Program Overview

MSc Advanced Computer Networks

Course summary

Gain practical and theoretical skills for advanced computer networks. Design, implement, secure and manage enterprise networks. Use the latest networking and security devices in our specialist labs. Follow the latest Cisco Networking Academy requirements. Prepare for the latest CCNP certification.

How you learn

• Engaging small group lectures
• Interactive tutorials
• Hands-on practical lab work
• Testing and troubleshooting complex network models with industry-recognised simulation platforms
• Research informed by real-world practice
• Individual and group projects
• Collaborative teamwork in enterprise network projects
• Industry-focused field trips

Modules

Year 1

• Advanced Switching And Routing (40 credits)
• Enterprise Network Infrastructure And Troubleshooting (40 credits)
• Research Methods And Strategies (20 credits)

Final year

• Dissertation For Cyber Security And Computer Networks (40 credits)
• Network Design And Automation (20 credits)
• Network Security And Cyberops (20 credits)

Future careers

We’ll equip you with the skills needed to tackle professional certifications – such as the ‘Cisco Certified Enterprise Network Professional’ certifications – while concurrently advancing your career through a masters degree.

This course prepares you for a career in:

• Enterprise networking (routing, switching, wireless and design)
• Network automation and assurance
• Systems and networking engineering
• Network virtualisation and cloud
• Network infrastructure
• Network and IT management
• Technical solutions architecture
• Network security
• Wireless engineering
• Cybersecurity
• IT consultancy
• Sales engineering

Equipment and facilities

Our specialist networking labs have cutting-edge Cisco equipment available year-round – including modular Cisco Enterprise switches, routers and chassis with line cards, supervisors and network modules.

Where will I study?

You study at City Campus through a structured mix of lectures, seminars and practical sessions as well as access to digital and online resources to support your learning.

Entry requirements

• A good level of general education with good analytical skills
• A degree 2.2 or above in computing or a closely-related discipline
• Cisco CCNA certification or equivalent networking experience

Fees and funding

Our tuition fee for UK students starting part-time study in 2025/26 is £10,620 for the course.

Additional course costs

The links below allow you to view estimated general course additional costs, as well as costs associated with key activities on specific courses.

General course additional costs

Additional costs for School of Computing and Digital Technologies (PDF, 131.3KB)