Master of Science - Networking and Data Communications with Management Studies (Professional Placement)

This course offers the knowledge and skills for designing, developing and operating secure IP-based networks. It offers practical skills in the specification, design, modelling and implementation of software and hardware. Students will gain specialist knowledge of digital communications, multimedia communications, wireless networks and security issues. They will study the technologies of LTE and 5G wireless networks and the Internet of Things. Students combine this course with management studies. The Management Studies pathway is ideal for those who aspire to a management position in the industry.

The aims of the course are to:

• Provide knowledge, skills and a critical appreciation of the principles of data communications.
• Enable students to analyse a system and design an appropriate, custom solution.
• Develop subject-related practical skills.
• Provide students with the opportunities to develop written and oral communication skills;
• Prepare students for employment, research, further study and lifelong learning by developing their intellectual, problem-solving, practical and key (transferable) skills.

Laboratories include test Local Area Network (LAN) and several types of wireless networks and enterprise scale networking technologies, including equipment for testing Internet of Things communication and a mobile edge computing testbed. There is equipment for quality testing and immersive environments, including professional ultra high definition, high-dynamic range (HDR) and light field (plenoptic/holographic) cameras and displays, VR/AR equipment.

Kingston University allow students to take the option of a 12-month work placement as part of their course. The responsibility for finding the work placement is with the student; the University cannot guarantee the placement, just the opportunity to undertake it. Students may find securing a professional placement difficult as they are highly competitive and challenging, but they are also incredibly rewarding. It is very important for students to prepare and apply themselves if this is the route they wish to take. Employers look for great written and oral communication skills and an excellent CV/portfolio. As the work placement is an assessed part of the course, it is covered by a student's Student Route visa.

The Networking and Data Communications with Management Studies MSc helps to prepare students for roles such as: technical project manager, solutions architect, algorithm manager, wireless software engineer, technical integrations manager, test engineer, RF test automation engineer, Project manager, etc.