Data Communications

Subject Description

The distance over which data moves within a computer can be as small as thousandths of a centimetre, however, frequently data must be sent beyond the realms of the computers' circuitry and, in many cases, across vast distances. Data communications refers to the transmission of this digital data.

Before computer networks were based on telecommunication systems, communication between machines was performed by people carrying instructions from one machine to another, and many of the social aspects of the internet as we have come to know it started in this format. Throughout the 1940s, 50s and 60s computer and communications systems advanced exponentially and even today computer networks and the technology needed to communicate between them continues to drive computer hardware, software and service industries. Alongside the technological development has been an equally strong growth in the volume and types of users accessing data communications devices. The scope of communication has increased enormously and this would not have been possible without the advancement of the computer network; as such this is not only an important but also an incredibly fast-paced arena to study.

Courses in data communications combine the study of networks, electronics, digital and analogue processes, software, system design, physical technology and signal processing. Courses are designed to be intellectually demanding whilst also providing a strong vocational element which will equip students with a high level of technical ability as well as the knowledge to forge a successful career managing the challenge of technological changes in communications.

Assessment of courses is by a variety of practical assignments as well as written examinations. Many courses also offer assistance in identifying industrial placements either during the summer breaks or as a sandwich year. Unusually for undergraduate level courses there are also a large number of sponsorship opportunities and institutions that offer data communications courses are often very flexible in accommodating a sponsors needs (for example if the sponsor requires you to defer for a year in order to embed you within their company prior to gaining your qualification) or in assisting in identifying the correct sponsor for you. It is worth bearing this in mind when considering where you want to study: links with industry will differ from institution to institution and you should consider your personal preferences before applying.

Example Areas of Study

Data Communications covers a variety of subjects and courses differ from institution to institution. You will need to check with your preferred institution directly to find out the exact subjects you will be studying. Common subjects covered include:

• Object-oriented programming
• Problem solving
• Information and database systems
• Computational mathematics
• Computer architecture
• Object-oriented systems
• Database development
• Local area networks
• Embedded system design
• Operating systems
• Network programming
• Advanced database systems architecture
• Wide area networks
• Network devices design
• Software engineering
• Management of organisations
• Distributed systems
• Electronic commerce
• Broadband networks
• Image processing
• Network modelling and simulation
• Network analysis and design
• Analogue circuits
• Basic Java programming and problem solving
• Circuits and signals
• Digital systems
• Multimedia systems
• Programming with Java
• Power networks
• Systems engineering
• Communications systems
• Computer network technologies
• Electric and magnetic fields
• Electronic devices
• Human resources management
• Analogue and switching circuits
• Antennas
• Radar and navigation
• Computer architecture
• Data structures and algorithms
• Distributed systems
• Feedback systems design
• Human computer interaction and graphical interfaces
• Principles of communication

Some Career Possibilities

Graduates of data communications can expect to gain access to a variety of careers within the communications industries, including within the large software and hardware companies as well as telecommunications and other communications-based industries. As well as these options there are strong career paths open to students of this area within the civil service, general management positions and marketing departments of most industries. There are also a wide number of opportunities for further study at the postgraduate and further education levels.

What do I need to get on a Course?

Entry requirements vary from course to course so you will need to check with your preferred institution to get up-to-date information on the requirements they have for entry. To give you a general idea of what is expected please see below:

• UCAS Tarriff: 260 points
• A-Levels: BCC-AAB
• SQA Advanced Highers: BB-AA
• Irish Leaving Certificates: ABBBB-AAABB
• SQA Highers: BBBB-AAAA
• European Baccalaureate: 75%-80%
• International Baccalaureate: 32-35
• BTEC: DMM-DDD

For your application or interview, the following may be useful

General information can be found at: The Chartered Institute for IT and The Association of Information Technology Professionals

For information on the advancement of communications technologies: The Communications Society

To find out more about the typical subjects you will study, potential career paths and further information useful for your application log-on to Course Discover at www.coursediscoveronline.co.uk*

*NB: Your school or college will need a subscription to Course Discover in order for you to gain access, for further information go to:www.coursediscover.co.uk