Code: Investigate, analyse and recommend IT solutions.

This module is designed to explore the transformative technologies that are shaping the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). It provides an in-depth understanding of various 4IR technologies and their potential impact on industries, businesses, and society as a whole. Students will gain insights into the principles, applications, and challenges associated with these technologies. Topics covered include an introduction to the Fourth Industrial Revolution, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain technology, robotics and automation, quantum computing, cybersecurity in the 4IR, digital transformation, and industry 4.0, as well as ethical and societal implications.

Code: Design, install, manage and troubleshoot network infrastructure.

Understanding the underlying principles of networking is of vital importance to all IT professionals in an environment that is increasingly complex and under continuous development. Students taking this module will explore a range of hardware and technologies, culminating in the design and deployment of a networked system. Working with many technologies, this module informs the design, selection, implementation, and support of a variety of network systems, including local area networks and larger scale wider area networked systems. Supporting a range of modules in the qualification, this module underpins the principles of networks for all and enables students to work towards their studies in other modules, if applicable. Secondly, some of the more advanced elements and features of network infrastructures, including network packet construction and analysis, will be introduced Network infrastructure is best understood through the exploration of more complex concepts such as addressing schemes, routing, and remote access processes. In addition, this module also studies the security aspects, elements and application of network security and encryption strategies and technologies which are essential in any modern business network infrastructure. Students are exposed to network management and monitoring processes such as configuration and virtual networks, along with the application of each of these in various scenarios. This module also focuses on the construction and analysis of network packets constructed by a small selection of protocols operating in different layers of the OSI model, to demonstrate in detail, the specific role, and functions of the selected protocols. This part aims to establish a deep understanding of network communication, routing, and transmission processes.

Code: Apply IT knowledge responsibly in business environments.

This module explores the multifaceted world of AI ethics, providing a thorough understanding of AI's historical emergence, current significance, and anticipated future development. It outlines the risks and consequences of unethical AI practises and provides a unified framework of ethical principles for AI. The module examines the governance of artificial intelligence, ethical considerations in algorithms, the potential for AI to be misused, and its application for social good. In addition, it examines AI's impact on climate change and its alignment with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.

Code: Work effectively in teams and manage IT projects.

This module covers a wide range of topics essential for individuals interested in business management and entrepreneurship. Starting with an understanding of entrepreneurial life and the importance of integrity, ethics, and social entrepreneurship, the module progresses to explore aspects of starting a small business, including different business models, marketing plans, organisational structures, financial statements, customer relationships, product development, and global business opportunities. It also addresses crucial aspects like managing human resources, business operations, assets, and risk.

Code: Apply foundational knowledge of IT systems, networking, operating systems and programming to solve real-world problems.

This module provides a comprehensive exploration of AWS, one of the leading cloud service providers, covering foundational and advanced topics in cloud architecture, global services, networking, and security. Students will examine AWS’s compute and storage services, identity and access management, and automation strategies for infrastructure deployment. The curriculum includes discussions on real-world considerations, such as latency, compliance, cost optimization, scalability, and resilience, preparing students to make informed decisions and manage AWS resources effectively.

Code: Apply cybersecurity principles to protect systems, networks, and data.

Most IT professionals will at some stage have to set up, use, customise and maintain computer systems. In order to do so effectively, they will need to understand how computer systems work. Students will understand the theoretical aspects of computer systems, and how information is processed. This module explores the hardware, software and peripheral components that make up a computer system. There are many different manufacturers of computer systems, and each manufacturer will produce a wide range of models with different specifications. Deciding which particular models are appropriate for a given situation depends on a variety of factors. Custom-built computer systems are also an advantage when meeting specialised requirements whilst maintaining performance and keeping costs low. These aspects are explored in this module so that students can make informed choices when designing a computer system for a given purpose. Computer users also need the skills required to set up and carry out routine maintenance of computer systems. This module also explores fault finding and the repair of software and hardware issues. It includes the maintenance skills that would normally be expected of most computer users. Working with many technologies, this module informs the design, selection, implementation and support of a variety of network systems, including local area networks and larger scale wider area networked systems.

Code: Apply foundational knowledge of IT systems, networking, operating systems and programming to solve real-world problems.

This module explores the diverse subject of networking, looking at types of networks, the structure of networks, how models explain how data travels over networks, the different media used to carry data, the different devices used to move data, the underlying principles of protocols, addressing schemes, services, and standards, and the tools and techniques used to manage, monitor, troubleshoot, and secure networking systems.

Code: Apply foundational knowledge of IT systems, networking, operating systems and programming to solve real-world problems.

Within the field of information technology, there is often a need to carry out tasks using the internet, word processors, presentations, spreadsheets, and databases. To effectively carry out these everyday tasks, this module provides students with the necessary skills to apply Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Access on an advanced level, independently and with confidence.

Code: Develop, integrate and automate systems using appropriate tools and technologies.

This module covers a wide range of topics related to database systems. It starts with the fundamental concepts of databases, emphasising the transition from data to information and the importance of database design. Students will explore data models, the relational database model, entity-relationship modelling, and advanced data modelling techniques. The module delves into normalisation, structured query language (SQL), advanced SQL, and database design concepts. It also covers advanced topics such as transaction management, performance tuning, distributed database management systems, business intelligence, big data, and database connectivity with web technologies. The module concludes with a focus on database administration and security.

Code: Design, install, manage and troubleshoot network infrastructure.

This module goes over a lot of different areas of enterprise network management. It talks about basic networking concepts, computer network layers, IP addressing and management, Wi-Fi and cellular networks, Ethernet LAN, packet routing, wide area networks, and physical layer data transmissions. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on exercises, students will gain a deep understanding of how different network components interact and how to manage them effectively in an enterprise environment.

Code: Apply cybersecurity principles to protect systems, networks, and data.

This module delves into ethical hacking practices, addresses legal considerations, and provides hands-on experience in various hacking techniques. Topics include OSINT, DNS manipulation, email and web vulnerabilities, VPNs, file sharing, UNIX systems, databases, web applications, Microsoft Windows, and password security. The module concludes with guidance on writing effective penetration test reports.

Code: Apply foundational knowledge of IT systems, networking, operating systems and programming to solve real-world problems.

Information is the most valuable resource that an organisation possesses. The effective gathering, protection, analysis, processing and dissemination of information are vital to the success of any organisation. As globalisation and the 24-hour economy develop and increase, organisations must ensure that their Information Systems (IS) are reliable, efficient and able to cope with rapid change. Organisations whose Information Systems previously dealt purely with data processing have now introduced supporting strategic management and decision support. Managers at all levels need appropriate and timely information to plan successfully in the short-, medium-and long-term and an understanding that information can have many sources and destinations. As organisations diversify and decentralise, information also needs to be available to many non-managerial staff in a variety of locations. The logical conclusion is thus that an organisation is now completely dependent on the effectiveness of its Information Systems in order to survive and thrive in the 21st century business environment. Students will begin this module by analysing the information needs of an organisation at different levels and within different functional areas. It is important that computing professionals are able to understand how an organisation works and how it uses information, in order to be able to design, implement, maintain and manage systems to support the organisation’s operation.

Code: Apply foundational knowledge of IT systems, networking, operating systems and programming to solve real-world problems.

The student will understand the basic knowledge of general principles and the concepts of programming. Students will develop programs, and although the content could be delivered from a range of languages, compilers or platforms, the unit should aim to deliver skills and knowledge that will easily transfer to other areas of the qualification lifecycle. Students will adopt good practice while designing programs using industry techniques. They will also use variables, constants and literals. The student will understand the concepts of data storage within a computer program and identify or select appropriate iterative and selection structures when writing simple programs. In addition to the above, the student will learn the facilities and rules of the language, e.g. operators and I/O commands, and make use of comments and code layout. The student will use or create both predefined and user-defined functions and procedures, and map structured design onto a program using functions or procedures, passing data by value and reference, create software applications, e.g. a word processor or graphics, analysis, design and implementation of documentation, professional standards. Students will test the data and schedules, e.g. black box, white box, dry testing and data collection.

Code: Design, install, manage and troubleshoot network infrastructure.

This module delves into the realm of IoT wireless networks, beginning with an introduction to IoT, exploring network architecture and design, engineering considerations for IoT networks, and examining IoT applications in different industries. Students will gain insights into smart objects, communication protocols, data analytics, and security measures crucial for IoT implementations. The module combines theoretical knowledge with practical insights into real-world applications of IoT in manufacturing, oil and gas, utilities, smart cities, transportation, mining, and public safety.

Code: Work effectively in teams and manage IT projects.

IT projects are famous for cost overruns, time overruns and failure of the applications to provide expected features. Many projects are cancelled before they ever get completed and a great many of them fail. Therefore, it is important that projects are managed correctly. Many people involved in the implementation of projects have little understanding of the principles, processes, tools and techniques of project management. The importance of project management as a discipline is growing rapidly and every aspiring IT manager today will need to have an understanding of how to effectively manage an IT project. This course covers the aspects necessary for the successful management of IT projects. In this module, students will obtain knowledge of project management in an organisational context, including the project management knowledge areas and project management life cycle, the project framework and basic principles and processes related to some of the project management knowledge areas. These include project role players, project coordination and control, project management software, the change control process, project termination and project closure. Students will apply some project management skills, methods and tools related to certain knowledge areas.

Code: Apply foundational knowledge of IT systems, networking, operating systems and programming to solve real-world problems.

This module covers the essentials of Linux-based operating systems, starting with an introduction to Linux history, its role in modern computing, and future prospects. Students will explore core Linux functionalities, including file system navigation, file manipulation, user and group management, process control, and permissions. They will gain hands-on experience with Linux commands, shell scripting, and system administration tasks. Advanced topics such as disk partitioning, package management, networking, and security permissions are also addressed, giving students a comprehensive understanding of Linux environments and practical skills for various IT roles.

Code: Apply foundational knowledge of IT systems, networking, operating systems and programming to solve real-world problems.

This module is designed to help students develop a sound, intuitive understanding of the basic concepts of the techniques of differential and integral calculus. The course emphasises the importance of graphs and functions, limits, derivatives and integrals. The course aims to help students understand thoroughly the concepts of differential and integral calculus theoretically and how these concepts can be used in real-life situations and to develop students’ skills in creative problem solving.

Code: Apply foundational knowledge of IT systems, networking, operating systems and programming to solve real-world problems.

This module is designed to help students develop a sound, intuitive understanding of the basic concepts of the techniques of differential and integral calculus. The course emphasises the importance of graphs and functions, limits, derivatives and integrals. The course aims to help students understand thoroughly the concepts of differential and integral calculus theoretically and how these concepts can be used in real-life situations and to develop students’ skills in creative problem solving.

Code: Apply foundational knowledge of IT systems, networking, operating systems and programming to solve real-world problems.

This module explores the principles, architectures, and applications of Mobile Edge Computing (MEC), a paradigm that brings computation and data storage closer to the data sources. It covers key topics such as hierarchical MEC architectures, offloading policies, caching mechanisms, and their performance metrics. Additionally, the module delves into the integration of MEC with advanced technologies, including 5G/6G networks, vehicular edge computing, and UAV-assisted networks, while addressing challenges and exploring case studies. Students will also investigate the future of MEC, including its convergence with AI, blockchain, and its applications in industrial IoT, pandemics, and disaster management.

Code: Apply cybersecurity principles to protect systems, networks, and data.

This module prepares the student to be aware and lay emphasis on security needs in the IT industry. In this module, students will learn all that is needed to understand risks, this includes risk assessment, calculation, and management with regard to wired and wireless network devices and its design elements. Students will learn about security threats, including viruses, malware and how to prevent them. Furthermore, students will also cover topics such as application, data, and physical security. Topics related to security in the cloud, social engineering, cryptography, security administration and incident/disaster recovery will also be covered. On completion of this module, students will be able to demonstrate the skills required to monitor networks and propose/implement measures required to prevent attacks.

Code: Apply IT knowledge responsibly in business environments.

This module provides a comprehensive exploration of non-technical skills crucial for IT professionals in today's dynamic work environment. It emphasises the significance of soft skills such as professionalism, ethics, communication, and teamwork.The module covers a range of topics, including self-management, etiquette, attire, verbal and nonverbal communication, listening skills, written communication, diversity awareness, and confidence-building. It also addresses crucial skills like interviewing for employment and functioning effectively within teams. The practical nature of the content ensures that students can readily apply these skills in real-world IT scenarios.

Code: Develop, integrate and automate systems using appropriate tools and technologies.

This module focuses on the object-oriented approach to systems development. This approach is useful for specific projects and saves development time by adopting reuse strategies and using efficient processes to produce systems faster. This approach uses Unified Modelling Language (UML) which supports analysts and developers to create complete models and diagrams of systems with various views which are useful in understanding complete systems. A use case diagram is one of the diagrams explored in this module to show the importance of documenting complete user requirements. Students will be exposed to various topics relating to the object-oriented approach to systems analysis and design.

Code: Develop, integrate and automate systems using appropriate tools and technologies.

An operating system defines an abstraction of hardware behaviour with which programmers can control the hardware. It also manages resource sharing among the computer’s users. A thorough understanding of the extent of the use of an operating system is essential for the detailed study of the internal implementation of algorithms and data structures. According to the IEEE, studying internal design has relevance in diverse areas such as dependable programming, algorithm design, algorithm implementation, modern device development, building secure and safe systems, managing networks and many others.

Code: Apply foundational knowledge of IT systems, networking, operating systems and programming to solve real-world problems.

Irrespective of framework or delivery platform, the development of procedural code is still at the core of many commercial application development projects. Event driven systems and object– oriented platforms all use procedural code for the critical command content of their objects, events and listeners. Ideally, for students who are new to programming, this module would be considered the starting point before progressing onto one (or all) of the many programming modules. While the student is not expected to develop any complex code in this module, the foundations will enable the development of their programming skills.

Code: Apply cybersecurity principles to protect systems, networks, and data.

This module makes use of behavioural analytics to help enhance the overall status of information technology security. It verifies the knowledge and abilities necessary to prevent, identify, and respond to cyber security attacks; discusses the responsibilities of personnel responsible for monitoring and identifying security issues in information systems and networks, as well as responding appropriately to such occurrences. Students will acquire the necessary skills, knowledge, and abilities to carry out security duties on computer systems and execute managerial skills necessary for planning, scoping, and managing vulnerabilities. Furthermore, the students will apply their knowledge in advanced networking, python network Programming, and network security to implement medium to large complex information systems using agile systems development methodology (iterative incremental development).Students will, with guidance from the supervisor/lecturer, identify a real-life problem for which an application of a variety of security technologies can utilised for the defence of digital solutions. The lecturer will offer guidance and approve the chosen topic to ensure that it is at the right complexity level. This is a group project, and each group should consist of three (3) to four (4) students working together to deliver the project consisting of a stipulated number of deliverables (mini-dissertation chapters). The lecturer will assign students to groups by ensuring that each group contains a mix of skills required to complete the group project. Hence, students will not be allowed to choose which group they belong to. By the end of this group cyber security project, students should be able to demonstrate their ability to implement a secured digital-based solution. This project will clearly be at an advanced level and will involve the analysis, design, development and implementation of security and networking technologies to solve cyber security concerns. Students will show the competence and expertise to test devices in novel contexts such as the cloud and mobile, in addition to the more typical desktop and server environments.

Code: Develop, integrate and automate systems using appropriate tools and technologies.

Over the last few years, computer networks (large or small) have become ever-increasingly software-driven. This comes as an uphill task when faced by network engineers. In this module, Python is used as the foundation to mitigate the automation challenges faced by network engineers. A brief introduction of Python will be administered to students prior to its relation to networking. Hence, students will be able to use Python for networking. On completion of this module, students will have mastered the skillsets required for handling network engineering tasks with Python. The creation and automation of networks using Python will provide students with hands-on experience in topics related to sockets, IPv4 and simple client/server programming. Multiplexing socket I/O, IPv6, domain sockets and network interfaces will also provide the hands-on experience platform to students. Furthermore, HTTP, email protocols, FTP, CGI programming, screen-scrapping, machine boundaries, XML, Web services and network monitoring/security are other topics that will be covered.

Code: Investigate, analyse and recommend IT solutions.

This module offers a comprehensive examination of research methodologies within the context of information technology (IT) research. Students will explore diverse research paradigms, methods for collecting and analysing data, and ethical considerations unique to IT research. Practical skills will be acquired in choosing suitable research methods, crafting research projects, and critically assessing current IT research. The module will encompass contemporary trends such as mixed-methods research, online surveys, and the utilisation of virtual environments in research. Students will cultivate the capability to apply these research methodologies to address real-world IT challenges and contribute to the progression of knowledge in the field.

Code: Apply cybersecurity principles to protect systems, networks, and data.

This module delves into the intricacies of cybersecurity risk planning and management, user and network infrastructure protection, tools and techniques for detecting cyber incidents, the development of continuity of operations plans, supply chain risk management, and security considerations for manufacturing and industrial control systems. Participants will engage with real-world scenarios, industry best practices, and cutting-edge technologies to develop a robust understanding of cyber threats and effective risk mitigation strategies.

Code: Apply cybersecurity principles to protect systems, networks, and data.

The module on Security Analysis of IoT Networks and Platforms offers an in-depth exploration of the rapidly evolving world of IoT, focusing on its security aspects. The proliferation of IoT devices has introduced new dimensions of connectivity and convenience but has also exposed significant vulnerabilities. This module provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to comprehend, evaluate, and safeguard IoT systems.

Code: Develop, integrate and automate systems using appropriate tools and technologies.

As more organisations adopt Internet-aware software, there is an increasing need to understand the implications of Internet technologies. In addition, many organisations are now creating their own Internet and Intranet sites and, therefore, the successful management of sites and servers is becoming fundamental to network managers. The aim of this unit is to provide an introduction to Internet Server Management within the context of a network operating system. Internet technologies play an important role in all modern business operations. They are used extensively to strengthen the competitive edge of organisations and businesses and their position in the current marketplace climate. They allow businesses not just to market their products and services, but also to undertake business transactions with their partners and customers. Internet servers are the backbone on which these Internet technologies are implemented; these servers are at the heart of modern business operations. In this module, students will discuss and analyse modern Internet technologies used to establish Internet services such as web, FTP, mail, proxy, certificate servers, directory servers, and many others. Students will install, maintain and secure web servers using tools and techniques available.