Online Computer Networks Graduate Certificate

At a Glance

Completion Time

Months

Credits Required

Tuition

$14,850–$16,630

Part-Time*

*Based on 2026–2027 Boston University tuition and fees.

Build Advanced Skills in Computer Networks and IT Infrastructure

The online Graduate Certificate in Computer Networks at Boston University’s Metropolitan College (MET) builds a broad foundation in information technology along with in-depth exploration of computer data communication and modern networking. Through a comprehensive examination of network design and implementation, network performance analysis and management, network security, and the latest networking technology, the BU MET Computer Networks certificate program is designed to empower you with extensive knowledge and hands-on experience—preparing you to analyze, design, procure, manage, and implement cutting-edge computer networking solutions and technologies.

The Graduate Certificate in Computer Networks is also available on campus in Boston. Learn more.

Curriculum

The online Graduate Certificate in Computer Networks consists of four required courses (16 units).

Certificate Courses

(Four courses/16 units)

One of the following:

MET CS 535 Computer Networks

4 credits. Fall and Spring

Prerequisite: MET CS 575 or consent of instructor. Provides a robust understanding of networking. You will learn the fundamentals of networking systems, their architecture, function, and operation, and how these are reflected in current network technologies. As well as the principles that underlie all networks and their application (or not) to current network protocols and systems. Discover how layers of different scope are combined to create a network and receive a basic introduction to Physical Media, the functions that make up protocols, such as error detection, delimiting, lost and duplicate detection; and the synchronization required for the feedback mechanisms: flow and retransmission control, etc. In addition, learn how these functions are used in current protocols, such as Ethernet, WiFi, VLANs, TCP/IP, wireless communication, routing, congestion management, QoS, network management, security, and the common network applications, as well as some past applications with unique design solutions. Restrictions: This course may not be taken in conjunction with MET CS 625 or MET CS 425 (undergraduate). Only one of these courses can be counted toward degree requirements.

Section O1, FALL 2026 Sep 1st to Oct 19th
Instructor	Type	Days	Times	Location
Day	Independent	ARR	12:00:00 AM–12:00:00 AM

MET CS 625 Business Data Communication and Networks

4 credits. Fall and Spring

Prerequisites: MET LB 102 or consent of instructor. - This course presents the foundations of data communications and takes a bottom-up approach to computer networks. The course concludes with an overview of basic network security and management concepts. Restrictions: This course may not be taken in conjunction with MET CS 425 (undergraduate) or MET CS 535. Only one of these courses can be counted toward degree requirements.

Section A1, FALL 2026 Sep 2nd to Dec 10th
Instructor	Type	Days	Times	Location
Arena	Independent	T	12:30:00 PM–03:15:00 PM	MET 101

Section A2, FALL 2026 Sep 2nd to Dec 10th
Instructor	Type	Days	Times	Location
Arena	Independent	T	06:00:00 PM–08:45:00 PM	CAS 213

Section O1, FALL 2026 Sep 1st to Oct 19th
Instructor	Type	Days	Times	Location
Rizinski	Independent	ARR	12:00:00 AM–12:00:00 AM

Section O2, FALL 2026 Oct 27th to Dec 14th
Instructor	Type	Days	Times	Location
Rizinski	Independent	ARR	12:00:00 AM–12:00:00 AM

And these three courses:

MET CS 690 Network and Cloud Security

4 credits. Fall and Spring

Prerequisites: (MET CS 535 or MET CS 625) and (MET CS 595 or MET CY 100) or consent of instructor. This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental concepts, principles, technologies, and best practices to secure both computer networks and clouds. Topics include an overview of network threats, SSL/TLS, Kerberos, PKI, IPsec, DNSsec, SSH, Firewall, IDS, VPD, electronic mail security, wireless network security, Blockchain, TOR, Cloud architecture, an overview of cloud threats, architecture protection, and data protection in Cloud, IAM, security best practices, etc. Upon the completion of the course, students are expected to know the threats and vulnerabilities that networks and cloud systems face, along with the strategies and tools used to mitigate those risks. Hands-on labs based on existing tools are provided and required.

Section O1, FALL 2026 Sep 1st to Oct 19th
Instructor	Type	Days	Times	Location
Zhang	Independent	ARR	12:00:00 AM–12:00:00 AM

Dates & Deadlines

View BU MET’s academic calendar for online programs, including important dates and deadlines.

Application Requirements

Learn about application requirements for BU MET graduate degree and certificate programs.

IT experts working on a computer in an office

How You Benefit from a
Boston University Education

A BU credential can help lay the foundation for career advancement and personal success.

Benefit from a 24:1 average student-to-instructor ratio.
Computer science courses ensure you get the attention you need, while introducing case studies and real-world projects that emphasize technical and theoretical knowledge—combining in-depth, practical experience with the critical skills needed to remain at the forefront of the information technology field. In addition, BU’s Center for Reliable Information Systems and Cyber Security (RISCS) offers opportunities to collaborate and participate in research on system reliability and information security.
Work closely with highly qualified faculty and seasoned industry leaders in a wide range of technology fields who are committed to teaching the latest technologies within the framework of ideas, concepts, and methods that drive innovation.
Learn from the best—BU MET’s Department of Computer Science was established in 1979 and is the longest-running computer science department at BU. Over its four decades, the department has played an important role in the emergence of IT at the University and throughout the region.

Rankings & Accreditations

U.S. News & World Report - Best Online Programs - Grad Information Technology - 2026

#12, Best Online Master’s in Computer Information Technology Programs

MET’s computer science & IT graduate certificates share curriculum with MET’s online master’s degrees in computer information technology, which are ranked #12 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.

Graduate with Computer Networking Expertise

Students who complete the Graduate Certificate in Computer Networks will be able to:

Apply advanced knowledge about protocols and the processing of user data as it passes through the layers of each device connected to the internet.
Specify requirements and analyze, design, and evaluate networking across LAN, MAN, WAN, and CDN architectures.
Demonstrate proficiency in security, network management, and design principles necessary for inter-process communications.

Advance Your Career

The Graduate Certificate in Computer Networks prepares you for a wealth of different roles, such as network engineer, network architect, computer systems analyst, webmaster, network administrator, computer systems administrator, and many other integral positions in an organization.

Recent graduates have found job opportunities and career paths at companies such as:

Abacus Technology
BHP
CACI International
Dell EMC
Infosys
Kala Pharmaceuticals
Lowe’s Companies
Mass General Brigham
MITRE Corporation

NRTC
PwC
Rapid7
Rockwell Automation
United States Army
VCU Health
Verizon
World Wide Technology

Computer Science Faculty

Guanglan Zhang

Associate Professor, Computer Science

Coordinator, Health Informatics Programs

Chair, Computer Science

Shengzhi Zhang

Associate Professor

Associate Chair, Computer Science

Coordinator, Web Application Development

Scot Arena

Master Lecturer, Computer Science

Coordinator, Computer Networks

View All Faculty

Interested in Learning More?

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Computer Information Systems

Online Computer Networks Graduate Certificate

At a Glance

Build Advanced Skills in Computer Networks and IT Infrastructure