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Computer Networks and Cyber Security
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Introduction

"This is a very hands-on course." Matthew Shanley

"The facilities and equipment in BFEI are of a high standard." Jean Maltese

"I found this course to be a great stepping stone to the career I wished to pursue." Pierce Galligan

Are you interetesed in acquiring the skills to build and defend computer networks?

Are you looking for an alternative pathway to a degree in information technology?

Do you want to build a career in Ireland’s expanding computing industry?

The Computer Networks and Cyber Security course in BFEI will teach you how to build and configure computer networks, you will also acquire the skills to identify security threats and deploy appropriate mitigation strategies.

Career Opportunities

As a graduate of this course, you can pursue careers in the IT industry including:

• Technical Support Specialist

• Field Service Technician

• IT Security Technician

• Help-desk Technician

Course Structure

  • QQI :
    • Computer Systems Hardware. Understand, build and maintain computer systems.
    • Operating Systems. Install, configure, utilise and maintain computer operating systems.
    • Networking Essentials.  Support the operation of typical computer networks. Implement and maintain common network configurations.
    • Mobile Technologies. Acquire the knowledge to work with and configure mobile devices and develop a mobile app.
    • Virtualisation. Participate in the implementation and maintenance of a virtualised computers and networks. 
    • Maths. Apply a range of mathematical skills and tools related to working with computer systems and networks.
    • Communications. Acquire the competence to communicate verbally and non-verbally in standard everyday tasks and in work-related tasks.
    • Work Experience. Participate in a workplace for a minimum of two weeks, carrying out work-related tasks independently and while under general direction. 
  • CompTIA:
    • Security+. Understand the essential principles of network security. Implement appropriate risk management strategies. BFEI students are not required to pay for the Security+ exam.
Core Elements

  • Course Code

  • CNS

  • Duration

  • 1 Year – full time September to May

  • Number of Places

  • 30

  • Number of contact hours per week

  • 25

  • Timetable contact

  • 5 days
Testimonial

"After being made redundant from the precision engineering sector my local FAS office recommended that I re-train. I had an interest in computers but no qualifications, so I applied for an IT course in BFEI. I completed two years in BFEI during which time I got qualifications in computer networking. Going back to learning was a challenge, however, I thoroughly enjoyed my time in BFEI. The course was mostly hands-on which suited me very well. After BFEI I did a start-your-own business course. This course coupled with my newly acquired IT skills, gave me the confidence to register myself as self-employed and begin offering my services as an IT and Networks technician. Initially I took any work I could. I was asked to install a new classroom of PCs in a local primary school. Since then through word of mouth, I have worked in several other schools, with work ranging from installing WiFi systems to troubleshooting printers and interactive white boards. I find the job stimulating and rewarding. I greatly enjoy the independence of working for myself and working in different locations. Without BFEI, I would not be in the position I am in today, working full-time for myself in an expanding sector." Paul Brierton, BFEI graduate

-  -

Support Elements
  • In conjunction with FIT (Fast Track Into Information Technology), BFEI offers participants the opportunity to do practice interviews with industry specialists and prepare for possible internship placement in leading IT companies.
  • Career Advice and CV Preparation.
  • BFEI students are given full access to Office 365 (including Office 2016 for home use)
  • Students on the CNS course will be given access to SkillSoft (www.skillsoft.com) training materials for Security+, A+ and Network+. Skillsoft is a global leader in the provision of e-learning.
  • Students on the CNS course do not need to pay for Security+ exam fees.
Assessment and certification

Progression

Students may apply through the CAO system for entry to degree courses via the Higher Education Links Scheme. The following are some of the courses that can be applied for upon successful completion of the Computer Networks and IT Security course at BFEI:

Networking Technologies degree in Dublin Institute of Technology - www.dit.ie

BTech (Ord) Networking Technologies - Dublin Institute of Technology - www.dit.ie

Computer Science International - Dublin Institute of Technology - www.dit.ie

BTech, (Ord), Networking Technologies - Dublin Institute of Technology - www.dit.ie

Computer Science  degree in Dublin Institute of Technology - www.dit.ie

Computer Science degree in University College Dublin - www.ucd.ie

Civil Engineering degree in Dublin Institute of Technology - www.dit.ie

Aviation Technology degree in Dublin Institute of Technology - www.dit.ie

Computing Higher Certificate in Tallaght IT

Entry to degree programmes is based upon a competitive assessment of results.

Further information on the Higher Education Links Scheme can be found on the following web pages:

https://qhelp.qqi.ie/learners/higher-education-links-scheme/

https://www.cao.ie/index.php?page=scoring&s=fetac

Entry Requirements
  • Leaving Certificate/LCA

Applicants should have achieved five passes OR five O6/H7s or a combination of 5 O6/H7s or have achieved the LCA with a merit profile.

 

  • If you have not achieved the above you can still apply for a place on the course, you will be called to a meeting in BFEI to assess your application.

 

  • Mature Students

If you are a mature student (aged 21 or over) and do not hold the Leaving Certificate, then you are welcome to apply. Each application will be assessed individually.

Advisory Meeting

Once you apply you will be invited to attend a Personal Advisory Meeting in BFEI. The advisory meeting is to offer guidance and to ensure course suitability. Places will be offered on a first come basis, following the outcome of the Personal Advisory Meeting, subject to the applicant meeting the entry requirements of the course. Applicants will also be advised on course costs and registration details.

Fees

It is free to apply to a course in BFEI, once you decide to accept an offer of a place you are required to pay an acceptance fee of €40. At course commencement, students are required to pay for books (€50), QQI exams (€50*), PLC Government Levy (€200*), and a Student Services fee (€150).

Students from outside the EU may be required to pay additional fees.

* Medical card holders, SUSI grant recipients, VTOS, and BTEA students are exempt from QQI exams fees and the PLC Government levy.

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