MCAST-BTEC Higher National Diploma in Computing (ICT Systems Support).
Further details are available under the section “Applications for MCAST Vocational Degrees”

This programme builds on the experience acquired in the MCAST-BTEC Higher National Diploma in Computing. MCAST has included within the degree programme a balanced mix of both practical and theoretical subjects to ensure that the student is well prepared for Industry.

You will also be expected to obtain a good knowledge base to allow for further development in the field, both from an educational aspect, as well as research and development.

As a departure from previous programmes, students will be expected to be more independent learners, with a significant amount of research and self-study being conducted outside the classroom environment.

The course is based around an in-person training by qualified lecturers and is a mix of lectures and supervised practical work both in class and in specialised labs whenever necessary. Additionally each student will be working on a thesis, where a lecturer will be assigned to supervise the work. It is very important to be understood that at this level a significant proportion of the work will be self study and research work by the students outside school hours. Without a serious commitment and additional study students will find it very difficult to progress through the programme.

Each module is assessed through four assignments of various types – class, home, practical. Similar to the other programmes a student must achieve a certain number of Pass, Merit and Distinction criteria. In addition to that a final thesis must be produced.

• Apply the principles of network security and digital forensics to ensure a secure networking environment
• Administer a database with autonomy and responsibility
• Explain the inner working of the operating systems
• Design and deploy advanced LAN and WAN systems.

Network Security & Digital Forensics
Communications & Networking Principles
Database Administration
Networking Operating Systems – Principles & Practice
Advanced Networking Infrastructure and WAN Technologies
Entrepreneurship
Project Management
Mathematics for IT
Research Methodologies

Systems administrator
Middle management help desk and support
Middle management technical support