Computer Networking

Computer networking is the discipline concerned with the design, implementation, management and security of the systems that allow computers, devices and users to communicate with each other. Every time you send an email, stream a video, make a payment or use a smartphone app, you are depending on the infrastructure that network engineers and specialists design and maintain. Networking underpins the entire digital economy, and the demand for qualified networking professionals consistently exceeds supply across virtually every sector.

At the University of Bedfordshire this three-year, full-time programme develops your understanding of network architectures, protocols, routing, switching, wireless communications, network security and the management of networked systems. You will study the theoretical principles that govern how networks work alongside the practical skills of configuring, troubleshooting and securing real network equipment and virtual environments. The degree is accredited by the British Computer Society, qualifying you for Chartered IT Professional status once you graduate, a significant professional credential that demonstrates to employers that your skills meet recognised national standards.

You will also develop skills in systems administration, cloud networking and the security practices that are increasingly central to all networking roles.

Computer networking graduates work as network engineers, network administrators, systems engineers, cybersecurity analysts, cloud infrastructure engineers, technical support specialists and IT managers across every sector of the economy, from financial services and healthcare to government, education and manufacturing. The universal dependence on digital infrastructure means that networking skills are in demand at organisations of every size and type. Many graduates also pursue further professional certifications and qualifications from bodies such as Cisco, Microsoft and CompTIA, and some continue to postgraduate study in networking, cybersecurity or computer science.