Diploma in Networking

Whitecliffe, formerly known as Computer Power Plus, is one of New Zealand’s leading providers of IT and professional skills training.

• Focused on our students' success, Whitecliffe consistently strives to see our students and graduates excel in the IT industry by applying modern teaching/adult learning techniques and industry-relevant courses.
• Students work towards seven NZQA approved IT qualifications in our blended learning environment.
• Dedicated, highly-qualified, and experienced tutors offer support through both campus-based and online teaching.
• Whitecliffe has a proven track record of working with industry and a multitude of NZ companies and industry professionals.
• Aligned to industry vendor certifications recognised worldwide.

At Whitecliffe we offer a blended learning environment where students learn both face-to-face and through online learning experiences.

The blended model includes compulsory face-to-face tutor-led learning sessions focused on specific concepts, skills, or learning problems; workshops, labs, and demonstrations; and online study.

All of the learning materials are delivered through a digital platform which is accessible from desktop PC's, laptops, and tablets both on and off-campus. This enables students to work independently and have direct access to one-on-one tutor support. Other benefits of the blended approach include learning skills such as digital fluency, confidence using online technologies, and self-motivation. Online learning activities and channels also offer opportunities for project work and collaboration, skills students will need in their professional IT career. It also allows you to develop valuable time-management, self-management, and problem-solving skills that IT employers are looking for in graduates.

All of our programmes of study are structured in a manner that enables students to progress through each course following a detailed study plan. Some resources that students require to complete their learning, including course learning resources and access to software and hardware, are supplied and are covered in their course fees.

The Programme Structure and Learning Process

Each of our programmes is made up of a number of courses. The majority of courses are offered over a nine-week quarter requiring a total of approximately 16.5 hours per week, per course. In each course, there are modules containing learning activities, resources, and assessments. These learning activities and experiences may include:

• Tutor-led learning sessions
• Tutor-led group-based workshops
• Group-based assessment projects
• Industry speakers and visits
• Supervised labs
• A range of online learning activities including quizzes and videos
• Industry project placement (Level 7 degree programme)

The NZ Diploma in Networking is a 120 credit programme, consisting of eight x 15 credit courses. A full time student is expected to complete the programme in up to 1 year (36 weeks excluding study breaks).

Each of our programmes is made up of a number of courses, which are 9 weeks in duration. Weekly, each course requires up to ten hours of learning with your tutor and other students, along with six and a half hours of self directed learning.

• Apply advanced wireless and switching configuration and troubleshooting techniques to resolve switching and routing issues for organisational networks.
• Apply routing configurations and troubleshooting techniques to implement and maintain networks.
• Analyse the impact of convergence on network infrastructure and implement unified communications to maintain acceptable organisation service levels.
• Apply specialised knowledge of networking protocols and technologies to configure, maintain, and monitor networks.
• Analyse and implement advanced network security to protect and secure assets and to meet best practice and organisational requirements.
• Behave with integrity as a responsible information technology professional, and interpersonal skills, clearly and professionally to enhance working effectiveness, efficiency, and quality outcomes in an organisational environment.
• Apply project management tools and techniques.

This qualification offers training towards the following globally recognised vendor certifications:

• CCNA Routing and Switching
• CCNA Wireless
• CCNA Collaboration
• CCNA Security
• CompTIA Project+

NZ Government key information link for students, that provides more information to support your decision making for this programme

The Level 6 Diploma in Networking is offered fees-free to all Domestic Students as part of the Targeted Training and Apprenticeships Fund (TTAF).

The Targeted Training and Apprenticeships Fund (TTAF) is a Government initiative making all sub-degree vocational and apprenticeship programmes free for learners. It is targeted towards industry skill needs where demand from employers for these skills will continue to be strong or is expected to grow, during New Zealand’s recovery period from the impacts of Covid-19.

The TTAF fund will cover fees from 1 July 2020 until 31 December 2022.

To find out more, check out the FAQs on the Tertiary Education Commission website here.