Foundation Degree in ICT Full Time (G421 Campus Code B)

The Foundation Degree in Information and Communications Technology is a technology-based course with a strong work based emphasis which has been crafted to reflect the diversity of challenges that ICT technicians face working in modern business organisations integrating ICT into their operations. This course places core enabling technologies in a business environment context by developing students’ skills in the key areas of business management, network operating systems, web application design, information transfer technologies and communication networks. It is a vocational higher education qualification, combining specialist education within both academic and practical contexts and providing students with the specialist technical knowledge and skills needed by employers at the associate professional and technical level.

Course content

• Year 1 (F/T) Inside Business: A practical introduction to the business environment where ICT is introduced and/or used, with special attention on the place of ICT in a business
• Supporting ICT Clients: Introduces topics on ICT hardware and software systems, teaching the student to identify, implement and troubleshoot hardware and software, with a range of techniques and skills that will underpin future development in ICT
• Programming: Introduces the core concepts of computer programming, GUI design, common programming constructs and basic problem analysis and programme design
• Web Technologies: Develops the knowledge and understanding required to develop accessible, standards-based web applications incorporating enterprise data
• Computer Network Basics: Studies the technologies employed in Local and Wide Area networks, following the Cisco CCNA curriculum and introduces protocols, LAN/WAN terminology, TCP/IP and addressing
• Year 2 (F/T) Infrastructure Services: Introduces the student to the design and implementation of the network services covering design, implementation and troubleshooting network services which modern interconnected business systems rely upon
• Databases and Enterprise Systems: Looks at all aspects of conceptual data modelling, data structures, relational theory, database design and implementation, security and admin and the use of XML to input and extract data for applications
• Work-based project: Consists of a project carried out in a workplace environment where some aspect of ICT will be specified, designed and implemented, or an ICT- related problem area investigated and a solution recommended

The course incorporates the latest vendor specific curricula for Cisco, Microsoft, CompTIA and Open Source, which gives the student the opportunity to gain additional professional qualifications such as: CompTIA A+ Microsoft Certified IT Professional: Enterprise Support Technician Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) Cisco Certified Entry Network Technician (CCENT) Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for the Foundation Degree course are typically 220 UCAS points at A, A/S Level, BTEC National or AVCE A pass in a recognised Access or Foundation Year Course English Language and Mathematics at GCSE grade C or above (or equivalent qualification such as Key Skills Level 2). The course team is also committed to encouraging applications from mature (over 21) people with IT or relevant experience, who meet the standard entrance requirements. Part-time students will generally be in employment and will have experience of ICT, their experience, background and other qualifications will show evidence of their desire and ability to succeed on the course.

Delivery & Assessment methods

A variety of assessment methods are used including assignments, case studies, in-class tests, examinations, laboratory exercises, presentations and project work. Course length: Full time – 2 years Part time – 3 years (one-day attendance per week extending into the evening in the 3rd year)

Progression

Graduates of the course typically take roles as IT professionals responsible for technical, administration and implementation support in: PC operating systems Server systems Network systems Database technologies Internet technologies General use of ICT The course can lead to entry on to the 3rd year of BSc (Hons) Information Communications and Technology course at BCU via bridging course and is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), successful completion meets the educational requirements for IEng.