Responsible Computing
• Applied Programming
• Group Project

Optional Industrial Placement Year

 YEAR 3 (LEVEL 6)

 Once you reach your final year, you will further develop your skills through taught modules and research, with a focus on the latest developments in your chosen discipline. You will also undertake an individual final year project, which will help prepare you for the kind of tasks and situations you may encounter in the workplace. The final year practical and project work will further develop your in-depth specialist knowledge, understanding and practical skills within key areas of the discipline, as applied to the development of networking systems and services using current and emerging technologies.

MODULES 

• IT Project Management
• Network Security
• Managing Networks and Systems
• Future Technologies
• Project