The MSc in Network Technology provides an advanced understanding of the assembly and interconnection of computers into the coherent networks and distributed computing systems which is essential to modern enterprises, organisations and the internet.

This programme provides a comprehensive understanding of networked systems and services, in the context of converging computing and communications technologies, covering all levels, from the theoretical concepts to the practical, hands-on tasks. 
The programme aims to provide:

• a knowledge of the technologies for effective provision and management of network services
• a high level awareness of the issues arising from the convergence of computing and communications technologies
• a critical understanding in network security exploring current areas of research
• a broad grounding in network architectures, protocols and related standards, and a detailed understanding of the underlying technologies
• an understanding of the communication engineering and computing issues related to intelligent communication networks, network design and network management
• an ability to follow a career in the networking and/or communications industry, or in academic research

BITE offers a balance between an industry and academic learning environment with small class sizes and on-going support and guidance to foster the best achievement of students. Our approach to learning is focused on the student and the development of a skill-set that can be applied.

The entry requirement for the MSc programme is normally satisfied by possession of one of the following:

1. BSc(Hons) or BEng(Hons) in a Computer Science, Computing or IT
   related programme or an appropriate and related subject, with an    
   award classification of no less than a lower second class honours (2:2).
2. A degree qualification of a standard equivalent to that obtained after a programme of study in a recognised university outside the UK. (Note: Sources such as the British Council Handbook and NARIC will be used as references to verify the qualifications equivalence to a UK degree)
3. Applicants will also be required to meet the Institute’s standard for competence in English language and will be expected to hold GCSE grade C or an equivalent in English or a TOFEL score or IELTs 6.5 or equivalent.

In the case of applicants whose first language is not English, then IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent) is required. International qualifications will be checked for appropriate matriculation to UK Higher Education postgraduate programmes.

Students that apply to enter stages of the programme may be admitted through normal Accreditation of Experiential Learning (AEL) or Accreditation of Certificated Learning (ACL) processes. Therefore such applicants must be able to demonstrate and evidence that they have the required learning outcomes as listed in the modules for which they are seeking exemption.

The programme is offered in full-time and part-time mode. The modes have two start dates, students starting in September will complete in one calendar year, and students starting February will complete the course in 16 months due to the timing of the research project within the confines of the academic calendar. The mode consists of two semesters for the taught part of the programme, plus a third semester for research dissertation. The minimum period for completion of the MSc is 1 year full-time and 2 years part-time.

Our Learning environment consists of the tradition lecture, Seminars, workshops, and laboratory exercises. There may also be external visits to cooperating organisations and local universities who are giving us access to some specialist lab equipment. We will also be using our online virtual learning environment to supplement the delivery of the programming.

Assessment methods which enable students to demonstrate the learning outcomes for each Module, with the exception of the dissertation, have the following weights:

• Assignment (Coursework) - 50%
• Examination 50%

Students will be given coursework during the semester and exams will take place at the end of the semester.

The days of the standalone computer are long gone and it is very uncommon if not impossible to have a computer that is not connected or networked. From home based systems, to systems for small organisations and larger organisation the networked environment is here to stay. Network Technology graduates will find application in many sectors of work, play, and social entities.

This programme will develop conceptual understanding of network technologies and solutions designing, implementing, and managing the networked world. It will foster innovation through an interdisciplinary approach to industry and non-industrial sectors that rely on computer networks.

For your assignments/coursework/projects you will be encouraged to use real-life/work related specifications provided you are working in the field and can get the required permission to do so from the organisation.

The research dissertation is a key element of this programme and as such counts as a double module (60 credits). Research topics are often developed from work-based problems and many are supported by industrialists.

The objective of the dissertation is to develop the student's ability to study independently, making their own critical appraisal of their chosen subject and drawing conclusions from it.

Students will be required to demonstrate that the research undertaken has been completed to an appropriate level for a Masters award. The dissertation must therefore, in general terms, include elements of research, independent work, the derivation of a product (through laboratory testing, critical analysis or computer programming) and the analysis of data.

The research will be required to make a contribution to the understanding of the field studied and will be supervised by a member of staff with an interest in the field.

By studying with us on this programme, you will be using labs that are up to industry standards and technologies that enable the design, implementation, maintenance, security and management of complex networked environments.

With minimal addition or extra study you will also be at a stage where you can take the professional CISCO examinations of CCNA and CCNP.

This programme will develop conceptual understanding of computer network technologies and solutions in the computer network world. It will foster innovation through an interdisciplinary approach to industry and non-industrial sectors that rely on emerging solutions and architecture. Students who successfully complete this programme may be able to work in the following sectors:

• Network Configuration (planning and infrastructure), Analysis, Deployment and Management
• Consumer electronics
• Computer Network applications
• Communications
• Data Communications
• Computer/Network Security

BITE strives for excellence in supporting students in many ways. We help you identify your strengths and direct you towards the development of sound and practical knowledge in that field. BITE’s support service has an enviable ratio of students to each tutor.

Each student is allocated a personal tutor. This is a member of the academic staff who you can go to individually for general guidance and advice.

The Institute Careers Advisory Service is based in the main building and provides presentations and skills workshops, one-to-one guidance, a library and information service (including vacancies and help with preparing for job-search).

Located in the heart of East London, we are well placed to work with the thriving businesses of Canary Wharf and the City of London. Academics from around the world have reviewed our specialised degree and research programmes with interest and excitement.

BITE is well known for combining academic theory with a hands-on practical approach to a high standard of delivery and academic achievement. All of our programmes give you the opportunity to develop the IT, research and business skills that we know employers are looking for.