Programme Specification for Computer Networks MSc
|
Final award |
Master of Science (MSc) |
|
Intermediate awards available |
Post-Graduate Certificate, Post-Graduate Diploma |
|
UCAS code |
N/A |
|
Details of professional body accreditation |
N/A |
|
Relevant QAA Benchmark statements |
|
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Date specification last up-dated |
March 2013 |
Programme content
This programme is designed to provide the student with a sound theoretical and practical knowledge in Computer Networking, Information Security, network performance management and signalling and processing techniques related to the management and operation of a modern multilayered communication networking platform. The programme provides the skills necessary to secure employment in Computer Security, Network management/development and the related fields. The programme gives an in-depth understanding of the methodology, tools and techniques required to manage and secure an operational networking platform and the techniques required to combat malicious actions and confirm the availability, integrity & confidentiality of transmission and stored information. It is expected that the knowledge you gain is vital for professionals working in the areas of Network Management or Administration, Network Engineer, Communication Security, Information Security Management and Operational Security Management.
MSc Computer Networks at UEL
With the increase in mass digital communication, Smartphone’s and mobile workers there is an increase need for individuals who are capable of developing, managing, securing and integrating cutting edge multi-layered communication platforms. Experienced network administrators, security auditors and telecoms infrastructure managers are in great demand.
Students will have the opportunity to design, build and test various wired and wireless platforms via the use of labs, practicals and specialist network simulation software, such as OPNET’s network simulation. Both the theoretical and practical aspect of this programme will enable the students to take much acquired knowledge into the dissertation phase of the programme; producing complex and in-depth research materials, which in some case may lead to publication.
The proposed programme will consist of a mix of computing and engineering modules, which will provide an opportunity for cross discipline interaction and close interdisciplinary cooperation between teaching staff and the students involved in the programme.
Entry requirements
Applicants are normally expected to hold a first degree in Computer Networks, Engineering, Computing and/or Science. In the case of non Computing graduates some computer networking experience or a substantial element of studies should involve Computing, Electronic Engineering or related numerate subjects.
The applicants should hold a British award classification of no less than a lower second class honours (2:2). Alternatively, a degree qualification of a standard equivalent from a recognised university outside the U.K is expected.
Applicants having appropriate professional experience will be considered if they are able to provide a satisfactory outcome based on the process of Assessment of Experiential Learning (AEL). This assessment will be carried out by the School’s AEL committee and a standard fee will be payable dependent upon the time involved in establishing the AEL claim.
Applicants whose first language is not English need to supply evidence of proficiency in English equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall with minimum 6.0 in Writing and Speaking and 5.5 in Reading and Listening.
Academic Credit/Admission with Advanced Standing
A student who has already fulfilled, by means of previous study or experiential learning, some of the progression and assessment requirements of the programme may be admitted with academic credit.
In determining academic credit, the Admissions Tutor will be guided by the University’s Regulations for the Assessment of Prior (Experiential) Learning both certificated and un-certificated.
A student may not normally be admitted with credit for more than two-thirds of the total requirement for the award, or half where all such credit is by prior, experiential learning.
Admission to the programme
The following principles will apply:
a) a reasonable expectation that the applicant will be able to fulfil the objectives of the programme and to achieve the standard required for the award;
b) a reasonable expectation that the applicant will be able to fulfil the University’s requirements in terms of knowledge and skills for the award;
c) the University will apply the principle of equality of opportunity to its admission activities and will encourage the recruitment of local and regional students and those with special needs;
d) in considering individual applicants for admission to a programme of study the University will seek evidence of personal, professional and educational experiences that provide an indication of ability to meet the demands of the programme.
Programme structure
The programme is offered in full-time mode and part-time mode, commencing September or February. The full time mode consists of two 15-week semesters plus a 14-week dissertation project. The part time mode consists of four 15-week semesters plus a 28-week dissertation project. A full time student will study two 30-credit modules per semester whereas a part time student will study one 30-credit module per semester. For both modes of study the dissertation project may occur during the summer period. It is possible to move from full-time to part-time study and vice-versa to accommodate any external factors such as financial constraints or domestic commitments. However, this may impact on the overall duration of the study period.
Learning environment
This programme utilises a mixture of learning methods that focus on and maximise the student learning experience through:
- A series of lectures and seminars that promote student participation
- A number of tutorial and practical sessions that enforce student learning
- A number of problem solving, individual and group, activities that enhance student understanding and skills
- A series of student based activities such as presentations
- UEL PLUS as a Virtual Learning Environment that supports students in various aspects of their studies
Assessment
To reflect the programme objectives and learning outcomes each taught module is usually assessed through a combination of various assessment techniques. These typically include group and individual work, written reports, examinations, and essays. The project module is assessed through a research proposal and the dissertation.
Relevance to work/profession
- Design and development of modern digital communication networks
- Development of organisational network security management policies
- Monitor performance management and network load balancing
- Deliverance of updated communication platforms on-time and to-budget
Dissertation/project work
The programme provides opportunities for students to be engaged individual projects as part of their MSc dissertation. Such projects enable students to put into practice their theoretical knowledge obtained during their postgraduate programme and enhance their critical understanding of their chosen subject, within the areas of wired and wireless communications, network management and network security. The students will be supported throughout their project by a dedicated supervisor.
Added value
Provide students with improved employment prospects that will enable them to seek jobs in the area of Network Management or Administration, Network Engineering, Communication Security and Information Security Management.
Your future career
In an increasingly competitive environment, where new business practices are regularly introduced, organisations have to be innovative to survive. Such innovation is dependent upon companies developing effective Network and Resource Management internally as well through external interaction. By completing this programme you will create a new generation of technical managers, network engineers and administrators, security auditors, network security practitioners and consultants working within your specialised domains. Moreover, the programme provides the necessary knowledge for graduates who wish to engage in further study for a PhD degree and possibly follow a career in academia.
How we support you
University of East London and the School of Architecture, Computing and Engineering have in place a number of mechanisms to support you throughout your studies. A personal tutor is allocated to each student at the start of the programme. The personal tutor is available to help you in your academic progress as well as in any general issues that you might face during your studies. An appropriate project supervisor is also allocated to every student who takes the dissertation project to provide support and knowledge throughout the project duration. For each module there is a module leader who can help with any issues around that module. There is also a programme leader to help you with any issues you might have with the programme. Last but not least, counsellors are available for consultation through the student services.
Bonus factors
The proposed programme will provide an opportunity for cross discipline interaction and close interdisciplinary cooperation between teaching staff and the students of both computing and electrical engineering areas.
Programme aims and learning outcomes
What is this programme designed to achieve?
This programme is designed to give you the opportunity to:
- Acquire a systematic understanding of the architectures and functionality of current and future communication infrastructures
- Acquire critical insights and practical experiences of current communication protocols, techniques and devices
- Apply the techniques you have learned to carry out projects
- Communicate advanced communication concepts to both networking experts and non-experts
- Learn and work effectively both independently and within groups
- Develop balance between theoretical and practical skills
- Produce work of a professional standard
- Become network specialists able to design, develop and manage networked systems
What will you learn?
By the end of this programme you will be able to:
Knowledge
- Obtain a comprehensive understanding of the architectures, principles and protocols of current and future communication infrastructures, both wired and wireless
- Articulate advanced concepts, principles and techniques in the area of Network Management and Security
- Comprehend the importance of Network Management and Security in a corporate data communications network
- Obtain knowledge of the latest standards and techniques used in the area of Network Management and Security
- Acquire an in depth understanding of tools and techniques employed in designing and developing secured multilayered communication networks platforms
- Comprehend the latest research trends in the area of Network management, development and security
- Articulate the legal and ethical issues related to network monitoring and control practices within the corporate environment
Thinking skills
- Critically evaluate complex network communication platforms
- Evaluate, compare and apply a number of communication protocols used in local and wide area networks
- Apply appropriate research methods to conduct research in the wider network management context
- Critically evaluate current methods, tools and techniques employed in Network Management and Security
- Critically review local and wide area network management and performance
- Identify and review network security methods and techniques used to classify, manage and combat network security vulnerabilities
Subject-Based Practical skills
- Apply relevant theories to the design and use of complex networking platforms
- Critically analyse and specify and design systems that support total Network Management and Security solutions for given scenarios
- Apply Network Management and Security techniques in addressing specific organizational needs
- Simulate and analyse existing and new network systems using network simulation packages
- Test network security vulnerabilities utilising the tools and methods of a malicious attacker
Skills for life and work (general skills)
- Perform research on current networking technologies
- Write a literature review in a scholarly style appropriate to dissertations and projects at masters' level
- Demonstrate the ability to review work of colleagues in their subject area
- Plan and successfully deliver a Network Management or Network Security related project
- Demonstrate the ability to work effectively autonomously or in a group-based project
- Manage learning, own development and time management
The programme structure
Introduction
All programmes are credit-rated to help you to understand the amount and level of study that is needed.
One credit is equal to 10 hours of directed study time (this includes everything you do e.g. lecture, seminar and private study).
Credits are assigned to one of 5 levels:
0 equivalent in standard to GCE 'A' level and is intended to prepare students for year one of an undergraduate degree programme
1 equivalent in standard to the first year of a full-time undergraduate degree programme
2 equivalent in standard to the second year of a full-time undergraduate degree programme
3 equivalent in standard to the third year of a full-time undergraduate degree programme
M equivalent in standard to a Masters degree
Credit rating
The overall credit-rating of this programme is 180 credits for Masters, 120 for PG Diploma 60 credits for PG Certificate.
Typical duration
The typical duration of this programme is 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time. It is possible to move from full-time to part-time study and vice-versa to accommodate any external factors such as financial constraints or domestic commitments. Many of our students make use of this flexibility and this may impact on the overall duration of their study period.
How the teaching year is divided
The teaching year is divided into two semesters of equal length. A typical student registered in a full-time attendance mode will study two 30 credit modules per semester and a typical student registered in a part-time attendance mode will study one or two modules per semester. The advanced independent research module (Dissertation) may occur during the summer period over 28 weeks. The minimum period for completion of the MSc is 1 year full-time and 2 years part-time.
What you will study when
The academic year is organized in three semesters: Semester A (from September to January), Semester B (from February to May) and Semester C (from June to September). The 30-credit modules are taught in semesters A and B. Every 30-credit module is taught in one of these two teaching semesters (semesters A or B). The 60-credit dissertation can be taken over any of the semesters A, B and C.
The programmes are designed in such a way that full-time students can study it over one calendar year (only for those that start the studies in semester A and take the dissertation over the summer period). Full-time students will take two modules per teaching semester (A and B) and the dissertation module will be taken either over the consecutive teaching semester (A or B) or, in advance to semester A, over the summer period (semester C). Completion will be expected one year after initial enrolment.
Part time students will take the programme over two years, taking one 30-credit module per semester and the dissertation module over two semesters. Completion will be expected two and a half years after initial enrolment.
The schedules for MSc students are included below:
Full-time student starting in semester A:
• Semester A (1st year): two 30-credit modules
• Semester B (1st year): two 30-credit modules
• Semester C (1st year) or in Semester A (2nd year): 60-credit dissertation
Full-time student starting in semester B:
• Semester B (1st year): two 30-credit modules
• Semester A (1st year): two 30-credit modules
• Semester B (2nd year): 60-credit dissertation
Part-time student starting in semester A:
• Semester A (1st year): one 30-credit module
• Semester B (1st year): one 30-credit module
• Semester A (2nd year): one 30-credit module
• Semester B (2nd year): one 30-credit module
• Semester C (2nd year) and Semester A (3rd year), or Semesters A and B (3rd year): 60-credit dissertation
Part-time student starting in semester B:
• Semester B (1st year): one 30-credit module
• Semester A (1st year): one 30-credit module
• Semester B (2nd year): one 30-credit module
• Semester A (2nd year): one 30-credit module
• Semesters B and C (3rd year), or Semesters B and A (3rd year): 60-credit dissertation
Delivery of the programmes will be by formal lectures supplemented by tutorials, seminars, workshops, laboratory exercises, practical sessions and site visits where appropriate.
Assessment for the taught modules has been established following the UEL tariff for assessment and is covered inside the module specifications included in this document.
Requirements for gaining an award
In order to gain a Postgraduate Certificate, the students need to obtain 60 credits at Level M. In order to gain a Postgraduate Diploma, the students need to obtain 120 credits at Level M. In order to obtain a Masters, the students need to obtain 180 credits at Level M. These credits will include a 60 credit level M core module of advanced independent research.
|
Award |
Credits |
|
Postgraduate Certificate |
60 M credits (taught modules) |
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Postgraduate Diploma |
120 M credits (taught modules) |
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Masters |
180 M credits (taught modules + dissertation) |
Masters Award Classification
Where a student is eligible for an Masters award then the award classification is determined by calculating the arithmetic mean of all marks and applying the mark obtained as a percentage, with all decimals points rounded up to the nearest whole number, to the following classification
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70% - 100% |
Distinction |
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60%- 69% |
Merit |
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50% - 59% |
Pass |
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0% - 49% |
Not passed |
Full Time MSc Degree in Computer Networks
| Level | Credits | Core/
Option |
Module Code |
Module Title |
|
M
|
30 |
Core |
EEM128 |
Communication Networks |
|
30 |
Core |
CNM001 |
Network Security |
|
|
30 |
Core |
EEM121 |
Computer Communications |
|
|
30 |
Core |
CNM002 |
Network Management |
|
|
60 |
Core |
CNM015 |
Research Dissertation |
Part Time MSc Degree in Computer Networks
|
Level |
Credits |
Core/ Option |
Module Code |
Module Title |
|
M
|
30 |
Core |
EEM128 |
Communication Networks |
|
30 |
Core |
EEM121 |
Computer Communications |
|
|
30 |
Core |
CNM001 |
Network Security |
|
|
30 |
Core |
CNM002 |
Network Management |
|
|
60 |
Core |
CNM015 |
Research Dissertation |
Teaching, learning and assessment
Teaching and learning
Knowledge is developed through
- Taught-based activities, such as lectures and seminars
- Student-driven based activities, such as tutorial and laboratory sessions
- Lecturer-driven based activities, such as feedback and guidance
- Student independent study
Thinking skills are developed through
- Tutorial group and individual discussion
- Laboratory group work
- Coursework and projects
- Problem-solving activities
Practical skills are developed through
- Laboratory work
- Coursework and projects
- Case studies
Skills for life and work (general skills) are developed through
- Coursework
- Team-based problem-solving activities
- Individual problem-solving activities
- Tutorial and laboratory sessions
- Presentations and Reports
Assessment
Knowledge is assessed by
- Coursework reports
- Written examinations
- Individual dissertation project
- Presentations
- Active student participation in lectures
Thinking skills are assessed by
- Laboratory and tutorial sessions
- Written examinations
- Problem-solving activities
- Research-based activities
Practical skills are assessed by
- Case studies
- Problem-solving activities
- Laboratory exercises
- Individual dissertation project
Skills for life and work (general skills) are assessed by
- Coursework reports
- Presentations
- Individual dissertation project
- Written examinations
- Individual and team-based activities
How we assure the quality of this programme
Before this programme started
Before this programme started, the following was checked:
- there would be enough qualified staff to teach the programme
- adequate resources would be in place
- the overall aims and objectives were appropriate
- the content of the programme met national benchmark requirements
- the programme met any professional/statutory body requirements
- the proposal met other internal quality criteria covering a range of issues such as admissions policy, teaching, learning and assessment strategy and student support mechanisms
This is done through a process of programme approval which involves consulting academic experts including some subject specialists from other institutions.
How we monitor the quality of this programme
The quality of this programme is monitored each year through evaluating:
- external examiner reports (considering quality and standards)
- statistical information (considering issues such as the pass rate)
- student feedback
Drawing on this and other information, programme teams undertake the annual Review and Enhancement Process which is co-ordinated at School level and includes student participation. The process is monitored by the Quality and Standards Committee.
Once every six years an in-depth review of the whole field is undertaken by a panel that includes at least two external subject specialists. The panel considers documents, looks at student work, speaks to current and former students and speaks to staff before drawing its conclusions. The result is a report highlighting good practice and identifying areas where action is needed.
The role of the programme committee
This programme has a programme committee comprising all relevant teaching staff, student representatives and others who make a contribution towards the effective operation of the programme (e.g. library/technician staff). The committee has responsibilities for the quality of the programme. It provides input into the operation of the Review and Enhancement Process and proposes changes to improve quality. The programme committee plays a critical role in the quality assurance procedures.
The role of external examiners
The standard of this programme is monitored by at least one external examiner. External examiners have two primary responsibilities:
- To ensure the standard of the programme;
- To ensure that justice is done to individual students.
External examiners fulfil these responsibilities in a variety of ways including:
- Approving exam papers/assignments
- Attending assessment boards
- Reviewing samples of student work and moderating marks
- Ensuring that regulations are followed
- Providing feedback through an annual report that enables us to make improvements for the future
Listening to the views of students
The following methods for gaining student feedback are used on this programme:
- Module evaluations
- Student representation on programme committees (meeting 2 times per year)
- Programme evaluations
Students are notified of the action taken through circulating the minutes of the programme committee.
Listening to the views of others
The following methods are used for gaining the views of other interested parties:
- Questionnaires to former students
- Annual student satisfaction questionnaire
- Industrial liaison committee
Further Information
Further information about this programme is available from:
- The UEL web site (http://www.uel.ac.uk)
- The student handbook
- Module study guides
- UEL Manual of General Regulations and Policies http://www.uel.ac.uk/qa/
- UEL Quality Manual http://www.uel.ac.uk/qa/
- Regulations for the Academic Framework http://www.uel.ac.uk/academicframework/
- School of Architecture, Computing and Engineering (ACE) web site http://www.uel.ac.uk/ace
- Current External examiners
- External examiner reports (available from UEL virtual learning environment (UELPlus or Moodle))
