FdSc Computing Technologies (Networks and Cybersecurity) (North Hertfordshire College)

Get an excellent grounding in computing while specialising in aspects specifically related to networks and cyber security with this computer science foundation degree.

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Typical offer: 48
Entry requirements
Fees: £6,165 per year (UK)
Full details
UCAS code: I120
Course length: 2 years
Find out more
Location:
North Hertfordshire College
Institute code: H36

Gain a nationally recognised qualification

Progress to a bachelors degree

Blended work-based learning and vocational study

Course overview

This foundation degree in computer science gives you a strong grounding in computing, with a focus on networks and cyber security. You’ll gain hands-on experience with a variation of work-based learning and vocational study, equipping you with the practical skills employers demand.

Upon completion of your foundation course, you’ll have the opportunity to progress to the second or final year of a BSc Honours program, such as BSc in IT or BSc in Computer Science, based on your performance.

Why choose this course?

Complete a nationally recognised qualification in just two years of full-time study on this computer science foundation degree, giving you a solid foundation to advance in the tech industry.

Unlock progression routes to degree programmes at the University of Hertfordshire, including direct entry into the second or final year of a BSc Honours program.

Your future career

Once you have completed your foundation computer science degree, you may be eligible to progress on to a BA (Hons) top-up year at the University of Hertfordshire, subject to obtaining appropriate grades.

Students who enter level 5 will have the opportunity to progress to the below courses:

BSc (Hons) Computer Science

BSc (Hons) Information Technology

BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence)

BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Networks)

BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Software Engineering)

Students who enter level 6 will have the opportunity to progress to the below courses:

BSc (Hons) Computer Science

BSc (Hons) Information Technology

BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Networks)

What you'll study

In your first year, you will develop your knowledge of programming, computer systems architecture, databases and data analysis, networks, wireless and systems analysis.

You will continue to study a mixture of modules in your second year, focusing on aspects of computing as well as modules specialising in networks and cyber security.

Once you have completed your foundation degree you may be eligible to progress on to a BA (Hons) top-up year at the University of Hertfordshire, subject to obtaining appropriate grades in your foundation studies.

Throughout the course, you'll complete a mix of assignments, projects, lab work, and in-class tests to develop practical and theoretical skills.

Level 4

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Developing the Computing Professional - NHC	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module is designed to prepare students for the programme and future employment Emphasis will be on academic practices and analysis of existing skills, enabling professional development planning. Commercial awareness will be introduced for students to gain knowledge of employers' business environment and how graduates can add value to business.
Programming concepts- NHC	15 Credits	Compulsory
Students will explore programming and its role in problem solving. The core of the unit will focus on understanding programming constructs to solve problems. Students will learn the role of specifications, to work to a specification, and the role of testing, to verify the correctness of a solution.
Topics in Computer Systems - NHC	15 Credits	Compulsory
The experience gained in this module will give students the necessary underpinning knowledge and skills to understand the architecture of computer systems and to specify a computer system according to client requirements. Complete computer system specifications will be documented to include hardware components and operating systems chosen for and on behalf of clients, following a set of requirements. Students will also be introduced to low-level machine language and data representation.
Designing for User Experience - NHC	15 Credits	Compulsory
Students will gain the underpinning knowledge and skills required to design user centric applications combined with the experience of examining issues associates with UX and its impact on interface. Students will be introduced to fundamental principles for effective design and develop simple responsive usable interface using front end technologies and frameworks.
Applied Programming - NHC	15 Credits	Compulsory
Students will expand on topics learned from the module Programming Concepts by considering how to solve more complex problems. To do this, they will investigate more advanced concepts such as modular and functional programming. Students will also begin to investigate the role of decomposition in building reusable components for programs.
Project Management - NHC	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module introduces students to project management principles, methodologies, and techniques that may be used in planning and managing a successful computing project to fulfil client needs. Students will develop project planning documents using techniques such as work breakdown structure, precedence tables, and activity network diagrams. Risk analysis and management will also be considered as these are key considerations of project management.
Networking Fundamentals - NHC	15 Credits	Compulsory
Students will gain knowledge and skills to be able describe and explain the benefits of computer networks to an organisation. They will identify network types, topologies, protocols and the major security threats and impacts of these on an organisation.
Applied Networking	15 Credits	Compulsory
Students will gain knowledge and skills to be able to explain the benefits of computer networks to an organisation. They will be able to apply network protocols and IP addressing and identify network requirements, topologies, and the major security threats and impacts of these on an organisation.

Level 5

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
WBL Project - Networks and Cybersecurity - NHC	30 Credits	Compulsory
The Work Based Learning Project will give students the opportunity to apply knowledge and skills learnt in the course, with a live organisation, to propose an IT/Computing solution. Students will develop research, problem-solving, and professional skills. Students will be encouraged to build employer links and develop valuable commercial awareness.
Data Analysis and Database Design - NHC	15 Credits	Compulsory
To investigate the data requirements of a business problem, using data modelling techniques. A complete database design and implementation of a database solution, using database management systems along with perform basic database administration tasks and some complex query solutions using SQL for analysis on relational databases.
Routing and Switching Concepts - NHC	15 Credits	Compulsory
The experience gained in this module will give students the necessary underpinning knowledge and skills to understand, use and configure routing and switching devices in an enterprise network. Students will be able to analyse and evaluate routing and switching functions, router architecture, the role of routers and switches in a network, LAN segmentation and VLAN security. Students will also be introduced to packet forwarding, routing tables, and forwarding decisions. Areas covered include interior routing protocols, configuration of static and dynamic routing, troubleshooting routing issues, VLAN implementation, Network Address Translation, DHCP, Access Control Lists, network monitoring tools and the design and configuration of a routed network.
Computing in Organisations - NHC	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module is designed to provide a vital link between computing technologies and their practical use in businesses. Students will gain an understanding about needs and considerations of businesses, development of computing technologies and the wider environment.
Network Protocols and Cybersecurity - NHC	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will explain the networking concepts and technologies that make the basis of the enterprise networks, and it will introduce the students to the characteristics of cybercrime, security principles, technologies, and procedures to defend networks. The focus of this module is on the architecture, components, and secure operations of routers and switches in a large and complex network. Students will be able to plan and configure single-area and multi-area OSPF, advanced features of EIGRP, Layer 2 and first-hop redundancy and Wireless LAN Security STP and RSTP operations in a switched network, VTP, link aggregation, EtherChannel, HSRP, wireless operations in an enterprise LAN and common attacks to wireless networks. Through interactive, multimedia content, lab activities, and multi-industry case studies, students will also be introduced to the cybersecurity world, including cybersecurity criminals, cybersecurity attacks, the cybersecurity profession, and the cybersecurity safeguards, technologies, policies and procedures.
WAN Protocols and Cybersecurity - NHC	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will explain WAN networking concepts and WAN technologies that make the basis of the Internet and are used to connect WAN network segments. The experience gained in this module will give students the necessary underpinning knowledge and skills to use WAN technologies and protocols in given scenarios and apply basic WAN security concepts. A WAN network will be designed and built according to a set of instructions and requirements. Students will be introduced to WAN-based services, network management and network troubleshooting methodologies. They will be able to troubleshoot network implementation issues. Students will also be introduced to WAN security concepts, security best practices and will apply methods for threat mitigation. Students will also be introduced to types of cybersecurity threats to wide area networks and the defence techniques to ensure high system and network availability. Additionally, students will be introduced to automation for daily tasks in network management operations.
Web Technologies	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module focuses on the fundamentals of web technology and IoT, covering data formats, web and IoT architecture components, and web security for API data. Students will also explore the importance of using scripting languages for creating programmable web application and utilising simulated environment for creating smart network using IoT.

What if I need support?

You’ll have access to our Learning Resource Centres which run drop-in study skills sessions for help with referencing, essay writing and presentations. You can attend workshops, 1-to-1 sessions and online tutorials.

Where you'll study

You'll primarily study at North Hertfordshire College, with one day per week spent at the University of Hertfordshire, where you’ll join larger groups of students. This blended approach enhances your learning and prepares you for future studies.

How we support our students

At the University of Hertfordshire, we want to make sure your time studying with us is as stress-free and rewarding as possible.

We offer a range of support services, from childcare to counselling, ensuring that you make the most of your time at Herts and can focus on studying, having fun, and have the support you need.

Find out more about support and wellbeing

Entry requirements

The University of Hertfordshire is committed to welcoming students with a wide range of qualifications and levels of experience. The entry requirements listed on the course pages provide a guide to the minimum level of qualifications needed to study each course. However, we have a flexible approach to admissions and each application will be considered on an individual basis.

Typical offer (UCAS points)	(enter tariff range)
Typical A Level offer	(enter range)
Typical IB offer	(enter range)
Typical BTEC offer	(enter range)
Typical T Level offer	(enter range)
GCSE	EG: Grade 4/C in English Language and 4/D Mathematics
Access courses	EG: An overall merit profile in 45 credits at Level 3.
Additional information	Find out more about our standard and contextual Undergraduate Entry Requirements.

Typical offer (UCAS points)	48
Typical A Level offer	DD
Typical IB offer	48 UCAS points
Typical BTEC offer	PPP
Typical T Level offer	Design Survey and Planning for Construction; Design Production, Design and Development; Education and Childcare; Healthcare Science; Health; Science; Digital Support Services; Digital Business Services; Onsite Construction; Building Services Engineering for Construction; Accounting; Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing; Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control; Finance; Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering and Manufacturing; Management and Administration; Agriculture, Land Management and Production; Legal Services.
GCSE	Grade 4/C in English Language and Mathematics.
Access courses	An overall pass
Additional information	Find out more about our standard and contextual Undergraduate Entry Requirements.

Ready to apply?

UK and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

	Full time
September 2025	Apply via UCAS
September 2026	Apply via UCAS

Apply through Clearing

Make sure you've got your UCAS number, if you've got one (you can find this on your UCAS Hub), your results (including GCSEs, A levels, BTECs or equivalent) and the course(s) you'd like to apply for.

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Find out more before you apply

Our Clearing hotline is open Monday – Thursday, 09:00 – 16:45, and Friday 09:00 – 15:45. To apply you will need your UCAS number, if you've got one (you can find this on your UCAS Hub), your results (including GCSEs, A levels, BTECs or equivalent) and the course(s) you'd like to apply for.

Fees and funding

At Herts, we’re dedicated to providing world-class teaching supported by industry-level facilities and incredible social spaces. We believe cost shouldn’t be a barrier to higher education, and we strive to keep both our standard and additional costs as low as possible.

	Study type	Fees
UK students	Full time	£6,165 for the 2025/2026 academic year

Tuition fees are charged annually. The fees quoted above are for the specified year(s) only. Fees may be higher in future years, for both new and continuing students. Please see the University’s Fees and Finance Policy (and in particular the section headed “When tuition fees change”), for further information about when and by how much the University may increase its fees for future years.

Scholarships, grants and bursaries	Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for a non-repayable scholarship, grant or bursary to support your studies.
Disabled Students' Allowance	The Disabled Students’ Allowance can cover any study-related costs you have because of a mental health problem, long term illness or any other disability.
Student loans	Find out about securing a student loan, from how much you could be eligible for to when you need to start making repayments.
Accommodation costs	We offer a great choice of student accommodation, on campus or nearby in the local area, to suit every student budget.
Additional course fees	Read more about additional fees in the course fact sheet.

More about the course

Course fact sheets
FdSc Computing Technologies (Networks and Cybersecurity)	Download PDF

Programme specifications
FdSc Computing Technologies (Networks and Cybersecurity)	Download PDF

Additional information
Applications open to international and EU students	No
Course length	Full Time, 2 Years

FdSc Computing Technologies (Networks and Cybersecurity) (North Hertfordshire College)

Get an excellent grounding in computing while specialising in aspects specifically related to networks and cyber security with this computer science foundation degree.

Typical offer: 48

Fees: £6,165 per year (UK)

UCAS code: I120

Course length: 2 years

Location: North Hertfordshire College

Institute code: H36

Course overview

Why choose this course?

Your future career

What you'll study

What if I need support?

Where you'll study

How we support our students

At the University of Hertfordshire, we want to make sure your time studying with us is as stress-free and rewarding as possible.

Entry requirements

UK applicants

UK applicants

Ready to apply?

UK applicants

UK and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

Apply through Clearing

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

Additional information

More about the course

Further information

Not ready to apply?

Undergraduate degrees and courses

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Location:
North Hertfordshire College