Diploma in Infocomm Technology (Infrastructure and Operations)

Master IT Infrastructure and Operations with this Diploma programme and forge your path into a career in IT.

What is the SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme?

The SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme (SCTP) is a government initiative in Singapore designed to assist mid-career individuals in acquiring new skills and knowledge to facilitate a career transition. This programme is geared towards individuals who wish to switch industries or occupations due to changes in the job market, technological advancements, or personal career goals.

Here are some key features and components of the SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme:

Skills Upgrading: The SCTP provides funding and support for mid-career individuals to undergo training and upskilling in new areas, helping them acquire the skills and knowledge necessary for their chosen career transition.

Financial Support: Participants in the SCTP can receive financial assistance in the form of course fee subsidies and training allowances to ease the financial burden of making a career switch.

Coaching and Mentorship: Participants in the SCTP will receive coaching and mentorship in building a portfolio through a capstone project. This will help participants to increase their employability.

Career Guidance: The programme also provides career advisory services and guidance to help individuals get placed in job roles, such as interview preparation, resume tips and more.

Course Modules & Curriculum

The Diploma in Infocomm Technology (Infrastructure and Operations) spans 8 modules (237 hours).

Module 1: IT Infrastructure and Operations

Topics Covered

Learning Unit 1: Explaining Network Topologies
Learning Unit 2: Supporting Cabling and Physical Installations
Learning Unit 3: Configuring Interfaces and Switches
Learning Unit 4: Configuring Network Addressing
Learning Unit 5: Configuring Routing and Advanced Switching
Learning Unit 6: Implementing Network Services
Learning Unit 7: Explaining Application Services
Learning Unit 8: Supporting Network Management
Learning Unit 9: Explaining Network Security Concepts
Learning Unit 10: Applying Network Security Features
Learning Unit 11: Supporting Network Security Design
Learning Unit 12: Configuring Wireless Networks
Learning Unit 13: Comparing Remote Access Methods
Learning Unit 14: Summarizing Cloud Concepts

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you should be able to:

Explain common network types and characteristics, and compare the functions of each OSI model layer.
Configure a basic SOHO network and apply CompTIA’s troubleshooting methodology to diagnose and resolve connectivity issues.
Summarize Ethernet standards and differentiate copper vs. fiber-optic cabling and connector types.
Plan rack-based physical installations for server rooms/datacenters and deploy and troubleshoot Ethernet cabling.
Deploy networking devices and explain common network interfaces.
Configure common Ethernet switching features and troubleshoot transceiver and switching issues.
Explain IPv4 and IPv6 addressing schemes and IPv4 forwarding.
Configure IP networks and subnets, test host IP configurations using appropriate tools, and troubleshoot IP networks and hosts.
Compare and contrast core routing concepts, including dynamic routing principles.
Install and troubleshoot routers, and explain tiered switching architecture and VLAN implementation.
Compare and contrast transport protocols and use command-line tools to scan and validate network ports.
Explain network addressing and name resolution services, and configure and troubleshoot DHCP and DNS.
Explain the importance of time synchronization and the role of NTP, and describe common network services (web, file/print, database, email, and voice).
Explain how high availability is provisioned using redundancy and load balancing.
Explain the purpose of configuration and change management documentation, and use discovery/monitoring and event management tools to identify assets and maintain network availability.
Use packet analysis and traffic metrics to troubleshoot network performance issues.
Explain common security concepts, including how to distinguish risk, vulnerability, threat, and exploit.
Summarize common attack types and their network impact, and explain the importance of audits and regulatory compliance.
Explain identity and access management concepts and differentiate authentication and directory management protocols/standards.
Implement defense-in-depth controls by enforcing device compliance and applying security rules (e.g., ACLs and content filtering) to manage network traffic.
Explain the importance of network segmentation, including the use of trusted and untrusted zones.
Describe the security implications of IoT/IIoT and explain the importance of physical security controls.
Summarize key wireless standards and capabilities.
Install, configure, and troubleshoot secure wireless networks.
Summarize WAN provider and Internet access types for enterprise connectivity.
Compare and contrast VPN topologies and protocols, and explain remote host access and management methods.
Explain data center and storage network architectures and summarize core cloud concepts.
Summarize how software, coding/automation, and Zero Trust principles are applied in modern network environments.

Module 2: Enterprise Architecture and Design

Topics Covered

Learning Unit 1: Introduction on Enterprise Architecture
Learning Unit 2: Enterprise Architecture Cyclical Process (EACP) in depth
Learning Unit 3: Design and Tools
Learning Unit 4: Architecture Governance

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, trainees should be able to demonstrate their skills and knowledge to:

Discuss the key aspects of the Enterprise Architecture framework, covering a comprehensive overview of the Enterprise Architecture standard, the core principles of Enterprise Architecture, the architecture framework’s layout.
Discuss how to transition from the Foundation Architecture to a tailored architecture specific to an organisation.
Discuss how to leverage the elements of the Foundation Architecture and other relevant architecture components and building blocks within the Enterprise Architecture Cyclical Process (EACP).
Describe the tools, methods, techniques and architecture repositories in constructing an Enterprise Architecture.
Examine the importance of governance within the EACP process and its relevance in various aspects of the Architecture process.
Discuss the process of dispensation via the Architecture Board and major stakeholder.

Module 3: IT Infrastructure Planning and Optimisation

Topics Covered

Learning Unit 1: Introduction to IT Infrastructure Planning
Learning Unit 2: Infrastructure Design and Architecture
Learning Unit 3: Virtualisation and Cloud Infrastructure
Learning Unit 4: IT Infrastructure Security and Compliance
Learning Unit 5: Service Management
Learning Unit 6: Performance Optimisation and Monitoring
Learning Unit 7: Infrastructure Documentation and Communication

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, trainees should be able to:

Articulate the components of infrastructure planning, including analysing stakeholder requirements and strategically developing IT infrastructure within an organisational context.
Design robust and scalable IT infrastructures that reliably meet performance expectations by selecting appropriate architectures for servers, networks, storage, and data backup/recovery methods.
Apply knowledge of virtualisation and cloud technologies to select appropriate cloud service models and deploy infrastructure effectively in cloud-based projects.
Evaluate the IT security policies, authentication, and authorisation mechanisms in identity and access management to address threats and vulnerabilities, including fulfilling the regulatory and audit compliance requirements.
Discuss key IT service delivery frameworks and methodologies, including ITIL and COBIT, change management, and release practices, enabling them to manage SLAs effectively for enhanced organisational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Enhance system or network efficiency and responsiveness by identifying and mitigating performance bottlenecks, implementing monitoring solutions, and utilising performance metrics to proactively address potential issues in a high-performance IT environment.
Document and communicate complex infrastructure designs effectively, including capturing system architecture, configuration, and operational procedures to convey technical information clearly within cross-functional teams.

Module 4: IT Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity

Topics Covered

Learning Unit 1: Business Continuity Planning
Learning Unit 2: IT Disaster Recovery Planning

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, trainees should be able to demonstrate their skills and knowledge to:

Comprehend the significance of business continuity.
Discuss the key components and steps in creating a Business Continuity Plan.
Conduct risk assessments and business impact analyses through hands-on practice.
Prepare an adaptable Business Continuity Plan.
Analyse the impact of technology on business continuity and disaster recovery planning.
Comprehend and integrate the considerations for Disaster Recovery Planning with Business Continuity Planning.
Discuss the international standards and best practices in Business Continuity and
Disaster Recovery planning.
Comprehend compliance and regulatory requirements.

Module 5: Advanced IT Security and Cybersecurity

Topics Covered

Learning Unit 1: Cyber Security Concepts
Learning Unit 2: Architecture and Design
Learning Unit 3: Threats, Attacks and Vulnerabilities
Learning Unit 4: Cyber Security Attack Indicators
Learning Unit 5: Security Assessments and Penetration Testing

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, trainees should be able to demonstrate their skills and knowledge to:

Analyse both the basic elements and broader aspects of information security and cybersecurity.
Analyse security control, access control, authentication methods and factors to identify and assess their effectiveness.
Discuss key frameworks employed in security, analyse security policies, regulations, standards, and applicable legislation to ensure compliance and robust protection measures.
Analyse the enterprise security architecture.
Analyse the virtualisation and cloud security.
Analyse various threat vectors and the corresponding intelligence and research sources to differentiate and understand their implications.
Analyse various security concerns associated with vulnerabilities.
Evaluate the types of attacks associated with social engineering.
Analyse and contrast the different types of potential indicators to determine the type of attack methods.
Investigate threat hunting practices and vulnerability scans to comprehensively analyse their details and implications.
Analyse and examine penetrating testing concepts.
Describe essential terminology, ethical hacking principles, and hacker classifications to understand the ethical hacking landscape.
Examine the five stages of ethical hacking and the terminology of the Cyber Kill Chain methodology.

Module 6: IT Project Management

Topics Covered

Learning Unit 1: Introduction to Project Management
Learning Unit 2: Project Integration Management
Learning Unit 3: Project Scope Management
Learning Unit 4: Project Schedule Management
Learning Unit 5: Project Risk Management
Learning Unit 6: Type of project management methodologies

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, trainees should be able to demonstrate their skills and knowledge to:

Discuss key elements of the project management framework, including identifying the project stakeholders, common tools and techniques, and defining project success.
Discuss the role of project managers.
Outline the framework for project integration management, including the creation of a project charter to initiate projects formally and the development of Project
Management Plans, emphasising their content and formulation methods.
Explain how project execution relates to planning, the process of monitoring and controlling a project, and the significance of developing and adhering to robust procedures for project closure.
Detail the process of planning scope management and the methods for collecting and documenting requirements.
Explain the process of developing a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) and the importance of controlling project scope.
Outline the process of planning schedule management and defining activities essential for developing project schedules.
Demonstrate the use of tools for activity duration planning and the application of Gantt charts for schedule planning and tracking updates.
Describe the concept of risk in project management, including the process of identifying risks, and the creation of a risk register and risk report.
Discuss qualitative risk analysis and how to calculate them.
Discuss the methodologies for monitoring project risks and addressing them through various risk response strategies.
Evaluate the three methodologies by discussing their purposes and comparing their advantages.

Module 7: IT Infrastructure Automation and Orchestration

Topics Covered

Learning Unit 1: Introduction to IT infrastructure Automation and Orchestration
Learning Unit 2: Command-line Shell and PowerShell scripting language
Learning Unit 3: Infrastructure as Code Fundamentals
Learning Unit 4: Automation via PowerShell, ARM Templates and Azure Blueprints
Learning Unit 5: Configuration management via PowerShell Desired State Configuration (DSC)

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, trainees should be able to demonstrate their skills and knowledge to:

Articulate the Infrastructure as Code (IaC) concept and differentiate between orchestration and automation, including assessing the benefits and challenges associated with IaC.
Apply the essential skills in writing and executing PowerShell scripts to be used for On-Premise or Cloud environments.
Setup the environment to enable IaC implementations.
Manage automation through ARM templates and Azure Blueprints.
Configure automation through Desired State Configuration on supported Windows Machines.

Module 8: Capstone Project (Audit or Design IT Infrastructure)

Overview

The Capstone Project module comprises five learning units that aim to equip the trainees with the essential skills and knowledge to conduct a thorough vulnerability assessment and penetration testing for a designated small business or organisation.

Learning Outcomes

Capstone Project Overview
Legal and ethical implications of cybersecurity practices
Hands-on Cybersecurity Tools and Techniques
Capstone Project Documentation
Capstone Project final Presentation

Enrolment Requirements

To apply for the Diploma in Infocomm Technology (Infrastructure and Operations) Programme, you should possess one of the following qualifications or meet one of these criteria:

Advanced Certificate in IT Infrastructure and Operations; OR
Mature candidates (≥ 30 years old with 8 years of work experience in a related field, including providing evidence of employment in their CVs); or
Candidates with other qualifications will be considered on a case-by-case basis

Basic computer literacy and an advanced understanding of IT Infrastructure and Operations concepts are required.

All Applicants will go through pre-enrolment screening process.

Application Documents Required:

Latest resume
Highest qualification certificate and/or academic transcript

These documents will be reviewed as part of the screening process.

Why Learn From Us

When you learn with us, you will earn your diploma, acquiring extensive knowledge from highly experienced industry practitioners who develop and deliver top quality course content through experiential hands-on learning methodologies. What you can expect:

Training led by practitioners with real-world experience in the industry

Hands-on Practical Projects

Comprehensive, up-to-date curriculum and courseware

Post-course coaching and mentorship

Career advisory and resources support

Post-Course Support and Outcomes

Upon completing this Diploma programme, you will receive coaching and mentorship by our programme advisors to complete your capstone project. This capstone project also serves as your portfolio, showcasing your knowledge and skills.

Once the project is completed, you’ll gain access to our dedicated career advisory and resources support. Our career services team will be readily available to provide assistance to enhance your employability, such as Career Assistance Workshops, resume building and interview tips, and more.

Course Fees and Subsidies

Self-Sponsored

Company Sponsored

Criteria and/or Requirements for Course Subsidies

Baseline Funding Criteria and/or Requirements

Trainee is 21 years old and above, and a

Singaporean Citizen; or
Permanent Resident; or
Long Term Visitor Pass Plus (LTVP+) Holder

Will be eligible for 70% SkillsFuture Funding.

Nett course fee payable (including 9% GST): S$4,054.80

Course fees can be further offset by SkillsFuture Credit for Singapore Citizens aged 25 and above. Singapore Citizens aged 21 to 31 may also offset fees with the Post Secondary Education Account Funds.

Mid-Career Enhanced Subsidy (MCES) Criteria and/or Requirements

Trainee is 40 years old and above, and a Singaporean Citizen, will be eligible for 90% SkillsFuture Funding.

Nett course fee payable (including 9% GST): S$1,574.80

Course fees after subsidies can be further offset by SkillsFuture Credit.

Company-Sponsored (SMEs)

Enhanced Training Support for SMEs (ETSS) – 90% Funding

Eligible for SME Company-Sponsored, 21 years old and above, and a

Singapore Citizen; or
Permanent Resident; or
Long-Term Visitor Pass Plus (LTVP+) Holder

Nett course fee payable (including 9% GST): S$1,574.80

Company-Sponsored (Non-SMEs)

SkillsFuture Baseline Funding – 70% Funding

Eligible Non-SME Company-Sponsored, 21 years old and above, and a

Singaporean Citizen; or
Permanent Resident; or
Long Term Visitor Pass Plus (LTVP+) Holder

Nett course fee payable (including 9% GST): S$4,054.80

SkillsFuture Mid-Career Enhanced Subsidy (MCES) – 90% Funding

Eligible for Non-SME Company-Sponsored, Singapore Citizens, aged 40 years old and above

Nett course fee payable (including 9% GST): S$1,574.80

Additional Course Fee Funding Support (AFS) Criteria and/or Requirements

Trainee is 21 years old and above, a Singaporean Citzen, and

Has been in long-term unemployment of 6 months or more*; or
Recipient of ComCare Short-to-Medium Term Assistance (STMA)* or Workfare Income Supplement (WIS)*; or
Person with Disabilities

Will be eligible for 95% SkillsFuture Funding.

Nett course fee payable (including 9% GST): S$954.80

*Supporting documents such as CPF, approval letter, and/or payout letter is required to be submitted upon registration. You may request a copy from MSF Social Service Offices or via CPF’s Workfare Portal.

AFS is only eligible for SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme applicants.

NOTE: Trainees are entitled to the SSG training grant when they meet 75% of the training attendance and pass the requisite assessment. If trainees fail the assessment, they are required to re-take it immediately without additional fee. For more details see Course Funding Information.

Important Reminder: Your PSEA claim needs to be submitted at least 1 month before the course’s commencement date. Should you miss this deadline, an alternative payment method must be used to secure your spot in the course. After the disbursement of your PSEA funds to us, we will reach out to initiate the refund process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

General Questions

What is covered in the Diploma in Infocomm Technology (Infrastructure & Operations) course?

This Diploma equips you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed for a career in IT. You’ll gain a solid understanding of IT infrastructure functions, IT operations management, networking fundamentals, server and system administration, storage and data management, cloud computing, and IT service management (ITSM).

Who is the Diploma in Infocomm Technology (Infrastructure & Operations) course for?

This diploma is ideal for individuals who have completed our Certificate and Advanced Certificate in Infocomm Technology (Infrastructure & Operations) or have some experience or foundational knowledge in IT infrastructure and operations.

This course is ideal for individuals who want to launch a career in IT infrastructure and operations. It’s also suitable for those looking to enhance their existing IT knowledge and skills to advance their careers in this field.

What are the prerequisites for the course?

Advanced Certificate in IT Infrastructure and Operations; OR
Mature candidates (equal or more than 30 years old with 8 years’ work experience in a related field); OR
Candidates with other qualifications will be considered on a case-by-case basis

Is there a hands-on component in the Diploma in Infocomm Technology (Infrastructure & Operations) course?

Yes, the Diploma includes hands-on activities and a Capstone Project at the end of this course. This is to solidify your understanding of the concepts and allow you to practice your newly acquired skills in real-world scenarios.

What career opportunities can this Diploma in Infocomm Technology (Infrastructure & Operations) course open?

This diploma qualifies you for various entry-level and mid-level IT infrastructure and operations roles, such as IT Support Specialist, Network Support Technician, System Administrator, or Help Desk Analyst.

Are there any subsidies available?

Yes, you may be eligible for up to 95% subsidies if you are Singapore Citizen, Singapore Permanent Resident, or holding a Long Term Visit Pass Plus.

Please see the course fees and funding section above to determine your funding eligibility or get in touch with our team for further clarification.

Part-Time Training Allowance

I am 43 years old and currently working. Am I eligible for the Part-Time Training Allowance?

Yes, you are likely eligible if:

You are a Singapore Citizen aged 40 and above.
You are employed and have received income in the latest available 12-month period before your course start date or application date (whichever is later).
You have not used up your 24-month lifetime allowance cap (combined full-time and part-time).
You have a PayNow account linked to your NRIC.

Self-employed individuals with income declared to IRAS may also qualify. For more information on the eligibility criteria, visit the official SkillsFuture Service portal.

How much Training Allowance will I receive for part-time SCTP courses?

You will receive a flat rate of S$300 per month for each eligible month of training, provided you meet the minimum 75% monthly attendance requirement.

The total number of months you can claim is based on the approved duration of your course, rounded to the nearest half-month.

My part-time course runs from 15 February to 15 March. Will I receive the full $300 for both months?

Yes, SSG uses a front-loading approach. You will receive the full S$300 for the first month (February), and the remaining allowance will be paid for subsequent months based on attendance.

Always check your TA offer letter for your specific Maximum Eligible Period (MEP).

What happens if I miss the deadline to accept my Training Allowance offer?

You must accept your TA offer within 3 calendar days of receiving it. If you miss this deadline, your application will be cancelled, and you will need to submit a new application.

We recommend logging into the TA Portal regularly to check your application status.

Can I apply for Training Allowance if I am self-employed or have no CPF contributions?

Yes, if you are self-employed and have declared your trade income to IRAS, SSG will use the latest available IRAS data to assess your eligibility.

If you have no CPF contributions but have earned income in the last 12 months, you may still qualify. The best way to check is to log in to the TA Portal and submit an application; the system will determine your eligibility automatically.

If you encounter issues, you may contact SSG via their Service Portal.

Where can I find and search for courses that are eligible for the Part-Time Training Allowance?

You can search for all TA-eligible courses, including part-time ones, directly on the MySkillsFuture portal. This is the official course directory where you can filter for programmes that qualify for the Training Allowance.

Follow these simple steps:

Login to www.myskillsfuture.gov.sg with your Singpass.
Search for a course title or keyword related to your area of interest.
Apply the filter: Under the “Featured Initiatives” filter, check the box for “SkillsFuture Mid-Career Training Allowance (Part-Time)” . This will show you only the courses that are eligible.

Tip: All our SCTP courses listed on the @ASK Training website are also PT TA-eligible. You can also find them on the MySkillsFuture portal by searching for our course titles or UEN.

Do I need to repay my Part-Time Training Allowance if I fail my course assessment?

No. The Training Allowance is not based on whether you pass your course assessment. It is paid based on your fulfilment of the minimum 75% monthly attendance requirement.

As long as you met the attendance criteria and provided truthful information in your application, you do not need to repay any disbursed allowance.

Still Have Questions?

The SkillsFuture Service Portal contains:

Detailed FAQs on Part-Time Training Allowance
Guides and resources
Submit an enquiry if you have further questions

Visit the SkillsFuture Service Portal

Are you ready to kickstart your career?

If you’re thinking about taking your next step but are still unsure of which programme suits your needs best, our programme consultants are available to guide you through your learning journey.

Speak to us now to find out more!