This course prepares graduates for a career in the strongly growing IT networking industry in the areas of: Network Management, Network Engineering, System Administration and System Security. Emphasis is on the development of strong practical skills, sought after by industry, with studies strongly aligned with Cisco, Microsoft and Comptia certifications.
The aim of Polytechnic West’s Network Technology Associate Degree is to provide students with the ability to obtain the following learning outcomes:
The understanding and interpretation of key Information Technology concepts and how they relate to the contemporary business environment;
The acquisition of Information Systems research-based knowledge;
An introduction to the principles of programming, including program design, development and testing;
An introduction to computer systems architecture, including hardware installation, fault-finding and computer assembly;
A detailed understanding of enterprise networking principles from the design, construction and maintenance of small local area networks covering cabling, routing, IP addressing and routing protocols, to the design and implementation of large scale networks involving wide area network protocols and issues relating to network security, cryptography, and network Quality of Service;
An introduction to the goals of IT security, common threats and counter-measures including firewalls;
The development and refinement of communication skills within the workplace focusing on intra- and inter-personal factors which underpin effective communication.
An introduction to database development and transactional information architecture;
An introduction and history of operating systems including an overview on the purposes, types, structures and components of modern operating systems;
The development, implementation and management of web servers and websites focusing on aspects of security, information content, site design, site management, cost recovery and CGI and O/S programming;
An introduction to information systems project management concepts including estimation, scheduling and resourcing; project plan documentation; risk analysis; project control and monitoring;
The development of an ability to access, interpret, comprehend and evaluate research and information;
Preparation for CCNA, Exploration, CCNA Security, CompTIA A+, and MCTS vendor exams;
The provision of employment skills that will provide a broad-based entry point into a range of professional Information Technology occupations and/or the articulation into relevant Bachelor Degree programs; and
Fostering the increased knowledge base of the community and the facilitation of life-long learning.
Polytechnic West Network Technology Associate Degree graduates will be prepared to contribute to the networking industry. Polytechnic West’s networking qualifications are highly competitive and are sought after from both international and domestic students.
The Associate Degree in Network Technology has been developed in consultation with industry and the university sector. The qualification has been written by a team of experienced information systems and educational practitioners, and incorporates modern information systems thinking and skills needed by industry.
Students electing to enter the workforce at the end of the Associate Degree qualification will find they have gained skills that will make them highly employable in the current market.
Students electing to continue studies at a University at the end of the Associate Degree qualification will find themselves well prepared for the learning experience and will be given advanced standing in accordance with current agreements.
Step 1. Contact a Polytechnic West Information Officer and find out when the next qualification starts and the closing date for applications. Request that an application form be posted to you when it is available if you intend to lodge a written application.
Step 2. Start preparing for your application early. Leaving it to the last minute can disadvantage you. The TAFE Admissions application form requires details of academic achievement, employment/work experience /voluntary activities, Australian citizenship or permanent residency status, and other matters.
Step 3. When you receive the application form, answer the questions in neat handwriting. If you are to be successful with your application TAFE Admissions has to be able to read your details.
Take your completed application to any Polytechnic West campus.
Your application will be forwarded to TAFE Admissions for assessment. Places in Polytechnic West qualifications are allocated on the basis of a score calculated from Academic Merit and Work Experience. Qualifications are filled from the highest score down until all places are taken.
Alternatively, you may prefer to apply online.
If your application is successful you will receive a letter from TAFE Admissions offering a place in the qualification and enclosing information on how to accept the offer of place.
As Swan TAFE, we have always been one of this state’s leading drivers in setting the training agenda.
The training market at state, national and international levels has changed. We have recognised the need to keep ahead of these changes.
Polytechnic West is a name that appeals to our wide and diverse clientele; the logo conveys a meaningful and contemporary image to our students, our staff and our industry stakeholders. It is an image that truly reflects our direction.
At Polytechnic West, you'll receive more than knowledge: you'll get the practical skills needed to carve out your career.
You know us for our flexible, accessible training, but did you know that over 30,000 students come to us each year to learn their trade, vocation or take on higher education? Now it's your turn. As WA's largest training provider, you'll train with the experts in your field, giving you opportunities to get out there and do your thing while still studying, so you're ready to deal with the work place.
As Polytechnic West we are be better positioned to take advantage of the significant opportunities that are being presented for our students. As Polytechnic West, we will enhance our prominence as Western Australia’s leading provider of trade training, and importantly, lends a status consistent with our position as the only publicly funded training provider of applied Higher Education qualifications in the state.