This course is subject to validation. You can still apply for this course while it is being approved.
Bradford College has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework.These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.
Course summary
Our innovative course combines the study of secure networked systems, infrastructure and associated services and therefore aims to provide you not only with a core set of technical skills, but the knowledge of technology to best utilise them. We also aim to prepare you for the competitive computing industry by training you in a range of vendors, which is increasingly sought after in the sector. In your final year, you will have the freedom to specialise in a preferred area of study, which your Final Year Project will be based around. We also place particular emphasis on employment in the field, and your accumulative body of work will be brought together to form a portfolio to showcase to potential employers. Our degree course is an opportunity for you to develop knowledge and skills necessary to address Industry challenges and meet the demand. We have a three-year programme for those who meet the UCAS points. This can be studied on a full time basis (three years) or on a part-time basis (six years). We also have a four-year programme which includes a foundation year for those who may not have achieved the required UCAS points. This can be studied on a full time basis only. If you only need to study the Top-up level, this can be studied on a one year full time basis or a two year part time basis. Why choose this course? Today’s businesses demand the ability to have computer systems and networks, which operate on a global scale. You’ll learn from a well-rounded curriculum in computer network infrastructure, programming, server systems, security theory and practice, as well as management-level skills, maximizing your career potential. Students will:
- learn within a practical lab environment
- 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
- 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 gain additional accreditation from Cisco, CompTIA and AWS.
- have opportunities to work on real-life projects
Modules
Foundation Year modules will include (entry with 48 UCAS points – 4-year programme):
- Computers in Society
- Skills for IT
- Problem Solving
- Information System
- Digital Security
- Design and Modelling
- Automated Security Fundamentals
- Introduction to Academic Skills
- End Point Management
- Coding and API Principles
- Introduction to Network Environments
- Introduction to Server Management
- Helpdesk Management
- System Administration and Operation
- Network Performance Monitoring
- Routing and Switching Environments
- Core Security Implementation and Management
- Cloud Concepts (AWS)
- Scaling Networks for the Enterprise
- Network Vulnerability Management
- Cloud Solutions (AWS)
- Employability Skills for Computer Graduates
Assessment method
The course uses a wide range of learning methods with a focus on practical workshops. These are designed to allow you to develop your skills and knowledge in a supportive environment. Additionally, although contact hours are tutor and group-based, independent learning is increasingly developed throughout the course, and actively encouraged for your personal development; use of problem-based exercises and relevant scenarios aid this process. Concepts and theories that are presented through lectures are then explored and developed during tutor led tutorials and student led seminars. Case studies and interactive Workshops are also implemented to aid learning, and there is a strong focus on Personal Development Planning, which aims to prepare you for employment and consider ethical, social and legal issues which can face the computer professional. An annual literacy and numeracy test is also given, so that you can be offered learner specific support if needed. Assessment is centred on the practical and professional skills required by the industry, and therefore you will be specifically focusing on deriving a solution to a specified problem through researching, analysing and evaluating the issue. This creates a workload which is primarily practical, but will be substantiated through written work such as reports and essays. Group work is also used to promote transferable skills where appropriate.
How to apply
25Jan
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
This course may be available at alternative locations, please check if other course options are available
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
UCAS Tariff - 72 points
GCSE/National 4/National 5
Applications are welcomed and encouraged from those who do not meet the standard entry requirements but can demonstrate the ability to study at Higher Education level. Some credit points may be built up through prior learning and experience.
Student Outcomes
Operated by the Office for Students
There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £875 | Credit |
| Northern Ireland | £875 | Credit |
| Scotland | £875 | Credit |
| Wales | £875 | Credit |
Additional fee information
The course fees for a Part-time HND is £875 per 20 credits.
Bradford College is committed to delivering quality, affordable degrees. We work hard to cut the cost and not the corners on our undergraduate, postgraduate and professional courses. The tuition fee rate per year is fixed for the duration of the course providing there is no break in study.
You will not be asked to pay these fees up front, as you should be eligible for loans to cover the tuition fees and assist with living expenses from Student Finance England. However, please ensure that you have made your application and secured funding for your course prior to registration.
Provider information
Bradford College
Great Horton Road
Bradford
BD7 1AY