Summary

• School of Computing, Telecommunications and Networks

• Duration
• Full Time: 12 months
  

• Fees
• Full Time: €4,400 per year
  International Students: €11,350 International GDL

Overview

The MSc in Data Networks and Security aims to provide in-depth insight and skills in the specialist areas of network management and security, enabling students to meet the industrial and commercial demand for engineers and administrators able to design, implement and manage secure computer network systems.

The course is designed primarily for technology graduates who have some prior knowledge of computing and/or networking and who wish to specialise in computer network engineering. An induction programme also caters for graduates of other disciplines, experienced network technologists who wish to update their skills and professionals with industrial experience in other sectors seeking to enter the industry.

The Faculty is home to a lead Cisco Academy Training Centre (CATC). The Cisco Academy provides training for network professionals and instructors throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa. This has supported the development of a core of staff with exceptional expertise in networks and distributed systems, and outstanding resources and facilities.

The study programme is particularly linked to the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) curriculum. Students can work towards this internationally recognised qualification alongside their MSc degree.

In addition to providing a strong theoretical underpinning, there is an emphasis on practical applications supported by the Faculty's extensive industry-standard devices, hardware and software.

The programme has two intakes, in September and January, and may be studied in full or part-time mode. The full time duration is one year (16 months for January start).

Key Facts

• Network security skills are increasingly in demand. There is a growing emphasis on combating fraud in developing network and communication systems.
• This course has been designed with Cisco-specific curriculum, enabling you to work towards Cisco Certified.
• Network Professional (CCNP) and Network Security certifications, as part of your postgraduate studies.
• Develop your skills in our fully-equipped, state-of-the-art, networking laboratories.

Course Outline

Course Structure

Modules

Postgraduate Certificate Network Technology-15Credits Professional Skills and Research Methods-15Credits Design of Scalable Networking Systems-30 Credits

Postgraduate Diploma Network Security-15Credits Advanced Firewall Systems-15Credits Management and Optimisation of Networking Systems-30 Credits

Master's Dissertation--60 Credits

Modules Description

• Professional Skills and Research Methods
  Introduces students to research methods, academic writing and project management, to support the Master's project. It also covers professional skills, including consultancy.
• Network Technology
  Networking concepts, using a top-down, theoretical, and integrated approach to network applications, network protocols and future network technologies.
• Design of Scalable Networking Systems
  Scaleable design is crucial in modern day networks. This module is designed to develop a comprehensive understanding of routing and switching theory and its practical implementation. Students will also practice optimisation and redundancy techniques.
• Network Security
  Network security is increasingly becoming a consideration and concern for businesses throughout the globe. This module is concerned with the theoretical as well as the practical aspects of securing a data network.
• Advanced Firewall Systems
  The module develops more specialised security measures required to secure large enterprise networks. Topics include: firewall design using IOS (Internet Operating System) and appliance based systems (ASAs), the design and implementation of AAA (Authentication Authorisation and Accounting) and intrusion detection/prevention systems.
• Management and Optimisation of Networking Systems
  The business world today requires computer networks which are responsive to change without major disruption. This module is concerned with the management and traffic engineering techniques and tools required to optimise converged networks.

Assessments

Assessment is through a combination of coursework, examinations, presentations, practical assignments, vivas, online activities and project work. Emphasis is placed upon the development of a broad range of relevant skills. Assessment methods will vary according to the particular knowledge skills being assessed.

After your studies

Further Studies

The University can offer postgraduate research (MPhil and PhD) programmes. Details can be found on the postgraduate section of the website.

Employment Opportunities

In addition to further academic research opportunities, career prospects are expected to keep pace with the rapid advances in telecommunications technologies and there is expected to be continuing demand for competent, versatile postgraduates who can design and implement innovative solutions for industry. The course also develops a wide spectrum of transferable skills to take into a general business career.