Computer Networks Engineering BSc (Hons)

Course Content

• Course Details

  The University of Northampton’s Computer Networks Engineering degree gives you the opportunity to explore different ideas and develop innovative solutions to current issues in the computing industry. This three-year network engineering course will give you an insight into the computing industry, investigating the wide-reaching influences that computers and computing technology have on the world. As you explore these influences, we will help you to find your ideal path for a career in Computing.

  IoT Workshop

  Computer networking engineering BSc students will have the opportunity to attend the annual UON IoT Workshop with guest speakers and presenters from the local, national and international industry. This is a great opportunity for the students to meet and work with colleagues from different year groups.

  Year 1

  During your first year of the computer network engineering degree, you will study common computer science modules, such as Communication Networks, Computer Systems, Software Engineering Fundamentals, Mathematics for Computer Science, Web Development, Problem Solving & Programming. These modules will help you build a foundation for more advanced topics in subsequent years.

  Year 2

  In your second year, you will continue your journey with the core Communication Networks Engineering modules such as Computer Communications, Digital Communications, Microprocessors and Internet of Things, Mobile Application Development, Cloud Computing and Bid Data etc. There will also be a group project where you will be a part of a small team; you will be tasked to design and implement a solution of decent quality for a given task. This will help you develop not only technical skills but also key soft skills such as teamwork, effective communication, leadership, etc.

  Year 3

  In your final year of study, you will further enhance your Computer Networks Engineering knowledge/skills. This will be done by completing high-level modules such as Cloud and Advanced Network Technologies, Cybersecurity and Applied Cryptography and Advanced AI and Applications etc. You are also expected to complete an independent dissertation on a topic of your choice in the field of Computer Science (with some guidance from an assigned supervisor). This benchmarking module will allow you to showcase your overall knowledge/skills learnt from the course.

  Please note the modules shown here relate to the academic year 23/24. The modules relating to the academic year 24/25 will be available from June 2024.

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• Entry Requirements

  A typical offer for Computer Network Engineering BSc could be:

  • BCC at A-Level or,
  • DMM at BTEC or,
  • Pass (C or above) at T Level

  Applicants will be expected to have achieved GCSE Mathematics (or equivalent) at grade C/4 or above. We welcome international applicants and applications from students with a range of non-traditional educational or professional qualifications.

  For information on how to apply to study with us, please see our How to Apply page.

  Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) Entry Requirements

  Admission to this foundation network engineering course is normally:

  • DEE at A Level or,
  • MPP at BTEC or,
  • Pass (D or E) at T Level

  However, we would also like to hear from you if you have professional or industry experience instead, a range of other qualifications or self-developed subject knowledge that relates to the course you wish to study.

  English Language Requirements

  All International and EU students applying for a course with us must meet the following minimum English language requirements:

  • IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 5.5 in all bands for study at undergraduate level.

  For information regarding English language requirements at the University, please see our IELTS page.

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• Fees and Funding

  2024/25 Tuition Fees

  Fees quoted for the Computer Networks Engineering course relate to study in the Academic Year 24/25 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

  • UK – Full Time: £9,250
  • UK – Part Time: £1,540 per 20 credit module
  • UK – Integrated Foundation Year: £9,250
  • International – Full Time: £15,200
  • International – Integrated Foundation Year: £15,200

  Additional Costs

  There are currently no additional costs anticipated for this course for 2024 entry.

  2023/24 Tuition Fees

  Fees quoted for the Computer Networks Engineering course relate to study in the Academic Year 23/24 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

  • UK – Full Time: £9,250
  • UK – Part Time: £1,540 per 20 credit module
  • UK – Integrated Foundation Year: £9,250
  • International – Full Time: £14,750
  • International – Integrated Foundation Year: £14,750

  Additional Costs

  There are currently no additional costs anticipated for this course for 2023 entry.

  For information on the scholarships available to you, please see our scholarships page.

  For more information about possible funding options, please visit our Fees and Funding pages.

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• Student Perks

  At the University of Northampton, everything we do, from funded trips to paid internships, is to give you everything you need to make a difference when you leave.

  If you join this full-time Computer Networks Engineering degree at the University of Northampton, you will receive a laptop when your course begins*. The laptops are built to a bespoke custom specification ideal for use in the seminar room, collaborative group work or studying at home.

  Whatever your ambitions, we’re here to help you to achieve them. We’ll support you to identify the skills you’re learning during your course, find your strengths and secure practical experience. We do this so that when it comes to applying for jobs or further study you’ll feel confident in standing out from the crowd. We’ve created the Northampton Employment Promise because we are so confident that if you focus on your studies and complete one of our awards you’ll be highly employable by the time you graduate. Putting you in a great position to secure employment or continue your studies.

  To check out the full list of perks, visit our Student Perks page or dedicated International Perks page.

  *UK fee payers only (see Terms and Conditions for further details).

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• Integrated Foundation Year (IFY)

  The Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) offers a new and exciting route into studying for a degree, attracting ambitious and driven students who are willing to learn and advance.

  If you have non-standard qualifications or do not quite meet the admissions requirements we can offer you a fantastic opportunity to study a four year programme which includes an Integrated Foundation Year. The Integrated Foundation Year will help you develop the theoretical/practical and academic skills you need, in order to successfully progress to the full award.

  Our four-year courses will enable you to successfully follow the degree pathway of your choice while gaining essential study skills. The foundation year of your chosen degree will be studied on a full-time basis and is aimed at supporting the transition to higher education. Years two, three and four are then studied as a standard degree programme.

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• FAQs

  What is Computer Networks Engineering?

  Computer Networks Engineering is the backbone of modern communication and digital connectivity. It’s like the architects of the digital world, specialising in the creation and maintenance of seamless data highways. Just as an architect plans the blueprint for a building, network engineers determine network structures, choose the right technology components, and define the rules that govern smooth data flow. Their expertise in network protocols and standards ensures everything works together seamlessly. Moreover, they’re the digital guardians, protecting private / business data from prying eyes and ensuring its safety. In today’s tech-driven and fully connected world, Computer Networks Engineering is an essential component to keep the digital world turning smoothly and securely.

  How will I learn on Computer Networks Engineering?

  Learning Computer Networks Engineering involves a structured approach and a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. You will start by building a strong foundation in computer science and data structures, as they are fundamental to networking. Furthermore, you will familiarise yourself with the most important networking concepts, such as the OSI model, TCP/IP, routing, and subnetting both in theory and in practice. Our modern, fully equipped lab, ready to accommodate groups of 40 at a time, enables a hands-on practical experience which is crucial for this type of work. You will be working both individually and in groups to develop your skills while feeling part of a wider community in both network monitoring and troubleshooting but also in modern network architecture practises.

  How long is the Computer Networks Engineering course?

  The Computer Networks Engineering course duration is three years in the Full-Time mode, while in the Part-Time mode, it extends to four to six years, allowing you greater flexibility in managing your study pace. To successfully complete the course and earn your degree, you are required to accumulate a total of 360 credits. Please note that in any given year, you can take a maximum of 120 credits. This credit structure ensures a balanced and manageable workload for you, enabling you to progress steadily through the program while maintaining academic excellence.

  The workload for each academic semester is relatively equivalent across the modules, however minor variations do exist. The engagement to different modules may also vary however, attendance to the lectures and workshops is mandatory. Typically, you will need to physically attend classes on our state-of-the-art academic facilities at least a couple of days per week. Furthermore, online activities will be requested by the tutors accumulating to a total of 12 hours of sessions engagement per week.

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