Computing
Networking HND (BEng (Hons.) Cyber Security, Networks and Systems - University Route)
Campus Milton Road Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 8
Study mode Full time
Start date
Aug 2026
Course enquiry form
Course overview
BEng Cyber Security, Networks and Systems is an associate degree programme offered in collaboration with Napier University, providing dual enrolment with both institutions and serving as a direct route to the third year of study in either BEng Networks and Systems or BEng Cyber Security and Forensics. This course offers the opportunity to undertake a placement in Year 3.
You will study the most critical areas of networking, cybersecurity, and specialist areas of computer forensics, including ethical hacking. Computer Networking with security and forensics is one of the fastest-developing branches of the new technologies industry. There is a massive demand in the industry for networking and cybersecurity professionals with starting salaries between £30,000 and £50,000+.
During this course, you will develop an essential understanding of networking for home and small businesses. You will learn about computer networking and be introduced to routing and switching in the enterprise, as well as the design and support of computer networks. Edinburgh College’s computing department and computing students consistently win competitions both nationally and internationally. This course is highly regarded and well-recognised in the industry and is sought after by employers.
We teach a curriculum aligned with a variety of industry-recognised vendor qualifications and can help you gain the knowledge to prepare for those certifications. Such as CISCO CCNA and CompTIA A+
What you will learn
Years one and two – Edinburgh College
- Computer Networking Technologies
- Routing
- Switching
- Internetworking
- Basic Software Development
- Computer Hardware and Software Installation Fundamentals
- Troubleshooting
- Private Cloud Virtualisation
- Server Administration
- Data Science
- Digital Forensics
- Ethical Hacking
Years three and four – Edinburgh Napier University
Subjects may include:
- Information
- Society and Security
- Distributed Systems
- Advanced Security
- Digital Forensics
Placement information
- This course offers the opportunity to undertake a placement in Year 3.
How the course is assessed
- The course is mainly assessed on your practical skills.
- There will be some written assignments and multiple-choice tests.
- The Graded Unit for year one is an exam, and for year two is a project.
Number of days per week
- Approximately 18 hours per week, which we try to timetable into 3 days. It is recommended that you dedicate 5 days per week to this course.
- The course is demanding, and assignments and projects will be set for you to complete in your own time.
Entry requirements
- For school leavers: Three Highers consisting of a B Pass in Computing, Mathematics or Science and two other C Passes.
- For college learners: SCQF Level 6 course in Computer Networking or Cyber Security.
- For everyone else: All enquiries are welcome regardless of qualifications. Edinburgh College computing staff can assess where you can start or progress in your computing career and find the right course for you.
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
- You will be invited to attend an interview, where you will be asked to complete an online screening exercise to assess your skills.
- During the interview, you will be given information on the course by a lecturer
- You may be invited for a further interview with a lecturer.
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 6.0, and ideally, no component below 5.Progression and Articulation Routes
- Edinburgh Napier University BEng Networks and Systems
- Edinburgh Napier BEng Cyber Security and Forensics with AA grades
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date |
|---|---|---|
| Milton Road Campus | Full time | 24/08/26 |
