Loughborough University
Leicestershire, UK
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Loughborough University

Programme Specifications

Programme Specification

MSc Networked Communications

Academic Year: 2018/19

This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if full advantage is taken of the learning opportunities that are provided.

This specification applies to delivery of the programme in the Academic Year indicated above. Prospective students reviewing this information for a later year of study should be aware that these details are subject to change as outlined in our Terms and Conditions of Study.

This specification should be read in conjunction with:

  • Summary
  • Aims
  • Learning outcomes
  • Structure
  • Progression & weighting

Programme summary

Awarding body/institution Loughborough University
Teaching institution (if different)
Owning school/department Wolfson School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering
Details of accreditation by a professional/statutory body

Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)

Final award MSc
Programme title Networked Communications
Programme code WSPT90
Length of programme The programme is available on a full-time basis. The duration of the programme is one year.
UCAS code
Admissions criteria
Date at which the programme specification was published Tue, 17 Jul 2018 15:39:22 BST

1. Programme Aims

The Master of Science programme in Networked Communications is designed to provide a fundamental background and knowledge of practical solutions relevant to both wired and wireless communication networks. 

The programme:

  • Provides an understanding of the principles and practices related to communication networks, including their protocols and the vulnerabilities to attack.
  • Allow students to understand the characteristics of communication networks through practical measurement and analytical approaches.
  • Students will have an opportunity to conduct project work in well-equipped research facilities and work alongside experienced networks researchers.

2. Relevant subject benchmark statements and other external reference points used to inform programme outcomes:

  • UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence; Engineering Technician, Incorporated Engineer and Chartered Engineer Standard, Engineering Council UK, 2013.
  • UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence; The Accreditation of Higher Education Programmes, Engineering Council UK, 2013.
  • Subject Benchmark Statement: Engineering, The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education, February 2015
  • Master's degree characteristics, the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education, September 2015.

3. Programme Learning Outcomes

3.1 Knowledge and Understanding

On successful completion of this programme, students should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of

  • Mathematical methods appropriate to the programme
  • Principles of engineering science appropriate to the programme
  • Principles of Information Technology and Communications appropriate to the programme
  • Design principles and techniques appropriate to electronic and electrical components, equipment and associated software
  • Operational practices and requirements for safe operation relevant to the programme

3.2 Skills and other attributes

a. Subject-specific cognitive skills:

On successful completion of this programme, students should be able to:

  • Select and apply appropriate mathematical and/or computer based methods for modelling and analysing practical and hypothetical engineering problems
  • Model and analyse engineering systems, processes, components and products
  • Develop engineering solutions to practical problems
  • Integrate, evaluate and use information, data and ideas from a wide range of sources
  • Develop new systems, processes, components or products by integrating ideas from a wide range of sources
b. Subject-specific practical skills:

On successful completion of this programme, students should be able to:

  • Use appropriate mathematical methods for modelling and analysing engineering problems relevant to the programme
  • Use relevant test and measurement equipment
  • Use computational tools and packages (including programming languages where appropriate)
  • Design systems, components or processes
  • Undertake testing of design ideas in the laboratory or by simulation, and analyse and critically evaluate the results
  • Search for and retrieve information, ideas and data from a variety of sources
  • Manage a project and apply appropriate processes
  • Produce technical reports, papers, diagrams and drawings
c. Key transferable skills:

On successful completion of this programme, students should be able to:

  • Manipulate, sort and present data in a range of forms
  • Use evidence based methods in the solution of complex problems
  • Work with limited, incomplete and/or contradictory information in the solution of unfamiliar problems
  • Use an engineering approach to the solution of problems in unfamiliar situations
  • Be creative and innovative in problem solving
  • Use a wide range of information and communications technology
  • Manage time and resources
  • Communicate effectively orally, visually and in writing at an appropriate level
  • Learn effectively, continuously and independently in a variety of environments

4. Programme structure

4.1 All modules for the Networked Communications programme are compulsory.

 

Code Module Title Modular weight Semester C/O
WSP002 MATLAB as a Scientific Programming Language 15 1 C
WSP009 Communications Networks 15 1 C
WSP010 Personal Radio Communications 15 1 C
WSP011 Information Theory and Coding 15 1 C
WSP003 Research Project 15 2 C
WSP005 Project in Networked Communications 60 2 C
WSP016 Telecommunications Network Security 15 2 C
WSP017 Mobile Network Technologies 15 2 C
WSP024 Multimedia over Networks 15 2 C

Key: Compulsory = (C) Optional = (O)

5. Criteria for Progression and Degree Award

In order to be eligible for the award, candidates must satisfy the requirements of Regulation XXI.

6. Relative Weighting of Parts of the Programme for the Purposes of Final Degree Classification

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