Key Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| CRICOS Course Code | 0101639 |
| Course Id | CRS1400452 |
| Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) | Upon successful completion, the award conferred is recognised in the AQF at Level 5 |
| Full Time | 1 year (2 Semesters) |
| Part Time | 2 years (Domestic students only – see below) (4 Semesters) |
| Units | 8 |
| Credit points | 80 credit points |
| Campus Location | Level 16, 233 Castlereagh Street, Sydney 2000 363 King Street, West Melbourne, Victoria 3003 Level 1, West, 237 Ryrie Street, Geelong Victoria 3220 |
| English Language Requirements | IELTS 6.0 overall with no band less than 6.0 |
| Delivery mode | Blended: on-campus face-to-face with some online content and activities |
| Outcome | Diploma of Networking Technology |
| Pathways post completion | This Degree upon successful completion will meet AQF requirements of an AQF level 5 that would allow a pathway to further undergraduate studies. |
| Financing Options | This course is offered as a Fee for service course and is available to both Domestic and International Students. |
| Intakes | PIA accepts intakes each semester into this Degree |
Course Description
In the diploma of networking technology course, students are able to learn the fundamentals in computer and networking. Moreover, the technical discussion followed by practical exercises that students gain in this course enables the students to perform end-user support, design wire and wireless network at enterprise level, troubleshoot the networks, technically understand how networks operate, and gain other theoretical and practical knowledge in this field.
Course Learning Outcomes
| Code | Learning Outcome |
|---|---|
| CLO1 | A demonstrate your understanding of a body of knowledge including recent developments in the area of networking and telecommunications networks |
| CLO2 | Demonstrate a developed understanding of the principles of networks and telecommunications engineering |
| CLO3 | Demonstrate an understanding of the principles underlying the planning and management of networks and telecommunications |
| CLO 4 | Apply mathematical and computational skills necessary for the solution of theoretical and practical problems |
| CLO 5 | Demonstrate creativity and initiative in application of analytical, problem-solving and design skills to networks and telecommunications |
| CLO 6 | To successfully work independently with personal accountability in solving problems in networks and telecommunications |
| CLO 7 | Demonstrate high-level oral and written communication skills |
| CLO 8 | To apply your knowledge to design, investigate and solve specific problems in the area of networking and telecommunications and their applications through directed studies or projects in the form of internships with industry or research providers. |
Graduate Attributes
| Code | Attribute |
|---|---|
| G A1 | Communicate effectively in a diverse range of professional or community context |
| G A 2 | Complete work tasks and assignments independently or as an effective member of multidisciplinary teams |
| G A 3 | Engage in and value life-long learning leading to the enhancement of professional knowledge and skills |
| G A 4 | Are information and technology literate |
| G A 5 | Respond appropriately to a changing workforces, cultures and values reflecting a global work environment |
| G A 6 | Demonstrate critical thinking, problem solving and decision-making abilities essential to contributing soundly to the resolution of issues confronting organisations |
| G A 7 | Facilitate intellectual curiosity |
| G A 8 | Act in an ethical manner in all aspects of professional life. |
Accreditation
The Diploma of Networking Technology is accredited by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency.
International Student Duration
The CRICOS-registered duration is 1 year of full-time study (2 trimesters). The part time mode is not available to a holder of a student visa who is not a citizen of Australia or New Zealand, or who is not an Australian permanent resident, or who is a temporary resident of Australia.
Domestic Student Duration
For domestic students the course is 2 trimesters full-time and 4 semesters part-time.
Course Structure
| Year | Unit Code | Unit Name | Core / Elective | Pre-requisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 (Semester 1 or 2) | ICT104 | Fundamentals of computer system hardware and software | Core | None |
| NTW100 | Introduction to computer networking | Core | None | |
| ICT101 | Mathematics for computing | Core | NSW HSC Band 4 for English and Band 3 in Advanced Mathematics or Band 4 in Standard 2 Mathematics or equivalent | |
| GBU100 | Professional Business Communications | Core | None | |
| NTW101 | Principles of network administration | Core | NTW100 | |
| ICT102 | Foundations of programming | Core | None | |
| ICT103 | Introduction to telecommunications systems | Core | None | |
| GBU200 | Business ethics and corporate social responsibility | Core | None |
Device Specifications
| Windows | macOS | |||
| Minimum | Recommended / Better | Minimum | Recommended / Better | |
| Version | Windows 11 (latest version) | Windows 11 (latest version) | macOS (latest supported release, or one previous) | macOS (most current major release) |
| Processor | Intel i5 (≥2.0 GHz) / AMD Ryzen 5 | Intel i7 (≥2.0 GHz) / AMD Ryzen 7 | Apple M1 chip (or later) | Apple M2 or M3 chip |
| Memory (RAM) | 8 GB | 16 GB | 8 GB | 16 GB |
| Storage | 256 GB SSD | 512 GB SSD | 256 GB SSD | 512 GB SSD |
| Battery life | 4 hrs (under normal use) | 6–8 hrs (under normal use) | 4 hrs (under normal use) | 8–10 hrs (under normal use) |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) with 2×2 MIMO | 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6/6E) with 2×2 MIMO | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) with 2×2 MIMO | Wi-Fi 6E / Wi-Fi 7 with 2×2 MIMO |
| Webcam & Audio | Built-in webcam, microphone, and speakers | Built-in webcam, microphone, and speakers | Built-in webcam, microphone, and speakers | Built-in webcam, microphone, and speakers |
Delivery Method
| Type | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Blended | Delivered partially on campus and partially online |
| Face to Face | Delivered at: • Level G, 98–104 Goulburn Street, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia • 107 George St, Parramatta NSW 2150, Australia • Level 1 / 237 Ryrie St, Geelong VIC 3220, Australia • 363 King St, West Melbourne VIC 3003, Australia |
Assessment Methods
The Institute uses authentic assessment principles that may include practical exercises, case studies, presentations, reports, online simulations, essays, and examinations. These may include being done under invigilation.
Exit and Career Outcomes
Exit Outcomes
If you complete the 8 units mentioned in the table above with the Institute (either at the Institute or with Advanced Standing not exceeding 4 of the 100 level units), you will be eligible to obtain the Diploma of Networking Technology.
Not all units are offered each semester.
Career Outcomes
Computer networking is the fastest-growing major and the demand for skilful employees is increasing rapidly. Installing, operating, maintaining, upgrading, and fixing computers and network equipment within LANs and WANs, besides establishing, and maintaining the internet, intranets, and extranets of an organization are the key skills that students can bring from theory to practice. Students who earn a diploma in computer networking can seek employment in various technology-oriented positions, such as a network systems analyst or administrator, IT support technician, or network technical specialist.
Entry Requirements
- Successful completion of an Australian senior secondary qualification (or recognised equivalent) with the equivalent of a minimum Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) of 60 and
• NSW (or equivalent) Band 4 Standard English; and
• NSW (or equivalent) Band 3 Advanced Mathematics; or
• NSW (or equivalent) Band 4 Standard 2 Mathematics. - An equivalent secondary qualification overseas that also meets the mathematics requirement above; or
- An accredited Tertiary Preparation Program or a Foundation Year Program offered by an accredited Australian provider that also meets the mathematics requirement above; or
- One year of completed accredited full-time study at a registered institution of tertiary education at AQF level 5 or above that also meets the mathematics requirement above.
International Students
Students who have not completed an Australian Year 12 qualification may be admitted into the program through the flexible entry mode.
- An equivalent secondary qualification overseas; or
- An accredited Tertiary Preparation Program or a Foundation Year Program offered by an Australian university; or
- One year of successful full-time study in an accredited course at a university or other higher education provider; or
- Admission to candidature for an undergraduate degree at an Australian university
Special/Alternative Admission Arrangements
Applicants who are 21 years of age or over who have not completed Year 12, or its equivalent may gain entry to a course by addressing one of the following entry requirements:
- Successful completion of a Special Tertiary Admissions Test administered by a tertiary admissions centre; or
- Submission of a portfolio of prior and current academic and professional work; or
Applicants applying under special admission categories will be required to attend an interview with the Dean to assess the applicant’s capacity for higher education studies. The applicant should submit a portfolio of prior and current academic and professional work prior to the interview to assist in the assessment process.
The criteria used by the Dean when approving applicants for admission into a course under special or alternative admission arrangements include:
- capacity to pursue tertiary studies;
- motivation to pursue tertiary studies in the discipline of the chosen course;
- demonstrated potential for academic studies based on the applicant’s portfolio;
- relevant professional and industry experience; and
- specific consideration of access issues for ATSI’s.
Language proficiency
| TEST | OVERALL | READING | WRITING | LISTENING | SPEAKING |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
| TOEFL iBT | 83 | 13 | 21 | 12 | 18 |
| PTE Academic | 58 | 50 | 50 | 50 | 50 |
| C1A | 180 | 169 | 169 | 169 | 169 |
| C2P | 180 | 169 | 169 | 169 | 169 |
| OET | –C+C+C/C+C/C+ | ||||
| KITE | B2 (>450) | B2 (>450) | B2 (>450) | B2 (>450) | B2 (>450) |
| Duolingo | 115 | 110 | 110 | 110 | 110 |
Note that the most recent attempt at any language proficiency test supersedes any previous attempts (irrespective of those test results) or requirements.
English Language Test results are valid for two years from the date of the results up to the date of commencement at the Institute. The most recent test supersedes ALL previous tests.
Attendance Requirements
The Institute has enforceable requirements in relation to attendance. Further details are provided at Item 20 of the Terms and Conditions.
Advance Standing
Granting credit for prior learning ensures that students commence study at a level that appropriately recognises their prior learning experiences and are not required to repeat equivalent learning successfully undertaken in another context. Process for applying for Advance Standing (credit) can be found in the Credit and Recognition of Prior Learning Policy and Procedure.
Fees
Domestic Students:
You are a domestic student if you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident, New Zealand citizen, or Australian humanitarian visa holder. Your course will be a full Fee-paying place. This is noted in the Letter of Offer. You can also find the annual course cost on our Courses and Fees page or on the web page for your course under fees are based on a standard full-time study load and duration. Your course fees and duration may vary if you have applied for and been granted Advanced Standing. Tuition fees may increase during your studies. Students are advised in advance of any increase in tuition fees being implemented.
Full Fee-Paying Places:
A full fee-paying place is where you pay the full (unsubsidised) tuition fee for your course. Eligible students can defer the payment of their tuition fees through the FEE-HELP scheme.
International Students:
If you’re an international student, you can find the annual course cost in Australian dollars (AUD$) on our Courses and Fees page or on the web page for your course under fees are based on a standard full-time study load and duration. Your course fees and duration may vary if you have applied for and been granted Advanced Standing. Tuition fees may increase during your studies. Students are advised in advance of any increase in tuition fees being implemented.
How to Apply
Further Information
For further information please contact:
Polytechnic Institute Australia Pty Ltd
CRICOS: 03535M
TEQSA provider number: PRV14049
ABN: 34 145 333 795
Head office and postal address:
Level G, 98–104 Goulburn Street, Sydney NSW 2000
107 George St, Parramatta NSW 2150
363 King Street, West Melbourne VIC 3003
Level 1, West, 237 Ryrie Street, Geelong VIC 3220
Phone: +61 (2) 8319 8202
Email: info@pia.edu.au

