Programme Specification for 2012/13

MSc Computer Systems and Networking

This is a focused programme of study involving advanced networking, software development technologies and architectures for the design and management of modern distributed computer systems and networks.

The emphasis is on a software engineering approach based on sound modern software engineering project management methods, tools and techniques, which enable an integrated lifecycle systems development view.

The programme aims to provide graduates with the deep knowledge, skills and understanding required to allow them to contribute to the planning, design and management of modern network based computer systems. Students will gain the understanding of current technologies and architectures necessary for the network and communications infrastructure of enterprise computer systems.

Students are also expected to gain the necessary skills to develop and design modern distributed software systems using appropriate technologies, architectures and techniques (e.g. distributed component technologies, web applications technologies, web-enabled distributed databases, e-commerce, data warehousing and data mining) and to understand the advanced network technologies supporting the upper layers, together with their planning, management and security.

What's the difference between ...
MSc Computer Systems and Networking and other computer systems programmes?

Typical content
The following is an indication of current programme content. However, the rapidly changing nature of the subject area means that both the courses offered, and individual course content, are likely to change in future years. Finally note that certain combinations of options may not be available.
For details of timetabling and study patterns, see the timetables page. Masters students take 120 credits of taught courses and undertake a 60-credit project. All courses are 15 credits unless otherwise stated.

Core courses:

• Project (60 credits) - a substantial individual project on a topic chosen by the student
• Network Management
• Network Security
• Network & Internet Technologies & Design
• Network Architectures & Services

Options (a total of 60 credits) chosen from:

• Distributed Data Management Technology
• Distributed Data Architecture & Management
• Data Mining & KDD
• E-Business Applications
• Mobile Application Development
• Mobile Technologies
• Data Warehousing
• Web Engineering
• Enterprise Web Engineering
• Software Engineering Management
• Enterprise Software Engineering Development
• Operating System & Application Server Security
• High Performance Systems Engineering
• High Performance Distributed Memory Systems
• Computer Security & Risk Analysis
• Software Tools & Techniques
• Visual Interactive Programming

Technologies
Typical technologies taught on this programme include: Java; C#; .Net; Javascript; XML; WML; Oracle; Opnet; CISCO Networking; IPV6; IP-QOS; Voice Over IP; Diffserv; Intserv; Omnipeek; Asset3G; WiFi; Hacking Tools.
Note that some of these technologies are taught on optional courses, so we cannot guarantee that you will be exposed to them all.

Specifics

Entry requirements
A good first degree in Computing, Computing Science or a numerate subject (such as maths, physics, engineering, IS, multimedia) which includes some networking / communications. For candidates with limited knowledge of networking / communications, preparatory material can be provided. Students with substantial experience in the areas studied may be eligible for exemption based upon Assessment of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).
See the School entry requirements for more details.

Professional recognition
This degree has full CITP (further learning) and partial CEng / CSci accreditation from BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT - the body responsible for establishing and maintaining technical and ethical standards in the computing profession. This means that on successful graduation from this degree, you will have fulfilled the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional (CITP), including the CITP Further Learning Element, and partially fulfilled the education requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng) or Chartered Scientist (CSci). However, please note that there are additional requirements, including work experience, to achieve full Chartered status - see the BCS website for further information.

Career opportunities
Upon successful completion of this master's programme students could expected to find work as developers, network planners, consultants and ICT managers to plan, manage and maintain large networked computer systems that support modern distributed enterprise systems.

Location
This master's programme is based in the Department of Smart Systems Technologies, School of Computing & Mathematical Sciences, Greenwich Campus, Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, London SE10 9LS.

Study mode
1 year full-time / 2 years part-time
September or January start

JACS code
MSc Computer Systems and Networking - G400