MSc Communications and Information Engineering (H641)

Applications accepted for 1st October 2018:

The course provides students with comprehensive training in the essential elements of modern communication and information engineering. The information-theoretic underpinnings are provided in conjunction with physical-layer aspects of both optical and radio transmission, as well as signal processing methods. Furthermore, the course covers developments in radio network architectures and deployment. The optional modules are topical and diverse, encompassing the design of application specific integrated circuits, micro-electromechanical systems and optical engineering. Cross-discipline options from the Department of Computer Science offer key insights into approaches for dealing with the explosion in data collected in modern society ('big data'). In particular, the course provides students with opportunities to study digital multimedia storage and communications technologies, data analytics and data mining, in terms of algorithms and goals in real-world problems.

To complement the taught modules, students carry out a significant individual research project, which will provide them with the opportunity to put their knowledge into practice.

Graduates will be well equipped for employment opportunities in modern information and communication engineering, which is currently undergoing a revolution. Recent graduates occupy positions in a variety of industries in the UK and worldwide, including core network provision, logistics, software support, and data communication equipment/services. The School has strong links with a number of leading telecommunications companies. Moreover, this course is the perfect platform for progression to a research degree.

The course sits firmly in the middle of information and communication technology, providing training in both the foundations and applications (drawn from recent research and industrial practice). For example, there is increased focus in industry on leveraging the recent explosion in social media data to make better-informed decisions on how to invest in engineering infrastructure.

Contact

For enquires please contact the Course Coordinator: Dr Yunfei Chen

Degree title

Degree of Master of Science in Communications and Information Engineering (MSc)

Course Structure

The MSc degree (totalling 180 credits) comprises:

Eight taught modules (15 credits each): Five core modules and three optional modules (see below)
A research project worth 60 credits (see below)

Core modules

Advanced Wireless Systems and Networks (ES96T)

This module focuses on the architecture of wireless networks, its key components, the industrial performance metrics, and both simulation and mathematical modelling techniques used to design and optimise networks.

Information Theory and Coding (ES4E7)

This module provides the understanding and analytical tools necessary to apply information theory to a range of modern problems in communication engineering. In particular, you will gain knowledge of: information and entropy, the principles of coding for both error correction and compression, the concept of channel capacity, and emerging information theory topics.

Antenna, Propagation and Wireless Communications Theory (ES4D2)

This module focuses on fundamental wireless theory and its application in the physical layer of a wireless communication system. This includes antennas, propagation, receiver and equaliser methods, shadowing and diversity.

Optical Communication Systems (ES4C4)

This module presents the key elements in optical communication systems including optical device principles, optoelectronic systems integration and optical networking. The focus is on specialist knowledge of the detailed strategies and techniques involved in the design and analysis of optical communication systems.

Signal & Image Processing (ES4C8)

This module aims to introduce the theory and implementation of 1-dimensional digital signal processing and 2-dimensional image processing, with emphasis on software and algorithms. It will equip students with sufficient knowledge to enable employment or postgraduate study involving signal processing.

Optional modules (choose 3)

ASICs, MEMS and Smart Devices (ES434)
Optical Engineering (ES4C5)
Data Mining (from Computer Science) (CS909)
Foundations of Data Analytics (from Computer Science) (CS910)
Image and Video Analysis (CS413)

*Optional module lists are subject to change each year to keep the student learning experience current and up to date. We are currently reviewing the optional module list for Communication and Information Engineering and recommend that you check this webpage again in future for the most up-to-date information.

Individual research project (ES97N)

The individual research project is an in-depth experimental, theoretical or computational investigation of a topic chosen by you in conjunction with your academic supervisor. Typical project titles include:

Network coding for underwater communications
Nanoscale communication networks
Forward Error Correction for Spectrally Sliced Transmission
Routing Algorithm Design for Mobile Ad Hoc Networks
Logical Stochastic Resonance
Design of Radio Devices using Metamaterials
Nonlinear Effects in Optical Fibre Transmission

Entry requirements

A minimum of a Second Class Honours degree in a relevant branch of engineering or science from a UK university, or an equivalent qualification from an overseas university. For overseas students an English language certificate is also required.

Important note: All applicants will be expected to know the prescribed mathematical concepts. The onus is on the individual to ensure that they understand the required material. Essentially in order to cope easily with the course we are looking for competence in the majority of mathematics that is taught in the first and second year of an undergraduate Engineering or Physics course. We ask that you look at the problems shown on the link for the prescribed mathematical concepts and see if you can do them.

Industrial experience is not a requirement for entry but in cases where the candidate does not satisfy the requirements it may be taken into account.

IET Accreditation

Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council as meeting the requirements for Further Learning for registration as a Chartered Engineer. Candidates must hold a CEng accredited BEng/BSc (Hons) undergraduate first degree to comply with full CEng registration requirements.