Access to Cisco NetAcad and Specialist Digital Courses
Alongside their formal studies, all students benefit from full access to the Cisco Networking Academy (NetAcad) platform. This gives students the opportunity to complete a wide range of free, industry-recognised online courses that support personal development, enhance their technical portfolio, and strengthen UCAS or apprenticeship applications.
Core NetAcad Courses Available to UAH Students
- Introduction to Cybersecurity
- Cybersecurity Essentials
- Networking Basics
- NDG Linux Unhatched / Linux Essentials
- Introduction to IoT (Internet of Things)
- Python Essentials 1 & 2
- Packet Tracer Introduction & Labs
- Operating Systems Basics
- Endpoint Security
- Introduction to Data Science
New and Emerging Industry Courses
To ensure students stay ahead in an evolving digital world, NetAcad has introduced a new suite of specialist industry-aligned courses — all available to UAH learners:
- CyberOps Associate (Introduction to SOC Operations)
Focus on security monitoring, threat detection, incident response, and understanding Security Operations Centre processes. - DevNet Associate (Software Development for Networking)
Modern networking automation using APIs, Python scripting, and programmable infrastructure. - Networking Academy AI Fundamentals
An introduction to artificial intelligence, machine learning, neural networks, and ethical AI. - Cloud Security Fundamentals
Understanding cloud architecture, cloud security risks, authentication, and identity management. - Introduction to Cloud Computing
Principles of cloud services, virtualisation, containers, and cloud-based infrastructure (AWS/Azure aligned content). - Network Security Fundamentals
A deeper look into firewalls, intrusion prevention, access control, and secure network design. - Entrepreneurship and Digital Skills for Industry
A broader digital business programme supporting employability, entrepreneurship, and industry readiness.
These additional pathways allow students to explore specialist topics, build their portfolios, and pursue areas of interest beyond the traditional curriculum. Many courses provide digital badges or certificates, further enhancing a student’s professional profile.
Linking Cisco Academy Training to T-Levels and Technical Pathways
The specialist provision through the Cisco Academy directly strengthens our technical and vocational offer, particularly for students completing digital T-Levels.
Integrated Support for T-Levels
Students undertaking T-Level qualifications benefit from the hands-on problem-solving, networking knowledge, and digital literacy gained through Cisco practical work. This supports both the core components and occupational specialisms, ensuring learners are better prepared for employer placements and real-world digital challenges.
A Clear Route Into Specialist Progression
This combined approach — academic study, industry-grade certification, and extensive optional digital training — provides a clear and effective pathway into:
- Technical degree programmes in Computer Science, Networking, Software Engineering, and Cyber Security.
- Higher and Degree Apprenticeships within IT, engineering, cyber operations, cloud infrastructure, and digital support.
- Immediate employment in networking, IT support, cyber security operations, and digital infrastructure roles.
Students leave UAH with a strong academic foundation, a portfolio of industry-recognised certifications, and genuine technical experience that makes them stand out in a competitive and rapidly developing industry.
