BSc (Hons)Computer Networks Engineering

Core modules

Fundamentals of Computing and Programming

This module provides the essential foundations of computing and programming for students entering software engineering and computer science. Through practice‑led activities such as live coding, pair programming, debugging labs, and guided exercises, you'll be introduced to how computers are structured and operate, how data is represented and processed, and how programs are designed, implemented and tested using a modern programming language.

Operating Systems and Network Applications

In this module you'll investigate the function and management of operating systems and the services that run on networks to facilitate this communication between systems. You'll also look at how resilience and availability of systems and services can be provided and the consequence of system failures if these factors are not properly accounted for.

Computer Networks and Security

This module provides a practical introduction to computer networking and security, equipping you with the skills to design, configure, and secure networked systems. Emphasising real-world applications, what you learn in this module supports careers in IT, cybersecurity, and other sectors reliant on secure digital infrastructure.

Routing and Switching Technologies

This module will not only prepare you with the knowledge of foundational technologies, but also ensures you stay relevant with skill sets needed for the adoption of next generation technologies. You'll focus on switching technologies and router operations that support small-to-medium business networks, and through a combination of diverse instructional methods, you'll gain hands-on experience configuring switches, routers, and wireless devices using real-world equipment, industry-standard tools and simulation platforms.

Core modules

AI for Networks and Security

This module introduces how artificial intelligence is reshaping network engineering and cyber security, and why AI literacy is now a core professional skill for both disciplines. You will learn to apply data-driven methods to model network behaviour, optimise routing and capacity, predict faults, and automate configuration and monitoring. You'll also explore AI-enabled security analytics: anomaly and intrusion detection, malware and phishing classification, and intelligent incident triage and response. Through hands-on labs using real network telemetry and security logs, you will evaluate techniques, interpret results, and communicate risk and limitations, including bias, adversarial manipulation and ethics.

Enterprise Networks

This module provides you with the knowledge and practical skills to specify, design and implement large, connected networks. You will learn specifically about the requirements of, and how to implement network security, optimisation of network paths, and optimisation of the flow of data in networks. You'll also specify emerging technologies such as cloud, virtualisation and software defined networks, and will perform troubleshooting on networks and create and use documentation to solve issues.

Network Security Architecture And Defence

This module introduces the principles, technologies, and architectural approaches used to design and defend secure enterprise networks. You will explore how network infrastructure can be hardened against attack through layered security architectures, secure device configuration, access control mechanisms, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and encrypted communications. The module emphasises defence-in-depth, secure network design, and the operational deployment of security controls across enterprise networks.

Network Engineering and System Automation

This module introduces you to network engineering principles based on Cisco CCNA knowledge and extends these skills to include network programmability, APIs, Infrastructure-as-Code, and DevOps practices. You'll also gain practical experience configuring network devices and automating network operations using Python, REST APIs, configuration management tools, and version control systems.

Core modules

CyberOps and Network Management

This module explores how network management practices and cybersecurity operations are integrated in real operational environments. You will learn how network telemetry, log analysis, threat intelligence, and security monitoring tools are used to detect anomalies, investigate incidents, and respond to attacks. Through practical laboratories and case-study exercises, you will develop skills in network monitoring, intrusion detection, security analytics, incident response, and operational decision-making.

Industrial Consulting and Entrepreneurship

In this module you'llgain practical experience working with employers, industry speakers, entrepreneurs, and external organisations. You will collaborate in development teams on an industry‑set brief, applying digital and technology skills while developing project management, communication, and professional behaviours. Alongside consulting practice, you will explore entrepreneurial thinking by identifying opportunities, generating innovative solutions, and understanding how value is created within technical and digital contexts.

Final Major Project

In this module you will manage your own project, from choosing a topic to producing the final report. You set aims and objectives, keep a project plan, and maintain documentation that records your research and development work. You'll be assigned a supervisor to guide the process, confirm the project scope, and approve ethical requirements.

Optional modules

Please note: Not all optional modules are guaranteed to run each year.

Cloud, IoT and Emerging Technologies

In this module you'll gain advanced, industry aligned knowledge across cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT), edge systems and next generation emerging technologies. You will learn how to design, deploy and integrate cloud native architectures with IoT devices, edge intelligence, real time data pipelines, and technologies such as 5G, blockchain, digital twins, extended reality (XR), robotics, and autonomous systems.

Digital Forensics and Cybercrime investigations

This module investigates electronic offences committed against individuals, businesses, organisations, and governments, and examines their impacts, the measures taken to address them, and the processes for detection, investigation, and prosecution. You'll also learn how to write a digital forensic report and defend it in a court setting.