There is hardly a computer today which is not connected to a network; most computers are now connected to the Internet or on a Local Area Network (LAN) at home or in the workplace. Essentially, computer networking is about how computers are connected to each other, how they exchange or transfer data and information from one place to another and how organisations use computers to successfully implement their strategic goals.

A study of Computer Networking at UEL will involve not only the hardware and software that make up a network, but will also involve databases, programming, website development, computer systems, operating systems, and network security – as all of these elements are important for an effective, robust, useful and usable network system. Emphasis is placed on the acquisition of practical-based skills and strong theoretical concepts including the opportunity for one year's work experience (for London campus students only), which provides a solid foundation for a career in the computing industry.

The Computer Networking programme is three or four years in length, as the sandwich degrees include a one-year work placement. Full time students will study three modules a semester or six modules a year. All the modules are core modules, however if you want to change to one of our other specialised degrees, or to a more general computing degree, this is easy to arrange. Students are able to work in groups to develop computer-based solutions to real-life situations, often in co-operation with local companies.

As well as the usual teaching and learning facilities such as laboratories, lecture and seminar rooms and a well-resourced library, students have access to a wide range of computer networking resources. Specialised labs are used for study of networking and operating system environments such as Windows and Unix/Linux. Students are provided with software tools for programming, database development, computer-aided software engineering, Internet access and Web-based development.

Our comprehensive learning programme includes instructor-led lectures, online support, hands-on practicals, student-led tutorials and varied assessment tasks.
Our virtual learning environment, UEL Plus is used to give extra support to students and allow easy communication between students and staff. UEL Plus also provides students with the following features:

• Continued curriculum access
• Continuous learning opportunities
• Assess to most module notes
• Access to assessment tasks
• Community discussion forums
• Opportunity to network with other students and lectures

A variety of innovative assessment methods are used. Some modules are entirely assessed by coursework, although most modules are assessed by a combination of coursework and examination. Coursework assessment can take a number of different forms, including portfolio building, presentations, software demonstrations, research-based assignments and practical exercises involving system or program specification, coding and testing. Examinations might include multiple choice tests, traditional unseen questions, open book questions, case studies and e-assessment.

Computer Networks is one of our sandwich programmes (if you are a London campus student), students have the option to undertake a 48 week industrial placement during the third year of their programme. This placement is normally paid. The university has long-standing links with a large number of well-known employers who can provide UEL students with worthwhile work experience. Many students are offered permanent employment by their placement organisation when they graduate. In addition to enhancing employment prospects, the placement provides a valuable learning experience, the results of which feed into our students' final year of study.

Students complete a project in their final year. This is a major piece of work that allows students to choose the direction of their study, to develop their own ideas and to integrate the various subjects studied. Students are encouraged to provide their own areas for this project, but there is always a battery of topics from which students can choose.

In addition to the IT-related skills and knowledge acquired during the programme, you will develop a wide range of personal and professional skills including communication, presentation, negotiation, team working and time management skills. These sought-after skills will be useful throughout your working life and will increase your chances of finding a well-paid and interesting job after graduation.

• how computers are networked together
• the architecture of the internet
• wireless communication principles and techniques
• using a host of applications remotely
• using network development and security tools
• developing and using technical skills
• using the Internet to develop solutions for varied organisations

• solving technical problems
• the challenge of finding a solution to seemingly insoluble problems
• listening to and working with others to identify and develop these solutions
• making use of the latest technology

• the opportunity to work in a well-rewarded and fast-developing area
• sought-after and up-to-date skills
• to communicate and work with a wide variety of people to solve a range of business and technical problems
• to combine your interest in computing with other subjects

then our BSc (Hons) Computer Networks programme is the one for you!

There is still a significant shortage of up-to-date computing skills in the UK. Organisations need access to these skills to make best use of computing and internet resources.

Potential career paths include:

Network Design and Administration

1. Network Administrator
2. Network Engineer
3. System Administrator
4. Network Analyst
5. Internet Network Specialist

Technical Support Professionals

1. PC Support Specialist
2. Help Desk Technician
3. Network Technician
4. Hardware Installation Coordinator
5. Software Applications Support
6. Cabling Installation Technician
7. Telecommunications Technician
8. Cabling Installation Coordinator

Graduates of Computer Networks degree programmes are network specialists who understand the computer hardware and software that enable different parts of a network to link together. There is a great demand for these skills as networked systems are now used throughout business and industry - and those with the skills to support these systems are in short supply.

For graduates who wish to continue their studies at postgraduate level, the computer networks degree programme provide a suitable entry route to a variety of Masters programmes, both at UEL and elsewhere.

• Personal tutor support throughout the programme
• Support for development of study skills, preparation for employment and research
• Placement Office with well-established links with employers to provide support for finding placements
• Specialist support for dyslexia and English as a second language
• Student advice services for accommodation, finance, careers, IT training, learning resources.

The proximity of London means that UEL is ideally placed for developing links with a wide range of well-established, prestigious and innovative employers. The Thames Gateway Technology Centre based at the Docklands Campus provides a natural channel between business and higher education, by making the knowledge and expertise of UEL available to local employers. The TGTC also provides a variety of opportunities, including placements and final year projects, to our students.