
Computer Networks and Security - BSc (Hons) / MSci
Currently viewing course to start in 2023/24 Entry. Switch to 2022/23 Entry
Fascinated by cyber security in today’s society? It’s a key concern for modern organisations in our digital world....
- Level Undergraduate
- Study mode Full Time
- Location City Centre
- Award BSc (Hons) / MSci
- Start date September 2023
- School School of Computing and Digital Technology
- Faculty Faculty of Computing, Engineering and The Built Environment
Overview
Fascinated by cyber security in today’s society? It’s a key concern for modern organisations in our digital world. Secure communication technologies form the bedrock of our modern connected mobile society and our BSc (Hons) / MSci Computer Networks and Security degree course focuses on the practical needs of businesses that require high quality computer and network security, ensuring you’re equipped for a career in this increasingly important industry.
Want to know more?
Find out about our Integrated Master’s
Introducing STEAMhouse
STEAMhouse is a centre for technology, innovation, creative thinking
Our brand new £70 million pound building, STEAMhouse, will become the new home for the School of Computing and Digital Technology from the start of the 2022 academic year.
What's covered in this course?
The course takes a practice-led approach, making use of equipment and tools found in the industry to give you the best preparation for a successful career. Our approach prioritises the practical skills sought by industry, backing this up with a thorough understanding of theory. The course delivers the latest in computing, network and security technologies, with the opportunity to gain additional accreditation from Cisco, Juniper, Huawei, Palo Alto and the Linux Professional Institute. Birmingham City University is also home to Cisco Systems, Juniper, Palo Alto and the Microsoft Academy Centres. You’ll learn from a well-rounded curriculum in computer network engineering, programming, server systems, security theory and practice, as well as management-level skills such as project and change management, maximizing your career potential.
Studying computing with us puts you at the heart of an exciting, innovative community. Part of your first-year assessment will involve taking part in our annual Innovation Fest, where students get together to solve society’s problems with creative technology. Previous projects have included medical assistance drones, accessible gaming controllers, and smart housing solutions. The event brings together students, academics and industry guests, so it’s a great way to have fun, build experience and network, and win prizes!
Upon graduation you could progress into a career as a network security engineer, network administrator, and network security analyst or network security architect.
I always recommend Birmingham City University to students wishing to go to the UK for studies and six of them so far have listened to my advice!”
Muhammad Sagir Usman
Why Choose Us?
- Brand new facilities at STEAMhouse - This state-of-the-art building will become the new home for the School of Computing and Digital Technology from the start of the 2022 academic year. Based at our expanding City Centre Campus, this unique centre will give you access to outstanding facilities and teaching spaces, as well as opportunities to collaborate with people and businesses across multiple sectors and work on real industry-based projects.
- Multi-Industry partnerships - We are home to Cisco Systems and the Microsoft Academy Centre As one of Microsoft’s top UK university-based academies, we are a member of the Microsoft Developer Network Academic Alliance. This means we are able to use various Microsoft software products and online resources for research
- Top 15 for student satisfaction in Computer Science - Complete University Guide 2022
- Industry connections - We are also a Cisco ASC (Academy Support Centre) and Cisco Instructor Training Centre (ITC)
- State-of-the-art facilities - You will be based at Millennium Point within our City Centre Campus, where we have recently invested £6.5 million in IT facilities and labs to give you access to the latest technology and familiarise yourself with systems that will be sought after by employers
- Optional placement year - You will have the option to carry out a placement year, in between your second and final year, and gain professional qualifications from vendors such as Microsoft, Cisco and Linux Professional Institute.
Studying with us during the Covid-19 pandemic
The University has put in place measures in response to Covid-19 to allow us to safely deliver our courses. Should the impact of the pandemic continue in future years, any additional or alternative arrangements put in place by the University will be in accordance with the latest government public health advice, health and safety legislation, and the terms and conditions of the student contract.
Open Days
Join us for an on-campus Open Day where you'll be able to explore our campus and facilities in person. You'll be able to hear more about your chosen subject area in our course talks.
Next Open Day: Saturday 25 June
Entry Requirements
We accept a range of qualifications, the most popular of which are detailed below.
Essential Requirements
112 UCAS tariff points from A/AS Level |
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LEVEL 2 QUALIFICATIONS | ||
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GCSE |
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Irish Leaving Certificate (Ordinary Level) |
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Scottish Intermediate 2 |
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Scottish Credit Standard Grade |
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Scottish National 5 |
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Plus one of the following Level 3 (and above) Qualifications | ||
A level and Advanced VCE |
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Access to HE Diploma |
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Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate - Skills Challenge Certificate (first teaching September 2015) |
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Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma – Core (awarded until 2016) ESW/KS Combined component |
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T- Levels |
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International Baccalaureate Diploma |
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Other qualifications | ||
If you have a qualification that is not listed in the table please refer to our full entry requirements on UCAS. Further guidance on tariff points can be found on the UCAS website. |
Additional information for EU/International students
Essential | ||
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Please see your country page for further details on the equivalent qualifications we accept. In additional to the academic entry requirements listed above, international and EU students will also require the qualifications detailed in this table. |
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EU/Non-EU (International) Qualifications | ||
IELTS |
6.0 overall with 5.5 minimum in all bands If you do not meet the required IELTS score, you may be eligible for one of our pre-sessional English courses. Please note that you must have a Secure English Language Test (SELT) to study on the pre-sessional English course. More information. |
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International Baccalaureate Diploma (or equivalent, including internationally accredited Foundation courses). |
1. For students who complete the full IB Diploma: a total of 14 points or above from three Higher Level Subjects. 2. Students who do not complete the IB Diploma will be considered on the basis of their IB Certificates. Students must have grade 5 in Maths (Standard Level) |
International students who cannot meet the direct entry requirements can begin their degree studies at Birmingham City University International College (BCUIC).
Additional Requirements
As part of the application process you will be invited to attend an applicant visit day where you will undertake a short one-to-one interview with an academic member of staff. This is your chance to show us how passionate you are about the subject and it will help us make a decision on your application.
This will provide you with more information about the School and your course. In addition, it will give you a chance to meet and our staff and students to gain a better understanding of what it is like to be a student here.
Fees & How to Apply
UK students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation based on the Retail Prices Index and the additional costs we incur each year to deliver our courses, maintain and develop our infrastructure and provide a range of support services, or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: BSc (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2023
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 years
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TBC
- Apply via UCAS
- Full Time
- 4 years with Professional Placement
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TBC
- Apply via UCAS
Award: MSci
Starting: Sep 2023
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 4 years
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TBC
- Apply via UCAS
- Full Time
- 5 years with Professional Placement
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TBC
- Apply via UCAS
International students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation based on the Retail Prices Index and the additional costs we incur each year to deliver our courses, maintain and develop our infrastructure and provide a range of support services, or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: BSc (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2023
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 years
-
TBC
Award: MSci
Starting: Sep 2023
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 4 years
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TBC
If you're unable to use the online form for any reason, you can complete our PDF application form and equal opportunities PDF form instead.
Guidance for UK students
UK students applying for most undergraduate degree courses in the UK will need to apply through UCAS.
The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) is a UK organisation responsible for managing applications to university and college.
Applying through UCAS
- Register with UCAS
- Login to UCAS and complete your details
- Select your course and write a personal statement
- Get a reference
- Pay your application fee and submit your application
Guidance for International students
There are three ways to apply:
1) Direct to the University
You will need to complete our International Application Form and Equal Opportunities Form, and submit them together with scan copies of your original academic transcripts and certificates.
2) Through a country representative
Our in-country representatives can help you make your application and apply for a visa. They can also offer advice on travel, living in the UK and studying abroad.
3) Through UCAS
If you are applying for an undergraduate degree or a Higher National Diploma (HND), you can apply through the UK’s Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).
You can request a printed form from your school or nearest British Council office. You will be charged for applying through UCAS. Birmingham City University’s UCAS code is B25 BCITY.
Personal statement
UK / EU students are required to submit a personal statement as part of their application for this course.*
The personal statement gives you a crucial opportunity to say why you’re applying and why the institution should accept you.
Here are the key areas you’ll need to address:
- Course choice - Why does this course appeal? What areas are of particular interest?
- Career plans - If you have a specific career in mind, say how your chosen course will help you pursue this goal.
- Work experience - Mention any work that is relevant to your subject, highlighting the skills and experience gained.
- School or college experience - Highlight skills gained at school/college, eg summer schools or mentoring activities.
- Non-accredited skills or achievement - eg Duke of Edinburgh Award, Young Enterprise scheme.
You should also mention your future plans – if you’re planning to take a year out, don't forget to give your reasons. Talk about any subjects you’re studying that don’t have a formal assessment and any sponsorships or placements you’ve applied for. And don't be scared to add in details about your social, sports or leisure interests.
Worried about Personal Statements?
If you've got no idea where to start or just want to check you're on the right track, we’ve got expert advice and real examples from our students to help you nail your personal statement. You can even download our ultimate personal statement guide for free.
*Non-EU students are not required to submit a personal statement when applying for this course.
Course in Depth
Year one
In order to complete this course, you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).
20 credits
Within the Computer Systems Module, you will gain knowledge and experience of computers and computer hardware.
This module presents a holistic view of how computer systems work and it also provides the underpinning knowledge required:
- for the design of computer architecture
- to show how software interacts with hardware
- to apply electronics principles
- to use number systems for computer technology
20 credits
The module gives you the opportunity to learn mathematical concepts and methods and critically reflect on how they relate to computing and communication systems. You will develop core mathematical and statistical skills which are fundamental in computing and technical work in general. You will be expected to solve mathematical and statistical problems on paper and on a computer.
20 credits
This introductory computer programming module provides the underpinning knowledge and practice for computing students to design, build and test software components. The module will make use of practical sessions primarily to allow you to apply programming principles and constructs in order to creatively solve problems by means of developing small programs. Module content and assessment enables learners to acquire programming skills in a modern imperative language.
20 credits
The module provides the opportunity to learn and critically reflect the skills required in building and designing basic networks and their requirements within a network infrastructure. This module builds on the underpinning knowledge and theory of networking systems.
The module consists of:
- Subject specific lectures/laboratory sessions to introduce knowledge and skills relevant to network and information systems, along with communication architecture
- Lectures/laboratory sessions to introduce principles and techniques for information communication within a network and ensuring effective communication
- Global view on information system communication.
20 credits
In this module, you learn how modern operating systems are the glue that bind computer hardware and networks together and how they manage the user experience for individual computers and wider networks. We will focus on the function and purpose of operating systems, with a focus on hands-on practical skills. We will build on learning from your networking, programming and computer systems modules, enhancing and extending skills in all these areas. You will make heavy use of Open Source Software, demonstrating what can be achieved with this huge publicly shareable resource on a very limited budget.
20 credits
This first-year project allows you to develop and cultivate a creative mind-set through collaborative innovative practice, allowing you to bring together knowledge and imagination to construct a viable product. It is an opportunity to express your ideas, skills and talent to the wider community of innovative practice.
The project provides you with an opportunity to be part of a thriving community of innovators that practices connected learning. This is facilitated by putting you into inter-disciplinary project teams supported by innovation mentors, advisors and academics; culminating in you exhibiting your work to an international panel of experts.
Year two
In order to complete this course, you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).
20 credits
Within the module Server Systems, you will learn that servers are the engines that deliver the data of the worldwide Internet and cloud revolution. In this module you will learn how to design, configure and troubleshoot servers to provide both the data and network services required in modern networks. You will spend a lot of time actually configuring and troubleshooting servers in this module to give you the hands-on skills required by industry. This will be backed up by theory delivered via videos and reading and short lectures.
20 credits
The module has been designed to provide you with the necessary theoretical framework, foundations and practical support for understanding security solutions with reference to the application of cryptography, access control and a wider range of security attack categories and defensive approaches and systems.
This is underpinned by providing an understanding of the use of asymmetric cryptography for key management associated with the use of symmetric cryptography, cryptographic certificates and public key infrastructure (PKI). This module provides practical skills through the use and study of cryptographic and access control software. A theoretical underpinning is provided through a mathematical analysis of one or more public key cryptographic protocols.
20 credits
This module builds on your foundational programming knowledge and skills developed during the Level 4 Computer Programming module to extend and focus these towards the area of network engineering. It provides an essential skillset for network engineers to manage and develop networks/networking applications. This aids the management of complex networks by allowing the automation of regular tasks and the potential reduction of human error when configuring multiple devices.
20 credits
In this module you will have the opportunity to learn and critically reflect on the skills required for Network Technologies. This module builds your knowledge and underpinning theory for the networking modules and you will review the requirements from a small to medium scale network deployment engineering context.
20 credits
This module allows you to examine network technology, applications and protocols to enable you to gain a thorough understanding of the developments in this area. Routing and switching will be investigated theoretically and practically using a variety of different network operating systems and devices. The module content builds on the networking technologies introduced previously, and focuses on developing design and implementation skills relevant to achieving industry certification applicable to small and medium enterprise networks.
20 credits
This module forms part of the Research and Enterprise strand that runs through each programme curriculum from level 4 to 7. It builds on the core concepts, which were introduced to you at level 4 in the practice based computing related modules and the underpinning role innovation plays in this.
As you have chosen to major in developing your technical capability, knowledge and skills required for you chosen career path, this module is designed to draw upon your technical learning framework through Reflection, Evaluation, Entrepreneurialism and Management (REEM). REEM forms the principles of this module allowing you to explore and to further build on your strengths and achievements to pursue excellence in a professional context.
Year three
In order to complete this course, you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).
20 credits
The module provides you with an opportunity to learn and critically reflect on the skills of Ethical Hacking and information security within a global context. This module builds on the knowledge and underpinning theory from the networking modules and reviews the requirements for a secure network communication system.
20 credits
The module gives you an opportunity to learn and critically reflect on the skills of wireless network design. This module builds on the knowledge and underpinning theory from the networking modules and reviews the requirements for a secure wireless network communication system.
The module consists of:
- Subject specific lectures/workshops to introduce knowledge and skills relevant to wireless networking and the corresponding state of the art technologies.
- Lectures/workshops to introduce principles and techniques for secure communication within a wireless network and ensuring security of data in transit.
- Global view on information security and the changing requirements for information and data communication security.
20 credits
The module provides you with an opportunity to gain experience and critically reflect on the skills of software and information security within a global context. This module builds on the knowledge and underpinning theory from the networking modules and reviews the requirements for a secure network communication system.
20 credits
The module is an opportunity for you to learn and critically reflect on the skills of network and information security within a global context. This module builds on the knowledge and underpinning theory from the networking modules and reviews the requirements for a secure network communication system.
40 credits
The purpose of the module is to enable you to undertake a sustained, in-depth and research-informed project exploring an area that is of personal interest to you. In agreement with your supervisor, you will decide upon your topic which will take the form of a practical outcome (artefact) with accompanying contextual material. The main consideration when choosing your topic is that it must be aligned to the programme you are studying, and you should consider the relevance of this topic to your future academic or professional development.
At this level, you will be expected to work independently but you will receive additional one-to-one support from your supervisor, who will be familiar with your chosen topic area. As you progress on the module, extra support will be available and this may take the form of group seminars, workshops and online materials that will help to develop your project.
Year four
In order to complete this course, you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).
20 credits
The module provides you with an opportunity to gain experience and critically reflect on the skills of network automation and orchestration within a global context. This module builds on the knowledge and underpinning theory from the networking modules and reviews the requirements for good network management.
20 credits
The module explores the information security principles that underpin the management of an organisation’s information systems. The module will look in detail at information security management architecture and design, risk management, business continuity, and embedding information security within the organisational culture for the longer term.
Students examine the key information security principles, concepts, theories, standards and frameworks. The module aims to develop a sound basis on which to the students can design and deliver information security strategies for implementing and managing organisation’s information security requirements.
20 credits
The module give you an opportunity to learn and critically reflect on the skills of advanced network switching techniques and information distribution within a local and wide area network context. This module builds on the knowledge and underpinning theory from the networking modules and reviews the requirements for a secure and robust international network communication system.
20 credits
The module, gives you an opportunity to learn and critically reflect on the skills of advanced network routing techniques, information distribution and network security within a global context. This module builds on a pre-requisite basis of networking knowledge and underpinning theory, and reviews the requirements for a secure and robust international network communication system.
40 credits
The purpose of the module is to enable you to undertake a sustained, in-depth and research-informed group project exploring an area that is of personal interest to you. In agreement with your supervisor, your group will decide upon your topic which will take the form of a practical outcome (artefact) with accompanying contextual material. The main consideration when choosing your group’s topic is that it must be aligned to the programme you are studying, and you should consider the relevance of this topic to your future academic or professional development.
You will be expected to work as part of a group but you will receive additional support from your supervisor, who will be familiar with your groups chosen topic area. As you progress on the module, extra support will be available and this may take the form of group seminars, workshops and online materials that will help to develop your project.
Download course specification
Download nowWe think it’s important that you are assessed in a number of different ways during your Computer Networks and Security BSc (Hons) course. These will include including continuous assessment, in-class tests, examinations, laboratory exercises and project work.
Attendance requirements
For more information on attendance requirements, course contact time and suggested self-study hours, download the course specification.
International Opportunities
Our Erasmus scheme will allow you to undertake part of your studies abroad, allowing you to experience life and studying in another EU country.
It is open to undergraduates in their second year (or above) and offers a unique opportunity to enhance a student’s CV and experience new cultures.
Employability
Enhancing your employability
Your studies here will equip you with the practical and academic skills that will help you to stand out when you look for your first professional role.
Because we have strong links with companies such as SAS, Microsoft, Cisco and Capgemini, you have the chance to work with and understand the workings of real-life industry from early on in your degree studies.
You will have access to world-class facilities throughout your time here and these will help you to be a highly employable graduate.
The University has a Graduate+ programme, an extracurricular awards framework that is designed to augment the subject-based skills that you’ve developed throughout the programme with broader employability attributes, which will enhance your employability options upon graduating.
Placements
You have the option undertake an assessed sandwich year between your second and third year, which will provide you with valuable work experience and give you the real-life skills you need.
OpportUNIty

OpportUNIty: Student Jobs on Campus ensures that our students are given a first opportunity to fill many part-time temporary positions within the University. This allows you to work while you study with us, fitting the job around your course commitments. By taking part in the scheme, you will gain valuable experiences and employability skills, enhancing your prospects in the job market.
It will also allow you to become more involved in University life by delivering, leading and supporting many aspects of the learning experience, from administration to research and mentoring roles.
International
Birmingham City University is a vibrant and multicultural university in the heart of a modern and diverse city. We welcome many international students every year – there are currently students from more than 80 countries among our student community.
The University is conveniently placed, with Birmingham International Airport nearby and first-rate transport connections to London and the rest of the UK.
Our international pages contain a wealth of information for international students who are considering applying to study here, including:
- Explore some of the good reasons why you should study here.
- Find out how to improve your language skills before starting your studies.
- Find all the information relevant to applicants from your country.
- Learn where to find financial support for your studies.
Facilities & Staff

Our Facilities
As a student in the School of Computing and Digital Technology, you will have access to our labs, software, professional sound studios, computer games labs and industry-standard facilities to develop your practical skills in audio, video and multimedia application development, content creation and more.
We are currently undertaking a £340 million investment programme in our facilities, including a major expansion of our City Centre Campus. This includes our brand new £70 million development, STEAMhouse, which will be the new home to Computing and Digital Technology students. This state-of-the-art centre will give you access to outstanding facilities and equipment, as well as opportunities to collaborate with businesses across multiple sectors and work on real industry-based projects.
Our facilities in Millennium Point have undergone a £6.5million investment with a new maker area, engineering labs/equipment and IT equipment.
Thanks to our partnerships with Cisco, Microsoft, Oracle, Juniper, SAS and LPI you will have access to the latest technology and facilities that reflect advanced professional practice. Our students also have access to software such as the Adobe Suite including Photoshop, InDesign and Illustrator.
Our staff
Ron Austin
Associate Professor
Senior lecturer Ron Austin is the Associate Professor of the MSc Advanced Computer Networks course and teaches all network-related courses. His expertise and areas of interest include: Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP), security technologies, and forensic and ethical hacking. Prior to joining Birmingham City University, Ron spent...
More about Ron