Mode of Study

Full-time

Start Date

26th Aug 2024, 2 years

Location

City Campus

Applications from International Students Welcome

Overview

This course will teach you the skills required to install, configure and maintain computer network infrastructures.  You will gain practical skills and knowledge of current and emerging principles and network technologies with an emphasis on active and participative learning.  You will have access to our specialist computing classrooms and networking lab.

You will gain skills in administering networks, configuring server operating systems and developing security concepts. The programme integrates learning materials from industry standard vendors, which help prepare you for a variety of optional certification exams such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA).  This qualification is highly sought after by employers. 

After successfully completing this course you will have the skills needed to get an entry-level role in IT infrastructure support.   

A large number of HND Networking students progress on to University programmes including 2nd or 3rd year entry in Cyber Security, Ethical Hacking and Networking. 

City of Glasgow College has an excellent track record for students entering computing competitions for World Skills UK and students may have an opportunity to develop themselves further by entering these competitions.

This course is placed on the Scottish Credit Qualifications Framework at Level 8. 

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements

• HNC Computing: Networking (specific options essential); OR
• First year HND Computing: Networking (specific options essential).

Additional selection requirements

• You'll be invited for an individual interview where you can find out more about the course.

ESOL entry requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English should have minimum SQA ESOL National 5 or equivalent for NC/NQ courses and ESOL Higher or equivalent for HNC/D courses.

What you study

You'll study:

• Switching Technology.
• Internetworking Technology.
• Administering Networks.
• Server Administration.
• Security Concepts.
• Open Source Operating Systems.

Optional vendor courses: The CISCO CCNA is partially embedded within this qualification. You're expected to fund the cost of the final vendor certification examinations yourself. Vendor qualifications are certificated in addition to the HND award and significantly enhance your employability.

After the course

Careers

This course prepares you for a career in IT infrastructure.

Continuing Study

• Year two of BEng/BEng (Hons) Network Systems Engineering at Glasgow Caledonian University.  A summer school module may be required.
• Year three of BSc/BSc (Hons) Cyber Security and Networks at Glasgow Caledonian University.
• Year three of BEng (Hons) Networking Systems Engineering at University of the West of Scotland.