Welcome to your Cloud and Network Computing course

Welcome to the Masters course in Cloud and Network Computing at University of Staffordshire!

This course responds to industry needs by covering a spectrum of key topics, from cloud computing and virtualisation techniques to network security and automation. You will learn both cutting-edge knowledge and hands-on skills by applying best industry practices to design, implement and manage scalable and secure network and cloud environments.

We are thrilled to have you join our course that will prepare you for a successful career in the evolving domains of network and cloud computing.

Course delivery

For full-time on-campus students

With a strong emphasis on practical skills, you will gain not just theoretical knowledge, but also job-ready practical skills to solve today's complex cloud computing problems. You will have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, fully equipped with industry standard equipment. By working with actual hardware and software used by industry, you will develop a deeper understanding and knowledge of network and cloud computing systems, troubleshooting, and problem-solving techniques.

For distance learning students

Lecture materials will be pre-recorded and accessible on our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), Blackboard, along with tutorial materials. You will have access to virtual labs and state-of-the-art simulation software. This innovative approach allows remote learners to engage with the curriculum fully, providing them with the opportunity to work with real-world equipment and scenarios.

Semester one activities

In the first few weeks of this course, you will become more familiar with our friendly and professional teaching team and learn how to use our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), Blackboard. You will also be introduced to our library resources, giving you access to a variety of online platforms.

The modules in your first semester are:

Research Methods and Dissertation Proposal

The purpose of this module is to introduce the foundational knowledge and abilities you will need to start working on your final project. You start by identifying a project, defining goals and objectives, deliverables, and value addition, selecting literature to go in your research review section, how to study research papers, academic writing, and preparing for your dissertation.

Operating System and Network Security

This module focuses on aspects of advanced networking coupled with operating systems. The module is both theoretical and practical within its approach to topics. You will study firewall technologies, the AAA model (Authentication, Authorisation, and Accounting), as well as VPN solutions. As final topics you will investigate the latest commercial approaches used in security, and look at the Windows and Linux operating systems in terms of security features.

Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is an area of increasing importance within the enterprise environment. This module will help you look at the usage of cloud computing and use Amazon Web Services (AWS) as a base for the practical work. Within this module you will look at the usage cases of the different aspects of this technology and learn to understand the impact of decisions which are made. As a part of this course you will be learning how to use the Amazon Web Services cloud environment as a member of the AWS Academy program. As a student on this module you will also be studying towards your AWS Certified Solutions Architect industry certification, should you wish to pursue this.

Pre-learning

To prepare you for the practical aspect of the course, please complete these online courses. There is no cost involved other than some of your time. Most of these courses tend to take between 10 and 30 hours of learning and are aimed at people starting higher education so should give you a good head start. These are online and available 24/7, some require you to download a simulation package called Packet Tracer, which is available for Windows and Mac OS.

Equipment and software

Software

The software requirements will vary based on the individual modules you are studying. The University provides software at no extra cost to all students, which you can access from our University Software Portal.

Trips and activities

In addition to our activities during welcome week there may be opportunities to join guest lectures, either on campus or online, relevant to your course. We will advertise these in advance to give you the chance to plan your time so you can fit them into your schedule should you wish to attend. Please note that attendance of these is optional but highly recommended.

Clubs and societies

While studying with us, we encourage you to engage with at least one of our numerous clubs or societies. Joining a club or society offers you the chance to meet and connect with like-minded peers, enriching your student life and experience.

For more information on the types of clubs and societies available here at University of Staffordshire please visit our Students Union website.

Industry certifications

Some of the modules in this course offer the opportunity to gain specialist knowledge in fields where you can obtain industry-recognised certifications. While this may involve additional study and a small investment, these certifications are an excellent way to make your CV stand out when applying for placements or positions in the industry after completing your course.

The Academic Alliance between Staffordshire University and industry vendors such as Cisco, Juniper, Microsoft, WMware or AWS allow us to provide students with the official certification learning material, latest tools and most current professional practice within the field of cloud and network computing.

Understanding the value of these certifications in the job market, we highly encourage students to take full advantage of these opportunities.

Meet the team

Tomasz Bosakowski

Senior Lecturer

Tomasz has obtained his MSc in Computer Engineering and is currently close to completing his PhD degree. He currently lectures in Computer Networks and Security at Staffordshire University. Tomasz is also a member of the university's Cisco teach…

Tomasz's profile

What to expect on Welcome Week

We're so excited for you to join us on campus and to welcome you to where you matter. During your welcome week you'll be able to meet our friendly student services teams, connect with new friends, join societies, explore on-campus venues attend club nights and much more.