Computer Network Engineering

Your studies are supported by a team of committed and enthusiastic teachers and researchers, experts in their chosen field. We also work with external professionals, many of whom are UCEN Manchester alumni, to enhance your learning and appreciation of the wider subject

• Students that have passed a recognised Access programme will also be considered

• We strongly recommend that all applicants have GCSE English Language and Mathematics grades A*-C or level 9-4.

• 64 UCAS Tariff Points

Mature applicants (aged 21 or over) who are able to demonstrate relevant skills or knowledge gained in employment or vocational activity will be considered and may be invited to interview.
An interview is required for those applying who do not meet the entry requirement.
You will be asked to write a 500-word academic report and/or a practical assessment to gain an understanding of your writing and technical skills prior to the course.

Introduction to Networks (15 credits)
The aim of this unit is to introduce the student to the fundamentals of networking concepts and technologies. The unit materials will assist the student in developing the skills necessary to plan and implement small networks across a range of applications, using routing and switching technology

Year 1: Advanced Operating Systems (30 credits)
Students will be able to identify the roles of a distributed system, relate to synchronisation and scheduling in parallel systems and demonstrate the characteristics of an embedded operating system. Whilst developing analytical and critical thinking skills to aid in their employment.

Year 1: Connecting WAN Networks (15 credits)
Students will also develop the knowledge and skills needed to implement virtual private network (VPN) operations in a complex network. This unit describes the architecture, components and operations of routers and switches in larger and more complex networks. Students will learn how to configure routers and switches for advanced functionality.

Year 1: Cyber Security Concepts (15 credits)
This unit will provide students with the underpinning knowledge and skills to begin the journey within network security. Students who complete this unit will be able to identify security threats, vulnerabilities, and help respond to and recover from security incidents. In addition, students will gain knowledge in designing and building secure networks necessary to plan and implement small secure networks across a range of applications using routers switching technology.

Year 1: Employment and Academic Development in Technology (30 credits)
This unit will support student transition to graduate level study and professional careers. It will focus on developing and re-enforcing critical, analytical, academic and linguistic skills and preparing Students vocationally by enhancing their knowledge and skills to inform existing or potential professional careers. The unit will support students in developing employability skills and aid them in developing their professionalism in relation to their subject area.

Year 1: Internetworking Security (30 credits)
Students will develop an in-depth theoretical understanding of network security principles as well as the tools and configurations available. The course does accentuate the practical fundamentals and needs to gain employment as a network/security engineer.

Year 1: Introduction to Operating Systems (30 credits)
Students will be able to competently operate any given Operating System and undertake routine maintenance tasks, whilst developing analytical and critical thinking skills to aid in their employment.

Year 1: Introduction to Programming (15 credits)
This unit introduces fundamental concepts of computer programming. The unit includes the principles and practice of programming design, the implementation, and testing of programming solutions, and the concepts and principles of problem solving by computer.

Year 1: Research Project (30 credits)
The Unit aims to provide students with the opportunity to further explore discipline-specific knowledge and undertake a research project in a self-selected area of professional practice with the context of the Award studied.

Year 1: Routing and Switching Essentials (15 credits)
The aim of this unit is to introduce the student to the workings of corporate Routers and Switches in networking and highlight the concepts and the technologies used. The unit materials will assist the student in developing the skills necessary to plan and implement small networks across a range of applications, using routers and switching technology

Year 1: Scaling Routing Networks (15 credits)
The unit will help students be able to configure and troubleshoot routers and switches and resolve common issues with OSPF, EIGRP, and STP in both IPv4 and IPv6 networks. Students will also develop the knowledge and skills needed to implement a WLAN in a small-to-medium sized network.

A range of assessment methods are used and could be in the form of the following:
• Reports
• Oral presentations
• Group work
• Practical assignments
• Time constrained tests
• Peer assessment
• Live industry briefs.

Each module is structure is broken down as follows:
• Summative Assessment 25%
• Directed Study 30%
• Student-centred Learning 45%

We would strongly recommend access to a laptop or computer to be able to undertake independent study.

A External 1TB Hard Drive is required

Required and essential items for programme and cost.

These are costs outside of academic books, printing costs and any other standard students related costs and are related specifically to the subject they are studying.

Examples of materials that would benefit study:
Cable Continuity Tester: £10 - £60
Cisco LAB 2 x Routers, 2 x Switches: £200 - £600

A DBS is not required for this course.

Yes ☐
No ☒