HNC Computing: Networking with Cyber Security

Why study at West?

West College Scotland is one of Scotland’s leading centres for cyber education, giving you access to opportunities and experiences you won’t find elsewhere.

• CyberFirst Member – We work closely with the National Cyber Security Centre (part of GCHQ) as an approved CyberFirst institution. This gives our students access to national cyber programmes, challenges and career pathways designed by the UK’s top security experts.
• Hands-on learning – You’ll use a number of different platforms to practise ethical hacking, solve real-world security challenges and build your skills in a safe, guided environment. Our college is recognised as a national hub for this type of training.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) Integration – Our curriculum embeds core AI concepts and tools used within modern cyber security operations, including threat detection, automation and analytics. You’ll also gain experience with on-premise and cloud-based AI learning tools.
• Cisco Networking Academy As an official Cisco Networking Academy, you’ll receive high-quality training aligned to global industry standards, including CCNA content, Cisco labs and vendor-recognised digital badges.

By combining practical labs, AI-supported learning and industry-recognised training, this programme gives you access to some of the most advanced networking and cyber education in Scotland. You’ll gain skills and experience that set you apart when applying for jobs or further study.

What will I learn?

In this course you will learn advanced techniques in the areas of Networking and Cyber Security allowing you to pursue a career in this area or to continue to further study

You'll learn about:

• Computer Networking Design
• Maintaining Hardware and Software Systems
• Network Design
• Computer Networking Techniques
• Computer Systems Architecture
• Working as Part of a Team
• Ethical Hacking
• Network Security Concepts

You'll also gain course certification for CISCO CCNA (semester1), Microsoft and CompTIA vendor certifications.

What qualifications do I need?

You'll need one Higher at Grade C or above, or an NQ in a computing subject, for example NQ Networking with Cyber Security, NQ Software and Web Development or NQ Games Development

If you don't have any formal qualifications but can demonstrate relevant computer programming knowledge and skills, you can also apply. Mature students can apply without formal qualifications.

For a place on the course, you'll need to attend an interview.

What can I do after?

After successfully completing this course you can apply for jobs in industry or develop your skills further by studying another course, such as:

• HND Computing Networking with Cyber Security

SCQF 7

Programme Information

Start: August

End: June

Duration: 1 year