Computer Networking BSc (Hons)

Program Overview

This three-year full-time program focuses on the technical aspects of computer networking, including installation, configuration, maintenance, and management. Students develop strong technical skills and a deep understanding of networking principles, security, and industry-standard technologies. The program is accredited by the British Computer Society and prepares graduates for a wide range of IT careers, including network administration, security, and engineering.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This course focuses on the technical aspects of installation and configuration; systems administration; and maintenance and management. You develop strong technical skills and a thorough understanding of how to manage networks; implement through design; and manage the needs of clients and businesses.

Outline:

Course Content:

• Databases and Computer Networks: Introduces the basic concepts and applications of computer systems.
• Mathematics and Concepts for Computational Thinking: Combines mathematical knowledge with computer science.
• Data Communication and Networking: Provides foundations in data communication and Networking, including the appropriate protocols and how to implement them.
• Advanced Networking: Reflects on complex principles of network modelling and performance analysis.
• Information Security Management: Provides the theory and practical skills around compliance, threat mitigation and cybersecurity operations.
• Switching and Routing: Teaches to perform basic network configuration, troubleshooting, and to put network devices in real-life installations.
• Research Methodologies and Emerging Technologies: Allows students to choose from a range of ideas relevant to their career aspirations.
• Agile Project Management: Equips students with the project management skills for academic work and future employment.

Course Structure:

• The course is a three-year full-time program.
• Students can choose to take the course over four years with a year placement in industry.

Individual Modules:

• Databases and Computer Networks: Introduces the basic concepts and applications of computer systems.
• Mathematics and Concepts for Computational Thinking: Combines mathematical knowledge with computer science.
• Data Communication and Networking: Provides foundations in data communication and Networking, including the appropriate protocols and how to implement them.
• Advanced Networking: Reflects on complex principles of network modelling and performance analysis.
• Information Security Management: Provides the theory and practical skills around compliance, threat mitigation and cybersecurity operations.
• Switching and Routing: Teaches to perform basic network configuration, troubleshooting, and to put network devices in real-life installations.
• Research Methodologies and Emerging Technologies: Allows students to choose from a range of ideas relevant to their career aspirations.
• Agile Project Management: Equips students with the project management skills for academic work and future employment.

Assessment:

• The majority of units are assessed through coursework, group and individual projects, portfolios, essays, presentations, or exams.
• Students will also produce artefacts in the area of their specialism.
• Constant feedback and advice from a supervisory or unit team will be provided to support students in their work.
• Level 4 assessments focus on understanding the fundamental concepts of Computer Networking and its application.
• Level 5 assessments focus on applying the basic concepts of the disciplines introduced in level 4 to existing controversies and issues.
• Level 6 assessments require students to demonstrate independent thinking and initiative.

Teaching:

• The course uses a blend of theoretical and hands-on work.
• Students have access to a dedicated test network laboratory using the latest industry-standard programs.
• Students can study for the AWS Cloud Foundation certification alongside their degree.
• Students participate in field trips to leading sites such as Bletchley Park.
• Students learn from academics with up-to-the-minute accreditations and certifications.
• Students work on real-world projects and undertake consultancy work.
• Students are guided by dedicated academic success tutors.

Careers:

• The course opens up employment prospects across the IT sector including computer help desks; network support; network security; network and systems engineering; internet and network administration; network and information systems management; project management; and other computing-related positions.
• Specific roles include network administrator; networking consultant; network design and development engineer; network support engineer; and network architect.
• Graduates can progress to take a Master's in a related field such as MSc Computer Networking or MSc Cyber Security.

Other:

• The course is accredited by the British Computer Society (BSC), the chartered institute for IT, meaning graduates qualify for chartered IT professional status.
• 83% of full-time UK computing graduates are in highly skilled employment or further study, 15 months after graduation.
• Students have the opportunity to gain AWS Cloud Foundation certification in addition to their degree.

UK 2024/25 The full-time standard undergraduate tuition fee for the Academic Year 2024/25 is £9,250 per year. See www.gov.uk/student-finance Merit Scholarship We offer a Merit Scholarship to UK students, worth £2,400 over three academic years, which is awarded to those who can demonstrate a high level of academic achievement, through scoring 120 UCAS tariff points or more. Bedfordshire Bursary The Bursary will give you £1,000 over three academic years, or £1,300 if you are taking your course over four academic years (including those with a Foundation Year). Full terms and conditions can be found here. International The full-time standard undergraduate tuition fee for the academic year 2024/25 is £15,500 per year. A full list of scholarships can be found here.