(August 2009) Wireless Technologies

Wireless communication technologies connect us and transfer information essentially anywhere, anytime. The networking, cellular, consumer electronics and computing industries are embracing emerging wireless technologies such as 3G, 4G, WiMax, and ZigBees in their products and services. Engineers will be involved in designing and programming more new devices and protocols in the coming years.

Engineering schools lack a well-defined body of knowledge and courses to train students to become proficient on these new wireless technologies. One must learn radio engineering, data communications, computer networks, power management and device programming. UCSC Extension, in keeping with its tradition of offering practical professional courses, has assembled the important pieces of the puzzle.

We offer Network Engineering and Embedded Systems certificate programs with solid courses on networking fundamentals and device hardware and software for those who need the fundamentals. Beginning with the fall quarter, we will add two new courses to these certificate programs. Wireless Communications (#5455) teaches the basics of radio engineering, including CDMA, TDMA, WiFi and WiMax protocols. Embedded Programming: Internet Ready Real-time Applications (#3942) includes practical skills in programming network stacks into device functions. We also offer a Wireless Security (#5836) course in the Systems Security program. Together we can help you acquire the skills to engage in this growing field.