• Access Duration:  2 Years
• Awarded by: Qualifi
• Qualification Level:  Level 5
• Qualification Number: 610/3475/7 
• Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 1200
• Total Qualification Time (TQT): 2400
• Credits: 240

• Understand and use IT principles in different business settings.
• Apply technical knowledge to specific IT and networking environments.
• Improve employability by linking theory with real-world IT work.
• Analyse and solve problems using techniques relevant to IT and industry.
• Gather, review, and assess information from various sources.
• Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Work well on your own and as part of a team.
• Manage your own personal development and growth while building your IT career.

This course is suitable for:

• Network Engineers
• Network Administrators
• Network Technicians
• Systems Administrators
• Junior Cybersecurity Analysts
• Information Security Technicians
• Penetration Testers
• Cloud Support Associates
• IT Infrastructure Technicians
• Data Centre Technicians
• IT Support Specialists
• NOC Analysts
• VoIP / Telecoms Engineers
• ISP Field Engineer

• Entry to this qualification is through a friendly interview process conducted by South London College. This gives the college an opportunity to get to know applicants better and understand their goals.
• Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
• There are no unnecessary entry requirements for this qualification, as South London College believes in creating opportunities rather than barriers.
• Applications are welcomed from individuals without formal qualifications if they have significant work experience. In such cases, applicants will have the opportunity to demonstrate their readiness for the academic demands of the course through the interview process.
• If English is not your first language, a good standard of English language knowledge is expected to support success in your studies.
• International qualifications will be reviewed, where applicable, to ensure they are suitable for UK higher education.
• Applicants are usually required to provide two references, ideally including at least one academic reference.

• This course can be completed through two flexible study options to suit your lifestyle:
  • Standard Course Plan (9-12 months) – ideal for learners balancing other commitments.
  • Fast Track Option (5 months) – perfect for those who can dedicate intensive study time.
• Most learners complete within their chosen timeframe, though some may finish earlier depending on personal circumstances and available study time. We accommodate your pace with unlimited support for 24 months. This Level 5 Extended Diploma requires approximately 1200 guided learning hours.

T&C apply

• Fail: 0–39%
• Pass: 40–59%
• Merit: 60–69%
• Distinction: 70% and above
• Your grades for each unit will appear on your official qualification transcript.

How You’ll Be Assessed

• There are no formal exams.
• All units are assessed through written assignments.
• Assignments are marked by South London College.
• Learners must meet all learning outcomes and assessment criteria to pass the course.
• Tasks are designed to be work-related, using real examples or case studies.
• Some units may include a practical task, which will be observed by an assessor.

Learner Support & Evidence

• Learners are expected to use a Candidate Workbook for each unit to write their answers and include any supporting evidence.
• South London College will provide guidance, case studies, and help you use workplace examples where possible.
  

Mentor Guidance and Support

• Our experienced mentors will guide and support you throughout the assessment process. You can reach them via email

The Qualifi Level 5 Extended Diploma in IT Networking helps learners strengthen their networking and IT knowledge with hands-on, real-world experience. You’ll gain practical skills in network infrastructure, systems management, security, and troubleshooting, while building the confidence to progress to higher study.

Next Steps for a Potential Academic Progression Pathway  

• Step 1 – Level 6 Diploma in Networking & Cyberoperations
• Step 2 – BSc (Hons) Cyber Security and Networking Top-up Degree
• Step 3 – MSc in Cyber Security 

Alternative Pathways

• Level 5 Diploma in Cyber Security 
• Level 5 Diploma in Artificial Intelligence  

Build Strong Networking Skills and Boost Your IT Career

The Qualifi Level 5 Extended Diploma in IT Networking is designed to strengthen your practical IT and networking skills while building confidence for professional environments. You’ll learn how advanced networks, systems, and digital technologies work, and how to apply this knowledge through real-world tasks and scenarios. The course enhances your problem-solving ability, technical expertise, and workplace skills, giving you a strong foundation to progress into IT, networking, or cyber security roles.

Here are some job prospects you can pursue along with the average salary scale (Source: UK Glassdoor).

• Cloud Support Associate – £40,000
• Junior Cybersecurity Analyst – £35,000
• Junior Network or Systems Administrator – £38,000
• Helpdesk Analyst – £37,000
• Network Support Assistant – £35,000
• IT Support Technician – £33,000
• NOC Analyst – £32,000

The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) is a non-ministerial government department responsible for regulating qualifications, exams, and assessments in England. Ofqual ensures that all qualifications offered by recognised awarding organisations meet rigorous national standards, giving you confidence that any Ofqual-regulated certificate is high-quality and widely accepted by employers and universities.