UWTSD Home - Study With Us - Undergraduate Courses - Computing (Computer Networks and Cybersecurity) (BSc, HND, HNC, Foundation Entry)
The three key themes of this programme are routing and switching, security and, forensics. You will undertake a range of tasks associated with networking in organisations and be able to develop sophisticated solutions to networking problems as a graduate of this course. Typically, you would be expected to be capable of implementing and administrating a network infrastructure for an organisation.
This programme is designed to enhance industrial relevance by focusing on the practical application of theory while maintaining academic rigour. This makes the programme distinctly different from more traditional computing degrees.
The programme aims to develop an understanding of key aspects of a range of concepts, principles and techniques associated with network infrastructure and services. You will learn to choose the right technologies, techniques and tools to use and to apply them appropriately. You will also be spotting issues, designing solutions, and analysing networking technologies and concepts applied to the solution of loosely defined problems or in the development of networking solutions to meet real-world requirements.
UWTSD has been a Cisco Academy since 1999 and EC Council Academy partner since 2018. We are the only university to offer this unique programme that covers the curriculum of CCNA Routing & Switching, CCNA Cyber Operations and EC Council’s Computer Hacking Forensics Investigator certification (CHFI) within the degree programme. We have the best networking and cybersecurity lab in Wales.
Computing (Computer Networks and Cyber Security)
BSc (Hons) | 3 Year Degree Programme (Levels 4 to 6)
UCAS Code: 233S
Apply via UCAS
Note: For Digital Degree Apprenticeships, contact apprenticeships@uwtsd.ac.uk. For other part-time study, contact computing@uwtsd.ac.uk
BSc (Hons) | 4 Year Programme with Foundation Entry (Levels 3 to 6)
UCAS Code: CNS1
Apply via UCAS
HND | 2 Year Programme (Levels 4 to 5)
UCAS Code: 121T
Apply via UCAS
HNC | 1 Year Programme
UCAS Code: 012H
Apply via UCAS
Full-time applicants who wish to start in September should apply through UCAS. Part-time applicants, or applicants who wish to start in May, should apply through the University.
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Tuition Fees 2023/24:
Home (Full-time): £9,000 per year
Overseas (Full-time): £13,500 per year
Why choose this course?
- Taught by staff with relevant academic and industry certifications.
- Hands-on experience with Cisco routers, switches, firewalls and software used within the networking and security industry.
- Blended with highly sought CCNA Routing and Switching certification.
- Learn and conduct penetration testing, ethical hacking and forensics investigations.
- Equip you with all the necessary job-ready skills to enter the networking and security industry.
What you will learn
This programme aims to provide a thorough knowledge and skills in the specialist area of networking. Students will use their expertise to design, implement and troubleshoot complex network infrastructures. The School is a Cisco Academy, an Academy Support Centre and an Instructor Training Centre. The School has been delivering Cisco Networking Academy programme since 1999.
The undergraduate programme is blended with Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) curriculum. Cisco is the world’s leading network device manufacturer and the CCNA is a prominent professional qualification in the networking industry.
Foundation Year
- Academic Skills (20 credits; compulsory)
- Analysing and Solving Problems (20 credits; compulsory)
- Integrating Project (20 credits; compulsory)
- Introduction to Computer Programming (20 credits; compulsory)
- Introduction to Computer Systems (20 credits; compulsory)
- Introduction to Mathematics and Science (20 credits; compulsory).
Year One – Level 4 (HNC, HND & BSc)
- Computer Architecture and Operating Systems (20 credits; compulsory)
- Data Analysis and Visualisation (20 credits; compulsory)
- Introduction to Web and Database Concepts (20 credits; compulsory)
- Learning in the Digital Era (20 credits; compulsory; Graduate Attributes Framework module)
- Networks and Cyber Security Essentials (20 credits; compulsory)
- Software Development (20 credits; compulsory).
Year Two – Level 5 (HND & BSc)
- Advanced Networking (20 credits; compulsory)
- Changemakers: Creativity and Value Creation (20 credits; compulsory; Graduate Attributes Framework module)
- Computer Forensics (20 credits; compulsory)
- Data Security and Compliance (20 credits; compulsory)
- Network Operating Systems and Services (20 credits; compulsory)
- Network Programmability (20 credits; compulsory).
Year Three – Level 6 (BSc)
- Advanced Cyber Security (20 credits; compulsory)
- Emerging Trends (20 credits; compulsory / optional (DDA) / optional (PT))
- Enterprise Networking, Security and Automation (20 credits; compulsory)
- Independent Project (40 credits; compulsory; Graduate Attributes Framework module)
- Industrial Based Research (20 credits; optional (DDA) / optional (PT))
- Switching, Routing and Wireless (20 credits; compulsory).
The School of Applied Computing aims to produce graduates that help shape the future of network infrastructures. The course content is contemporary and shaped for employability through close links with local and national employers.
Students are assessed through a combination of laboratory-based practicals, assignments, presentations, projects and examinations. Module assessment is often by assignment, or assignment and examination. The final mark for some modules may include one or more pieces of coursework set and completed during the module. Project work is assessed by a written report and presentation.
Students are encouraged to use our links with Software Alliance Wales and Go Wales to work on commercial schemes for their Major Project module. Go Wales provides the opportunity of paid work placements with local businesses.
This Framework aims to develop your professional skills and competence alongside your academic subject knowledge. You’ll study up to 40 credits per level throughout your programme from the Graduate Attributes Framework.
The Graduate Attribute modules are designed to enable you to develop, and evidence, a range of career-focused skills related to your subject area. These skills include digital competency, research and project management, as well as such personal competencies as communication, creativity, self-reflection, resilience and problem-solving.
- Find out more about the Graduate Attributes Framework
Related Links
Professional Accreditations
Successful completion of the Programme offers the eligibility for registration by the British Computer Society (BCS) of Chartered IT Professional (CITP) full status.
Key Information
BSc (Hons) Computing (Computer Networks and Cyber Security) - UCAS CODE: 233S
104 UCAS tariff points (previously 260) to include:
- Two C grades at A-Level/AVCE; or
- BTEC National Diploma grades Pass, Pass, Pass; or
- BTEC National Certificate grades Merit, Pass; or
- NVQ Level 3 - Pass
Please note that subjects at Advanced Level should/may include ICT, Computing, Maths, Physics or similar.
GCSE Maths Grade 4 (previously C) or above is preferred.
Note: For Digital Degree Apprenticeships, contact apprenticeships@uwtsd.ac.uk. For other part-time study, contact computing@uwtsd.ac.uk
For Foundation Year entry, see below
HND Computing (Computer Networks and Cyber Security) - UCAS CODE: 121T
48 UCAS tariff points (previously 120) to include:
- A-C grade at A-Level/AVCE
- BTEC National Diploma/Certificate/Award - Pass; NVQ Level 3 - Pass.
Subjects at Advanced Level should include Maths, ICT, Physics or similar.
GCSE Maths Grade 4 (previously C) or above is preferred.
HNC Computing (Computer Networks and Cyber Security) - UCAS CODE: 012H
40 UCAS tariff points (previously 100)
Grades are important; however, our offers are not solely based on academic results. We are interested in creative people that demonstrate a strong commitment to their chosen subject area, and therefore we welcome applications from individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. To assess student suitability for their chosen course, we normally arrange interviews for all applicants at which your skills, achievements and life experience will be considered as well as your qualifications.
Typical International Baccalaureate Offer:
Please contact computing@uwtsd.ac.uk for more information.
Foundation Entry:
BSc (Hons) | 4 Year Programme with Foundation Entry (Levels 3 to 6)
UCAS Code: CNS1 Apply via UCAS
Other:
Applications from those offering alternative qualifications are welcome. Please contact computing@uwtsd.ac.uk for more information.
The programme emphasises four key themes within Computer Networking: routing and switching, emerging network technologies, network design, and security.
Graduates will be able to undertake a range of tasks associated with networking in organisations and will be capable of developing sophisticated solutions to networking problems.
It is anticipated that graduates in the field of computer networks (CN) would be able to find employment in a number of different areas of CN, including routing and switching, network design, and security.
It is expected that graduates would seek positions such as:
- Network Administrators
- Network Associates
- Network Engineers
- System Administrator
Here are some profiles of graduates from this programme and where they are now:
For all graduate testimonials, please see here:
It is possible to complete this programme of study without any additional costs.
Students may wish to purchase materials for modules, such as Major Project but this is not a requirement and will have no bearing on the final grade.
Students who wish to pursue Cisco and EC Council industry certification would incur additional costs to cover the exam fees. All Cisco exams must be booked via the Pearson VUE testing centre. By successfully completing the Cisco Academy course you may be eligible for a discount voucher. The EC Council certification exam can be taken at the University with an additional fee of £300 per exam.
Robert Leyshon BSc (Hons) Computer Networks
"I have started a fantastic job, a month after graduating, with CGI as a Junior Wintel Engineer. Had it not been for my final year project, I doubt I would have managed to land it."
Simon Downes BSc (Hons) Computer Networks
"Being part of a CISCO academy, we get access to industry-standard training and development, and access to CCNA courses, including exams and certification. The actual Computer Networks programme is exceptionally practical. We do a lot of lab work and get to understand how to install, configure and troubleshoot networking issues in real environments. This sets you up with globally recognised qualifications but also having that hands-on aspect. It prepared you for employment. With the future being very computer and network orientated, i.e. the internet of things, it has become a necessity. Everybody these days has the equipment to get connected but don't necessarily know how to secure themselves; this sort of knowledge is invaluable."
Aaron Cowdry BSc (Hons) Computer Networks
"I was more interested in networks than the more traditional Computer Science route. I am doing my final year project on wireless network penetration testing, checking whether a network is secure. Learning about security in virtual machines is a growing field with security becoming massively in demand. Using the CISCO hardware is unique to this University, enabling us to gain skills required for industry, for example, solving the problems that occur while using the actual hardware that you wouldn't experience if you were just using CISCO Packet Tracer (simulation). I would recommend the course because the staff are friendly and supportive and the skills learned are current now and into the future."
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