Computer networks and communications (CNC) is concerned with exploring the provision of packetized video, videoconferencing, packetized voice, and increasingly sophisticated tools for securing Internet operation for intra- and inter-corporate use. The teaching approach in this academic program emphasizes modeling, analysis and design principles used in modern computer networks, including the Internet of today. This includes reference models, queuing systems, graph theory, routing algorithms and resource management systems. In addition, ubiquitous access to information, anywhere, anyplace, and anytime, will characterize whole new kinds of information systems in the 21st Century. These are being enabled by rapidly emerging wireless communications systems, based on radio and infrared transmission mechanisms, and utilizing such technologies as cellular telephony, personal communications systems, wireless PBXs, and wireless local area networks. These systems have the potential to dramatically change society as workers become "untethered" from their information sources and communications mechanisms. While there is a rich body of knowledge associated with radio system engineering, the needed expertise must build upon this to encompass network management, integration of wireless and wireline networks, system support for mobility, computing system architectures for wireless nodes/base stations/servers, user interfaces appropriate for small handheld portable devices, and new applications that can exploit mobility and location information.

The Computer networks and communications academic program is also aiming to provide advanced and specialist understanding of the programming and use of the coherent networks and distributed computing systems to be found in industry and commerce. Therefore it seeks to promote the capability to use and develop problem-solving methods and distributed programming techniques. The courses are applied in nature with emphasis on the acquisition of design, operational and communication skills through the taught elements, which include a significant laboratory and workshop content, and through the industry or university based project.

Computer networks and communications course list