Telecommunications and Networking

The Bachelor of Science in Telecommunications and Networking at the University of Pittsburgh is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for a dynamic and rapidly evolving industry. This degree provides students with a strong foundation in the principles of telecommunications systems, computer networking, data transmission, and network security. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enabling graduates to design, implement, and manage complex communication networks across various sectors, including telecommunications, information technology, and corporate enterprise environments.

Throughout the program, students explore core topics such as digital communication, network architecture, wireless technologies, protocol design, and cybersecurity. Emphasis is placed on hands-on experience through laboratory work, projects, and internships, which foster critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. The program also covers emerging areas like Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, and 5G technology, ensuring students are well-versed in the latest industry developments.

Faculty members are experts in their fields, bringing valuable real-world insights into the classroom. The university’s state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities provide students with opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects and collaborate with industry partners. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to pursue careers in network administration, telecommunications engineering, network security, system analysis, and research and development.

In addition to technical knowledge, students develop important soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and project management, which are essential for leadership roles in the field. The program also encourages a global perspective, preparing students to work in diverse and international settings. With a strong emphasis on innovation and technology, the Bachelor of Science in Telecommunications and Networking aims to produce graduates who are capable, adaptable, and ready to meet the challenges of the digital future.

Students who wish to focus on one of our specializations are encouraged to take as many courses as possible in that area of specialization as part of the 12 credits of electives.

Students can specialize in more than one area by taking offered courses in those particular areas, again as part of their 12 credits of electives.

Telecommunications Systems

Telecommunications systems are built on an infrastructure, similar to that classically used for telephony. In this specialization, you will investigate the physical technologies (copper and fiber) used for information transmission, the enabling transmission processes (such as multiplexing, synchronization, and noise filtering), and the systems that provide telephony (classic circuit switched and VOIP). If you pursue this track, you would likely be hired by a carrier, equipment manufacturer, consultant, or business for a career as a system engineer, network designer or manager, switching system designer, or telecom manager.

Computer Networks

Computer networking enables efficient communication and information sharing to take place among widely dispersed participants. The recent emergence of the global Internet—and the availability of ever cheaper, more powerful computation and communication devices—is paving the way for a new generation of ubiquitous and pervasive networks.

In this specialization, you will explore a variety of problems encountered in designing computer networks and learn common techniques to solve these problems. Courses are designed to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills required to contribute to the field of data communication and networking. The focus is on network models and architectures, protocol design and implementation, resource management, quality of service support, and security. You will acquire a solid conceptual and practical understanding of how computer network technologies operate and the ability to analyze the benefits and limitations of current and future networking technologies. You will also gain valuable insights into the design, management, and security of computer networks, and have an opportunity to take additional electives from the Department of Computer Science, depending on your interests.

Policy and Management

Telecommunications systems exist in social and organizational contexts. In this specialization, you will explore the relationships among telecommunications technologies, service providers, end users, and governmental entities. In telecommunications, industry structure and government regulation is closely tied to the details of technology, so it is important that students forging a career in this area have a thorough understanding of not only the technology, but also the historical and existing economic and political structures. In this specialization you may take additional courses from the Katz Graduate School of Business or the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs, depending on your interests. Upon graduation, you will be prepared for a career as a policy analyst or network manager.

Wireless

Wireless systems have become a vital infrastructure in today's society, and significant professional opportunities exist in this growing field. In this area, you will investigate the physical technology and enabling processes; the systems that provide cellular telephony, wireless LANs, and sensor networks; and mobile applications. You may select additional electives from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Graduates of this track have been hired by wireless carriers, manufacturers, and other organizations as system engineers and wireless network designers.

Security

Just as we safeguard data within computers, we must also assure that the information flowing over networks is protected. In this specialization you will investigate firewalls, encryption, fault tolerant network design, and other procedures for information assurance. Additional electives may be taken from both the Department of Computer Science and the Department of Mathematics. If you follow this track, you will be prepared for a career as a network security specialist with carriers, manufacturers, consulting firms, the government, financial institutions, and other enterprises.

General

If you choose not to specialize in one particular area, the general course of study allows you to sample courses from all the specializations in preparation for dealing with the constant changes in telecommunications technology. Since change is the only constant in the telecommunications industry, your versatility as a generalist will enable you to handle challenges as they arise in the industry. Employers such as carriers, manufacturers, consultants, and other organizations (especially smaller ones) are seeking those graduates with a broad set of skills for careers as system engineers, network designers or managers, and telecommunications managers.

A generalist can take courses from any of the areas of specialization in consultation with the faculty advisor.

Requirements

• Applicants for graduate study must have earned a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university with a scholastic average of B (3.0 on a 4.0 scale) or better. The Telecommunications and Networking Program seeks students with diverse interests and abilities. The admission requirements reflect the interdisciplinary nature of our program and roughly correspond to an undergraduate degree in a technical discipline (e.g., math, physics, computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, information science, etc.) with appropriate grade point average and GRE scores.
• Identify and seek the recommendations of two individuals (e.g., professors, employers, information professionals) who are in a position to evaluate your academic performance or your potential as an information professional. Before you submit your application, ask your references in which form they wish to submit their recommendation, by paper or electronically. For both paper and electronic submission of recommendation letters, please follow the instructions outlined on Apply Yourself.
• Transcripts
• Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
• Resume; and
• Statement of intent with no more than 500 words outlining your career goals
• The application fee is $50 for all applicants and must be paid when you submit your application. 
• A minimum score of 550 (paper-based) or 80 (Internet-based) on the TOEFL is required for admission to the MSIS, MST, MLIS, PhD IS & TELE programs. 

The University of Pittsburgh offers various financial assistance options to support students enrolled in the Telecommunications and Networking program. Prospective and current students can explore a range of funding opportunities, including federal and state financial aid programs, scholarships, grants, and work-study options. Federal financial aid is available through completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines eligibility for need-based grants such as the Pell Grant, as well as federal loans like Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans. The university also offers institutional scholarships specifically designed for students pursuing degrees in engineering and related fields, including the Telecommunications and Networking program. These scholarships are awarded based on merit, need, or a combination of both, and students are encouraged to apply early. In addition to scholarships, students may qualify for teaching and research assistantships that provide stipends and tuition waivers in exchange for work in faculty projects or labs. The university’s Financial Aid Office offers counseling and resources to help students identify suitable funding options and navigate the application process. External scholarship opportunities from professional organizations, industry partners, and private foundations are also accessible. Students are recommended to maintain good academic standing and fulfill aid eligibility requirements to continue receiving financial assistance. Payment plans are available for managing tuition fees over time, and some students may qualify for employer tuition reimbursement programs if employed in related industries. The university’s commitment to accessible education ensures comprehensive support for students pursuing degrees in Telecommunications and Networking, enabling them to focus on their academic and professional goals without undue financial burden.

The Bachelor of Science in Telecommunications and Networking at the University of Pittsburgh offers students a comprehensive education in the principles and practices of modern telecommunications systems and networks. This program is designed to equip students with the technical knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to design, implement, and manage advanced communication networks that form the backbone of today's digital society. The curriculum covers essential topics such as network architecture, protocols, wireless communications, network security, data transmission, and the underlying hardware and software components that make up telecommunications systems. Students also explore emerging technologies like 5G, Internet of Things (IoT), and cloud computing, ensuring they are prepared for the rapidly evolving telecommunications landscape. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application through laboratory work, projects, and internships, fostering skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork. Graduates of this program are qualified for careers as network engineers, telecommunications specialists, security analysts, and system administrators. They may also pursue further studies in graduate programs related to network security, systems engineering, or information technology. The University of Pittsburgh's strong ties with industry partners provide students with opportunities for internships, cooperative education, and networking, enhancing their employment prospects after graduation. With a focus on innovation and real-world relevance, the Telecommunications and Networking program aims to produce skilled professionals capable of addressing the technological challenges of modern communication infrastructure.