MSc Communication Networks and Signal Processing
- MSc
Overview
This is a challenging one-year taught master's programme focused on advanced topics in communication networks (fixed and wireless) and related signal processing, including associated enabling technologies. It provides an excellent opportunity to develop the skills needed for careers in some of the most dynamic fields in communication networks.
This programme builds on the internationally recognised research strengths of the Communications Systems and Networks, High Performance Networks and Photonics and Quantum research groups within the Smart Internet Lab. The groups conduct pioneering research in several key areas, including network architectures, cross-layer interaction, high-speed optical communications and advanced wireless access.
You'll explore the essentials of communication networks, from the fundamentals of network protocols and signal encoding to complex network architectures and advanced networking techniques. Our curriculum integrates practical skills in optical communication and networks and equips you with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience.
Programme structure
This programme comprises six core units, followed by a substantial research project, which you will start during the second term and complete during the summer. Your project may be based at the University or with industrial partners.
Visit our programme catalogue for full details of the structure and unit content for our MSc Communication Networks and Signal Processing.
Entry requirements
You will typically need an upper second-class honours degree or an international equivalent in:
- Communications Engineering
- Computer Networks
- Computer Science and Technologies
- Computer Systems Engineering
- Electrical Engineering with Management
- Electronic and Electrical Engineering
- Information and Communications Technologies
- Information Engineering
- Microelectronic Engineering
- Optical Engineering
- Optical Information Science and Technologies
- Optoelectronic Information Science and Technologies
- Telecommunications.
Other Engineering degrees might be considered where a UK minimum score of 60% or an international equivalent is achieved in 5 modules from the following units:
- Analog Electronic Circuits
- Communication networks
- Computer programming
- Digital Electronics Circuits
- Digital Signal Processing
- Electronic circuits
- Electromagnetic fields and waves
- High frequency electronic circuits
- Image processing
- Internet Technology
- Microelectronics
- Microprocessors
- Microwave Technology
- Optical communication
- Optics
- Principles of Communications
- Programming languages
- Semiconductor devices
- Signals and Systems.
If you are currently completing a degree, we understand that your final grade may be higher than the interim grades or module/unit grades you have achieved during your studies to date.
We will consider your application if your interim grades are currently slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements and may make you an aspirational offer. This offer would be at the standard level, so you would need to achieve the standard entry requirements by the end of your degree. Specific module requirements would still apply.
We will also consider your application if your final overall achieved grade is slightly lower than the programme's entry requirement.
If you have at least one of the following, please include your CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when you apply, showing details of your relevant qualifications:
- evidence of significant, relevant work experience with a minimum of 6 months (full or part-time) in an Engineering field
- a relevant postgraduate qualification.
Specific module requirements would still apply.
See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.
Read the programme admissions statement for important information on entry requirements, the application process and supporting documents required.
Go to admissions statementIf English is not your first language, you will need to reach the requirements outlined in our profile level E.
Further information about English language requirements and profile levels.
Fees and funding
- Home: full-time
- £18,400 per year
- Home: part-time (two years)
- £9,200 per year
- Overseas: full-time
- £35,800 per year
Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.
More about tuition fees, living costs and financial support.
Alumni discount
University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study. Check your eligibility for an alumni discount.
Funding and scholarships
Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.
Career prospects
This one-year MSc gives you a world-class education in aspects of current and future communication networks and signal processing. It will prepare you for a diverse range of exciting careers – not only in communications but also in management consultancy, project management, finance and government.
Our graduates have gone on to have rewarding careers in some of the leading multinational communications companies, including Huawei, China Telecom, Toshiba and Intel. Some graduates follow a more research-oriented career path, with several students going on to study at PhD level at Bristol or other leading universities.
Contact us
- Contact
- Enquiries Team
- Phone
- +44 (0) 117 394 1649
- choosebristol-pg@bristol.ac.uk