Masters Degrees (Computer Network)

Would you like to update, extend and deepen your knowledge in Networking Technologies? This course combines learning opportunities designed to enhance the depth and breadth of your knowledge in core themes including routing, switching, wireless and network security.

By studying this course you will develop the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for employment in the network industry. The course has been designed with a complementary set of modules to enable you to complete external CISCO and CCNP examinations in addition to achieving the MSc qualification. You will graduate with the educational requirements for BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT, Chartered IT Professional Registration and for Chartered Engineer status.

This course can also be taken in January and has an advanced practice option - for more information, please view the relevant web-page:
16 months full time - https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/study-at-northumbria/courses/computer-network-technology-msc-ft-dtfcty6/

2 years full time with advanced practice - https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/study-at-northumbria/courses/computer-network-technology-with-advanced-practice-msc-dtscte6/

Learn From The Best

Our course is at the forefront of current knowledge and practice, shaped by world-leading and internationally excellent research. Our staff are both inspirational academics with a passion for their subject and industry experts with extensive experience in their field. They combine their research passions, teaching interests and professional expertise to shape the curriculum and ensure the currency of the course. The team include published authors and senior members of IEEE, with interests including web design and development, web programming, image engineering and security, computer networks, image processing and information research methods.

Teaching And Assessment

Studying with us will provide you with a wide range of learning opportunities in a challenging, stimulating and dynamic environment. You will participate in lectures, small group seminars, laboratory sessions, simulated practical skills sessions, and field study visits where appropriate. There is an emphasis on independent learning and using new research development in the relevant subject area. You will be expected to evaluate theoretical or practical frameworks for the analysis and critical evaluation of a variety of issues, informed by recent research.

Module Overview
KD7048 - Switch: IP Switched Networks and Troubleshooting (Core, 20 Credits)
KF7003 - Network Security (Core, 20 Credits)
KF7026 - ROUTE: IP Routing and Troubleshooting (Core, 20 Credits)
KF7028 - Research Methods and Project Management (Core, 20 Credits)
KF7029 - MSc Computer Science & Digital Technologies Project (Core, 60 Credits)
KF7031 - Wireless Networks and Security (Core, 20 Credits)
KF7046 - Computer Network Implementation (Core, 20 Credits)

Learning Environment

When you want to get hands-on with technology and really understand how everything connects, how to create games or protect data integrity, our range of specialist facilities will support you. Through our computer network technology labs, digital security lab, animation and visual effects studios, games studio, and other specialist facilities, you will be able to investigate, diagnose, apply fixes and protections to ensure that organisations can make the best use of their technology.

You will be supported in your learning, where appropriate, via an eLearning portal (Blackboard) that provides remote access to course materials, by electronic submission and feedback on your assessments, and online reading lists.

Research-Rich Learning

Industry practice has strongly influenced the design of this course, and the content will evolve in line with developments in industry and in the subject as an academic discipline. Staff research and industrial expertise informs the teaching in all years with 58% of the department of Computer Science and Digital Technologies research outputs were ranked world-leading or internationally excellent according to the 2014 UK-wide Research Excellence Framework. This figure makes us the leading Modern University in the North East for research power.

The department’s academic research interests include imaging for forensics and security, biometrics, homeland security, image/video watermarking and cryptography.

Give Your Career An Edge

This course is designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary for postgraduate employment in computer networking and network security, and progression to further study if desired. Within the course the choice of skill and knowledge areas, tools, techniques and methods has been made to ensure you are immediately valuable to employers, both at the placement and at the graduate stage.

Because of our reputation for strong partnerships with employers and the success of our graduates, we have an incredibly strong and international industry network. Our students have benefited from working with household names like CERN, Nissan, IBM, Hewlett Packard, Procter & Gamble, Nintendo, Microsoft, Accenture and many more.

Your Future

The increasing demand for specialists in network security and network programming means that graduates have excellent employment prospects in Computer Network Technology, including roles such as Network designer, Network manager, and Network engineer, as well as many other roles across public and private organisations. Alternatively, you will be very well equipped for further research in an academic or research and development environment, and the mix of research, numerical and problem-solving skills are desirable to careers outside of this subject.

Through your coursework, you will have developed and applied computational, communication, research and team-working skills. Learning independently, managing yourself and others on project tasks, and evaluating and reflecting upon practitioner experience are all essential skills of the computing professional which your modules help to develop, providing you with opportunities to practise and demonstrate proficiency for your future career.

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Why take this course?

In today's IT-centric business environments, the need for correctly specified, configured and managed computer systems is at the heart of business efficiency and security.

This course aims to teach you the principles and practice of systems administration and management, including system and network design, analysis, specification, efficiency and security in an ‘Open Systems’ environment.

What will I experience?

On this course you can:

Use our fully equipped multi-platform suites and computer labs to enhance your learning experience
Gain hands-on experience of configuring and optimising secure networks and develop skills in building client, server and middleware aspects of internet applications
Carry out your final project in a workplace environment or relate your topic to a current issue in industry

What opportunities might ti lead to?

This course is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and meets the standards set by the Engineering Council in the UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence (UK-SPEC). It will provide you with some of the underpinning knowledge, understanding and skills for eventual registration as an Incorporated (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng).

Module Details

This course provides a broad understanding of client-facing management techniques within the context of computer network administration. You will study six core topics on this course, followed by an individual project.

Here are the units you will study:

ICT Configuration and Administration: This unit aims to conceptualize and evaluate the theory, methods, and issues involved in installing, configuring and effectively managing a Unix based operating system for networking, as well as a complete virtualized environment.

Client Server Network Architecture: This unit covers client and server network architecture with strong emphasis on internet/web architecture.

Unified Communications: This unit will provide you with an extensive knowledge of the area of Unified Communications (UC) technologies. The emphasis will be on the importance of UC in the business, the selection and deployment of UC and the problems which UC can bring if a correct strategy is not developed for UC.

Data Communications and Networking: The unit provides you with the required foundation and depth of knowledge to comprehensively understand the core principles of data communications and computer network.

Network Design and Management: This unit aims to introduce you to the issues, processes and tools of top-down network design and provide you with awareness of the issues and techniques involved in the management of large scale computer networks.

Communications Security: This unit attempts to follow a systematic and rational engineering approach to help you master challenging topics such as cryptography.

Individual Project: The course ends with a four-month individual project in which you apply your knowledge to a significant communications system or network planning problem. Projects are tailored to your individual interests and may take place in our own laboratories or, by agreement, in industry.

Programme Assessment

You will be taught through a mixture of lectures, tutorials and laboratory sessions in conjunction with implementing your individual project, which can often be linked with industry. In addition, you will need to spend significant time in our electronic, communications and computer laboratories as well as in private study directed by lecturers.

Assessment is geared towards the subject matter in a way that encourages a deeper understanding and allows you to develop your skills. Here’s how we assess your work:

Examinations
Coursework assignments
A laboratory report
A dissertation

Student Destinations

Whether it is an in-house accounting and finance system in an SME or a corporate-wide data system in an international organisation, the role of systems administration is one that ensures integrity of the vital data upon which major business decisions are made.

The management aspect of the administrator's role includes securing suitable investment and commitment from staff so that the systems implemented are used correctly and to their full extent by all in the organisation. Overall, this course is about professional practice in IT at a senior level, where there is a growing need for practitioners who can take strategic IT plans and implement the associated computer and network infrastructures, as well as create appropriate administrative and maintenance structures that are responsive to company needs. Upon graduating you can expect to find roles as system administrators and managers, network designers, IT managers and system consultants.

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The Professional Development Certificates are intended for those who would like to obtain certification in the certain specific areas without having to undertake the preparatory work for a Master's degree.

The department of computer science offers a graduate certificate (consisting of four courses each) in Computer Security (IA).

Students will select four of the following courses:

CSC 525 Operating Systems
CSC 535 Networks and Data Communication
CSC 555 Software Engineering
CSC 583 Topics in Computer Security
CSC 586 Sytem Administration and Security
CSC 588 Wireless Programming and Security
CSC 603 Advanced Seminar in Security
CRJ 555 Topical Seminar in Criminal Justice

Please visit the website for more information about these modules:

http://catalog.wcupa.edu/graduate/sciences-mathematics/computer-science/#coursestext

The Computer Science Information Security Centre

The Computer Science Information Security Center (ISC) recognizes that no computer science graduate should be without information security knowledge. Toward this end, the Computer Science Department has introduced Information Security content such as computer and network security across the undergraduate and graduate curricula.

The curricula set forth by the ISC has been certified by the NSA to meet the National Training Standards for Information Systems Security Professionals (4011) and Systems Administrators (4013).

Career Prospects

Program graduates are employed in the following fields:

• Computer and Information Systems Managers
• Information Security Analysts
• Database Administrators
• Network and Computer Systems Administrators
• Computer Network Architects
• Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
• Computer Network Support Specialists

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Ideal for you if you are a professional with a background in computer engineering, communication systems or electronic/electrical engineering, and provides you with the skills and knowledge needed to move into computer networking. It is particularly useful for people working in companies that rely on constant innovation in electronics, computer engineering and communications.

Computer networks currently provide the infrastructure for most, businesses, educational institutions, retailers, manufacturers and public services. Many companies rely increasingly on computer and network engineering, which is now a global discipline.

This course is hardware and software based, and examines the design, specification, and integration of current and next generation computer and communications network technologies.

This course provides an opportunity for you to

• increase the depth of your technical knowledge
• develop your computer hardware and software skills
• gain a thorough working knowledge of computer engineering
• study the latest technologies used in modern day computer networking systems and their applications
• gain the skills needed to design, develop and maintain computer network systems

You may wish to expand your current knowledge and expertise if you already have computer networking skills or possibly move into a new area of engineering and have the necessary entry requirements for this course.

Professional recognition

This programme is CEng accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and fulfils the educational requirements for registration as a Chartered Engineer when presented with an CEng accredited Bachelors programme.

Course structure

Full time – September start – typically 12 or 18 months

Full time – January start – typically 12 or 18 months

Part time – September start – typically 36 months

Part time – January start – typically 36 months

The course is based around two main themes, communication and networks, and computer engineering. You study eight modules plus a major project.

Communications and network modules

At least three from

• communication engineering
• communication media
• communication networks
• network applications

Computer engineering modules

At least three from

• microprocessor engineering
• object-oriented methods
• operating systems
• software engineering

Option modules

Up to two from

• applicable artificial intelligence
• digital signal processing
• embedded systems
• mixed signal design
• electrical energy systems
• efficient machines and electromagnetic applications

Project (equivalent to four modules)

You undertake a major project under the supervision of a tutor.

Assessment

By final examination, coursework and project reports

Employability

Information technology, communications, computer networks and electronics are among some of the fastest growing areas of the economy. By completing this course, you gain a thorough understanding of computer networking systems with the knowledge and expertise to enable you to apply your skills within many areas of industry, or take up a position in higher education or research.

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The programme is to educate our students in the design, implementation and troubleshooting of Computer Networks and high performance cluster computing scenarios. The programme includes material required for the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) qualification, and students can work towards this internationally recognised qualification alongside their MSc degree.

Course Overview

This programme aims to provide in-depth knowledge and skills in the specialist area of networking. It has been developed in response to the need for personnel equipped with the skills needed to design, implement and troubleshoot an enterprise computer network infrastructure

The course is designed primarily for science and technology graduates who have some prior knowledge of computing and/or networking and who wish to specialise in computer networking.

The School is a Cisco Academy, an Academy Support Centre and an Instructor Training Centre. The School has been delivering Cisco Networking Academy programme since 1999. The Master’s programme is blended with Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) curriculum. Cisco is the world’s leading network device manufacturer and the CCNP is a prominent professional qualification in the networking industry.

Modules

Part 1:
-Emerging Network Technologies(20 credits)
-Implementing IP Routing (20 credits)
-IP Switched Networks (20 credits)
-Leadership and Management (20 credits)
-Network Security (20 credits)
-Research Methods and Data Analysis (20 credits)

Part 2:
-Major Project (60 credits)

Key Features

The Internet has now become part of our day-to-day life and is growing rapidly even during recessions. An expanding mobile communications backbone (as evinced by the number of smartphones being projected to rise from 500 million in 2011 to 2 billion by 2015) has led to greatly increased mobile internet traffic.

To take advantage of this opportunity, companies will require staff who are skilled in network design, implementation, administration, management and analysis. Students on this programme will also be given an opportunity to study towards industrial qualifications such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and Cisco Certified Network Professionals (CCNP).

Assessment

Student works are assessed through combination of coursework, lab-based practical exams and written examinations. The final mark for some modules may include one or more pieces of course work set and completed during the module. Project work is assessed by a written report and oral presentation. Part 2 requires the student to research and prepare an individual project/dissertation of a substantial nature.

University students who are unable to successfully complete all aspects of the Part 1 may be eligible for a Postgraduate Diploman (120 credits) or Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits).

Career Opportunities

The programme emphasises four key themes within Computer Networking: routing and switching, emerging network technologies, network design, and security. Graduates will undertake a range of tasks associated with networking in organisations, and will be capable developing sophisticated solutions to networking problems. It is anticipated that graduates in the field of computer networks would be able to find employment in a number of different areas, including routing and switching, network design, VoIP, and security.

It is expected that graduates would seek positions such as:
-Network Administrators
-Network Associates
-Network Engineers
-Senior Network Engineers
-Network Support Engineers
-Security Engineers
-Systems Engineers
-Network Specialists
-Network Analysts

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Developed to meet the expectations required by today’s employers, MSc Computer Science will develop your computing experience to a highly advanced level.

You will develop an in-depth understanding of the topics that are defining the industry today and will gain advanced technical skills in areas such as application design, computer network security, system development and big data and cloud computing.

You will be taught in facilities that boast industry-standard software to further enhance your learning experience and skills.

This course fully meets the requirements for you register as a Chartered IT Professional and partially meets the requirement to become a Chartered Engineer.

This course can also be taken in January and with an advanced practice option - for more information, please view the relevant web-page:
16 months full time (Jan) - https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/study-at-northumbria/courses/computer-science-msc-ft-dtfcsq6/

2 years full time with advanced practice - https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/study-at-northumbria/courses/computer-science-with-advanced-practice-dtscsi6/

Learn From The Best

You will be taught by a range of academic staff who bring a wealth of professional experience. They are experts in specialist areas such as Strategic Management, Computer Science and Web Based Information Retrieval.

In a dynamic learning environment with an expert team of staff, you will be taught theoretical and practical research skills such as information literacy, as well as problem solving skills, self-directed learning and communication skills.

You’ll be taught by tutors who have many years’ experience in the computing. Their experience, combined with their on-going active research, will provide an excellent foundation for your learning.

Northumbria has excellent links to industry including companies, such as Accenture, Hewlett Packard and Sage.

Teaching And Assessment

This course encompasses two semesters of taught subjects that cover topics such as computational intelligence, object-oriented design, artificial intelligence, wireless computer network technology, network security and system development .

On completion of these semesters you will undertake a substantial piece of research and software development related to these modules or an area that particularly interests you.

Each module of this course is individually assessed and assignments can take the form of research reports, system analysis documentation, programming exercises, group and project work, exams and presentations.

You will also learn additional key skills such as research and project management, which are highly beneficial for your dissertation and future career.

Learning Environment

Throughout the duration of your course you will have access to our state-of-the-art facilities including our dedicated computing suite, Pandon Basement.

Pandon Basement houses specialist facilities and studios with industry-standard software.

You will also have access to dedicated computing areas, which can be used during free periods and into the evenings and weekends.

When you want to get hands-on with technology our range of specialist facilities will support you.

Research-Rich Learning

Throughout the duration of your course you will be immersed in a research-rich environment, with new and exciting insights into the discipline from our rapidly expanding computer science research groups.

With access to diverse research work carried out by our expert academic staff, we seek to promote innovative and excellent learning and teaching practice, which will improve your student experience here at Northumbria University.

You will develop an understanding of important research methods and approaches that could be directly relatable to the demands of your future career.

Give Your Career An Edge

The MSc Computer Science degree will take your already establish skills to an advanced level, opening up additional job prospects and opportunities.

To further enhance your career edge we will support you in your own professional development through the integration of employability skills and use of regular feedback throughout all stages of your studies.

We will work with you to develop your communication, time and resource management skills. You will leave equipped with the ability to critique your own work and learning experience, as well as being able to demonstrate initiative and self-reliance.

This course fully meets the requirements to become a Chartered IT Professional, an accreditation that is highly valued by employers and beneficial to your own personal development.

Your Future

This course will further enhance your already established skills in computer science, providing you with an advanced qualification that will be highly regarded by employers.

Graduates will be equipped with the latest skills to excel in a variety of careers in the IT industry, such as software engineering, network design and management, artificial intelligence or IT consultancy.

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Today there are high level tools easily available to perform sophisticated attacks on computer and network systems. As a result computer network security is a very important consideration in every organisation using computer networks. Without proper implementation, businesses could suffer financial losses. There are excellent opportunities in this area with excellent rewards. At present there are skills shortages globally in some areas of security which is an indicator of the demand for highly skilled security professionals.

The MSc in Computer Networks with Security aims to produce postgraduates with an advanced understanding of modern networks with the integrated need of security. The course aims to prepare the student with specialist knowledge and skillset in key areas such as threat analysis, network security systems, cryptography, cybersecurity, penetration testing, wireless security and information security. Students will develop skills to critically evaluate the threats and vulnerabilities of network systems and to implement and integrate security strategies. They will also be able to develop the ability to critically evaluate and implement principles and practices used in modern day cryptography used to secure data and communication in computer network systems. There will be an opportunity to explore current security tools used in penetration testing and get hands on experience at configuring enterprise level security appliances such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems and VPNs.

Course structure

Each MSc course consists of three learning modules (40 credits each) plus an individual project (60 credits). Each learning module consists of a short course of lectures and initial hands-on experience. This is followed by a period of independent study supported by a series of tutorials. During this time you complete an Independent Learning Package (ILP). The ILP is matched to the learning outcomes of the module. It can be either a large project or a series of small tasks depending on the needs of each module. Credits for each module are awarded following the submission of a completed ILP and its successful defence in a viva voce examination. This form of assessment develops your communication and personal skills and is highly relevant to the workplace. Overall, each learning module comprises approximately 400 hours of study.

The project counts for one third of the course and involves undertaking a substantial research or product development project. For part-time students, this can be linked to their employment. It is undertaken in two phases. In the first part, the project subject area is researched and a workplan developed. The second part involves the main research and development activity. In all, the project requires approximately 600 hours of work.

Further flexibility is provided within the structure of the courses in that you can study related topic areas by taking modules from other courses as options (pre-requisite knowledge and skills permitting). Prior to starting your course, you are sent a Course Information and Preparation Pack which provides information to give you a flying start.

MSc Computer Networks Suite of Courses

The MSc in Computer Networks has three distinct pathways:
-Security
-Communications
-Cloud Technologies

The course structure is quite flexible, affording industry-based students an opportunity to attend and accumulate module credits over an extended period of time. It also simultaneously serves the full-time student cohort which generally progresses through the MSc pathway in a single calendar year.

The MSc programmes are short course based and feature assessment through sequentially submitted result portfolios for the work packages, ie the ILPs. These are assigned immediately on each short course module where the students are able to concentrate their study efforts just on the most recently-taught subject material. This greatly promotes efficient focused learning. The individual oral examination administered for each ILP furnishes valuable experience in oral defence, and frees students from written examination burdens.

The technical tasks undertaken in ILPs, along with the required major project, thoroughly exercise the concepts covered in the course modules and give scope for originality and industry-relevant study. Team-working activities encouraged within modules, along with the all-oral individual examination regimen employed in this Networks MSc Suite, have proven solidly beneficial in refining the communication and employability-enhancing skills that are strongly valued by industry.

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Overview

Keeping computer systems secure is one of the most important challenges of our time. Heriot-Watt has created a programme which teaches the theory, methods and tools of computer network security. It’ll give you the knowledge to help you keep networks safe from attacks and threats by hostile parties, plus the skills to formulate policies, deploy network security solutions and validate their effectiveness. The course also offers a detailed understanding of contemporary issues in network security research areas. Our masters in Network Security is ideally suited for honours graduates with an IT background.

Course length

The full-time Network Security masters starts in mid September and lasts one year. The course can also be taken part-time over two years, or as a nine month Postgraduate Diploma.

Course content

Core Courses:

• Computer Network Security
• Industrial Programming
• Advanced Network Security
• Research Methods and Project Planning
• Masters Project and Dissertation

Optional Courses:

• Database and Information Systems
• Data Communications and Networking
• Mobile Communications and Programming
• Rigorous Methods for Software Engineering
• Software Engineering Foundations
• Advanced Software Engineering
• Big Data Management
• Distributed and Parallel Technologies
• Network Applications

8 taught courses (4 mandatory + 4 optional) plus a dissertation

For more detailed information on this programme or the opportunity to talk directly with one of our programme director's please email: [email protected] " target="_blank">[email protected]

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Developed to meet the expectations required by today’s employers, MSc Computer Science will develop your computing experience to a highly advanced level.

You will develop an in-depth understanding of the topics that are defining the industry today and will gain advanced technical skills in areas such as application design, computer network security, system development and big data and cloud computing.

You will be taught in facilities that boast industry-standard software to further enhance your learning experience and skills.

In the second year, for one semester, you’ll undertake an internship, study in another country or join a research group. This valuable experience will enhance your employability and further develop your theoretical and practical skills.

This course fully meets the requirements for you register as a Chartered IT Professional and partially meets the requirement to become a Chartered Engineer.

Learn From The Best

You will be taught by a range of academic staff who bring a wealth of professional experience. They are experts in specialist areas such as Strategic Management, Computer Science and Web Based Information Retrieval.

In a dynamic learning environment with an expert team of staff, you will be taught theoretical and practical research skills such as information literacy, as well as problem solving skills, self-directed learning and communication skills.

You’ll be taught by tutors who have many years’ experience in the computing. Their experience, combined with their on-going active research, will provide an excellent foundation for your learning.

Northumbria has excellent links to industry including companies, such as Accenture, Hewlett Packard and Sage.

Teaching And Assessment

This course encompasses two semesters of taught subjects that cover topics such as computational intelligence, object-oriented design, artificial intelligence, wireless computer network technology, network security and system development .

On completion of these semesters you will undertake a substantial piece of research and software development related to these modules or an area that particularly interests you.

Each module of this course is individually assessed and assignments can take the form of research reports, system analysis documentation, programming exercises, group and project work, exams and presentations.

You will also learn additional key skills such as research and project management, which are highly beneficial for your dissertation and future career.

The Advanced Practice semester will be assessed via a report and presentation about your internship, study abroad or research group activities.

Learning Environment

Throughout the duration of your course you will have access to our state-of-the-art facilities including our dedicated computing suite, Pandon Basement.

Pandon Basement houses specialist facilities and studios with industry-standard software.

You will also have access to dedicated computing areas, which can be used during free periods and into the evenings and weekends.

When you want to get hands-on with technology our range of specialist facilities will support you.

Research-Rich Learning

Throughout the duration of your course you will be immersed in a research-rich environment, with new and exciting insights into the discipline from our rapidly expanding computer science research groups.

With access to diverse research work carried out by our expert academic staff, we seek to promote innovative and excellent learning and teaching practice, which will improve your student experience here at Northumbria University.

You will develop an understanding of important research methods and approaches that could be directly relatable to the demands of your future career.

Give Your Career An Edge

The MSc Computer Science degree will take your already establish skills to an advanced level, opening up additional job prospects and opportunities.

To further enhance your career edge we will support you in your own professional development through the integration of employability skills and use of regular feedback throughout all stages of your studies.

We will work with you to develop your communication, time and resource management skills. You will leave equipped with the ability to critique your own work and learning experience, as well as being able to demonstrate initiative and self-reliance.

The Advanced Practice semester will help you develop a track record of achievement that will help you stand out from other job applicants.

A two-year master’s course, like this one, will carry particular weight with employers. They’ll understand that you’ll have a deeper understanding of topics as well as more hands-on practical experience.

This course fully meets the requirements to become a Chartered IT Professional, an accreditation that is highly valued by employers and beneficial to your own personal development.

Your Future

This course will further enhance your already established skills in computer science, providing you with an advanced qualification that will be highly regarded by employers.

Graduates will be equipped with the latest skills to excel in a variety of careers in the IT industry, such as software engineering, network design and management, artificial intelligence or IT consultancy.

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IN BRIEF:

• Great employment prospects in a large and growing industry for  good graduates
• Your will be based at MediaCityUK
• The teaching and topics of this course are closely aligned to a top research centre at the University
• Part-time study option
• International students can apply

COURSE SUMMARY

This course is for students who want to become professionals in computer networks and modern telecommunications fields.

You will gain a comprehensive understanding of techniques used to transmit digital information, modern computer network design and operation, communication protocols and the importance of standards and regulatory issues

These subjects are supplemented by modules in technical and administration management techniques and by an industry-sponsored seminar course.

MSc students also undertake an individual project.

COURSE DETAILS

This course covers a comprehensive range of topics split in to four large modules worth 30 credits each plus the MSc Project.

External speakers from blue-chip and local companies will give seminars to complement your learning, that will be real-world case studies related to the subjects you are studying in your modules.  These are designed to improve the breadth of your learning and often lead to ideas that you can develop for your MSc Project.

DURATION

September intake

MSc (one year full-time or two years part-time)

PgDip (nine months full-time or one year and six months part-time)

January intake

MSc (one year and four months full-time)

PgDip (one year full-time)

TEACHING

Teaching will be in the form of lectures, individual and group class work, plus topical and relevant participative class discussions and critical evaluation using case studies

Laboratories will be used to provide you with hand-on experience of using and setting up network systems. Tutorials will be used to give you practice in solving theoretical and design problems associated with network technologies and network systems.

ASSESSMENT

Over the programme, the assessment of the taught modules is as follows:

• Examinations - 50%
• Coursework and Assignments - 50%

CAREER PROSPECTS

Graduates with experience of computer network systems and digital communications are in demand in all industrial and commercial sectors. 

The employment record for the MSc is good, with students obtaining jobs in traditional telecommunication companies, software development companies and companies in the service and commercial sectors.

Typical jobs range from network design engineers, network maintenance, software development, systems design and integration, marketing, after-sales support and technical support.

LINKS WITH INDUSTRY

We have links with companies such as large companies such as BT, Talk Talk, Motorolla, BBC, CICSO and local companies like i-wimax.

These companies engage with the University by giving guest seminars and often our students will work with them on their MSc Project.

FURTHER STUDY

Many of our graduates will go on to further study in our Computer Networks and Telecommunications Research Centre (CNTR)

The CNTR undertakes both pure and applied research in the general field of telecommunications and computer networking including computer networking technologies, wireless systems, networked multimedia applications, quality of service, mobile networking, intelligent buildings, context driven information systems, smart environments and communication protocols. Much of this work is funded through research grants and supported by industry. In addition, members of the group are actively involved in a range of public engagement programmes which aim to raise the awareness of these subjects for the general public and in schools.

Research themes in this Centre include:

• Wireless technologies and sensor networks
• Context and location based information systems
• Intelligent buildings and energy monitoring
• Communication protocols, traffic routing and quality of service
• Network planning, traffic modelling and optimisation
• Ubiquitous and ambient technology
• Information security and computer forensics
• Distributed Systems
• Green ICT Public Awareness

FACILITIES

You will have access to a dedicated computer networks lab which is equipped with industry standard equipment. In addition to PC equipment, the lab contains a set of switches, routers, servers, wireless equipment, testing tools and analysers which help you in building various data networks.  

Various software tools and simulation packages are also available in the school's labs for you to use in your assignment and final projects. Such tools enable you to design and test data networks in simulated environments allowing you to experiment with your design before implementing the real network. The course is also supported by other facilities including PC suites, library, programming and office packages and a virtual learning environment.

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Increasingly, computer networks cannot be considered without the important issue of security; without secure networks, businesses, commerce and communications would all fail. This course addresses the need for modern computer network professionals.

You cover topics such as current and future internet protocols, programming networked services and securing these systems. We offer a strong practical element through laboratory programmes in software engineering and in computer networking; laboratory work in security includes unique environments where the techniques of the attackers can be observed and stopped using specialist security tools.

Our School is a community of scholars leading the way in technological research and development. Today’s computer scientists are creative people who are focused and committed, yet restless and experimental. We are home to many of the world’s top scientists, and our work is driven by creativity and imagination as well as technical excellence.

We are ranked Top 10 in the UK in the 2015 Academic Ranking of World Universities, with more than two-thirds of our research rated ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent (REF 2014).

This course is also available on a part-time basis.

Professional accreditation

This degree is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).This accreditation is increasingly sought by employers, and provides the first stage towards eventual professional registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng).

Our expert staff

Specialist staff researching computer networks include Professor Mohammed Ghanbari, Dr Nigel Newton, Professor Stuart Walker, and Professor Klaus McDonald-Maier.

More broadly, our research covers a range of topics, from materials science and semiconductor device physics, to the theory of computation and the philosophy of computer science, with most of our research groups based around laboratories offering world-class facilities.

In recent years we have attracted many highly active research staff and we are conducting world-leading research in areas such as evolutionary computation, brain-computer interfacing, intelligent inhabited environments and financial forecasting.

Our impressive external research funding stands at over £4 million and we participate in a number of EU initiatives and undertake projects under contract to many outside bodies, including government and industrial organisations.

Specialist facilities

We are one of the largest and best resourced computer science and electronic engineering schools in the UK. Our work is supported by extensive networked computer facilities and software aids, together with a wide range of test and instrumentation equipment.
-We have six laboratories that are exclusively for computer science and electronic engineering students. Three are open 24/7, and you have free access to the labs except when there is a scheduled practical class in progress
-All computers run either Windows 7 or are dual boot with Linux
-Software includes Java, Prolog, C++, Perl, Mysql, Matlab, DB2, Microsoft Office, Visual Studio, and Project
-Students have access to CAD tools and simulators for chip design (Xilinx) and computer networks (OPNET)
-We also have specialist facilities for research into areas including non-invasive brain-computer interfaces, intelligent environments, robotics, optoelectronics, video, RF and MW, printed circuit milling, and semiconductors

Your future

Graduates of our degree in this area have found work in a variety of networking roles and companies including, network management for companies, Internet service providers and developers for security products both in the UK and overseas.

Our recent graduates have progressed to a variety of senior positions in industry and academia. Some of the companies and organisations where our former graduates are now employed include:
-Electronic Data Systems
-Pfizer Pharmaceuticals
-Bank of Mexico
-Visa International
-Hyperknowledge (Cambridge)
-Hellenic Air Force
-ICSS (Beijing)
-United Microelectronic Corporation (Taiwan)

We also work with the university’s Employability and Careers Centre to help you find out about further work experience, internships, placements, and voluntary opportunities.

Example structure

-MSc Project and Dissertation
-Computer Security
-IP Networking and Applications
-Networking Principles
-Networks Laboratory
-Professional Practice and Research Methodology
-Programming in Python
-Cloud Technologies and Systems (optional)
-Data Science and Decision Making (optional)
-Converged Networks and Services (optional)
-Creating and Growing a New Business Venture (optional)
-Mobile Communications (optional)
-Advanced Transport Networks (optional)
-Network Security and Cryptographic Principles (optional)

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This is a programme of study that involves networking, software development technologies and architectures for the design and management of modern distributed computer systems and networks. The emphasis is on a software engineering approach based on sound modern software engineering project management methods, tools and techniques, which enable an integrated lifecycle systems development view.

The programme aims to provide students with the knowledge, skills and understanding required to allow them to contribute to the planning, design and management of modern network based computer systems. Students will gain the understanding of critical evaluation of existing technology options, future developments, protocols, architecture and tools needed to support the development and delivery of advanced network services. Upon successful completion of this Master's programme graduates are expected to be proficient in the development of new enterprise distributed and/or web-enabled systems, the integration of legacy systems into intranets or extranets, and advanced data and telecommunication technologies.

Through our short course centre opportunity may also be provided to study for the following professional qualifications: CISCO Certified Network Associate; Penetration Testing and Vulnerability Assessment.

The availability of some courses is subject to satisfying constraints that may come into effect in the year of entry. In addition, some options are negotiable, indicating that a course selection will need to be approved prior to the student undertaking the requested option.

Full time

Year 1

Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

• PG Project (CIS) (60 credits)
• System Administration and Security (15 credits)
• Network and Internet Technology and Design (15 credits)
• Network Architectures and Services (15 credits)
• Software Tools and Techniques (15 credits)
• Clouds, Grids and Virtualisation (15 credits)
• Mobile and Network Technologies (15 credits)
• Essential Professional and Academic Skills for Masters Students
• English Language Support Course (for Postgraduate Students in the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

• Mobile Application Development (15 credits)
• Cyber Security (15 credits)
• Enterprise Software Engineering Development (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

• Audit and Security (15 credits)
• Enterprise Web Programming (15 credits)
• Systems Development Management and Governance (15 credits)
• Penetration Testing (15 credits)

Part time

Year 1

Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

• Essential Professional and Academic Skills for Masters Students
• English Language Support Course (for Postgraduate Students in the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences)

Students are required to choose 30 credits from this list of options.

• Network and Internet Technology and Design (15 credits)
• Software Tools and Techniques (15 credits)
• Clouds, Grids and Virtualisation (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 30 credits from this list of options.

• System Administration and Security (15 credits)
• Network Architectures and Services (15 credits)
• Mobile and Network Technologies (15 credits)

Year 2

Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

• PG Project (CIS) (60 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

• Network and Internet Technology and Design (15 credits)
• Software Tools and Techniques (15 credits)
• Clouds, Grids and Virtualisation (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

• System Administration and Security (15 credits)
• Network Architectures and Services (15 credits)
• Mobile and Network Technologies (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

• Mobile Application Development (15 credits)
• Cyber Security (15 credits)
• Enterprise Software Engineering Development (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

• Audit and Security (15 credits)
• Enterprise Web Programming (15 credits)
• Systems Development Management and Governance (15 credits)
• Penetration Testing (15 credits)

Assessment

Students are assessed through examinations, coursework and a project.

Professional recognition

This programme is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS). On successful graduation from this degree, the student will have fulfilled the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional (CITP) and partially fulfilled the education requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng) or Chartered Scientist (CSci). Please contact the BCS for further information. The programme also has accreditation from the European Quality Assurance Network for Informatics Education (EQANIE).

Careers

Graduates from this programme are equipped for employment in industry commerce or education to work as independent consultants or within teams in diverse areas such as networking, business data communication and telecommunication, Internet and e-commerce applications, IT support, advanced research, teaching and training.

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Course outline

This programme of study is intended primarily for graduates from any non-computing background to obtain fundamental knowledge and understanding of a range of core subjects in Computing. The overall aim of education is to either equip the graduates who want to develop their careers in their own areas of speciality with additional understanding, awareness and skills of IT and Computing, or help those who want to change their careers into IT and Computing. The programme can also serve as a pre-requisite for advanced master programmes in Applied Computing at Buckingham.

Graduates who successfully complete the programmes are eligible for entry into the MSc in Innovative Computing degree programme.

The Graduate Diploma programme consists of 7 taught modules and an individual project. On completing the programmes, you will be able to understand:

• the role that computers and networked systems play in the modern world.
• the essential knowledge and skills in programming together with relevant structures and concepts to create such systems.
• fundamental concepts and principles of databases, networking, object-oriented programming, web design and human-computer interaction.
• advanced applications including data mining, multimedia, interactive computer graphics, and security systems.
• ethical, professional, social and legal issues in exploiting computing technology in practice.

The programme will also help you to develop skills in:

• Computing and web application
• Web design
• Programming and problem-solving for large scale or mobile applications
• Database and software development
• Developing usable GUIs
• Computer graphics
• Computer network issues

Find out more about our Department of Applied Computing on http://www.buckingham.ac.uk/appliedcomputing.

Teaching methods

Our modules include a mixture of formal lectures, tutorial classes and practical classes. At the start of each module you will be given an up-to-date module outline and reading list. Most modules will provide two or three hours of lectures each week to introduce you to the basic concepts and techniques. These will be supported by lecture notes or handouts.

Lectures are supported by weekly tutorial classes, usually one hour in length, which are held in small groups so that all students can benefit from individual attention. You will be expected to prepare for these classes, for example by attempting a set of exercises or by reading a case study.

Many of our modules have supervised practical classes in the computer laboratories in which you can apply and practise the techniques you have learnt in the lectures. These practical sessions are usually two or three hours long.

You will also be expected to study on your own, using the library for reading research and the computer laboratories to improve your practical skills.

Course material is also available on the University’s own Virtual Learning Environment. This allows students to download lecture notes, submit assignments and share resources in an electronic forum both within the University’s computer network and remotely.

Study options

Students may take the diploma over 9 (April start) or 12 (January start) months. The course is also available on a part-time basis over two years (starting in January).

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This programme is suitable for both newcomers to computer security and computer forensics and practitioners who wish to further their skills. It covers relevant skills, software and hardware technologies, and the more theoretical studies that underpin everyday practice. It ensures that students have a basic understanding of the legal and regulatory requirements and the international standards pertaining to computer security in different nations.

Students gain knowledge of computer crime, police and forensic methods, and the legal requirements for collecting evidence.

At the end of the programme, students are able to administer and configure business-critical distributed applications. They also gain an understanding of the threats to business networks and servers.

The programme includes hands-on training in current forensic tools as used by the police. Students can therefore contribute quickly to the well-being of corporate IT and informational assets.

Through our short course centre opportunity may also be provided to study for the following professional qualifications: Certified Ethical Hacker (EC-Council); EnCase Computer Forensics, Penetration Testing and Vulnerability Assessment.

The availability of some courses is subject to satisfying constraints that may come into effect in the year of entry. In addition, some options are negotiable, indicating that a course selection will need to be approved prior to the student undertaking the requested option.

Full time

Year 1

Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

• PG Project (CIS) (60 credits)
• Cyber Security (15 credits)
• Audit and Security (15 credits)
• System Administration and Security (15 credits)
• Computer Crime and Forensics (15 credits)
• Managing IT Security and Risk (15 credits)
• Network and Internet Technology and Design (15 credits)
• Essential Professional and Academic Skills for Masters Students
• English Language Support Course (for Postgraduate Students in the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

• Requirements Analysis & Methods (15 credits)
• Database Architectures and Administration (15 credits)
• Software Tools and Techniques (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

• Project Management (15 credits)
• Network Architectures and Services (15 credits)
• Penetration Testing (15 credits)
• Mobile and Network Technologies (15 credits)

Part time

Year 1

Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

• Essential Professional and Academic Skills for Masters Students
• English Language Support Course (for Postgraduate Students in the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences)

Students are required to choose 30 credits from this list of options.

• Cyber Security (15 credits)
• Managing IT Security and Risk (15 credits)
• Network and Internet Technology and Design (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 30 credits from this list of options.

• Audit and Security (15 credits)
• System Administration and Security (15 credits)
• Computer Crime and Forensics (15 credits)

Year 2

Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

• PG Project (CIS) (60 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

• Cyber Security (15 credits)
• Managing IT Security and Risk (15 credits)
• Network and Internet Technology and Design (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

• Audit and Security (15 credits)
• System Administration and Security (15 credits)
• Computer Crime and Forensics (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

• Requirements Analysis & Methods (15 credits)
• Database Architectures and Administration (15 credits)
• Software Tools and Techniques (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

• Project Management (15 credits)
• Network Architectures and Services (15 credits)
• Penetration Testing (15 credits)
• Mobile and Network Technologies (15 credits)

Assessment

Students are assessed through examinations, coursework and a project.

Professional recognition

This programme is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS). On successful graduation from this degree, the student will have fulfilled the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional (CITP) and partially fulfilled the education requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng) or Chartered Scientist (CSci). For a full Chartered status there are additional requirements, including work experience. The programme also has accreditation from the European Quality Assurance Network for Informatics Education (EQANIE).

Careers

Upon successful completion of this programme, students will be proficient in computer security and systems security and are in a position to follow careers in system development and administration where knowledge of security and forensics will be an asset or work in a range of specialist roles including: forensics investigators, security consultants or network management specialists.

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We believe that computing and communication networks are two of the most exciting and significant technological developments of modern times. Networking is the backbone of all industries and we'll give you the opportunity to explore this technology, making use of materials and equipment from some of the leading industry names.

Based on the feedback we've had from industry, employers and students, we've created this course so that it has a real emphasis on providing you with hands-on technical skills that you can apply in the workplace.

We'll teach you the theories behind core networking principles - looking at how to apply networking technologies to create converged networks and how to apply them in industrial scenarios. You will investigate the tools and techniques required to develop, maintain and secure the various elements that provide 21st century communications.

In addition to this, you will specialise in the design, implementation and management of wired and wireless computer network systems in order to provide the unified communication systems that are becoming the norm.

Our course can also help you to gain the skills needed to get certification of your expertise in using tools from Network Instruments, Cisco Systems and Red Hat.

- Research Excellence Framework 2014: our University demonstrated strength in five emerging areas of research which it entered into the assessment for the first time, including computer science.

Visit the website http://courses.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/networkingsystemsengineering_msc

Mature Applicants

Our University welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. We usually require some evidence of recent academic study, for example completion of an access course, however recent relevant work experience may also be considered. Please note that for some of our professional courses all applicants will need to meet the specified entry criteria and in these cases work experience cannot be considered in lieu.

If you wish to apply through this route you should refer to our University Recognition of Prior Learning policy that is available on our website (http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/studenthub/recognition-of-prior-learning.htm).

Please note that all applicants to our University are required to meet our standard English language requirement of GCSE grade C or equivalent, variations to this will be listed on the individual course entry requirements.

Careers

Embracing networking technologies is a must for all organisations around the world - that's why there is always a high demand for networking professionals. Possible job titles include network manager, network security specialist, network designer specialist and mobile communications specialist. You will also have a range of career paths available to you in the areas of automation using networking technologies in businesses.

- Network Manager
- Network Security Specialist
- Mobile Communications Specialist

Careers advice: The dedicated Jobs and Careers team offers expert advice and a host of resources to help you choose and gain employment. Whether you're in your first or final year, you can speak to members of staff from our Careers Office who can offer you advice from writing a CV to searching for jobs.

Visit the careers site - https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/employability/jobs-careers-support.htm

Careers

We're tremendously proud of our strong links with industry and the research activity of our teaching team ensures the content of our course is kept up-to-date and in line with the needs of the sector.

Recognising the importance for you to learn hands-on skills which you can demonstrate to employers is at the heart of our course. We invite experts from industry to deliver guest lectures and we have strong ties with Generix - a company that provides industry standard networking tools and software. Generix have previously provided our students with workshops on how to use Observer Network Management platform. You will also get the opportunity to study using other industry standard software such as OpenNMS.

Our course recognises the need to have in-depth knowledge of networking principles, design and simulation. Practical elements include network design and performance simulations with OPNET and configuring LAN switches. In addition to this, we will teach you how to deploy and manage convergence networks and employ remote monitoring techniques in industrial scenarios.

Core Modules

Dissertation (40 Credits)
This is an opportunity for you to engage in research and advanced scholarship in a subject area that is appropriate to the course and of your own choosing.

Option Modules (20 Credits Each)
Linux Computing Essentials, Service Oriented Architecture, Mobile Application Development

Mobile & Wireless Communications (20 Credits)
Develop your understanding of mobile cellular networks, satellite communications, and applications that can be implemented on mobile devices. You will build applications and investigate the issues associated with the deployment of these applications.

Network & Convergence Architectures (20 Credits)
An in-depth look at the principles of networking with a focus on the techniques for deploying modern converged networks. We will help you identify the parameters that contribute to network performance in modern day converged networks.

Project Management (20 Credits)
Develop your understanding of the key concepts associated with project management - primarily the planning, organisation and control of resources in order to move a specific task, event or project toward completion.

Engineering Systems Control (20 Credits)
Study real time control issues using the latest PLC controls and emulation software. You will conduct remote monitoring using web enabled software and wireless connectivity.

Network Management (20 Credits)
Study the techniques used by modern network managers to collect management data, look for faults on the network and to identify diagnostic procedures that are on a par with industry standards.

Facilities

- IT Labs
The University is home to a number of modern specialist IT labs equipped with all the up-to-date hardware and software our computing students could need

- Library
Our libraries are two of the only university libraries in the UK open 24/7 every day of the year. However you like to study, the libraries have got you covered with group study, silent study, extensive e-learning resources and PC suites.

- Headingley Campus
Our historic Headingley Campus is set in 100 acres of parkland with easy access to Leeds city centre.

Find out how to apply here - http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/postgraduate/how-to-apply/

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