Computing (Computer Networks Engineering) MSc

Key Facts

  • Level:

    Postgraduate

  • Duration:

    Full Time: 1 year
    Part Time: 2 years

  • Starting:

    September / February

  • Fees UK 23/24:

    Full Time: £8,010
    Part Time: £890 per 20 credit module

  • Fees International 23/24:

    International: £16,500

  • Location:

    Waterside

Get in touch


For questions regarding study and admissions please contact us:

UK/EU Students enquiries

study@northampton.ac.uk
0300 303 2772

International Students enquiries

international@northampton.ac.uk
+44 (0)1604 893981

Overview


With our Computing (Computer Networks Engineering) MSc course, you will have the opportunity to study computing in great depth. In addition to completing an individual thesis on an area of computer networks engineering that is of particular interest to you, this course will also allow you to develop your research and analytical abilities. This will equip you with all the skills you need to enhance your career prospects further.

Updated 31/03/2023

Highlights


  • Develop analytical skills and business understanding to quickly identify market drivers.
  • You will learn the principles of SDN, Cloud networking, Network security and Systems architecture.
  • You will familiarize yourself with wireless concepts and will work with cellular communication network architecture.
  • Hands on experience on a modern networking lab, equipped with Aruba SND controllers and Cisco switches, routers and security devices.

Course Content


  • Our Computer Networks Engineering pathway is technical in focus. However, it will also equip students with vital problem-solving skills for business, including interpersonal skills and an understanding of business context. You will have the opportunity to work towards professional qualifications to become a Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP).

    Students on this course will complete six modules and a dissertation. Certain optional modules are only available depending on student interest and staff availability.

    Please note the modules shown here relate to the academic year 22/23. The modules relating to the academic year 23/24 will be available from June 2023.

      • Module code: CSYM017
        Status: Compulsory
        This module emphasises the importance of sound design using appropriate data modelling techniques (e.g. relational modelling, entity-relationship modelling).
      • Module code: CSYM020
        Status: Designate
        The module introduces the key concepts of Computer and Internet Security. The module is designed to provide the student with the necessary theoretical and practical understanding of the technology available to manage and implement secure computer applications in an Internet environment.
      • Module code: CSYM023
        Status: Compulsory
        This module provides the student with the opportunity to learn appropriate research techniques in order to carry out independent, relevant and in-depth research in a topic of specific interest.
      • Module code: CSYM025
        Status: Compulsory
        This module concentrates on creating object-based solutions to software problems within a contemporary integrated development environment. It focuses on the concepts of object technology and the syntax and semantics of the underlying model while promoting good practice in software construction and testing.
      • Module code: CSYM028
        Status: Compulsory
        This purpose of this module is to consider the structure and behaviour of the various functional modules of the computer and how they interact to provide the processing needs of the user. This module covers systems ranging from PCs through multiprocessors with respect to hardware design and instruction set architecture.
      • Module code: CSYM029
        Status: Compulsory
        Computer Networks module focuses on developing practical networking skills alongside deeper understanding of network principles and protocols (wired and wireless). Although the necessary background is introduced as appropriate, the course on the whole deals with problem-solving using current and emergent network hardware and protocols along with the development of applications to exploit these technologies
      • Module code: CSYM030
        Status: Compulsory
        This module focuses on creating software for mobile computing devices. It concentrates on the necessary technologies used to allow such devices to communicate and how to develop software to allow them to do so.
  • Applicants will normally hold a recognised first or second class honours degree from a UK university or international equivalent in a relevant subject. We expect that you will have a working knowledge of computers and networks and it is essential that you have practical hands-on experience of at least one programming language.

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

    English Language Requirements

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

    • Minimum standard – IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent)
      for study at postgraduate level.

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

  • 2023/24 Tuition Fees

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

    • UK – Full Time: £8,010
    • UK – Part Time: £890 per 20 credit module
    • International – Full Time: £16,500
    Additional Costs

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

     

    2022/23 Tuition Fees

    Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 22/23 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

    • UK – Full Time: £7,650
    • UK – Part Time: £850 per 20 credit module
    • International – Full Time: £15,000
    Additional Costs

    There are currently no additional costs anticipated for this course for 2022 entry.

    Postgraduate Loans

    If you are starting a postgraduate Master’s course in 2023/24 either full-time or part-time* you may be able to apply for a postgraduate loan through Student Finance England

    *Please note that the maximum period of study allowed for part-time courses is two years.

     

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

  • How will I be taught on Computing (Computer Networks Engineering) MSc?

    This pathway teaches students via a mix of theoretical lectures and seminars and more hands-on work. This includes the use of laboratory facilities and computer simulation tools, alongside learning from case studies and practical examples.

    How will I be assessed?

    You will be assessed a number of different ways on this course. This includes coursework, critical reviews and a substantial independent research dissertation. In addition, you will also conduct oral presentations, practical reports, and participate in group work.

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Careers and Employability


Upon completion of this course, you will be equipped to pursue a range of careers. Well-trained staff are in high demand across the computing and IT industries, and our graduates will be able to embark on job roles such as:

  • Computer Network Specialists/Consultant
  • Computer Network Architect
  • Computer and Information Systems Manager
  • Computer Hardware Engineer
  • Computer Support Specialist
  • Computer Research Scientist.

Facilities and special features


Students will benefit from access to around 150 PC and Linux workstation computers. Alongside digital projection facilities, these are all housed in six bespoke computer laboratories, which are maintained by two technicians.

To ensure you receive personalised care which allows you to enhance your knowledge and develop your skills, we only enrol small cohorts of students. We have developed this course to be studied around other commitments and you may only need to attend the university for two days per week.