BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Networks & Security)
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Unique focus on both Networks & Security.
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Incorporates the CCNA syllabus.
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Cisco-certified Networks Labs.
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3 available pathways.
Course Information
The Mediterranean College Computing School has a 30+ year experience and offers a variety of updated programmes, designed in consultation with IT industry leaders, to provide the most current knowledge in Computer Science and Networks. This course has been designed by the University of Derby, a TOP30 UK University, according to the Guardian University Guide 2020 and holds an outstanding reputation within the computing industry.
With computer security breaches and hacking incidents hitting the headlines on a regular basis, there is an urgent demand for highly skilled professionals who can deliver effective solutions. This pathway will help you develop these sought-after skills in designing, maintaining and securing wired and wireless networks. The programme is based on the industry-recognised CISCO Certified Network Associate syllabus.
Year 1 is common for all students. In year 2, you may continue with the Computer Networks & Security stream or choose one of the following pathways: Computer Science or Computer Games Programming.
What you will study
You will develop the technical skills to specify and build the physical infrastructure, and the software development skills to make sure that solutions are robust and secure. You’ll cover core topics such as network routing and switching, ethical hacking, security protocols, distributed networks and wireless networks.
In addition, the training you need to become a CISCO Certified Network Associate (CCNA Routing & Switching) is embedded in this programme. This certification is recognised by the industry, so it adds further credibility to your qualification.
Why choose this course
- The degree is awarded by the University of Derby, a TOP ranked UK University in Greece and TOP30 in Britain.
- It stands out, as the only one in Greece to focus on both Computer Networks & Security.
- It embeds the industry-recognised CISCO Certified Network Associate
- Your Network Security training sets the way for Ethical Hacking certification.
- You practice in our High-Performance Computing Labs and Cisco-Certified Network Labs.
- You develop real business application projects, based on virtual or real case scenarios.
- In year 2, you may change pathway, towards Computer Science or Computers Games Programming.
- You become a bilingual IT professional, with excellent academic & professional prospects.
You’ll learn through a mixture of lectures, workshops, tutorials and substantial e-learning material. Emphasis is placed on the development of practical skills, through the use of cutting-edge software tools and networks devices in our “industry-standard” labs. You’ll be assessed via individual assignments, group assignments, presentations and on-line tests.
Whichever pathway you choose, you’ll take part in a team project during the second year. We set up fictional software development companies and you’ll be asked to work for one of these, playing your part in developing a high-quality, realistic product in a set timescale. This is a safe way to experience what it’s like to work in the industry and will give you a sense of the challenges involved in delivering complicated projects on time.
In the final year, one third of your assessment is for your Independent Study. This can either be a significant piece of research into an area that interests you, or a project to create, test and evaluate an innovative solution in computing.
Courses
Year 1
Introduction to Computer Science
The module introduces the concepts, terminology, sub-fields, and history of computer science, whilst encouraging students to develop academic skills in reading, writing, research, and presentation. Module content includes topics such as: history of computing, theoretical foundations of computing, number systems, introduction to algorithms and data structures, microprocessors, machine/assembly language, computer architecture, operating systems, compilers and interpreters, software, hardware and networks.
Computational Mathematics
The module introduces mathematical concepts and methods which are highly applicable to computing, such as: set theory, Boolean algebra, logic, differential and integral calculus, linear algebra, graph theory, numerical analysis and iterative methods.
Programming I
The module introduces the fundamental principles, concepts, and practice of computer programming, and develops the skills needed to design, implement, and test simple computer programs. No prior computer programming experience is assumed, and all practical work is done using the industry-standard C# programming language and the software development environment of Microsoft Visual Studio.
Networking Fundamentals
The module covers the fundamentals of network operation including OSI and TCP/IP models, IPv4 addressing, TCP, UDP, HTTP and DHCP protocol operation, routing, switching and basic LAN design. Additionally, the module will also discuss Ethernet operation in a LAN environment and the requirements for designing and building a small enterprise network.
Foundations of Computer Science
The module explores two related, although distinct, foundations of real life computer applications: human-computer interaction and data. Module content includes: product design, user-interface design and usability, data representations, data modelling and data storage. Data types and various techniques for modelling the storage and transfer of data, are implemented using the C programming language.
Programming II
This module builds on the concepts introduced in Programming I by covering the theory and practical techniques needed to develop usable, robust, and reliable end-user software applications. A wide range of topics are introduced that allow students to start writing larger, more complex and more engaging software, using principles of Object Oriented design and programming and investigating the notion of computational complexity and the importance of efficiency in programming. Programming of software applications is implemented in C, C++ and C# programming languages.
English I
Students will develop their general English skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking, and be provided with an introduction to academic English. Students will develop their grammatical, phonological, general and subject- specific lexical awareness. By the end of the module students’ language for academic study should be at a mid B2 on the CEFR equivalent to IELTS 5.5.
Year 2
Networks and Security
This module covers two important areas of networks; security and network programming. The first part of the module will introduce the concepts, theory and practice of information and computer security. The focus will be on security in the context of LAN, WAN and Intra/Internet environments. The second part will build on principles of IP based networks and provide an understanding of the principles of common Internet and Network protocols, such as HTTP, FTP, SNMP, SMTP, etc.
Databases
The module explores the concepts, technology, and theory that underpin industrial-strength multi-user database systems. Module content includes: the relational database model, database languages, database management system (RDBMS) architecture, query optimisation, distributed databases and applications of database systems.
Ethical Hacking
The module discusses the principles and methods of how to manage and secure LAN resources from both internal and external threats. Module content includes: Security identifiers, encryption, monitoring and interpreting logs and alerts, implementation of firewalls, user rights, security policies and ethical issues of audit policies, backup and fault tolerance protection techniques and attack processes used by hackers.
Network Routing & Switching
The module aims to give students an in-depth understanding of routing and switching protocols, as well as techniques to design, implement, and troubleshoot a routed and switched network. Module content includes: Routing and packet forwarding, static routing, classless routing, link-state routing, Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) and switching concepts of LANs.
Wide Area Networks
The module provides students with an in-depth understanding of wide area network (WAN) technologies, together with an understanding of the necessary techniques to evaluate, design, and implement a WAN. Module content includes: Spanning tree protocol, IP addressing, WAN technologies, point to point protocol (PPP), VPN technology, frame relay and network security.
Team Project
The module is intended to foster employability skills by introducing students to the “world of work” via a simulated work environment. Students will be put into teams that represent fictional IT companies, but which need to produce real software products and engage in realistic work-related activity. The practical experience that students gain in the “Team Project” is highly related to the Software Engineering methodologies, such as project management, coding standards / code reviews, design patterns, prototyping, and documentation.
English II
The module builds on English I and further develops students’ general and academic English skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking. Students will be exposed to more advanced forms of academic English. They will further develop their grammatical, phonological, general, and subject-specific lexical awareness. By the end of the module students’ language for academic study should be at a B2/B2+ on the CEFR equivalent to IELTS 6.0 or above.
Year 3
Server Infrastructure
The module covers Network virtualisation, Linux and Windows based servers, Web servers, database servers, DHCP servers, server security, network management tools & troubleshooting, software defined network, load sharing and redundancy, backup & restore procedures and server logs.
Advances in Wireless Networks
The module provides an overview of current wireless technologies and the developments in wireless networks, covering areas such as WiMax and type-n networks. It then moves into the area of Ad-hoc networks, Mobile Ad-hoc networks and Opportunistic networks.
Distributed Networks
The module is to provide an in-depth coverage and critical evaluation of the concepts, techniques and applications of distributed computing. It will equip computing students with the necessary knowledge for critically reflecting upon and applying P2P and other emerging technologies (e.g., Cloud Computing, Web Services and Virtualization technologies) in real world IT scenarios
Security Protocols
The module demonstrates advanced theory and practice relating to information security protocols focusing particularly on the authentication mechanisms, link security and concepts relating to encryption and key management. Module content includes: Encryption, symmetric and asymmetric algorithms, the public key infrastructure, IPSec, SSL, certificates & digital signatures and advanced authentication techniques.
Independent Studies
This module enables students to demonstrate the ability to independently develop a substantial piece of work related to their specialism. It can be either a significant piece of research following a recognised research methodology, or it can be a significant “design and development” project to create, test and evaluate an innovative solution in computing. Students will be supported and mentored by a member of the academic staff, i.e. a supervisor, but the project will be defined and implemented by the student.
Admission Requirements
This course is right for you, if you are a high school graduate of any discipline with the necessary English language skills, who aspires to build a career in the IT industry.
The minimum English language requirement for the bilingual course (Greek and English) is equivalent to IELTS 4.5 (B1) and for the English-taught course is equivalent to IELTS 6.0 (B2). If you do not possess an official English language certificate, you can sit the College’s internal placement test.
Moreover, you’ll be asked to submit a reference letter from a tutor, and you’ll be called for an academic interview with the programme leader.
If you are a holder of an IEK/ HND diploma or a University or College student in a relevant discipline, you may be granted advanced entry, through recognition of prior learning.
Application & Enrolment
We use a rolling admissions policy, so we accept applications throughout the calendar year until all available places are filled. Since this is a lab-based course with a cap in available places, we urge you to submit your application in time.
We also offer multiple fee payment methods, individual payment plans and bursaries based on academic, athletic and socio-economic criteria.
Contact us today and find out more about this course and the available bursaries and funding opportunities. Our admissions advisors will provide you with all necessary information and will guide you through the application and enrolment process.
Degree Recognition
Your degree is recognised in Greece as professionally equivalent to degrees awarded by Greek state universities. It is also recognized by the UK NARIC as academic and professionally equivalent to any UK degree.
Click here for more information on the degree recognition procedure by Greek authorities.
Postgraduate Study
After successfully completing the programme, you may continue for postgraduate study in technical or management areas, in Greece or abroad. At Mediterranean College you may choose:
Alternatively, you can specialise in Games Programming with our Professional Diploma Games Programming, focus on Networks, by following the CCNP certification in our authorised Cisco Academy, or study any other CPD course of Mediterranean Professional Studies.
Career Prospects
You will be suited to roles that involve developing, maintaining, securing and managing computer networks, as well as jobs that involve the engineering side of network protocol development and research. As a Computer Networks graduate, you can build a career in the following areas:
- Design & deployment of data networks
- Installation & maintenance of data networks
- Networks administration
- Database administration
- Networks & cyber security
- Cloud & Data networks
- Network applications development
- Wired & wireless networking/ telecommunications
- Sales of IT solutions
- Business IT security consulting
Testimonials
The 3 years I studied at Mediterranean College, I had the opportunity to further my knowledge and develop a range of personal and professional skills. I also learned how to work as a team to accomplish our goals. All the academic and administrative staff were really supportive and helpful....
Georgios Choutsisvilli, BSc (Hons) Computer Science.
Studying at the University of Derby was an interesting experience, the level of studies is really good but most of all we met people that we became good friends with. I wish all the best for their life and career....
Dimitrios Pozaritis, BSc (Hons) Computer Science
My time at the College was great. I made some great friends there who helped me overcome many problems. I learned a lot from my time there and I want to thank my teachers for supporting me throughout these three years....
Christos Avgerinos, BSc (Hons) Computer Science
