Network Engineering - Foundation Degree (Progression from Cert HE)*

Build on the foundations developed in the Certificate of Higher Education in Computer Science: Software, Networking & AI by progressing onto the Foundation Degree in Network Engineering. This pathway is designed for students who want to develop the technical skills required to design, configure, secure, and manage modern network infrastructures that support businesses, organisations, and digital services. Throughout the course, you will explore enterprise networking, cloud technologies, network security, automation, and infrastructure management through a highly practical, hands-on approach. Working with industry-standard tools and technologies, you will develop the knowledge and confidence needed to support complex network environments while gaining experience of how modern organisations deploy and maintain critical digital systems. Alongside technical modules, you will complete work-based learning activities that help you develop professional skills and gain valuable industry experience. Upon successful completion of the Foundation Degree, you can progress to the BSc (Hons) Network Engineering top-up year, further developing your expertise and preparing for specialist roles within the networking and infrastructure sector.

To progress onto the Foundation Degree (Year 2) in Network Engineering at Blackpool and The Fylde College, you must have successfully completed the Certificate of Higher Education in Computer Science: Software, Networking & AI (Year 1). Applicants must have: Successfully completed all Level 4 modules within the Computer Science programme.

The Network Engineering pathway includes six modules designed to develop your technical knowledge, practical networking skills, and professional confidence. Each module is assessed through a combination of hands-on technical work and written assignments, allowing you to demonstrate both your practical abilities and your understanding of key networking concepts. Enterprise Networking is assessed through practical configuration activities and supporting written work, where you will design, build, and troubleshoot network infrastructures using industry-standard approaches. Cloud and Virtualised Infrastructure includes practical projects and written evaluations that explore how modern organisations deploy and manage services within virtual and cloud-based environments.

Most courses are assessed via a combination of coursework, exams and practical assessments. Exams are formal, timed written assessments, carried out in a controlled environment and overseen by one or more invigilators. Coursework differs from exams in that it is usually non-timed and carried out independently. Practical assessments involve observation of your practical skills and competencies by a trained assessor. Please contact us for further details about the course.

The College is well known for its friendly and supportive environment. We have dedicated tutors to help you achieve your learning goals. We also have an experienced team of advisers who can provide additional support along with advice and guidance on a whole range of issues, free of charge. The important thing is that you make the most of your time with us and if we can help with that in any way, we will. Please contact us for further details about the course.

Most courses are assessed via a combination of coursework, exams and practical assessments. Exams are formal, timed written assessments, carried out in a controlled environment and overseen by one or more invigilators. Coursework differs from exams in that it is usually non-timed and carried out independently. Practical assessments involve observation of your practical skills and competencies by a trained assessor.

The Network Engineering pathway prepares you for a career in one of the most important areas of modern computing. Organisations of every size rely on secure, reliable, and well-managed networks to support their operations, creating strong demand for skilled networking professionals across both the public and private sectors.