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2 Year On Campus Masters Program
Sheffield Hallam UniversityThe MSc Advanced Computer Networks offers students advanced theory and hands-on skills in designing, securing, operating and troubleshooting enterprise-scale network infrastructures. It’s suited to both networking enthusiasts and professionals who want to deepen their knowledge in areas such as enterprise routing & switching, automation, cybersecurity, and Cisco technologies.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1:
Students study modules such as Advanced Switching and Routing, Network Infrastructure Security, and Network Troubleshooting, gaining hands-on experience in configuring and securing enterprise networks. They also complete Research Principles and Practice and an Enterprise Network Project, developing analytical and project-management skills.
Year 2 (Work Experience):
The second year focuses on a 12-month industry placement, applying technical knowledge to real network operations. Students complete a Computing Research Project exploring topics like network automation or software-defined networking (SDN).
Focus Areas
“Enterprise routing & switching • Network security & cyber operations • Network automation & SDN • Troubleshooting & infrastructure design • Research methods”
Learning Outcomes
“Ability to design, implement and troubleshoot scalable enterprise networks; competence in securing network infrastructures and applying cyber operations principles; skills in automation and SDN tools; proficiency in research strategy and in producing a substantive project/dissertation.”
Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
The course is part of the Cisco Networking Academy, and the fee includes attempts at relevant Cisco CCNP-level exams (ENCOR, ENARSI) as part of the curriculum.
Reputation (Employability Rankings)
Sheffield Hallam reports that around 97% of its postgraduate students are in work or further study 15 months after graduating.
This programme focuses on applying advanced computing principles through practical project work in the University's modern computing facilities. You will develop professional skills using industry-standard software and development tools, working on real-world computing challenges. This hands-on approach is delivered through:
Specialist Computing Laboratories: Access to Sheffield Hallam's computing labs with high-specification workstations for software development, systems analysis, and project work.
Industry-Standard Software: Practical work with programming languages including Java, Python, and C#, plus database systems and development environments.
Substantial Individual Project: A major final project where you apply your skills to a substantial computing challenge, developing a sophisticated software solution.
Project-Based Learning: Collaborative group work and practical assignments that simulate professional software development environments.
Graduates of the MSc Advanced Computer Networks at Sheffield Hallam University build hands-on expertise in network design, automation, security, and troubleshooting, progressing into roles like Enterprise Network Engineer, Network Automation Specialist, Cyber Security Analyst, and Technical Solutions Architect. The program’s emphasis on enterprise technology and certifications prepares students for the evolving demands of large-scale IT infrastructure.
The university’s Careers & Employability service supports students via networking events, dedicated career fairs, CV workshops, and access to up to 12 months of paid industrial placements.
Assessment scores 100% for overall student satisfaction, with 97% of graduates employed or pursuing further study within 15 months; salaries typically range from £28,000 to £45,000 depending on specialization and experience.
Partnerships with Cisco, CloudMyLab, NHS, BT, and Sky offer live projects, field trips, competitions, and guest speaker events, linking students to professionals and employers.
Accredited to Cisco Networking Academy and designed for CCNP certification, the MSc delivers enduring value for networking careers, supporting progression towards chartered engineering status.
Graduates excel at enterprise networking, wireless technologies, network security, troubleshooting, and leadership in IT-driven organizations.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates may advance to PhD or industry-focused research degrees, Cisco or other specialist certifications, or engage in research and teaching roles for further career development.
A degree 2.2 or above in computing or a closely-related disciplineUSA- A first degree (2.7) or professional qualification recognised as being equivalent to degree standardIndia- A three or four year Bachelor's degree with a minimum score of 55% to 60% or higher (from a recognised university).ILETS- Overall: 6.0 Listening: 5.5 Speaking: 5.5 Reading: 5.5 Writing: 5.5TOEFL iBT (including TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition): Overall: 79 Listening: 17 Speaking: 20 Reading: 18 Writing: 17Enterprise networking expertNetwork engineerNetwork architectIT consultant
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