Computer Networks and Security BSc
Develop high-level skills for designing and building secure computer networks. Gain industry-recognised certifications, and first-class placement and career opportunities
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Viewing course details for 2025-26 year of entry
- Code
- I124
- Attendance
- Full-time, Part-time
- Start
- September 2025
- Fees
- £9,535* (UK) | £16,600 (INT)
- Duration
- 3 years full-time, 5 years part-time (average), 6 years part-time
- Course Leader
- Mr Clifford Sule
- Study mode
- On campus
- Location
- Hendon campus
- Entry Requirements
- 112-128 UCAS points
- Placement year
- Optional
- School / Department
- Faculty of Science and Technology
Why choose Computer Networks and Security BSc at Middlesex?
In an increasingly interconnected digital world, strong computer networks are more important than ever. This course will help you build the skills and confidence to handle real-world IT issues including Cyber security.
You’ll develop your professional skills with a year-long, paid work experience placement as part of a four-year study option.
We have strong links with industry giants like Cisco, Lucent Technologies, Huawei, Xilinx and Jupiter Networks. We are an accredited Cisco and Huawei training Centre.
What you will gain
After graduating from this course, you will have developed in-demand skills which will help you adapt to the ever-changing computer networking landscape.
You'll gain practical competencies in network design and security and learn how to develop mobile internet applications and services.
You'll also have the opportunity to achieve industry-recognised certifications, including Cisco's CCNA and CCNP.
At a time when cyber security is of utmost importance, you will learn to strengthen and defend your networks from malicious attacks.
What you will learn
You’ll learn how to reduce security threats to networks, and develop the skills to design and implement internet and network applications.
Throughout your Computer Networks and Security degree, you’ll put your skills to the test with hands-on experiments in our Cisco, Xilinx, and mobile communication labs. And you'll also have access to observation control rooms and test areas in the networking labs.
To improve your learning we have taken a more radical approach to teaching this course than other universities.
Our approach includes:
- Using practical, problem-led sessions that reflect the way Computer Networking occurs in the real world, to help you develop an appreciation of the key topics of the discipline
- Integrating Security throughout the course and using programming to set up and control operation of routers and switches
- Using examples, challenges, mini-projects and case studies in the first year to provide an opportunity for multiple topics to be introduced and investigated
- Allowing you to dictate the pace of learning.
3 great reasons to pick this course
Part-time study
Study at your own pace alongside work and other commitments and get the skills and knowledge you need to progress in your career.
When choosing a part-time course, you will study the same modules as the full-time course but over a longer period.
Find out more about the many benefits of studying part-time at Middlesex University.
About your course
This course teaches a range of networking skills highly valued and sought-after by the international network sector. You’ll learn about creating networks to meet specific needs and purposes, and how to configure networks for secure operation. You will also learn about the fundamentals of data communications theory and practice in modern laboratories equipped with industry-standard equipment. You will have the opportunity to put what you've learned to practical use and make valuable industry contacts; even more so if you decide to complete a work experience placement in your second year. You will graduate fully prepared for a range of careers in network technology, network security and network deployment, and capable of progressing to postgraduate study in networking.
In your first year of study, you will explore the foundational principles and knowledge in the areas of programming, networking, and operating systems, through a blend of practice-based and theoretical sessions.
This module provides a theoretically-rich, hands-on introduction to networking and the internet. You will learn the practical and conceptual skills that build the foundation for understanding basic networking and develop the skills and responsibilities of network technicians, network administrators, and network engineers. You will gain an understanding of the 'layered' approach to networks by examining the OSI and TCP/IP models in detail. Among the topics covered will be the various network devices, network addressing schemes and the types of media used to carry data across a network. You will gain a better understanding of routing protocols and learn how to configure, verifying, and troubleshoot routing operations.
The module covers the fundamental behaviour and components (hardware and software) of a typical computer system, and how they collaborate to manage resources and provide services - for small, embedded devices right up to the entire global internet. You will use practical hands-on laboratory experiments to understand the concepts, theory and associated terminology of Computer Architecture and Operating Systems and Networks. You will undertake lab work using C code, Batch, Bash and Python, and develop a range of programming skills that will support you in this module and other areas.
In this module you'll learn how to programme effectively in the context of solving a range of problems around processing, storing and transmitting data. You will learn the role of a basic but important range of data structures and types and their use. For example, networking and security fields, such as those that represent RTP packets, to transmit audio- visual data using transport protocols such as the UDP protocol. You will learn about algorithms and the techniques for program implementation. You will undertake a variety of problem-solving tasks individually and within a small group setting.
This module teaches you the fundamental knowledge and principles computer science theory, such as discrete mathematics, propositional logic and graph theory. You will study the existing fundamental algorithms that are ubiquitous across computer networking and programming, gaining insights into their application in real-world computing systems.
The second year of study is a transition to more specialised and advanced concepts in network operations, security, and project management.
This module teaches you about the design and development of systems for the Internet of Everything (IoT), including its architecture, applications, technologies on each layer, and IoE-specific data processing and analytics frameworks including cloud technologies.
The module covers the backbone of global communications: internet protocols (such as ARP, IP, UDP and TCP), network services (including DNS, DHCP and CIFS) and cloud environments, as well as network monitoring and analysis. You will learn how to build and analyse any networking environment, independent of the underlying physical networking technology. You will cover the Y-Comm Framework, which combines communication, mobility, quality-of-service and security and the course finishes by looking at issues of network monitoring, network analysis and network performance.
This module's primary focus is the architecture, components and operations of routers and switches, and the WAN technologies and network services in a large and complex network. You will develop knowledge about the trends in networking and network security including cloud, virtualisation, and SDN. These are fundamental skills for network technicians, network administrators, and network engineers.
This module will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the processes of design, planning, implementation and evaluation of projects in a variety of sectors. You will explore how projects are managed using up‐to‐date project management techniques and technologies. The module will develop awareness of the role of projects in the wider economy, and to enable you to develop critical thinking, leadership, and problem-solving skills, necessary to lead projects efficiently and effectively in diverse and challenging environments.
The overall aim of the module is to provide a minimum of nine months and a maximum of 15 months experience in a relevant work placement.
The specific aims of this module are to enable you to:
- Experience a technical employment role in a real work setting
- Apply theoretical knowledge to the solution of practical problems
- Build your skills to assess practical problems effectively and provide well-grounded solutions
- Develop and enhance your professional qualities, to work in a management structure, to develop team skills and communication skills;
- Develop the maturity that will enable you to perform well in your final year;
- Develop the skills of autonomous learning
The final year offers a set of compulsory and optional modules, allowing you to refine your degree through the options. Advance concepts in network design, security and network management are delivered through your modules. A final year project also allows you to showcase your skills.
In this module you will consolidate your knowledge and the skills acquired during your studies and demonstrate this through an individual project applied in a practical, real-world context. This could be related to a computer network, communication solutions, cybersecurity solution or a method for digital forensic investigation.
In this module you will examine some of the weaknesses and vulnerabilities found in network systems that expose them to threats and attacks. Then you will learn how to use clever network design and tools to strengthen and secure networks against attacks.
In this module you will learn how to plan, implement, secure, maintain, and troubleshoot converged enterprise networks, and how to implement complex enterprise LAN and WAN routing and switching solutions. You'll take a hands-on approach in the lab to reinforce your configuration skills, using a range of routing protocols in IPv4 and IPv6 environments. You'll be integrating VLANs, WLANs, voice and video into campus networks and learning how to secure routing solutions to support branch offices and mobile workers. These professional skills and responsibilities are associated with job roles such as network engineer, systems engineer, network support engineer, network administrator and network consultant.
In this module you'll cover general and advanced areas related to network security, cyber security, and network forensics. You'll examine issues, such as, threats and security attacks, vulnerabilities, cryptography, security tools, software security, network attacks and defences, countermeasures, web-based security, network forensic analysis, and security in cloud computing.
This module consolidates several computer networking concepts, and elements of network design, equipment selection and configuration, and LAN and WAN addressing. You will apply critical thinking to a real case study, analysing business objectives, determining technical requirements and constraints, planning timelines and resources, and delivering customer presentations. You will learn how to restore a network to its normal state as rapidly as possible, reflecting the job skills and responsibilities associated with entry-level networking career opportunities.
For more information about this course, please download the Computer Networks and Security BSc course specification (PDF).
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Teaching
We're taking an innovative approach to teaching computer networks at Middlesex, which uses practical, problem-led sessions to reflect the way computer networks exist in the real world. Programming is integrated throughout the year, and you will attend lectures, workshops and tutorials. You will also learn through practical experience during supervised laboratory work, as well as your own guided research. You'll be taught by an experienced teaching team who have a wide range of expertise and professional experience, and who are also Cisco certified (CCNA, CCNP) instructors You will learn your subject by attending lectures, seminars and practical workshops. Staff-Student contact time on Hendon campus is 12 hours per week, normally timetabled over 3 days. Your work will be divided into credits. Each credit is equal to 10 hours of study time. You will complete 120 credits per year of study, which are broken down into modules of typically 30 credits.
Staff-student contact time on Hendon campus is usually 12 hours per week, normally timetabled over 3 days. Your work will be divided into credits, and each credit is equal to 10 hours of study time. You will complete 120 credits per year of study, which are broken down into modules of typically 30 credits.
Outside of teaching hours, you’ll learn independently through self-study which will involve reading articles and books, working on projects, undertaking research, and preparing for assessments including coursework, presentations and exams.
Your independent learning is supported by the library and study hub, laptop hire, and with online materials in MyUniHub.
Here is an indication of how you will split your time.
Year 1
|
Percentage |
Hours |
Typical activity |
|
24% |
288 |
Teaching, learning and assessment |
|
76% |
912 |
Independent learning |
Year 2
|
Percentage |
Hours |
Typical activity |
|
24% |
288 |
Teaching, learning and assessment |
|
76% |
912 |
Independent learning |
Year 3
|
Percentage |
Hours |
Typical activity |
|
16% |
192 |
Teaching, learning and assessment |
|
84% |
1008 |
Independent learning |
Our excellent teaching and support teams will help you develop your skills from research and practical skills to critical thinking. Our Sheppard Library is open from 7am to 11pm Monday to Sunday during term time. And we offer free 24-hour laptop loans with full desktop software, free printing and Wi-Fi to use on or off campus.
The balance between the two will depend on which modules you are taking. The table below is a good approximate guide.
|
Year |
Coursework % |
In-class tests % |
Practical exams % |
|
Year 1 |
35 |
31 |
34 |
|
Year 2 |
41 |
44 |
15 |
|
Year 3 |
62.5 |
30 |
7.5 |
We'll test your understanding and progress with informal and formal tests.
The informal tests usually take place at least once per module, from which you’ll receive feedback from your tutor. The grades from these tests don’t count towards your final marks.
There are also formal assessments for each module, usually at the end, which will count towards your module and your final marks.
All students have an Academic Advisor throughout the year and each module will have opportunities for formative feedback.
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North London campus
Our north London campus is just 20 minutes from central London, giving you easy access to everything this vibrant city has to offer. Make the most of incredible professional opportunities, cultural experiences, and more affordable living, all within a supportive and close-knit campus community.
Learn moreCourse Facilities
You will have access to a wide range of advanced equipment and software. Facilities include internetworking labs equipped with Cisco units, blade servers and high-end simulation software, as well as state-of-the-art telecommunications equipment.
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Student support
We offer lots of support to help you while you're studying including financial advice, wellbeing, mental health and disability support.
Additional needs
We'll support you if you have additional needs such as sensory impairment or dyslexia. And if you want to find out whether Middlesex is the right place for you before you apply, get in touch with our Disability and Dyslexia team.
Wellness
Our specialist teams will support your mental health. We have free individual counselling sessions, workshops, support groups and useful guides.
Work while you study
Our Middlesex Unitemps branch will help you find work that fits around uni and your other commitments. We have hundreds of student jobs on campus that pay the London Living Wage and above.
Financial support
You can apply for scholarships and bursaries and our MDX Student Starter Kit to help with up to £1,000 of goods, including a new laptop or iPad.
We have also reduced the costs of studying with free laptop loans, free learning resources and discounts to save money on everyday things. Check out our guide to student life on a budget.
How can the BSc Computer Networks support your career?
This course opens the door to a career in the rapidly growing network industry in fields such as network design and implementation, network consultancy, internet software applications development and network security. Recent graduates have secured jobs with global companies and employers across the private, public and not-for-profit sectors, or have progressed onto masters’ courses.
During your final year of study, you will engage with networking recruitment specialists regarding future employment opportunities. You’ll also have the potential to start your own business
Graduate roles
These are just a few examples of the types of careers that you could pursue after graduating with us:
Applications developer
As an applications developer your role will include writing specifications and designing, building, testing, implementing and sometimes supporting applications using computer languages and development tools. You may also specialise in a specific development environment, such as computer games or e-commerce, and you will have in-depth knowledge of a few relevant computer languages.
ICT manager
The role of the ICT manager is to ensure that information technology resources are aligned with the organisation's mission, corporate goals, and the corporate strategic plan. Your role will include developing, maintaining, facilitating and implementing information frameworks in line with a corporate ICT strategy, and supporting policies and defining standards associated with information management.
Network engineer
A network engineer is responsible for installing, maintaining and supporting computer communication networks within an organisation or between organisations. Your role will be to ensure the smooth operation of communication networks in order to provide maximum performance and availability for their users (staff, clients, customers and suppliers).
Software engineer
Software engineers research, design, test, implement and maintain software systems to meet client or employer needs. In this role you will use a variety of computer programming languages and applications, working in teams with other IT professionals, or alone.
Systems developer
Systems developers test systems, diagnose and fix faults, write diagnostic programs, and design and write code for operating systems and software to ensure that they function more efficiently. In this role you may also create systems in response to technical specifications supplied by an IT analyst, often integrating off-the-shelf software packages into existing systems.
IT project manager
An IT project manager specialises in information technology but also in sectors unrelated to IT that rely on IT systems. Their role is to manage the development and implementation of plans to meet business needs and the change control procedures to ensure a smooth transition during the implementation period.
MDXworks
Our Careers and Employability Service, MDXworks will launch you into the world of work from the beginning of your course, with placements, projects and networking opportunities through our 1000+ links with industry and big-name employers in London and globally.
Our dedicated lifetime career support, like our business start-up support programme and funding for entrepreneurs, has been recognized with the following awards:
- The top 20 UK universities for business leaders and entrepreneurs – Business Money, 2023
- A top 10 university for producing CEOs – Novuana, 2023
MDXcelerator Student Start-Up Support
Want to be your own boss? You'll have the chance to pitch your business to gain mentoring and grants of up to £15,000.
Global network
You’ll study with students from 122 countries who’ll hopefully become part of your global network. And after you graduate, we'll still support you through our alumni network to help you progress in your chosen career.
Work placements
Work placements increase your success in the job market – as well as being a fantastic experience. You can further develop your interpersonal skills, build your confidence, and make contact with industry leaders.
By making a good impression during your placement year, you greatly increase your chances of securing a job with the company after graduation. Research shows that 70% of placements result in a graduate job offer.
Our specialist employability service and London location ensure that every year our students and graduates gain prestigious placement opportunities. Past placements have included Thales, IBM, Exponential-e and Reed Exhibitions.
Placements normally run for 8-12 months, and typical salaries paid are £18-22,000 pa or pro rata.
Entry Requirements
At Middlesex, we're proud of how we recognise the potential of future students like you. We make fair and aspirational offers because we want you to aim high, and we’ll support you all the way.
Qualifications
- 112-128 UCAS Tariff Points
- including GCSE: Grade 4/C in English and Mathematics
- A-Level
- BBC-BBB
- BTEC
- DMM-DDM
- Access requirements
- Overall pass: must include 45 credits at level 3, of which all 45 must be at Merit or higher
- Combinations
- A combination of A-Level, BTEC and other accepted qualifications that total 112 - 128 UCAS Tariff points
We’ll always be as flexible as possible and take into consideration any barriers you may have faced in your learning. And, if you don’t quite get the grades you hoped for, we’ll also look at more than your qualifications. Things like your work experience, other achievements and your personal statement.
We'll accept T Levels for entry onto our undergraduate degree courses (including our extended courses with a foundation year) with standard application of science requirements and GCSEs in line with UCAS tariff calculation.
Our general entry requirements page outlines how we make offers where we have given a range (e.g. BBB – BBC in A levels), and how you will be made an offer if you are studying a combination of qualifications (e.g. BTEC and A level). In both cases, we will base this on information you’ve provided on your application.
-
Mature students (over 21)
We welcome applications from mature candidates, including those without formal qualifications, provided you can demonstrate relevant experience and ability.
Academic credit
If you have a qualification such as a foundation degree or HND, or have gained credit at another university, you may be able to enter a Middlesex University course in year two or three. Find out how you can transfer courses.
Find out if you have relevant qualifications or work experience we may be able to count this towards your entry requirements.
Interviews
We don’t offer interviews for this course for entry to foundation year or first year entry. We interview applicants for direct entry in to second and third year.
We welcome students from the UK and all over the world. Join students from over 122 countries and discover why so many international students call our campus home:
- Quality teaching with top facilities plus flexible online learning
- Welcoming north London campus that's only 30 minutes from central London
- Work placements and networking with top London employers
- Award-winning career support to get you where you want to go after university.
Qualifications
We accept a wide range of international qualifications. Find out more about the accepted qualifications on your country's support page. If you are unsure of the suitability of your qualifications or would like help with your application, please contact your nearest international office.
English language
You will need to meet our English language requirements. And, don’t worry If you don't meet our minimum English language requirements, as we offer a Pre-sessional English course.
Visas
To study with us in the UK, you might need a Student visa. Please check to see if this applies to you.
Please apply via UCAS using UCAS code I124.
Need help with your application? Check out our undergraduate application page.
Fees & Funding
The fees below are for the 2025/26 academic year:
UK students1
Full-time: £9,535*
Part-time: £79 per taught credit
*Subject to the government’s proposed increase in the tuition fee cap receiving Parliamentary approval3
As a part of our commitment to an excellent student offer at Middlesex University, we pledge to invest the additional money from tuition fee increases into the student experience, and we are consulting at present on what these improvements will be and will follow up with further details.
International students2
Full-time students: £16,600
Part-time students: £138 per taught credit
Student testimonials
"Middlesex graduate Damian Milkins is president and co-founder of Control Circle, a global IT services company. Watch a video of Damian discussing his time at Middlesex and his thoughts on our investment in the latest facilities and equipment."
Damian Milkins
Alumni
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