MSc Optical Communications and Signal Processing

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 and grid computing.

This programme builds on the internationally recognised research strengths of the Photonics and 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.

An upper second-class honours degree or international equivalent in Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Microelectronic Engineering, Communications Engineering, Computer Systems Engineering, Information and Communications Technologies, Telecommunications, Information Engineering, Computer Networks, Computer Science and Technologies, Optical Information Science and Technologies, Optical Engineering & Physics. Other Engineering degrees might be considered where a minimum of 5 modules at 2.1 in electronics/communications have been achieved.

We will consider applicants whose grades are slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements, if they have a relevant postgraduate qualification.

If this is the case, applicants should include their CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when they apply, showing details of their relevant work experience and/or qualifications.

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.