This module is an introduction to the fundamentals of Software Engineering covering the basics of programming and the systems development process. Taking an idea through initiation, analysis, design, build, test, implementation and support, to deliver value to the customer or business.

This module will introduce the basics of data communications and networks, covering network protocols and architectures. The module will also introduce students to modern networking technologies, including protocol layering and network security measures.

In this module, learners will develop self-guided skills and knowledge related to their professional development needs, and the context in which they are working. Digital Technology is a field in which professionals can find themselves working within a number of different contexts and specialisms, each requiring a specific skillset.

Professional Practice 1 is an opportunity for learners to tailor the learning conducted within Level 4 of your programme towards acquiring those skills and knowledge that will help them to develop towards becoming Digital & Technology Solutions Professionals.

Learners can select the Microsoft-Get-On elective module (CA – Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900). This will give them access to bespoke Cloud Academy content. Content on this elective module / Cloud Academy space has been created from official Microsoft learning and QA authored courses. This will enable learners to complete additional Microsoft qualifications.

Upon completion of the module, the learner will have a firm theoretical understanding of relational databases and a fundamental understanding of non-relational databases, be able to perform routine database administration tasks and query solutions for analysis on relational databases. Moreover, theoretically and conceptually understanding of key features surrounding data security will be addressed.

The focus of this module is to facilitate a project management approach to establishing learning communities in the IT sector. Students will be enjoined to work effectively, both independently and as members of a project group; and to evaluate possible solutions to a problem by selecting the best approach. The module also supports students in managing and effectively documenting the activities involved in providing the selected solution to an IT problem.

During the final year of the degree, students are required to conduct a substantial piece of independent study and research, using sophisticated methods and tools. Students are expected to work independently with guidance from their supervisor and to develop a level of expertise in the area of research. The Major Project is expected to focus on a theme relevant to the specialism the student is enrolled in.

This module introduces learners to research methods and approaches to writing project proposals and dissertations. In addition, learners will establish an understanding of how research methods are implemented in technical business contexts. Further to this the module will develop learner research skills and develop strategies to develop their knowledge and skills before applying these to their major project. This will improve outcomes for the major project module by enabling learners to clarify their planned research activities at an early stage.

This module is concerned with existing and emerging technologies and the challenges faced within an ever-changing technology landscape and the complexities surrounding how such technologies can be leveraged within an organisation.

Further building on the learning undertaken in Professional Practice 2, learners will develop advanced self-guided skills and knowledge related to their professional development needs, and the context in which they are working.

This learning is applied and evaluated using appropriate reflective models, providing opportunities for learners to develop and add to their apprenticeship portfolio with the acquired skills and knowledge.

Learners can select the Microsoft-Get-On elective module. This will give them access to bespoke Cloud Academy content.

Learners can choose one of the below modules:

• Microsoft Azure Security Technologies (AZ-500)
  Pre-requisite – Azure fundamentals – AZ900 (Studied at L4)
• CA – Microsoft Azure DevOps Solutions (AZ-400)
  Pre-requisites are: AZ104 & AZ-204 (1 of which studied at Level 5)
• CA – Designing and Implementing a Data Science Solution on Azure (DP-100).
  Pre-requisite – Azure fundamentals – AZ900 (Studied at L4)
• CA – Designing and Implementing a Microsoft Azure AI Solution (Preview) (AI-102)
  Pre-requisite – Azure fundamentals – AZ900 (Studied at L4)

The module will provide the knowledge and skills required to configure, troubleshoot and manage enterprise networks ensuring factors that may impact the performance, availability and security of network devices and services are considered. Consideration will also be given to new emerging technologies and how they fit into the current landscape.

DevOps describes a culture and set of processes that bring development and operations teams together to complete software development. It allows organisations to create and improve products at a faster pace than they can with traditional software development approaches.

This module considers applying data models and algorithms to data sets with the purpose of finding new insight or making predictions. You will source data within an organisational context and apply appropriate techniques to build models that identify potential opportunities or risks.

Data visualisation is the representation of data through graphs, charts and tables that allow you to see and understand patterns and trends. You will analyse large and complex data sets, and use a variety of software tools to be able to communicate metrics and results. Through the use of effective visuals, you will be able to present findings that are beneficial for making data-driven decisions.

The purpose of this module is to introduce apprentices to modern theory and practice in consultancy, including professionalism, identification of problems and business needs, and implementation and taking action. The module will focus on developing proficiencies in a range of skills and aptitude required to practice consulting in a technology context.