Bachelor of Information Technology - Networking & Security

Program Overview

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The Networking and Security program equips students with the skills to protect data and defend against security breaches. Through ethical hacking exercises and industry-relevant projects, students develop a strong understanding of security principles and gain hands-on experience in identifying and mitigating cyber threats. The program prepares graduates for careers in cybersecurity, including roles such as Network Administrator, Ethical Hacker, and ICT Security Specialist.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Networking and Security

This program equips students with the skills to apply strategic creativity and innovation to protect data using ethical hacking to test systems and security protocols. It aims to prepare graduates for careers at the forefront of cybersecurity, defending business, government, and individual databases that hold sensitive data.

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Objectives:

• Equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to protect data and defend against security breaches.
• Develop students' understanding of ethical hacking techniques and network security models.
• Prepare students for careers in information security or IT operations.
• Foster problem-solving and critical thinking skills through practical exercises and real-world scenarios.

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Description:

The program emphasizes a practical approach, with students engaging in core studies, practicals, ethical hacking exercises, and industry-relevant projects. It delves into network protocols and hardware, exploring vulnerabilities and methods to defend against malicious attacks. This allows students to develop a strong understanding of security principles and gain hands-on experience in identifying and mitigating cyber threats.

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Course Structure:

The program adopts a flexible structure, offering full-time and part-time options. It typically comprises three years of study, with intake periods in March, July, and November.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

• Network security principles and practices
• Ethical hacking techniques
• Vulnerability assessment and penetration testing
• Incident response and digital forensics
• Cloud and mobile security
• Information security management
• Network design and architecture
• Data privacy and legal compliance

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Course Schedule:

The program follows a semester-based system, with each semester typically consisting of four units. Students typically take two units per semester, completing a total of 24 units throughout the program.

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Modules:

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Year 1:

• Semester 1:
• Understanding the Digital Revolution
• IT Problem Solving
• Cloud and Enterprise Computing
• Semester 2:
• Networking and Security
• Foundations of Programming
• Big Data and Analytics
• Elective

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Year 2:

• Semester 1:
• Systems Modelling
• Data Modelling
• Web Design
• IT Project Management Techniques
• Semester 2:
• Network Architecture and Design
• Mobile Networks and Wireless Communications
• Elective
• Elective

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Year 3:

• Semester 1:
• User Experience
• Professionalism and Entrepreneurship
• Project 1
• Project 2
• Semester 2:
• Cloud and Mobile Security
• Elective
• Elective
The program offers a variety of electives, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests or career aspirations.

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Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:

• Assignments: Students complete individual and group assignments to demonstrate their understanding of key concepts and apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.
• Presentations: Students engage in oral presentations to showcase their research findings, analytical skills, and communication abilities.
• Projects: Individual and collaborative projects allow students to apply their knowledge to real-world problems and develop practical skills in relevant technologies.

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Teaching:

The program employs a diverse range of teaching methods, including:

• Interactive lectures: Lecturers engage students in active learning through discussions, case studies, and practical demonstrations.
• Guest lectures: Industry experts share their real-world experiences and insights with students, providing valuable perspectives on current trends and challenges in the field of cybersecurity.
• Online resources: The program utilizes a comprehensive learning management system that provides access to course materials, interactive exercises, and online forums for discussion and collaboration.

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Careers:

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Career Opportunities:

The program prepares graduates for a variety of careers in the growing field of cybersecurity, including:

• Network Administrator
• Network Architect and Designer
• Ethical Hacker
• Networking and Security Officer
• ICT Security Specialist
• Product Security Manager

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Professional Recognition:

The program holds Professional Level accreditation with the Australian Computer Society (ACS), ensuring graduates meet industry standards and enhancing their career prospects.

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Other:

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Entry Requirements:

• Successful completion of Australian Year 12 or Overseas Equivalent.
• Overall IELTS (Academic) band score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0, or equivalent.

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Contact Hours:

• 16 hours per week (4 hours per unit)

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Work Integrated Learning:

• Students complete 60 days of co-operative industry placement.

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Recognition of Prior Learning:

• International students may apply for credit exemption based on relevant prior studies.

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IT Requirements:

• Students require access to a reliable computer and high-speed internet connection.
• The program recommends a computer that is not more than two years old.
• The program is offered through the Australian Technical and Management College (ATMC) in partnership with Federation University Australia.