FdSc Computing Technologies (Networks & Cybersecurity)

Study a Foundation Degree (FdSc) in Computing Technologies: Networks and Cybersecurity with North Hertfordshire College 🧑‍💻

This two-year course will prepare you for degree-level study. It gives you an excellent grounding in computing while allowing you to specialise in aspects relating specifically to networks and cybersecurity.

In the first year, you will develop your knowledge of programming, computer systems architecture, data analysis, networks and wireless and systems analysis.

In your second year, you will study a mix of modules focusing on computing areas as well as networks and cybersecurity.

Entry requirements:

You need 48 UCAS points to apply for this course.

You will also need a Grade 4/C in GCSE English Language and Mathematics

More information about the specific entry requirements for this pathway can be found on the University of Hertfordshire’s website.

How to apply for a Foundation Degree in Computing Technologies – Networks and Cybersecurity at North Hertfordshire College

You can apply for the initial year of your Foundation Degree in Computing Technologies – Networks and Cybersecurity through UCAS.

Application codes for FdSc Computing Technologies – Networks and Cybersecurity:

Course code: I120 | Institution code: H36

Course content

As a Foundation Degree in Computing Technologies student, you’ll complete a nationally-recognised qualification in just two-years of full-time study. This will give you a solid foundation to advance in the tech industry. As North Hertfordshire College is part of the University of Hertfordshire’s consortium, you’ll also have the option to progress to an undergraduate degree at the University of Hertfordshire – including direct entry into the second or final year of a BSc Honours programme (subject to achieving the appropriate grades).

In the first year, you’ll develop your knowledge of programming, computer systems architecture, databases and data analysis, networks, and wireless and systems analysis.

In your second year, you’ll study a mixture of modules that focus on different aspects of computing, as well as starting to specialise in networks and cybersecurity.

Throughout your foundation degree, you’ll complete a mix of assignments, projects, lab work, and in-class tests to demonstrate your practical and theoretical skills.

Modules in the Foundation Degree in Computing Technologies – Networks and Cybersecurity at North Hertfordshire College include:

Level 4 (first year of study)

Developing the Computing Professional (15 credits, compulsory)
Programming Concepts (15 credits, compulsory)
Topics in Computer Systems (15 credits, compulsory)
Designing for the User Experience (15 credits, compulsory)
Applied Programming (15 credits, compulsory)
Project Management (15 credits, compulsory)
Networking Fundamentals (15 credits, compulsory)
Applied Networking (15 credits, compulsory)

Level 5 (second year of study)

WBL Project – Networks and Cybersecurity (30 credits, compulsory)
Data Analysis and Database Design (15 credits, compulsory)
Routing and Switching Concepts (15 credits, compulsory)
Computing in Organisations (15 credits, compulsory)
Network Protocols and Cybersecurity (15 credits, compulsory)
WAN Protocols and Cybersecurity (15 credits, compulsory)
Web Technologies (15 credits, compulsory)

Taught at NHC’s Stevenage Campus

This course is based at North Hertfordshire College’s Stevenage Campus (Monkswood Way, SG1 1LA). The campus features social spaces, an on-campus library space, and easy access routes from public transport and the motorway.

The campus has also been recently refurbished through investment into T Level teaching spaces. This includes the addition of a gaming lair and a number of digital suites designed to support you in developing your programming and computing skills. With purpose-built networking spaces and high-spec computers, these classrooms allow you to reach your full potential during your study journey.

Check out the Stevenage Campus

Tuition fees and funding

You may be eligible for a student loan from Student Finance England to cover the cost of tuition for your foundation year at North Hertfordshire College.

For UK students in the 2026/27 year, full-time study fees are £6,400

Tuition fees are charged annually. The fees quoted above are for the specified year(s) only. Fees may be higher in future years, for both new and continuing students. Please see the University of Hertfordshire’s Fees and Finance Policy (and in particular the section headed “When tuition fees change”), for further information about when and by how much the University may increase its fees for future years.

Videos about NHC’s Foundation Degree in Computing Technologies

Frequently asked questions about the Foundation Degree in Computing Technologies – Networks and Cybersecurity at North Hertfordshire College

This course offers you a chance to earn a recognised qualification after just two years of full-time study.

It also provides a pathway to progress onto a full honours BSc degree at the University of Hertfordshire, with a route into either second or final year study depending on the point you apply to move across.

You will study at North Hertfordshire College’s Stevenage campus for the full two years.

As a higher education student at North Hertfordshire College, you’ll also benefit from our position in the University of Hertfordshire’s Consortium. This means you can access the perks of being both an NHC and a university student, including access to the University of Hertfordshire’s student union and on-campus facilities.

You will also be able to access student support from NHC’s Student Services team and the University of Hertfordshire’s wellbeing team. To find out more about student support at NHC, please visit our Student Life page.

This course opens doors to careers in the tech industry, from working in IT specialist roles to starting your own business.

You also have the option to progress onto a BSc (Hons) degree at the University of Hertfordshire. The courses you can join depends on the point at which you move from North Hertfordshire College to the University of Hertfordshire, and is also subject to grade requirements.

If you move after your first year of study, joining University of Hertfordshire at Level 5, you have the opportunity to join:

BSc (Hons) Computer Science
BSc (Hons) Information Technology
BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence)
BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Networks)
BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Software Engineering)

If you move after your second year of study, joining University of Hertfordshire at Level 6, you have the opportunity to join:

BSc (Hons) Computer Science
BSc (Hons) Information Technology
BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Networks)