Program Overview

Professional Master's in Network Engineering

The Professional Master's in Network Engineering is a program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to design, build, and operate data communication systems. Network engineers play a crucial role in maintaining the networks that underlie various internet services, ensuring companies' and governments' internal networks are safe and secure, and upgrading them over time.

What is a Network Engineer?

Network engineers are responsible for building and maintaining the networks that support various internet services. Their work includes designing, building, and deploying complex network architectures using multi-vendor solutions. They also use network programming and automation to manage networks and systems, identifying and resolving critical problems at scale. Additionally, network engineers analyze, create, and deploy software-defined solutions to augment network intelligence and resilience.

What do Network Engineers Do?

• Design, build, and deploy complex network architectures using multi-vendor solutions.
• Use network programming and automation to manage networks and systems, identifying and resolving critical problems at scale.
• Analyze, create, and deploy software-defined solutions to augment network intelligence and resilience.
• Plan, scope, and manage complex projects, communicating effectively with diverse audiences.
• Evaluate industry best practices, policies, and regulations established by entities such as the ACM, FCC, IETF, IEEE, MEF, NANOG, ONF, 3GPP, and the Wi-Fi Alliance.

Who Should Become a Network Engineer?

• Academic background: Students come from diverse academic paths, including undergraduate degrees in computer science, telecommunications, or networking. These foundational programs provide essential knowledge about networks, programming, and system administration.
• Prior work experience: Relevant work experience is valuable, but not necessary. The program is designed to help students succeed, even with limited background.
• Software skills: Understanding networking concepts is crucial, even for those with a software background. Learning how networks function and interact with applications will enhance skills.

Is Network Engineering a Good Career?

Network engineering is a well-paying and interesting career in high demand that is hard to outsource. The degree builds on the historical success of CU Boulder’s Interdisciplinary Telecommunications Program (ITP), with employment success rates approaching 100% before graduation. The Denver Metro region hosts major operation centers for many internet service providers, creating a continuous demand for networking professionals.

Program Details

• The program is for both working professionals trying to develop or update their technical skills and new entrants to the industry pursuing academic, professional, or research success.
• The applied approach to education via lab-based courses in multiple disciplines gives students the skills they need.
• 99.9% placement in industry before graduation.
• Average salary: $130,000.

Research Areas

Global interconnectivity requires the continuous expansion and evolution of network infrastructure in response to trends in e-commerce, the Internet of Things, mobile data, and enterprise operations. To assure the continuous operation of this infrastructure, companies need highly educated and technically proficient network engineers with the vision to anticipate and build systems for emerging communication needs.

University and College Information

The Professional Master's in Network Engineering is part of the College of Engineering and Applied Science at the University of Colorado Boulder. The university is committed to providing a high-quality education and has a strong reputation in the field of network engineering. The college offers various programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, and has a range of research areas and facilities.

Departments and Programs

The College of Engineering and Applied Science has several departments, including:

• Ann and H.J. Smead Aerospace Engineering Sciences
• Chemical & Biological Engineering
• Civil, Environmental & Architectural Engineering
• Computer Science
• Electrical, Computer & Energy Engineering
• Paul M. Rady Mechanical Engineering

The college also offers various programs, including:

• Applied Mathematics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Creative Technology & Design
• Data Science
• Engineering Education
• Engineering Management
• Engineering Physics
• Environmental Engineering
• Integrated Design Engineering
• Materials Science & Engineering
• Robotics

Affiliates and Partners

The university has several affiliates and partners, including:

• ATLAS Institute
• Campos Student Center
• Center for Technology Workforce Innovation
• Colorado Mesa University
• Colorado Space Grant Consortium
• Engineering Career Hub
• Engineering Honors
• Entrepreneurship
• Herbst Program for Engineering, Ethics & Society
• Idea Forge
• Integrated Teaching and Learning
• Mortenson Center for Global Engineering
• Western Colorado University

Conclusion

The Professional Master's in Network Engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder is a highly regarded program that provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the field of network engineering. With its strong reputation, high job placement rates, and average salary, this program is an excellent choice for those looking to pursue a career in network engineering.