Course summary
This programme provides a challenging range of advanced topics drawn from optical communications systems and devices, and optics-related signal processing, including associated enabling technologies. It offers an excellent opportunity to acquire the skills needed for a career in the most dynamic fields in optical communications. Optical fibre communications form the backbone of all land-based communications and are the only viable means to support today's global information systems. Research at Bristol is contributing to the ever-increasing requirement for bandwidth and flexibility through research into optical switching technology, wavelength conversion, high-speed modulation, data regeneration and novel semiconductor lasers. As well as units on the fundamentals of electromagnetics, optical fibres and optical devices, there are two units related to optical networks: Optical Networks and Data Centre Networks. The Optical Networks unit focuses on wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) networks, time division multiplexed (TDM) networks, including SDH/SONET and OTN, optical frequency division multiplexed networks, and optical sub-wavelength switched networks. The Data Centre Networks unit focuses on networks for cloud computing, cloud-based networking, grid computing and e-science. This programme builds on the internationally recognised research strengths of the Photonics & Quantum and High Performance Networks research groups within the Smart Internet Lab. The Photonics group is exploring the new field of quantum photonics with key successes in developing photonic crystal fibre light sources, quantum secured optical communications and novel quantum gate technologies. This MSc is accredited by the Institute of Engineering and Technology, one of only a handful of accredited programmes in the UK. Visit the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering website to learn more about the MSc in Optical Communications and Signal Processing. http://www.bristol.ac.uk/engineering/departments/eeng/courses/postgraduate/msc/optical-communications-signal-process/
Assessment method
https://bristol.ac.uk/study/media/postgraduate/admissions-statements/2023/msc-optical-communications-signal-processing.pdf
How to apply
International applicants
The University of Bristol welcomes applications from international students and accepts a wide range of qualifications for postgraduate study. If you study or have studied at a university outside the UK, please select the relevant page for further information on qualifications, scholarships and education representatives in your country/region: bristol.ac.uk/international/countries
Entry requirements
An upper second-class honours degree (or international equivalent) in an engineering discipline. Candidates with a lower class of degree, equivalent qualifications may be admitted if they can demonstrate their potential for higher degree work. See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £14000 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £14000 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £14000 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £14000 | Year 1 |
| Channel Islands | £14000 | Year 1 |
| EU | £28300 | Year 1 |
| International | £28300 | Year 1 |
Additional fee information
Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.
For more information, please view the programme page on our website.
Sponsorship information
University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a ten per cent reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study. Check your eligibility for an alumni scholarship. http://www.bristol.ac.uk/fees-funding/awards/alumni-discount/
Provider information
University of Bristol
Senate House
Tyndall Avenue
Bristol
BS8 1TH