The aim of this programme is to equip students with solid knowledge, design techniques and management approaches to planning and implementing internetworking. The degree embeds CISCO and MCP curriculum components which are key professional qualifications for employability. In year 1: the modules studied in the first year provide a firm foundation for the modules that are to be studied during year 2. At the end of the year, they will have acquired a broad base of knowledge in computer hardware and software systems. In some of the modules they will complete a number of practical activities to build up their theoretical understanding of internet systems and web programming. They will also learn the architecture of computer systems and user support skills which will prepare them for an industrial placement in the second year. Areas of study: computer architecture systems, research skills, web programming, network essentials, developing the effective learner, technology and society, introduction to internet, user support techniques. In year 2: the second year modules will allow them to address the subject areas in greater depth and apply and evaluate their underlying theories. They will be involved in configuring Cisco routers, Cisco switches and working on Microsoft servers. They will be working on ‘live’ practical tasks which meet employers’ needs. They will also be introduced to the research techniques to help shape their research proposal for year 3. Areas of study: distributed systems design, LANs and LAN design, work-related research and practical project, wide area networks, network programming and managing and maintaining windows server. In year 3/honours degree: they will automatically be given an opportunity to progress to the BSc (Hons) Network Technology. This is the most challenging year as they will be expected to do a lot more independent research than in the previous years. The advanced research methods and individual project (dissertation) modules will allow them to choose an element of network technology that they will have developed an interest in, and research further into it with appropriate guidance from a supervisor. It may be that this interest has been generated through one of the other modules that they have studied or something that has been in the media, or a problem facing the industry. Areas of study: advanced research methods, individual projects and dissertation, network security, wireless networks, implementing and managing network infrastructure, planning and maintaining network infrastructure.