GOVERNMENT OF
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
ASSOCIATE DEGREE OF NETWORK TECHNOLOGY
COURSE OUTLINE 2016
Information correct as of December 2015.
Provider CRICOS Code 00020G
Higher Education Provider
The Administrative Information
Introduction
Course Title
Associate Degree of Network Technology
Course Code
H404
CRICOS Course Code
073580D
Department
Higher Education
Course Information
+61 8 9267 7500
Associate Degree of Network Technology
This course has a balance of theory and practical skills.
You are immediately employable as you use the latest
technologies and in very well equipped laboratories.
Studies align with Cisco and Microsoft vendor
certifications which are well recognised by industry/
employers. Research and problem-solving skills allow
them to further develop and learn once employed.
Course Details
Duration
Full-time students will complete the course in 2 years
studying 4 units per semester. Part-time students should
plan to complete the course in 4 years and will normally
complete 2 units per semester. International students
must maintain a full-time study load.
Units
This associate degree course comprises 16 units. Some
units are common with other associate degree courses.
Credit points
Each unit is allocated 3 credit points.
A total of 48 credit points is required to complete the
Associate Degree.
Delivery site
Thornlie Campus
Delivery mode
This course comprises a mix of lectures, tutorials,
practical sessions and independent study. Online
teaching and support is provided using Polytechnic
West’s online learning environment known as E-Campus.
Onshore international students must study no more than
25% of their studies online.
There are usually 3.5 hours of timetabled delivery per
unit per week. You are expected to attend all timetabled
lectures, tutorials and workshops. You are expected to
undertake a further 6.5 hours study per unit per week in
their own time.
Delivery period
There are two semesters a year. Each semester
comprises 14 weeks of study, plus two examination
weeks.
Intakes
February and July.
Graduates will apply underpinning technical and
theoretical knowledge in the field of Information
Technology with specialist knowledge in networking to
undertake professional work in the IT industry or as a
pathway for further learning.
The Associate Degree of Network Technology will require
you to (have):
1.Demonstrate a broad technical and theoretical
knowledge in the field of Information Technology with
some specific knowledge in Networking and Security;
Server Operating Systems; Databases; Systems
Analysis and Project Management.
2.Demonstrate a sound knowledge of the concepts and
theory associated with networking and security.
3.Develop conceptual and theoretical understanding of
Information Technology practices with a particular indepth understanding and application in the networking
industry.
4.Ability to effectively communicate and present
knowledge and ideas as an individual and in a multicultural team.
5.Cognitive skills to identify analyse and evaluate
Information Technology data from a range of sources.
6.Cognitive, analytical and creative thinking skills to
demonstrate a broad understanding and ability to
communicate Information Technology concepts in
some depth.
7.An ability to use initiative and judgement to solve
problems, plan and identify solutions in Information
Technology practice.
8.An ability to adapt and apply fundamental Information
Technology principles, concepts and techniques to
familiar and unfamiliar contextual situations in the field
of Networking.
9.The capacity to practice professionally and an ability to
exercise ethical responsibility as an individual or within
teams, and recognise the need to engage in lifelong
learning within the field of Information Technology
Information extracted form Curriculum File V1.3 10.12.14
Employment outcomes
By studying an Associate Degree of Network Technology,
graduates will have the opportunity to work in roles within
business and enterprise. Possible roles available to the
graduate include System Administrator and Network
Administrator.
Employment opportunities with further experience
and qualifications
Network Administrator
Upon gaining experience a graduate will have
opportunities to become a Network Engineer offering the
opportunity undertake complex design, construction and
maintenance tasks.
System Administrator
With experience and further study the graduate will
have opportunities in system design, construction and
maintenance.
Further study outcomes
Polytechnic West maintains strong relationships with a
number of universities. On successful completion of a
Polytechnic West Associate Degree or Higher Education
Diploma, students are eligible to take advantage of
articulated pathways and apply for credit (advanced
standing) towards a Bachelor degree at one of our
university partners. For details of our university pathway
options, visit the Polytechnic West website.
Course Structure
Unit Code
Unit Name
Contact
hours
Credits EFTSL
Value **
Pre-requisites
#
First Year – Semester 1
1
HHW101
Operating Systems Fundamentals
3.5
3
0.125
Nil
2
HNW101
Introduction to Networking
3.5
3
0.125
Nil
3
HPR101
Programming Principles
3.5
3
0.125
Nil
4
HSU101
Business Communication
3.5
3
0.125
Nil
First Year – Semester 2
5
HHW103
Computer Architecture
3.5
3
0.125
HHW101
6
HWD101
Web Programming
3.5
3
0.125
Nil
7
HNW102
Routing Protocols
3.5
3
0.125
HNW101
8
HSV101
Server Network Infrastructure
3.5
3
0.125
HHW101
Second Year – Semester 1
9
HPR201
Database Development
3.5
3
0.125
HPR101
10
HSU201
Systems Analysis and Design
3.5
3
0.125
HSU101
11
HSV201
Server Administration
3.5
3
0.125
HSV101
12
HNW205
LAN Switching and Wireless
3.5
3
0.125
HNW102
Second Year – Semester 2
13
HSU202
Project Management
3.5
3
0.125
HSU101
14
HNW202
Network Security
3.5
3
0.125
HHW101
15
HNW206
WAN Technologies
3.5
3
0.125
HNW205
16
HSV202
Server Management
3.5
3
0.125
HSV201
** Equivalent Full-time Study Load
UNIT SYNOPSES
Operating System Fundamentals (HHW101)
This unit provides the student with the understanding of
the function, structure and operations of an operating
system as well as the ability to apply practical processes
within an operating system environment. They will also be
able to apply scripting language programs to solve basic
operating system challenges.
Introduction to Networking (HNW101)
This unit exposes you to the basic principles of
Networking using the Cisco Network Academy program
providing you with the capability to understand the basic
concepts of Network Types, Network Media, TCP/IP,
Operating and Configuring IOS Devices, and Managing
Network Environments.
Programming Principles (HPR101)
This unit exposes you to the basic principles of
developing solutions to problems by creating software
applications. Through the creation of small scale
applications in Java, the student will learn and apply
the principles that undergird software development.
The student will learn to identify the problem to solve,
analyse the key components of the problem, design a
solution to the problem, implement the solution in the
Java programming language and test and document the
solution.
Business Communication (HSU101)
This unit focuses on the skills, knowledge, behaviour
and strategies used when communicating in a range of
contemporary work environments. It will include aspects
of developing and implementing presentation skills,
individual and team skills, coaching and mentoring,
organisational culture, conflict management, negotiation
and cross cultural interaction. Various communication
processes and systems are covered to ensure that
the gathering and dissemination of information and
organisational knowledge is effectively implemented
in the organisation. The importance of professional
networking is discussed and strategies are devised to
develop and capitalise on networking opportunities.
Academic writing skills including referencing, report
writing and essay writing are included to ensure you are
better prepared for your studies.
Computer Architecture (HHW103)
This unit introduces the student to the fundamentals of
computer system design and architecture. Throughout the
unit relationships between the computer hardware and
software will be examined, so that you can understand
the factors that affect computer performance. The unit
provides knowledge of computer structure and operation
including; memory hierarchies, input/output processing,
interconnects and assembly language instruction set.
Web Programming (HWD101)
This unit exposes you to the basic principles of web
development and writing small scale static web pages.
You will learn XHTML, HTML5 and CSS3, and the
processes of development, testing and implementing web
sites. You will also learn JavaScript and its uses for small
scale webpage automation.
Routing Protocols (HNW102)
This unit exposes you to the basic principles of
Networking using the Cisco Network Academy program.
This provides you with the capability to understand
the basic concepts of Network Types, Network Media,
TCP/IP, Operating and Configuring IOS Devices, and
Managing Network Environments.
Server Network Infrastructure (HSV101)
This unit introduces the student to the Windows Server
network infrastructure and services. Specifically, they
will learn to configure IPv4 and IPv6 networks, configure
name resolution and DNS zone infrastructure, create a
DHCP infrastructure, configure IP routing and protect
network traffic with IPSec; connect to networks (using
NAT, wireless and remote access methods), configure
Windows firewall and network access protection (NAP);
manage software updates and monitor and manage
computers, files and printers.
Database Development (HDB201)
This unit prepares the student with the theory and skills
to administer Relation Database Management Systems
(RDMSs) This includes the knowledge to design, develop
and maintain RDBMSs using entity relationship modeling
and normalisation. The student will develop programming
skills for the Structured Query Language (SQL) through
the development of a mid-sized, multi-table database
to client specifications along with interaction with a
managed RDBMS and its administrator.
Systems Analysis and Design (HSU201)
This unit provides the knowledge and skills to use
the standard methods for analysing and converting
business requirements into system specifications. These
specifications can then be used to implement computer
programs, hardware configurations and related manual
procedures in a new system or to enhance and/or fix
issues in an existing system. The student will gain an
understanding of the process of System Analysis and
Design, be able to work effectively on a project in the
analysis and design stages, being able to generate the
required documentation for each stage of the analysis
and design process.
Server Administration (HSV201)
In this unit the student will work with Windows Server
Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS) and learn
to effectively manage users, groups, and computers
in a domain and forest. They will also learn to install,
configure and troubleshoot the various Roles and
Services of Windows Servers. These include: AD
Lightweight Management Services (AD LS), AD Directory
Services (AD DS), Read Only Domain Controller (RODC),
and Active Directory Federation Service (AD FS). They
will also learn to create and maintain AD objects, create
and apply group Policy Objects GPO’s; configure backup
and recovery, monitor AD, and configure and manage
Active Directory Certificate Services (AD CS).
LAN Switching and Wireless (HNW205)
This unit helps students develop an in-depth
understanding of switching in the LAN environment for
small and large networks. Students will undertake the
application of complex technologies including LAN switch
operations, VLAN implementation, Rapid Spanning Tree
Protocol (RSTP), VLAN Trunking Protocol (VTP), InterVLAN routing, and wireless network operations. Students
are expected to be able to develop a campus network
design including the application of Layer 3 switching
concepts.
Project Management (HSU202)
This unit focuses on the methods and problems of
managing and assuring the quality of projects. The unit
reflects the role of individuals required to effectively
initiate, plan, execute, monitor and control tasks and
resources to successfully manage a project from start to
finish. It defines fundamental skills in time management,
cost estimations and budgeting techniques. The student
will identify and interact with project stakeholders,
plan and document a simple project, establish time
management requirements to achieve milestones,
manage cost and human resources to achieve project
goals and ensure Quality Assurance processes are
maintained. The student will gain an understanding of
the project life-cycle, required project documentation and
project timelines through participation in a project team.
Network Security (HNW202)
Network Security consists of the policies and settings
for controlling and monitoring access to a network and
the resources used by a Network Administrator. This
unit provides both a practical (using the CCNA Security
program) and theoretical grounding in enterprise level
Network Security covering aspects of the design,
implementation, configuration and monitoring of
enterprise grade networks. Current security threats to
organisations are examined and analysed along with the
necessary security processes required to mitigate these
threats..
WAN Technologies (HNW206)
Wide Area Networking or the WAN uses a different set
of technologies to Local Area Networks (LANs). This unit
discusses WAN standards, technologies, and their uses.
It covers selecting the appropriate WAN technologies,
services, and devices to design a solution to meet
the changing business requirements of an evolving
enterprise. This unit helps students develop an in-depth
understanding of the WAN for inter-connecting small and
large networks.
Server Management (HSV202)
This unit will provide the student with the skills necessary
to function as a server administrator. The unit builds on
the preceding two server units: HSV101 Server Network
Infrastructure and HSV201 Server Administration that
examined Windows Server Active Directory and Network
Infrastructure. In this unit the emphasis will be on the
following areas:
• Planning for server deployment and server management,
• Monitoring and maintenance of servers,
• Application and data provisioning, and
• Business continuity and high availability.
Admission and Enrolment Requirements
To enter a higher education qualification at Polytechnic
West, you should have:
• Successfully completed Western Australian Certificate
of Education (WACE) or its year 12 Australian or
International equivalent with a score of at least 50 in,
English, Literature or EALD, or
• Successfully completed the full International
Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum of 24 points
from six subjects at one sitting. Three of the subjects
must be at the higher level. One of the six subjects
should be English, or
• Successfully completed a 12 month VET Certificate IV
in a relevant area, or
• Completed a relevant qualification in another country
that is deemed by the National Office of Overseas
Skills Recognition (NOOSR) as being at least
comparable to an AQF Certificate IV.
School Leavers
Polytechnic West will accept an AQF/TAFE Certificate IV
as a basis for admission to most courses, however school
leavers using a Certificate IV achieved during their Years
11 and 12 must also have:
• achieved a WACE; and
• meet Polytechnic West’s English Language
requirement.
English Language Requirements
Entrance is subject to English Language Admission
requirements, such as:
• IELTS score of 6.0 (Academic Version) overall with no
individual band lower than 5.5; or
• TOEFL score of 530 or above; or
• Medium of instruction at school being English, and
satisfactory grades in English in final examinations
(such as “C” grade at 0 level).
Alternative Admission Requirements
Students may be of mature age with relevant work
or other practical experience and a demonstrated
level of general education, which provides them with
a reasonable chance of successfully completing the
program.
Mature age selection criteria will be based on an
assessment of the applicant’s previous educational
record, work and other relevant experience and interest in
the field of study.
Students meeting admission requirements will be offered
a place in the course and invited to enrol. You must
complete the approved enrolment form and pay your fees
to secure your place in the course.
All enrolled students agree to abide by PWA’s General
and Academic Regulations and Student Code of Conduct.
These are available in the Higher Education Student
Handbook or from our website at
http://higheredu.polytechnic.wa.edu.au/
International students please refer to the Education
and Training International (ETI) website for further
responsibilities as an international student in Australia.
To Apply Online
Domestic Students can apply online at our website
http://higheredu.polytechnic.wa.edu.au/
International Students can apply online to study at
Polytechnic West on the ETI website at
www.eti.edu.wa.edu.au
ETI is the unit within the Western Australian Government
responsible for the recruitment and admission of
international students into studying at Western Australian
TAFE Institutes.
Enrolment with Advanced Standing
If you have undertaken previous study in a similar field
you may be eligible to enrol with “advanced standing” and
have your previous learning recognised.
Advanced Standing is the granting of credit towards the
completion of a course based on previous studies that
has been judged to have units that are equivalent to
those in the course.
International students should refer Advanced Standing
enquiries to Education and Training International.
If you have completed VET courses, you may be eligible
to receive advanced standing as set out in the table
below.
ASSOCIATE DEGREE OF NETWORK TECHNOLOGY
Institute
VET
Qualification
CISCO Academy Completed
Version 5
modules and
or CCNA
challenge test
Certification*
Level
required
Maximum
Advanced
Standing
Exemptions awarded in Higher Education
course based on successful completion
of VET qualification.
Up to 4
units
Up to 4 units
1. HNW101 Introduction to Networking
2. HNW102 Routing Protocols
3. HNW205 LAN Switching and Wireless
4. HNW206 WAN Technologies
Diploma of IT
Technology
Networking
Completed
diploma
Up to 2
units**
Up to 2 units**
1. HHW101 Operating System Fundamentals
Diploma of
Computer
Systems
Engineering
Completed
diploma
Up to 2
units**
Up to 2 units**
Diploma of
Electronics &
Communications
Completed
diploma
Up to 2
units**
Up to 2 units**
Diploma of
Software
Development
Completed
diploma
Up to 1 unit
Up to 1 unit
1. HPR101 Programming Principles
Diploma
of Website
Development
Completed
diploma
Up to 1 unit
Up to 1 unit
1. HWD101 Web Programming
2. HSV101 Server Network Infrastructure
1. HHW101 Operating System Fundamentals
2. HPR101 Programming Principles
1. HHW101 Operating System Fundamentals
2. HPR101 Programming Principles
* Note: this is a vendor certification
** Students studying this course may also be eligible for advanced standing based on Cisco Academy Version 5 studies
Student Rights and Responsibilities
Study Fees
It is the responsibility of every student to be aware of
Polytechnic West’s General and Academic Regulations,
the Student Code of Conduct and the policies and
procedures that relate to your rights and responsibilities
as a student. These can be found in the Higher
Education Student Handbook and on the Polytechnic
West website at www.polytechnic.wa.edu.au Associate Degree of Network Technology
International Students
The tuition fee for international students is:
$1,947.50 per unit.
International students please refer to the Education and
Training International website for further responsibilities
as an international student in Australia.
You are advised to obtain a Student I.D. card which will
provide you with access to library services at Polytechnic
West campuses and with our partner organisations. The
Student I.D. card will also be required as proof of identity
when you attend examinations.
Assessment of the Associate Degree of
Network Technology
Assessment information and marking criteria for each
unit will be provided in the Unit Guide at the start of your
study semester and you must abide by the assessment
requirements set by the Polytechnic West Academic
Regulations and in the Unit Guide. You will be given
feedback on your performance in all assignments
including the criteria against which the final mark was
determined. Submission dates will not be altered unless
an Application for Deferred Assessment has been
completed and approved.
Graduation with the Associate Degree of
Network Technology
To be awarded this qualification you must pass all
the required units within the course. Once these are
completed you will be entitled to apply to graduate with
an Associate Degree of Network Technology.
Pathways
Students graduating with the Associate Degree of
Network Technology are eligible for credit towards a
Bachelor degree at one of Polytechnic West’s articulating
Universities. Check our website for up-to-date credit
recognition arrangements.
This fee is paid to ETI. Please
refer to the Education and Training International
website for payment details and refund policy.
Domestic Students
The tuition fee for domestic students is $1,445.00 per unit; or
$1,806.25 deferred (includes 25% FEE-HELP Loan Fee)
A full-time study load consists of four units per semester.
These fees are valid for Semester 1 and Semester 2,
2016.
Fees are reviewed on an annual basis.
The Higher Education tuition fee statement is available
on the Polytechnic West website http://higheredu.
polytechnic.wa.edu.au
Course Costs
In addition to the fees payable for this course, you may
need to pay for textbooks and any additional costs
associated with your chosen course.
Higher Education Student Services
Higher Education Student Services staff can offer advice
and support to make your education experience as
successful as possible. If they cannot directly assist,
suggestions can be made about referral to other staff or
appropriate agencies which may be able to help if you are
experiencing personal problems or difficulties with your
study.
Appointments with Client Services staff may be arranged
at a Customer Service Centre by phoning +64 8 9267
7500 or via email hess@polytechnic.wa.edu.au
Disclaimer
The information contained in this publication is correct
at the time of publishing but may be subject to change
without notice. For up-to-date and current information,
please check our website.