Communication Networks Master of science degree
Overview
Communication is an ever changing industry, with new services and products being created and offered through the internet, mobility via wireless technology, extreme capacity created by fiber optics, as well as the evolution of policy and regulation. These are all shaping the communication networks of the future.
The MS in communication networks develops an advanced level of skill and knowledge needed by the future leaders of the industry. This program is designed for individuals who seek advancement into managerial roles in the dynamic, evolving communications environment.
Options
To help students achieve the level of expertise they are seeking, the program offers three options: fiber-optic and photonic communications, wireless communications, and network design and management. Each was designed to develop advanced knowledge in a specialty area. Alternatively, students may choose to not pursue a program option. Instead, they may select specific electives from a number or RIT's graduate programs to achieve more specific career goals.
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Curriculum for Communication Networks MS
Communication Networks (thesis option), MS degree, typical course sequence
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| TCET-601* | Programming & Problem Solving in Telecommunications | 3 |
| TCET-715 | Converged Network Concepts | 3 |
| TCET-740 | Fiber Optic Communications | 2 |
| TCET-741 | Fiber Optic Communications Lab | 1 |
| TCET-751 | Wireless Communications | 3 |
| GRCS-701 | Research Methods | 3 |
| Electives | 12 | |
| Second Year | ||
| TCET-788 | Thesis Planning | 3 |
| TCET-790 | Thesis | 3 |
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 30 | |
Communication Networks (graduate project option), MS degree, typical course sequence
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| TCET-601* | Programming & Problem Solving in Telecommunications | 3 |
| TCET-715 | Converged Network Concepts | 3 |
| TCET-740 | Fiber Optic Communications | 2 |
| TCET-741 | Fiber Optic Communications Lab | 1 |
| TCET-751 | Wireless Communications | 3 |
| GRCS-701 | Research Methods | 3 |
| Electives | 12 | |
| Second Year | ||
| TCET-797 | Graduate Project | 3 |
| Elective | 3 | |
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 30 | |
Communication Networks (comprehensive exam option), MS degree, typical course sequence
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| TCET-601* | Programming & Problem Solving in Telecommunications | 3 |
| TCET-715 | Converged Network Concepts | 3 |
| TCET-740 | Fiber Optic Communications | 2 |
| TCET-741 | Fiber Optic Communications Lab | 1 |
| TCET-751 | Wireless Communications | 3 |
| GRCS-701 | Research Methods | 3 |
| Electives | 12 | |
| Second Year | ||
| TCET-795 | Comprehensive Exam | 0 |
| Electives | 6 | |
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 30 | |
*TCET-601 is a bridge course that can be waived by qualification exam. Credits for course or waiver do not count toward degree.
Students must use the curriculum electives to complete at least 9 credits from a list of courses approved by the faculty to earn an option. Students may complete courses listed in any option or choose courses from a list of approved elective courses to complete the required number of electives. A student is not required to complete any option but may pick and choose courses that fulfill their educational objectives from any of the listed options of approved elective courses. The currently-approved courses by option are:
Options
Fiber Optic and Photonic Communications Option
| Course | |
|---|---|
| Choose three from the list below for 9 credits | |
| TCET-745 | Advanced Fiber-Optic Communications |
| TCET-748 | Fiber Optic Test & Measurement |
| EEEE-771 | Optoelectronics |
| MFET-655 | Surface Mount Electronics Manufacturing |
Network Design and Management Option
| Course | |
|---|---|
| Choose three from the list below for 9 credits | |
| TCET-620 | Applied Machine Learning |
| TCET-723 | Telecommunications Network Engineering |
| TCET-747 | Next Generation Networks |
| TCET-760 | Network Planning & Design |
Wireless Communications Option
| Course | |
|---|---|
| All courses required for 9 credits | |
| TCET-750 | Wireless Systems Regulation |
| TCET-752 | Advanced Wireless Communication |
| TCET-753 | Wireless Networks |
Admission Requirements
To be considered for admission to the MS program in communications networks, candidates must fulfill the following requirements:
- Complete a graduate application.
- Hold a baccalaureate degree (or equivalent) from an accredited university or college in engineering technology, engineering, or a related area.
- Submit official transcripts (in English) of all previously completed undergraduate and graduate course work.
- Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent).
- Submit a personal statement of educational objectives.
- Submit a current resume or curriculum vitae.
- Submit two professional letters of recommendation.
- International applicants whose native language is not English must submit scores from the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. A minimum TOEFL score of 88 (internet-based) is required. A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 is required. The English language test score requirement is waived for native speakers of English or for those submitting transcripts from degrees earned at American institutions.
- Applicants with a lower TOEFL score may be admitted conditionally and may be required to take a prescribed program in English and a reduced program course load.
- International applicants from universities outside the United States must submit scores from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).
- While GRE scores are not required for applicants submitting transcripts from American universities, they are recommended for those whose undergraduate grade point average is below 3.0.
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