Melbourne Institute of Technology

Overview

The world is rapidly heading towards a digital revolution where all aspects of work and life are assisted by computer networks. Demand for computer networking professionals to design, build, maintain, support, and protect computer networks is fast growing as more and more people and businesses conduct their day to day activities and work over computer networks.

The Master of Networking (MNet) allows IT graduates seeking to update their knowledge and skills, or change their area of specialisation, to gain commercially valuable knowledge and skills in networking and system administration, opening doors to a range of new career opportunities.

Aims and objectives

The course aims to provide you with a strong foundation in network management, system administration, and network security, along with in-depth knowledge and skills in one or more of the following: enterprise networks, network performance, and mobile technologies. The course also emphasises the development of key employability skills, such as communication, collaboration, and project management through studio-based and project-based learning. Hands-on practical work with the latest Cisco, Microsoft, and OPNET networking technology is an essential part of the course.

Key features

The Master of Networking offers the following key features:

• Core Knowledge in Networking and System Administration: The Master of Networking covers most of the ACM’s Core Body of Knowledge in Networking. It also provides coverage of significant aspects of the ACM’s Core Body of Knowledge in System Administration.
• Professional and interpersonal skills: To ensure that graduates can have satisfying careers in Networking, the course encompasses the professional and interpersonal skills found within the core body of knowledge for IT. These include professional practice; communication; and project management.
• Industry relevant material: The laboratory components of the course incorporate material that is specifically relevant for industry. Students gain experience with Cisco networks; they also gain experience with Unix and Windows operating systems.
• Studio based learning: The Master of Networking emphasises participative learning where students carry out case studies and projects in a collaborative learning community that simulates the working environment.
• In depth treatment of topic areas: The degree features 20 credit point units, rather than the 15 credit point units found in the Bachelor of Networking. With this structure, each unit can go to considerable depth in its area of concentration.
• Security: The degree features significant unit content in security. Network security is a critical area for applications in the private and public sectors.
• Wireless and mobile technologies: The degree features significant unit content in wireless networks and mobile technologies. These are key emerging areas of networking.

Professional accreditation and memberships

The program is accredited at the Professional Level by the ACS – Australian Computer Society. Upon successful completion of the course, you will be eligible for ACS membership.

The program is also accredited by the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA) and is registered on the Australian Government Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).

Career opportunities

Computer Networking is one of the fastest growing professions today, and the demand is expected to keep growing. This is due to the rapid uptake of technology, that is occurring as technology becomes increasing powerful, inexpensive and accessible. As a graduate of the MNet, you may find employment in areas of network management, system administration, and ICT services delivery and management within a wide range of public and private enterprises.

Career roles and options include: Network Architect, Network Manager, System Administrator, Senior Sales Engineer, Senior Network Engineer, Senior Systems Engineer, Support Manager, Internet/Intranet Network Manager, Senior Network Analyst, Senior Network Design Engineer, Senior Network Capacity Planner, Senior Network Solutions Architect, Senior Network Security Specialist, Senior Mobile Applications Developer, Senior System Administrator, and Help Desk Manager.

Scholarships

Various scholarships are available at MIT. For further information go to: www.mit.edu.au/scholarship.aspx

Each MNet unit is 20 credit points, except for the Advanced Networking Project (40 credit points). A full time study load is 60 credit points per semester. Ten core units and two electives are required to complete the MNet. Five electives are at Level 6 (Advanced Study), while three electives are at Level 4 (IT Fundamentals). Level 4 electives are available for students who need to supplement their undergraduate degree program. Students without a relevant background or with gaps in their undergraduate program will need to undertake these units to ensure they meet prerequisite requirements for the core units.

Year 1

Semester 1

MN501 Network Management in Organisations
MN502 Overview of Network Security
MN503 Overview of Internetworking

Semester 2

Elective
MN504 Networked Application Management
MN505 Local Area Network Management

Year 2

Semester 1

Elective
MN506 System Management
MN601 Network Project Management

Semester 2

Elective
MN602 Wide Area Networks
MN603 Wireless Networks and Security

Electives

Level 4: Requires Approval of Course Coordinator

MN401 Overview of Networking
MN402 Overview of Operating Sytems
MN403 Object Oriented Software

Systems Analysis Specialisation:

MN507 Overview of Software Engineering
MN611 System Architecture
MN612 Enterprise Architecture

Other Electives:

MN604 IT Security Management
MN605 Enterprise Network Design
MN606 Network Performance and Optimisation
MN607 Network Penetration Testing
MN608 Mobile Application Management
MN609 Advanced Networking Project (40 credit points)
MN610 Virtual Private Networks

The proposed study sequence outlined above in table is sample only. Student may enrol for any of the above units at any stage, except in the case where such units require prerequisites, as there is no guarantee that every unit will be offered in any particular semester.

All units are subject to change through the processes of regular course revision.

Academic requirements

As a minimum, applicants must have successfully completed an approved undergraduate degree, equivalent to an Australian bachelor degree, in the IT field. Students without a relevant background or with gaps in their undergraduate program will be assessed on a case by case basis, and will need to undertake Level 4 electives, to ensure they meet prerequisite requirements for the core units. For further country specific requirements, contact MIT Admissions Department.

English language requirements - International students

IELTS 6.0 (Academic), with no individual band below 5.5.

Credit for prior study

Those who have completed relevant studies in Australian universities may be eligible for advanced standing or exemptions.

How to Apply

How to apply - Domestic students

How to apply - International students

Government assisted FEE-HELP is available

Australian students applying to study at MIT are eligible for FEE-HELP – Australian Government loan scheme designed to assist Australian students undertaking tertiary education. For further information please click here.