FdSc Computing Technologies (Networks and Cybersecurity) (West Herts 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
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Course length: 2 years
Find out more -
Location:
- West Herts College
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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 cybersecurity. You’ll gain hands-on experience with a variation of work-based learning and vocational study, equipping you with the practical skills employer's 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 framework 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.
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 West 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.
Who you'll learn from
You will be taught by highly qualified, experienced staff who will ensure your learning is positive and productive.
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.
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
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 | |
|---|---|
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Applications open to international and EU students |
No |
Course length |
Full Time, 2 Years |
