Communication Networks and Signal Processing MSc

This is a challenging one-year taught Master’s degree programme that provides students with a range of advanced topics drawn from communication networks (fixed and wireless) and related signal-processing, including associated enabling technologies. It provides an excellent opportunity to develop the skills needed for careers in some of the most dynamic fields in communication networks.

This programme builds on the internationally recognised research strengths of the Communications Systems and Networks, High Performance Networks and Photonics research groups within the Smart Internet Lab. The groups conduct pioneering research in a number of key areas, including network architectures, cross-layer interaction, high-speed optical communications and advanced wireless access.

There are two taught units related to optical communications: Optical Networks and Data Centre Networks. Optical Networks will focus on Wavelength Division Multiplexed (WDM) networks, Time Division Multiplexed (TDM) networks including SDH/SONET and OTN, optical frequency division multiplexed networks, and optical sub-wavelength switched networks. Data Centre Networks will focus on networks for cloud computing, cloud-based networking, grid-computing and e-science. There is a further networking unit: Networked Systems and Applications, which provides a top-down study of networking system support for distributed applications, from classical web and email to telemetry for the Internet of Things.

The programme is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology until 2018, one of only a handful of accredited programmes in this field in the UK.

Programme structure

Your course will cover the following core subjects:

Semester One (40 credits)
-Communication systems
-Digital filters and spectral analysis
-Mobile communications
-Networking protocol principles

Semester Two (80 credits)
-Data centre networking
-Advanced networks
-Broadband wireless communications
-Networked systems and applications
-Engineering research skills
-Optical communications systems and data networks
-Optical networks

Project (60 credits)
You will carry out a substantial research project, starting during Semester Two and completed during the summer. This may be based at the University or with industrial partners.

Careers

This one-year MSc programme gives you a world-class education in all aspects of current and future communication networks and signal processing. It will prepare you for a diverse range of exciting careers - not only in the communications field, but also in other areas such as management consultancy, project management, finance and government agencies.

Our graduates have gone on to have rewarding careers in some of the leading multinational communications companies, such as Huawei, China Telecom, Toshiba, China Mobile and Intel. Some graduates follow a more research-oriented career path, with a number of students going on to study for PhDs at leading universities.

An upper second-class degree from a UK university (or an international equivalent) in a numerate physical science or engineering discipline. Candidates with a lower class of degree, equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience may be admitted if they can demonstrate their potential for higher degree work.