Computer Networks BSc (Hons)
University of Portsmouth
Key Course Facts
Course Description
Overview
From the Internet to cloud computing, social networking, and multimedia streaming, computer networks play a vital role in all aspects of business, government and public services.
On this BSc (Hons) Computer Networks degree course, you’ll learn to develop and manage sophisticated computer networks solutions and get hands on with the latest technologies to make a mark on the future of the industry. You’ll also have the option to join our Cisco Networking Academy to add an industry-recognised Cisco certification to your degree.
With the current shortage of networking and IT professionals, your skill set will be in high demand across many sectors when you graduate, opening doors to careers in roles such as network architect, consultant and developer.
Pending Accreditation This course is currently going through the process of accreditation with the British Computer Society (The Chartered Institute for IT) after the 2020 assessment visit was delayed due to Covid-19.
Our CISCO Networking Academy blends face-to-face teaching with web-based curriculum, hands-on lab exercises, and Internet-based assessment. Students can practice, experiment, learn and share their work using our bespoke networking labs equipped with the latest Cisco networking devices. The teaching is delivered by fully qualified Cisco Academy instructors.
What you'll experience
On this degree course, you'll:
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Configure, manage and experiment with different network technologies and web applications
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Work with our private cloud environment to learn about virtualisation and cloud computing
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Use network analysis tools such as OPNET and Wireshark
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Use our bespoke network laboratory with in-lab and remote access to over 200 routers and switches in a data-centre environment
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Be challenged to put what you learn in the classroom to work, taking on practical network design projects that are linked to your studies
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Join our Cisco Networking Academy to work towards obtaining industry-recognised certifications, such as CCNA or CCNP
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Take optional modules to tailor your degree to specific interests, like management, security, big data, Internet of Things, or business and innovation
Careers and opportunities
What can you do with a Computer Networks degree?
After the course, you could work in many industries, for example:
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consumer and professional electronics
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pharmaceuticals and health care
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defence
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broadcasting and telecommunications
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IT development and consulting
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banking and finance
Graduates from this course have gone on to work for well-known companies such as:
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Cisco
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IBM
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HP
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Microsoft
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KPMG
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PWC
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BAE Systems
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Morgan Stanley
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Deutsche Bank
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Barclays
Our Employability and Careers service will be on hand throughout your studies and for up to 5 years after you graduate to give you help and support with finding a job and developing your career.
"One of the best things about the course is it’s very hands on. You learn by doing and not just theory." Katie Tuffrey, Computer Networks Student
Entry Requirements / Admissions
Minimum Required UCAS Tariff
112-128 points from 3 A levels, or equivalent, including an A level in a relevant subject.
Qualification requirements
Including a relevant subject/science @ C or above (80 UCAS tariff points)
Access to HE Diploma
Including one in a relevant subject/science (80 UCAS tariff points)
A minimum of DDM with the main subjects being Science or Maths. Also required: GCSE at C or above in English or English Language, Mathematics and in either Chemistry, or Physics or Dual Award Science.
31-30 overall or 665-655 in 3 HL subjects.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)
Including one in a relevant subject/science (90 UCAS tariff points)
In a relevant subject/science (112 UCAS tariff points)
The Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate will be accepted in lieu of one A Level at the A Level grades specified, excluding any subject specific requirements.
If Mathematics is not taken beyond GCSE, a grade 7, (or A) in GCSE Mathematics, or Core Mathematics grade B is essential
CLEARING INFORMATION – Our entry requirements may be different during Clearing, so please contact us on 023 9284 8000 to discuss your options
English language requirements
| test | Grade | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS (Academic) | 6 | English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.0 with no component score below 5.5. |
| PTE Academic | 54 | An overall score of 54 with a minimum of 51 in each skill. |
| TOEFL (iBT) | 79 | 79 with a minimum of 18 in Reading, 17 in Listening, 20 in Speaking and 17 in Writing. |
| Cambridge English Advanced | Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) taken after January 2015. An overall score of 169 with no component score less than 162. |
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| Cambridge English Proficiency | Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE) taken after January 2015. An overall score of 169 with no component score less than 162. |
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| Trinity ISE | Trinity College Integrated Skills in English (ISE) Level III with a Pass in all 4 components |
Costs
Tuition Fees Computer Networks BSc (Hons)
| EU | £9250 | year 1 |
|---|---|---|
| England UK | £9250 | year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £9250 | year 1 |
| Scotland | £9250 | year 1 |
| Wales | £9250 | year 1 |
| Channel Islands | £9250 | year 1 |
| Ireland | £9250 | year 1 |
| International | £19200 | year 1 |
Average student cost of living in the UK
| Rent | £518 |
| Water, gas electricity, internet (at home) | £50 |
| Supermarket shopping | £81 |
| Clothing | £35 |
| Eating out | £33 |
| Alcohol | £27 |
| Takeaways / food deliveries | £30 |
| Going out / entertainment (excl.alcohol, food) | £24 |
| Holidays and weekend trips | £78 |
| Transport within city | £17 |
| Self-care / sports | £20 |
| Stationary / books | £13 |
| Mobile phone / internet | £13 |
| Cable TV / streaming | £7 |
| Insurance | £51 |
| Other | £95 |
| Average student cost of living | £1092 |
London costs approx 34% more than average, mainly due to rent being 67% higher than average of other cities. For students staying in student halls, costs of water, gas, electricity, wifi are generally included in the rental. Students in smaller cities where accommodation is in walking/biking distance transport costs tend to be significantly smaller.
How to apply
Application deadline:
January 1, 2025
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Possible Entry Points:
- year 1 (Default entry point)
- year 2
- year 3
University Rankings
Positions of University of Portsmouth in top UK and global rankings.
See all 31 university rankings of University of Portsmouth
About University of Portsmouth
The University of Portsmouth is located on the United Kingdom’s only island city, Portsmouth. This public university, which was previously known as Portsmouth Polytechnic, forms part of the University Alliance, an organisation whose aim is to promote growth and innovation in the UK by putting an emphasis on links with business and industry.
List of 234 Bachelor and Master Courses from University of Portsmouth - Course Catalogue
Student composition of University of Portsmouth
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Total number of students enrolled at University of Portsmouth by level Academic year 2021/22 - Full-time equivalent student enrollments published by Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) on February 2022
- undergraduates:
- 18085
- postgraduates:
- 5005
- Total:
- 23090
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Number of students enrolled in courses of subject “Computer Networks”: Academic year - Full-time equivalent student enrollments published by Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) on February 2022
Where is this programme taught
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