Enrolments for 2021 have closed.
Data Communication and Net-Centric Computing
Undergraduate | RMI-CPT250 | 2021
Course information for 2021 intake
View information for 2022 course intakeLearn how people, devices, information and services are continuously connected by an evolving data communications network. Gain critical analysis talent, uncover data communication methods, and reveal the drivers for adopting alternative technologies.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Assessments
- Subject may require attendance
- Entry requirements
- Prior study needed
- Duration
- 13 weeks
HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP available
Data Communication and Net-Centric Computing
About this subject
Upon successful completion of this subject you should be able to:
- explain the basic concepts of data communication;
- demonstrate knowledge of higher level aspects of data communications and network technology, details of the underlying mechanisms, principles, reference models, protocols, error handling, appropriate for the development of software applications in a networked environment;
- design computer programs that are aware of basic aspects of networking;
- describe emerging networking technologies;
- analyse communications systems that use the TCP/IP protocol suite and the abstract 7-layer OSI reference model;
- apply knowledge of data communications concepts to solve problems involving data communications flow control and error control methods;
- apply mathematical/analytic skills to basic performance evaluation, utilization, throughput and delay.
- Introduction to Data Communications and Networking
- Data and signal transmission
- Signal Encoding Techniques
- Error Detection and Correction
- Data Link Control
- Multiplexing
- Medium Access control
- Wide Area Networks
- Internet and Transport Protocols
- Routing
- Internet Applications
This subject aims to provide a broad introduction to the fundamentals of data communication and network technology. The emphasis is on higher aspects of data communication from the perspective of computer scientists and information technologists; the subject covers the underlying mechanisms and their characteristics that need to be considered by communicating application software.
Topics include:
- principles and reference models of data communication;
- basic operation of communication systems;
- protocols and error handling, and applications in networked environments.
- Assignment 1 (20%)
- Assignment 2 (30%)
- Invigilated Exam (50%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
One of Australia's largest dual-sector institutes, offering both TAFE and higher education, RMIT University proudly delivers work-related education and practical research relevant to current business and community needs. More than 96,000 students study with RMIT, and many of their degrees are available through Open Universities Australia.
Learn more about RMIT University.
Explore RMIT courses.
- QS Ranking 2024:
- 11
- Times Higher Education Ranking 2024:
- 16
Entry requirements
Prior study
To help set you up for success before you start this subject, we suggest completing or having equivalent knowledge in:
Additional requirements
- Other requirements -
Stable broadband connection required to access online learning materials and live chat sessions/recordings. (note: mobile broadband users may have difficulties participating in live chat sessions)
Study load
- 0.125 EFTSL
- This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.
Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.
Find out more information on Commonwealth Loans to understand what this means to your eligibility for financial support.
Single subject FAQs
Single subjects are the individual components that make up a degree. With Open Universities Australia, you’re able to study many of them as stand-alone subjects, including postgraduate single subjects, without having to commit to a degree.
Each of your subjects will be held over the course of a study term, and they’ll usually require 10 to 12 hours of study each week. Subjects are identified by a title and a code, for example, Developmental Psychology, PSY20007.
First, find the degree that you would like to study on our website.
If that degree allows entry via undergraduate subjects, there will be information about this under the Entry Requirements section. You will find a list of 2-4 open enrolment subjects you need to successfully complete to qualify for admission into that qualification.
Once you pass those subjects, you will satisfy the academic requirements for the degree, and you can apply for entry.
Our student advisors are here to help you take that next step, so don’t hesitate to reach out when you’re ready! We’ve also made it easier to figure out the right way to get started on our pathways page.
Our student advisors are more than happy to help you plan your online study. Get in touch with an advisor by:
You can pay up front with your credit card, or you may be eligible for a HELP loan from the Australian government depending on your citizenship status and where you’ll live during your studies.
For more information about how to pay for your studies visit our fees page or contact a student advisor.
When you’ve made your choice, click ‘Enrol now’ on the relevant course page and follow the prompts to begin your enrolment. We’ll ask you to supply some supporting documentation, including proof of your identity, your tax file number, and a unique student identifier (USI) during this process.
Your university will get in touch with you via email to confirm whether or not your application has been successful.
If you get stuck at any time, reach out to us and we’ll talk you through it.
You can also take a look at our online self-service enrolling instructions .
Close of enrolment times vary between universities and subjects. You can check the cut-off dates for upcoming study terms by visiting key dates.