Subject – Purpose

Next-generation communications networks and the new 5G infrastructure are set to impact and transform so-called “vertical” markets (B2B verticals) such as transport and supply chain, infrastructure networks, automotive, health, security, etc., creating new opportunities in terms of productivity. 5G and distributed computing promise in various application areas (intelligent transport systems, smart cities, intelligent management of infrastructure networks, etc.) new possibilities to exploit technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing and edge computing to overcome growing challenges and create new smart infrastructures, applications, services and operations.

 

Taking into account the above, the proposed MSc is dedicated to new generation communication networks, distributed computing and the design and development of advanced applications of these technologies. The aim of the programme is to provide specialised knowledge in cutting-edge networking and computing technologies as well as in the design and development of advanced applications/services of these technologies. In the new era of large-scale distributed applications/services where advances in networking, advanced computing, middleware capabilities and large volumes of data are exploited to address challenging problems, the MSc focuses on the complex issues that arise in large-scale services, such as the effective utilization of distributed resources in a secure manner taking into account privacy and adapting to the heterogeneity of infrastructures. The MSc emphasizes the acquisition of both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, aiming to produce graduates with high theoretical knowledge, expertise and practical experience, in order to fully respond to the needs imposed by rapid technological developments and the labour market. It also aims at systematic, fundamental and applied scientific research, which contributes to the production of new knowledge, the acquisition of know-how and the shaping of technological developments. The ultimate aim of the MSc is to train scientists who will staff Public Organisations and Private Sector Enterprises, as well as Educational Institutions and Research Centres and contribute to the further technological modernisation and progress of the country.

 

The MSc achieves the cultivation of practical skills through appropriate high-level training and real-life case studies. In particular, the graduate of the MSc will be able to:

  • understand current trends in issues related to modern communication network architectures, such as software-defined networking, next-generation mobile communication networks, optical communication networks and data centre networks,
  • develop applications that make use of web-based infrastructures and services,
  • exploiting current trends in distributed and parallel systems in networked environments,
  • apply all required security procedures to modern communication and information systems,
  • develop applications that exploit cloud computing and edge computing with a focus on modern machine learning and artificial intelligence techniques,
  • deepen understanding of resource management, scheduling and load balancing in heterogeneous environments,
  • understand and exploit techniques of distributed and embedded systems and sensor networks in web of things ecosystems; and
  • acquire the necessary knowledge for the preparation of a doctoral thesis in relevant subjects.