MSc - Communications and Information Engineering with Advanced Project

University of Hertfordshire

This module presents the architecture of the field programmable gate array (FPGA) and introduces applications that are efficient for implementation on reconfigurable platforms. As part of a group, individuals have the responsibility for workstreams towards designing and applying digital signal processing algorithms for specific applications, and evaluates the performance of the system, and of the team. Specialist software and hardware tools are used to simulate and evaluate applications of FPGA-based systems.

This module is designed to enable students to gain advanced understanding of the core concepts of biometrics and the principles of biometric information processing. Learning is supported through lectures and experimental work in key biometric topics.

This module enables students to gain advanced knowledge and understanding of digital modulation and error control techniques. Propagation topics such as fading models and multipath effects with an emphasis on mobile communications, transmission and communications protocols such as 5G cellular radio systems and MIMO transmission are also studied.

This module enables students to gain an advanced understanding of microwave engineering, including the behaviour of microwave signals, transmission lines, and passive components. Students learn about microwave devices and circuits and their applications. The module also covers RF theory. Lab sessions focus on design and analysis of microwave circuits and transmission lines.

This module is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge of applied artificial intelligence in specific subject areas through dedicated lectures, and practical work. Topics covered include machine learning, neural networks, and deep learning and their application to the solution of complex engineering problems.

This module enables students to gain an advanced understanding of data communications via cable, optical fibre and wireless. Additionally, this module also aims to enable students to develop an in-depth knowledge of the industrialised 'Internet of Things' (IoTs) enhanced network coverage and interoperability.

This module enables students to gain systematic understanding of digital signal processing and its applications. The material included in the module ranges from techniques and design methods used in digital signal processing to the architecture of digital signal processors. Students have the opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of fixed-point and floating-point implementations on digital signal processors and how to make appropriate implementation choices. Software tools will be used to simulate some of the applications on digital signal processors.

This module enables students to gain advanced knowledge and understanding of the underlying physical properties of light transmission, propagation and reception in the context of optical communications. Practical sessions provide opportunities to use industry-standard software to implement, simulate and evaluate optical communications systems to reinforce and extend understanding of the supporting theory and its application.

The Masters Project serves as a pivotal integrating component of the programme, aimed at challenging and enhancing critical thinking skills. It offers students the opportunity to synthesise and apply the knowledge and skills gained throughout their postgraduate studies under the mentorship of an academic supervisor. The project typically requires 600 hours of self-driven scholarly work. This effort predominantly involves self-directed independent study, which may encompass a variety of activities such as scheduled sessions, supervisory meetings, literature review, software analysis, and preparation for assessments.

This module uses group project work to provide students with the opportunity to apply their project management skills and develop their professional and employability skills. The module will provide a mix of careers support, enterprise and business insight and challenging thinking about future skills needs of graduates and employers. Students will gain an appreciation of a range of engineering careers and sectors to enable them to better understand future opportunities.

Students successfully completing this module will be equipped to work within, and lead, high-performing multidisciplinary project teams. Students will develop a critical awareness of their skills, attributes, impact and contributions to project teams, and team roles, as well as an awareness of leadership, including differing leadership styles and cultural issues in projects. The module will support students in the application of other critical components of project management including risk management, cost management, project quality management, human resources management, communications management, and procurement management. The module will make use of experiential learning, case study examples, reflective practice, and guest speakers blended with traditional learning methods.