Computing and ICT

We live in a digital age where the demand for ICT and digital technology is growing at an incredible pace. With good computing and IT systems now central to every business, organisations are set to become even more driven by technology and data. In this dynamic and continually evolving sector, there’s already a skills shortage and it’s predicted there could be as many as 11,000 job opportunities each year in Scotland alone. So by investing in digital and IT skills now, you could find yourself highly sought after in the future!

If you’re interested in a career in technical support or networking, this course is the next stage for you.

For direct entry into Year 2 of the HND, you’ll need:

• An HNC Computing (2012 version) with a minimum of 15 credits
• Preferably an A or B for the HNC Graded Unit
• An interview with us

This course builds on the HNC. It covers all the key areas required for a technical support or networking role, including server administration, operating systems, security and routing, as well as introducing you to project management. At the end, you can also sit an exam in the Linux open source operating system if you wish.

You’ll develop skills required for server administration using an open source operating system. This includes how to perform basic command line administration, such as networking and security setup.

You’ll learn how to install, manage and maintain a network server operating system. You’ll look at data communications and modern networking technology, including network media and WAN (Wider Area Networks).

You’ll also learn how to manage a web server, including installation and maintenance.

You’ll explore security concepts, and learn to design and construct secure contemporary computer networks. This involves learning about possible threats and vulnerabilities, as well as cryptography.

You’ll explore routing technology and learn about contemporary IP addressing schemes, common interior gateway routing protocols, and how to implement a routed network topology.

You’ll focus on technical support procedures, and how you can help end users work effectively within their organisation.

You’ll look at what’s involved in successful project management and will plan and manage your own project.

You’ll also develop your maths skills in a computing context.

Finally, you’ll have the chance to attend open days and hear guest speakers from universities and industry.

When you successfully complete this course, you’ll have the choice of:

• Moving onto a degree course at one of our partner universities, such as UWS or Glasgow Caledonian University (direct entry to year 3)
• Seeking to start your career with a Modern Apprenticeship in a desktop support, network administration or server administration role

BE INSPIRED BY OUR BLOGS

• The magic of digital – ICT students enjoy an educational trip to Euro Disney. Click here to read the blog.

• See what they’ve been up to – ICT students’ summer showcase. Click here to read the blog.

VIDEOS

• Are you ready for the Data Revolution? Discover how data is changing everything, with this short overview of the Ayrshire Bytes Conference held at Ayrshire College. Click here to watch the video.

• How data will run your day - discover what your life will be like in 2035, with this fascinating key note speech by the Data Lab’s CEO Gillian Docherty at the Ayrshire Bytes Conference. Click here to watch the video.