Level 4 Diploma in IT – Networking

Logical IT Networking and Physical IT Networking are the two specialist units, and they divide the subject the way the industry does: addressing, protocols, routing and switching logic on one side; cabling, topologies, hardware and installation on the other. They sit on top of the four common Qualifi IT units: ethics and professional practice, maths and statistics, machine maintenance and operating systems, and graphics with database concepts, making six units and 120 credits at Level 4.

The two networking units are hands-on by design: you will build small networks, break them, and find the fault; you will subnet on paper and then prove it on hardware. Learners are usually first- and second-line support staff wanting to move into infrastructure, cabling installers wanting the logical side, and school leavers who know this is their direction. The diploma prepares you well for vendor exams such as those from Cisco or CompTIA, but it does not include or replace them, and we say so to every applicant.

Qualifi sets the entry requirements for this qualification and LSPM, as the approved centre, applies them when it assesses your application. As published by the awarding body:

• demonstrated some ability and possess qualifications at Level 3, for example ‘A’ Levels or vocational awards;
• spent some time in an organisational role and shown they have capability and drive to develop;
• seeking further professional development and to gain work related skills and know-how.

Source: the Qualifi specification. If you are not sure whether your qualification counts as equivalent, send us the details and we will put the question to LSPM's admissions team, who make the decision.

Qualifi's standard entry wording applies. Curiosity about how networks work and comfort with binary and basic maths matter; a Level 3 in IT or support-desk experience is the usual background.

Lab-based practical tasks with configuration evidence and written explanations, plus standard assignments for the common units. No exams; ask LSPM how the lab work is provided in each study mode.

Assignments are set and marked by LSPM's tutors, moderated within LSPM and sampled by Qualifi before LSPM claims certificates. Draft feedback and resubmission arrangements are LSPM's own practice; confirm them at enrolment. How assessment works in full.

Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology from Qualifi, with networking continuing as a strand.

An application for year-two entry to a computer networks or computing degree, subject to the university.

Network technician, NOC or infrastructure support roles, often alongside CCNA or Network+ study.