Melbourne Institute Of Technology

About the course

The Master of Networking (MNET) prepares graduates for the design, management and maintenance of all types of computer networks. The knowledge and skills include understanding of state of the art developments in networking, and the assessment, planning and evaluation of technologies and network services.

The rapid technological advancement in recent times means that the telecommunication industry is going through dramatic changes. As a result, a new era of Internet facilities and mobile communications is emerging from networking technology. Corporations, individuals and government organisations are freely connected to the world and with each other, thus creating strong demand for seamless network services with global availability, security, and mobility as primary concerns.

The Master of Networking (MNet) produces professionals who want to update their knowledge and skills, revise their area of specialisation, and expand their commercially valuable opportunities in advanced networking and system administration. Foundation skills in IT and electives in Systems Analysis give graduates computer professional skills.  In addition, streams are available in Security or Business.

Aim and Objectives

The course aims to provide students with a solid foundation in network management, system administration, network security, 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.

Specifically, graduates of this course will:

• Possess a body of knowledge that demonstrates understanding of state-of-the-art developments in the area of Networking
• Be able to investigate and evaluate key network technologies and apply them effectively in an organisation
• Exercise critical thinking, and problem-solving ability to tackle complex new problems
• Be capable of independent professional work with high level of autonomy and accountability
• Demonstrate significant research, analysis and evaluation skills in the networking discipline
• Be able to adapt their knowledge and collaborate and communicate with others in a professional setting

Professional skills: Graduates of this course will show a coherent body of knowledge, critical thinking, responsibility to themselves and others, and communication skills.

Professional skills: Graduates of this course will show initiative, critical thinking, responsibility to themselves and others, adaptability.

Graduate Attributes

As part of their education, MIT students are involved in appropriate learning activities and experiences for them to develop the MIT Graduate Attributes, as follows:

• Ability to communicate
• Independent Life-long Learner
• Ethics
• Problem Solving
• Cultural Global Awareness
• Teamwork
• Knowledge of Field

Course structure

A hands-on approach and small classes to make possible individual attention will ensure that what you learn in lectures is put to immediate, real-world application. Tutorials, labs and assignment work will result in excellent learning outcomes and work-ready graduates. Students are able to choose elective units from different specialisations, such as Systems Analysis and Security (see below).

The Master of Networking is a part of suite of programs, of which the Graduate Diploma of Networking is nested as the first year Master of Networking program. MNet graduates are required to complete:

• A total of 12 units with 20 credit points each with the exception of Advanced Networking Project (40 credit points)
• A total of 10 core units and 2 electives
• 5 electives are at Level 6 (Advanced Study)
• 3 electives at Level 4 (IT Fundamentals).

Units offered/Suggested Course Sequence (this may change according to unit availability, credit transfers or Recognition of Prior Learning)

Year 1

Semester 1

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

Semester 2

MN504 Networked Application Management
MN505 Local Area Network Management
MN506 System Management

Year 2

Semester 1

MN601 Network Project Management
MN602 Wide Area Network Access Management
MN603 Wireless Networks and Security

Semester 2

Elective
Elective
Elective

Electives

Electives Level 4: Requires Approval of Course Coordinator

MN401 Overview of Networking
MN402 Overview of Operating Systems
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

Some remarks:

• 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.
• The program is available each intake but note that some units of study are subject to quotas and minimum enrolment requirements.
• Not all units of study are available every semester, and changes in program structure occur from time to time.

Career opportunities

Due to the rapid uptake of technology—and as technology becomes increasing powerful, inexpensive and accessible—computer networking is one of the fastest growing professions today. The demand is expected to keep growing strong.

As a graduate of the MNet, you may find employment in areas of network management, system administration, 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 and ICT services delivery and management within a wide range of public and private enterprises.

Professional accreditation and memberships

The Master of Networking (MNET) is accredited at the Professional Level by the ACS (Australian Computer Society). Upon successful completion of the course, you are 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).