St. John's University

What you'll study

This programme blends foundational computing topics with specialist study in networking and telecommunications. You will progress from introductory modules in programming, discrete mathematics and computer systems to focused work on network design, routing and switching, wireless communications, and telecom protocols. Teaching typically combines lectures, laboratory practicals, simulated network environments and project work.

• Core computing foundations – programming, data structures, operating systems and computer architecture.
• Networking fundamentals – TCP/IP, LAN/WAN technologies, routing and switching, subnetting and network addressing.
• Telecommunications and signal processing – transmission media, modulation, multiplexing, cellular systems and broadband technologies.
• Wireless and mobile networks – Wi‑Fi, LTE/5G basics, radio spectrum considerations and mobility management.
• Network security and management – firewalls, VPNs, intrusion detection, secure design and network monitoring tools.
• VoIP and unified communications – SIP, codecs, QoS and deployment of voice/video over IP.
• Cloud and virtualisation – software‑defined networking (SDN), virtual routers/switches and cloud connectivity patterns.
• Professional practice and project – industry‑style capstone project, report writing and presentations; optional preparation for industry certifications (for example, vendor and vendor‑neutral networking certificates).

Assessment methods commonly include written exams, practical lab assessments, coursework, group projects and a final year honours project that demonstrates integration of networking and telecommunications knowledge in a real‑world scenario.

Entry requirements

Typical entrants hold a secondary school leaving qualification or equivalent. Applicants are expected to have good numeracy skills and some familiarity with computing concepts. Successful applicants often present one or more of the following:

• A general secondary school diploma with evidence of strong performance in mathematics and a science or computing subject.
• International qualifications judged equivalent to secondary completion by the university admissions office.
• Adult or mature students may be considered based on relevant work experience, employer references and a personal statement.

Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate English language proficiency to the university's standard through recognised tests or equivalent qualifications. Some prior programming or IT experience is helpful but not always mandatory; foundation or bridging units may be available for those who need them.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of technical and engineering roles across telecommunications, IT services and networked organisations. Common career paths include:

• Network engineer or network administrator – designing, deploying and maintaining enterprise networks.
• Telecommunications engineer – working with service providers or utilities on transmission and access networks.
• Systems or infrastructure engineer – integrating servers, storage, virtualisation and network services.
• VoIP/UC engineer – implementing voice and video communications over IP networks.
• Network security analyst – focusing on protecting networked systems and responding to incidents.
• Site or field technician and support engineer – hands‑on installation and troubleshooting of network equipment.
• Further study and specialist certification – opportunities to pursue postgraduate study or professional certificates (for example routing/switching, security or cloud‑focused credentials) that enhance career progression.

Employers include telecommunications operators, managed service providers, large enterprises with in‑house IT teams, public sector bodies, and specialist networking consultancies.

Why study at St. John's University

St. John's University combines applied teaching with opportunities for practical, laboratory‑based learning and industry engagement. The programme emphasises hands‑on experience with networking equipment and simulation environments, team projects and an independent final year project that mirrors workplace practice.

Students benefit from access to experienced academic staff with industry backgrounds, careers support services that help with internships and graduate employment, and links with local employers in IT and telecommunications. The curriculum is designed to align with current industry technologies and to prepare graduates for both entry‑level technical roles and further professional development.