Programme Specification FdSc Networking and Security May 2013

Programme Specification FdSc Networking and Security
1. Awarding Institution/Body Teesside University [TU]
2. Teaching Institution Leeds City College
3. Collaborating Organisations
(include type)
4. Delivery Location(s)
[if different from TU]
5. Programme Externally
Accredited by (e.g. PSRB)
Horsforth Campus, Leeds City College
n/a
6. Award Title(s) Foundation Degree Networking and Security
7. LeadSchool School of Computing
8. Additional Contributing
Schools
9. FHEQ Level
[see guidance]
10. Bologna Cycle
[see guidance]
11. JACS Code and JACS
Description
12. Mode of Attendance
[full-time or part-time]
13. Relevant QAA Subject
Benchmarking Group(s)
FHEQ Level 5
Short cycle (within or linked to the first cycle)
G420
FdSc Networking and Security
Full time and part time
Computing (2007)
Foundation Degree Qualification benchmark 2010
FdSc Networking and Security. Approved 3 May – version 1

14. Relevant Additional External
Reference Points
(e.g. National Occupational
Standards, PSRB Standards)
E-Skills NOS for IT and Telecoms Professionals
15. Date of Production/Revision Jan 2013
16. Criteria for Admission to the
Programme
(if different from standard
University criteria)
This course has minimum entry requirements of 1 x E in
a relevant A level or a pass in BTEC National
Diploma/Extended Diploma or another relevant
vocational level 3 qualification, together with a GCSE at
grade C in English and Maths. However, candidates
receiving this minimum offer would need to demonstrate
experience in and commitment to their chosen
Foundation Degree subject and a suitable reference
from a tutor.
A typical offer is likely to be 2 x D at A level, or a Merit
profile in a relevant BTEC National Diploma/Extended
Diploma, together with a GCSE at grade C in English
and Maths, together with experience and a suitable
reference from a tutor.
Applications will be accepted from those who have few
or non-standard qualifications but a wealth of work and
life experience, including appropriate experience in a
relevant field, commitment and ability. Applicants in this
group will be invited to interview or provide a portfolio of
evidence to support their application.
17. Educational Aims of the Programme
The programme aims to:
• Provide a challenging high quality programme, vocationally focused on the knowledge
and skills required for work in the industry of Networking and Security;
• Enable students to develop their academic, practical and transferable skills as a
preparation for their subsequent careers in Networking and Security;
• Provide opportunities for students to work independently and in collaboration with
others, providing the opportunity to develop self-discipline, determination and
responsibility;
• Contribute to the skill base of local, regional, national and international economies in
the context of the development of Networking and Security sector
• Produce capable and well-rounded graduates who will make a contribution to the
Network and Security labour force;
• Enable learners to progress onto an Honours degree.
18. Learning Outcomes
The programme will enable students to develop the knowledge and skills listed below. On
successful completion of the programme, the student will be able to:
Knowledge and Understanding(insert additional rows as necessary)
FdSc Networking and Security. Approved 3 May – version 1

K1 Critically review and select potential solutions to a current networking issue, using
research methods
K2 Show an awareness of the implications of legal and ethical issues relevant to the
exploration of knowledge in the chosen sector of the Networking and Security
industries
K3 Demonstrate knowledge of the relevant academic theory underpinning skills
development
K4 Critically analyse a variety of ideas, context and frameworks related to current
practice within the IT Sector.
Cognitive/Intellectual Skills(insert additional rows as necessary)
C1 Analyse, apply and interpret data/evidence from a variety of network and security
sources
C2 Identify key areas of networking and security problems and choose appropriate
tools/methods for their resolution in a considered manner to develop an innovative
solution to the issue identified
C3 Employ balanced, logical and supported argument in a range of networking and
security contexts
Practical/Professional Skills(insert additional rows as necessary)
P1 Operate ethically in situations of varying complexity and predictability requiring the
application of a wide range of network and security techniques
P2 Able to act with increasing autonomy with reduced need for supervision and
direction, within defined network and security guidelines.
P3 Ability to select and apply a range of practical, academic and professional skills
appropriate for the network and security industry
P4 Demonstrate skills in critical thinking and problem solving within the context of
networking and security.
Key Transferable Skills(insert additional rows as necessary)
T1
Select and use a range of communication methods appropriate to the context
T2
T3
T4
T5
Use a range of specialist software appropriate to the discipline
Reflect systematically on solutions and personal performance to further develop
learning.
Demonstrate a realistic match between career aspirations and personal aptitudes,
interests and motivations
Demonstrate self-awareness and the use of reflection to support continuing
professional development, including the process of moving from dependant to
independent learning.
FdSc Networking and Security. Approved 3 May – version 1

19. Key Learning & Teaching Methods
• Modules will be delivered using lectures to deliver theoretical aspects and
underpinning knowledge.
• Practical sessions will be used to supplement the theory and allow students to develop
a range of employability skills.
• Guest speakers will be used for students to gain access to a different range of
experiences.
• Group work will allow students to develop projects that include research, problem
solving, peer reflection and other teamwork skills.
• Tutor and peer led reflective feedback form the basis of student development
strategies.
• Tutorials will take the form of regular group and individual support for student
guidance.
• Students will also be directed to the relevant primary literature, book sections and
internet resources, which they will be expected to study in order to supplement the
module.
• Work experience will be a vital part of the course.
20. Key Assessment Methods
Practical demonstrations and portfolios
Reflective portfolio/logbooks
Presentations
Report
Skills Based Assessment
Examination
Negotiated Learning Agreement
Personal Development Plan
Coursework
Case Study
Self Evaluation
Project
FdSc Networking and Security. Approved 3 May – version 1

21. Programme Modules
(additional copies to be completed for each named pathway)
Level 4
Code Title Credits Status
Level 5
Non-
Compensatable
Compensatable
Introduction to Networking 20 x
Introduction to Linux 20 x
Introduction to Routers and Routing 20 x
Server Operating Systems 20 x
Professional Development 20 x x
Introduction to SQL for Networks 20 x
Code Title Credits Status
Non-
Compensatable
Compensatable
Work Related Learning 20 x
Implementing Network Security (Defender) 20 x
Implementing Network Security (Attacker) 20 x
LAN Switching 20 x
Network Management and Design 20 x x
WAN Technologies 20 x x
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22 Programme Structure
Overview of structure of the modules across the Academic Year.
Level 4
Professional
Development
20 credits
Full year
Server Operating Systems
20 credits
Full year
Introduction to
Networking
20 credits
Introduction to
Linux
20 credits
Introduction to
Routers and
Routing
20 credits
Short Module
1 st Semester
Short Module
1 st Semester
Short Module
2 nd Semester
Level 5
Work Related Learning
20 credits
Full year
Network Management and Design
20 credits
Full Year
Level 4 Part Time
Year 1
Professional
Development
20 credits
Includes a one hour
Tutorial workshop /
Academic workshop
Full year
Introduction to
SQL for
Networks
20 credits
Implementing
Network
Security
(Defender)
20 credits
LAN Switching
20 credits
Implementing
Network
Security
(Attacker)
20 credits
WAN
Technologies
20 credits
Introduction to
Networking
20 credits
Introduction to
Routers and
Routing
20 credits
Short Module
2 nd Semester
Short Module
1 st Semester
Short Module
1 st Semester
Short Module
2 nd Semester
Short Module
2 nd Semester
Short Module
1 st Semester
Short Module
2nd Semester
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Level 4 – Part time Year 2
Server Operating Systems
20 credits
Full year
Level 5 – Part Time Year 1
Work Related Learning Full year
20 credits
Includes a one hour
Tutorial workshop/
Academic workshop
Level 5 – Part Time Year 2
Network Management and Design
20 credits
Full Year
20 credits
Introduction to
Linux
s
Introduction to
SQL for
Networks
20 credits
Implementing
Network
Security
(Defender)
20 credits
Implementing
Network
Security
(Attacker)
20 credits
LAN Switching
20 credits
WAN
Technologies
20 credits
Short Module
1 st Semester
Short Module
2 nd Semester
Short Module
1 st Semester
Short Module
2 st Semester
Short Module
1st nd Semester
Short Module
2 nd Semester
23 Support for Students and Their Learning
The award adopts the approach to student learning support as identified in the Scheme
programme specification.
• Tailored induction support begins before students arrive with the admissions team, and
is reinforced at the detailed induction programme
• A robust communications system functions to give students access to lecturers and
management; this includes e-mail, the VLE and notice boards
• All necessary information about the programme is provided by means of the student
handbook, module handbooks and the VLE.
• Each student is allocated a tutor for regular tutorials and personal development
planning. This is implemented in the first term and continued throughout the two years
of study
• There is an extensive range of learning resources in the Library, supported by specialist
staff who provide bespoke study skills sessions for students.
• The University provides an extensive range of services for students, including support
for those with special needs.
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• Additional workshop sessions are available so that students can practice their technical
skills using the appropriate equipment.
• HE Quiet Study area is provided away from other students
24 Distinctive Features
• An emphasis on the balance between practical and employability skills and a strong
grounding in student lead research
• Students are able to gain professional qualifications which are recognised world- wide
in conjunction with their core qualification.
• Students have access to an excellent range of facilities including appropriate software,
separate networks, specialised network equipment, two dedicated teaching rooms,
quiet area for only HE students.
• Strong teaching team with up-to-date current professional qualifications which enable
students to gain additional qualifications.
• There is a strong emphasis on employability skills and development, with these being
embedded into all modules.
• Students are encouraged to form study groups. Bonding as a group is encouraged
through extra curricula activities supported by the team
• Strong supportive student centred environment. Students are supported not only in
class and tutorial time but the team offer an open door policy where students can
contact personally or via email at all times.
• Opportunity to apply for overseas placement in Estonia – this encourages students to
complete their first year with good grades, it is an open application process consisting
of a letter of application, customized CV and a formal interview.
• Moodle the College VLE is used extensively to support learning incorporating learner
resources, podcasts of classes, formative assessment
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Stage Outcomes (Foundation Degrees)
Please give the learning outcomes for interim stages of the programme for each named pathway or award, e.g. for Honours degrees
programme, Stage/Level 4(1) outcomes, and Stage/Level 5(2) outcomes and for Foundation Degrees, Stage 1/Level4 and programme
outcomes. Separate Stage/Level 6(3) outcomes are not required as it is assumed that these are consistent with the programme outcomes I the
programme specification. (If there have been no significant changes made to the programme outcomes as part of the review, then the stage
outcomes from the original programme documentation can be included). Please add additional rows where necessary.
Key:
K = Knowledge and Understanding C = Cognitive and Intellectual P = Practical Professional T = Key Transferable [see programme specification]
NO Programme Outcome Stage/Level 5(2) Stage/Level 4(1)
K1 Critically review and select potential
solutions to a current networking issue,
using research methods
K2
K3
Show an awareness of the implications of
legal and ethical issues relevant to the
exploration of knowledge in the chosen
sector of the Networking and Security
industries
Demonstrate knowledge of the relevant
academic theory underpinning skills
development
Identify selected potential solutions to a
current issue, using research methods
Identify a variety of ideas, context and
frameworks related to current practice
within the IT Sector
Describe explain and use key elements of
the relevant academic theory underpinning
skills development
K4
C1
C2
C3
Critically analyse a variety of ideas, context
and frameworks related to current practice
within the IT Sector.
Analyse, apply and interpret data/evidence
from a variety of network and security
sources
Identify key areas of networking and
security problems and choose appropriate
tools/methods for their resolution in a
considered manner to develop an
innovative solution to the issue identified
Employ balanced, logical and supported
argument in a range of networking and
security contexts
Identify a variety of ideas and frame works
related to current practice within the
Networking sector
Gather, record and describe with guidance
data/evidence from a range of network and
security sources
Apply given tools/methods accurately to a
well-defined problem and begin to
appreciate the complexity of associated
issues
Justify conclusions in defined and limited
contexts
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P1
P2
P3
P4
T1
T2
T3
T4
T5
Operate ethically in situations of varying
complexity and predictability requiring the
application of a wide range of network and
security techniques
Able to act with increasing autonomy with
reduced need for supervision and direction,
within defined network and security
guidelines.
Ability to select and apply a range of
practical, academic and professional skills
appropriate for the network and security
industry
Demonstrate skills in critical thinking and
problem solving within the context of
networking and security.
Select and use a range of Communication
methods appropriate to the context
Use a range of specialist software
appropriate to the discipline
Reflect systematically on your solution and
your own performance to further develop
learning.
Demonstrate a realistic match between
career aspirations and personal aptitudes,
interests and motivations
Demonstrate self-awareness and the use
of reflection to support continuing
professional development, including the
process of moving from dependant to
independent learning.
Operate ethically in predictable defined
contexts that require use of a specified use
of standard network and security
techniques
Able to act with limited autonomy under
direction of supervision, within defined
network and security guidelines.
Develop appropriate practical, academic
and professional skills appropriate for the
network and security industry.
Identify skills in critical thinking and
problem solving within the context of
networking and security
Identify and use an appropriate
communication method appropriate to the
context
Use basic IT tools (e.g. word-processing;
spread sheets; information searching) or
basic technology in tutor-defined contexts
Identify own learning strengths and areas
for development using feedback from
assessments and create a clear strategy
for personal improvement.
Identify and articulate personal skills,
abilities, interests and motivations and
relate these to career opportunities
Recognise self-awareness and the use of
reflection to support continuing professional
development, including the process of
moving from dependant to independent
learning
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Map of Outcomes to Modules
Outcome Key
Module Name K1 K2 K3 K4 C1 C2 C3 P1 P2 P3 P4 T1 T2 T3 T4 T5
x x x x x x
Introduction to
Networking
Concepts
Introduction to
Linux
Introduction to
Routers and
Routing
Server Operating
Systems
Professional
Development
Introduction to
SQL for Networks
Level 5
Work Related
Learning
Implementing
Network Security
(Defender)
Implementing
Network Security
(Attacker)
x x x x x
x x x x x x
x x x x x x
x x x x x x x x
x x x x x x
x x x x x x x x
x x x x x x
x x x x x
LAN Switching x x x x
Network
Management and
Design
WAN
Technologies
x x x x x
x x x x x
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Level 4 Year: 1
Map of Teaching and Learning Methods
Examples – put
in your own
specific forms
Introduction to
Networking
Introduction to
Linux
Introduction to
Routers and
Routing
Server
Systems
Professional
Development
Introduction to
SQL for
networks
Lectures Seminars Tutorials Practical Demonstrations Case studies Group
activities
x x x x x
x x x x x
x x x x x
x x x x x
Guest
speakers
x x x x x x x x
x x x x x x
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Level 5 Year : 2
Examples – put
in your own
specific forms
Lectures Seminars Tutorials Practical Demonstrations Case studies Group
activities
Guest
speakers
Work Related x x x x x x x
Learning
Implementing x x x x x
Network
Security
(Defender)
Implementing x x x x x
Network
Security
(Attacker)
LAN Switching x x x x x
Network
x x x x x
Management
and Design
WAN
Technologies
x x x x x x
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Map of Assessment Methods
Level 4 Year : 1
Examples –
put in your
own specific
forms
Personal
development
plan
Coursework
Report
Reflective
learning
statement
Examination
Case study
Selfevaluation
Peer
assessment
Portfolio
Presentation
Practical
Demonstrations
Skills Based
Assessment
Introduction
to Networking
Introduction
to Linux
Introduction
to Routers
and Routing
Server
Operating
Systems
Professional
Development
Introduction
to SQL for
Networks
x
x
x
x
x x x x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
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Level 5 Year : 2
Examples –
put in your
own specific
forms
Work Related
Learning
Implementing
Network
Security
(Defender)
Implementing
Network
Security
(Attacker)
LAN
Switching
Network
Management
and Design
WAN
Technologies
Negotiated
learning
agreement
Personal
development
plan
Coursework
Report
Reflective
learning
statement
Examination
Case study
Selfevaluation
Presentation
Practical
Demonstratio
ns
x x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
WRL Project
Skills Based
x
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ASSESSMENT CHART
Where there are more than one components of assessment, please give details of both as
separate bullet points within the box.
Module Name
Module Name – LEVEL 4
Introduction to Linux
Introduction To Networking
Formative Assessment Type
and Week of Completion
On-going formative assessment
throughout the whole course
ranging from continuous feedback
to performance of actual tasks.
Formative assessment will be
done in the form of week by week
labs and command research.
On-going formative assessment
throughout the whole course
ranging from continuous feedback
to performing of actual tasks.
Report, Case Study, Skills Based
Assessment.
Summative Assessment
Type and Week of
Submission
1. Portfolio (2000 words) -
70%
Submission: w/c 17/12
2. Skills-based assessment -
30%
Submission: w/c 07/01
1. Written report - 70%
Submission: w/c 10/12
2. Practical assessment -
30%
Submission: w/c 07/01
Introduction to Routers and
Routing
Introduction to SQL for
Networks
Professional Development
Server Operating Systems
A range of formative (online
testing) and summative
assessment methods will be used
Report, Skills Based Assessment
The formative assessment will be
in the form of week by week
online testing.
On-going formative assessment
throughout the whole course
ranging from continuous feedback
to performance of actual tasks:
practical, coursework, reflection,
report
Formative tasks will be provided
each week which build the
students’ knowledge and skills
towards the summative
assessment.
On-going formative assessment
throughout the whole course
ranging from continuous feedback
to performing of actual tasks:
presentations, group work, reports,
portfolio
Formative work will be set on
Moodle each week for students to
develop their professional skills
and enhance their knowledge
A range of formative and
summative assessment methods
1. Report (1500 words) - 50%
Submission: w/c 22/04
2. Practical assessment -
50%
Submission: w/c 13/05
1. Practical - 70%
Submission: w/c 06/05
2. Report Evaluation - 30%
Submission: w/c 20/05
1. Portfolio (2,100 words) -
70%
Submission: w/c 18/03
2. Reflective Report (900
words) - 30% Submission:
w/c 29/04
1. Written report (900 words)
- 30%
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Module Name – LEVEL 5
Implementing Network
Security (Attacker)
Implementing Network
Security (defender)
will be used Report, Practical,
Demonstration.
On-going formative assessment
throughout the whole course
ranging from continuous feedback
to performance of actual tasks.
Research, coursework, case
study, practical
The formative assessment will be
in the form of week by week Labs
and command research.
On-going formative assessment
throughout the whole course
ranging from continuous feedback
to performance of actual tasks.
A range of formative (online
testing) and summative
assessment (case study) methods
will be used
Submission: w/c 01/04
2. Written report (1,200
words) - 40%
Submission: w/c 29/04
3. Podcast/Presentation -
30%
Submission: w/c 20/05
1. Case study (4000 words) -
100%
Submission: w/c 06/05
1. Case study (4000 words) -
100%
Submission: w/c 07/01
LAN Switching
Network Management and
Design
The formative assessment will be
in the form of week by week
online testing.
On-going formative assessment
throughout the whole course
ranging from continuous feedback
to performance of actual tasks.
A range of formative (online
testing) and summative
assessment methods will be used
The formative assessment will be
in the form of week by week
online testing
On-going formative assessment
throughout the whole course
ranging from continuous feedback
to performance of actual tasks.
A range of formative and
summative assessment (case
study) methods will be used
The formative assessment will be
in the form of week by week
1. Report (2000 words) - 50%
Submission: w/c 10/12
2. Practical assessment -
50%
Submission: w/c 14/01
1. Case study (4000 words) -
100%
Submission: w/c 13/05
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esearch and design exercises.
WAN Technologies
On-going formative assessment
throughout the whole course
ranging from continuous feedback
to performance of actual tasks.
A range of formative (online
testing) and summative
assessment methods will be used
: practical, workshop, evaluation,
research
1. Report (2000 words) - 50%
Submission: w/c 29/04
2. Practical assessment -
50%
Submission: w/c 13/05
Work Related Learning
The formative assessment will be
in the form of week by week
online testing.
On-going formative assessment
throughout the whole course
ranging from continuous feedback
to performance of actual tasks:
Reflection, project, report,
portfolio.
Formative assessments will be set
each week which will build the
students’ knowledge and skills
towards their summative
assessment.
1. Work placement Portfolio
(2100 words) - 70%
Submission: w/c 15/04
2. Reflective Journal (1200
words) - 30%
Submission: w/c 20/05
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