Programme Specification for 2012/13
MEng / BEng Computer Systems and Networking
This programme is designed for individuals wishing to pursue careers as networking professionals.
Students work with the latest technologies to develop a sound theoretical understanding and in-depth practical experience of advanced networking, including cutting-edge developments in mobile computing. They will also acquire expertise in the design and management of modern distributed computer systems using the latest software and development technologies.
Opportunities exist within the programme to take industrial examinations such as Cisco, Microsoft and Sun certifications. All students on the degree are automatically enrolled as student members of the British Computer Society (BCS) and the Institution of Engineering & Technology (IET), the chartered bodies responsible for establishing and maintaining technical and ethical standards in the profession.
At the end of the programme, graduates will be competent in the skills and disciplines needed to succeed in the world of technology and industry. Graduates will also be in a good position, through the insight and understanding gained, to contribute to research and to shape the solutions to tomorrow's challenges.
What's the difference between ...
MEng / BEng 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.
All courses are 30 credits unless otherwise stated.
Year One
During the first year of the programme, students are given a firm grounding in computer networks and architectures, programming, software engineering, system design, together with the necessary mathematics and formal methods. The courses are:
- Computer Programming 1
- Systems Building 1
- Communication Systems 1 - 15 credits
- Computer Systems Architectures 1 - 15 credits
- Logical Foundations - 15 credits
- Analytical Methods for Computing - 15 credits
Year Two
The second year core content includes more on network technologies, security, performance and modelling techniques, mobile and network programming. Students continue developing their practical skills in building and configuring networks. Assignments and group work are designed to prepare students to undertake an industrial placement year. The courses are:
- Organisation & Project Management
- Embedded Systems Programming 2 - 15 credits
- Network Implementation - 15 credits
- Network Security - 15 credits
- Operating Systems - 15 credits
- Principles of Communications Systems 2 - 15 credits
- Systems Programming - 15 credits
Optional Sandwich Year
An industrial placement may be taken as an optional sandwich year. The placement year aims to consolidate and expand on the skills that are gained in the first two years of study. Placements can be obtained via the University, or students may find their own, subject to approval by the University.
Year Three
A major component this year is the project which draws together the various courses studied throughout the programme. The final year also includes two core courses and 30 credits of options. The courses are:
- A substantial individual project on a topic chosen by the student
- Two courses chosen from Network Design & Implementation, Network Management & Security, Principles of Communications 3
- One further option - current options include Artificial Intelligence, Web Application Technologies, Programming Distributed Components, HCI & Interaction Design, Distributed Applications Development, Computing Education & Communications, Embedded Systems Programming 3, Enterprise Systems Management & Security, High Performance Systems Engineering, Network Design & Implementation, Network Management & Security, Principles of Communications 3
Masters Year (MEng only)
- Group Project - CST - 60 credits
- Futures & Methods in Computer Systems & Communications
- 30 credits of options chosen from suitable masters level courses
Specifics
Professional recognition
The BEng degree has full CITP 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) and partially fulfilled the education requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng) or Chartered Scientist (CSci). The MEng also has full CITP (further learning) and full CEng / CSci accreditation. However, please note that in all cases there are additional requirements, including work experience, to achieve full Chartered status - see the BCS website for further information.
Career opportunities
The degree programme was designed with the active involvement of representatives from the computing and networking industry to meet the growing demand for graduates with the necessary knowledge and technical skills needed to design, create, operate and maintain network infrastructure for modern distributed enterprise computer systems. Students graduating from the programme will find a wide range of employment opportunities in industry, commerce and research.
Links
See also BSc (Hons) Computer Systems and Networking.
Location
This degree 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
3 years full-time / 4 years sandwich / 6 years part-time
plus 1 additional year for MEng full-time / plus 2 additional years for MEng part-time
JACS/UCAS codes
MEng (Hons) Computer Systems and Networking - GG5K MEng/CSN
BEng (Hons) Computer Systems and Networking - GG45 BEng/CSNet