The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 13% growth in computer and information technology occupations between 2020 and 2030. Your training could lead to a career as a network architect, administrator, or analyst. Read on for details on the network administration degree and rank the best programs available to you.
Top 5 online schools for network administration
The best online bachelor’s in network administration degrees
ZDNet’s ranking methodology follows a careful process. We collect information from publicly available sources, such as national datasets and individual schools and programs. We also gather insight from industry experts and education specialists. Birmingham, AL $357 in-state $850 out-of-state Application fee: $40 Dallas, TX Application fee: Free Terre Haute, IN $9,318 in-state $20,582, most other states Application fee: $25 Norfolk, VA $360 in-state $407 out-of-state Application fee: $50 Madison, SD Application fee: $35 Unless otherwise indicated, data is drawn from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Scorecard.
What to expect in an online bachelor’s in network administration degree program
A network administration degree prepares you to manage an organization’s network operations and security. The programs also provide training in various other information technology fields, including data management, data analytics, and systems and application design. You can often direct the focus of your studies by choosing a concentration or strategically picking electives.
Acceptance rate: 74%Graduation rate: 55%Avg. annual net price: $16,953Years to completion: FourSAT range: 530-685Minimum GPA: Not publicly available Enrollment periods per year: Over threeCourse delivery method: Asynchronous and synchronous
Acceptance rate: 90%Graduation rate: 58%Avg. annual net price: $26,387Years to completion: FourSAT range: 510-630Minimum GPA: Not publicly availableEnrollment periods per year: FourCourse delivery method: Asynchronous
Acceptance rate: 90%Graduation rate: 42%Avg. annual net price: $13,896Years to completion: FourSAT range: Not publicly availableMinimum GPA: 2.5Enrollment periods per year: Over threeCourse delivery method: Asynchronous and synchronous
Acceptance rate: 89%Graduation rate: 58%Avg. annual net price: $16,493Years to completion: FourSAT range: 480-600Minimum GPA: Not publicly availableEnrollment periods per year: RollingCourse delivery method: Asynchronous and synchronous
Acceptance rate: 77%Graduation rate: 39%Avg. annual net price: $17,691Years to completion: FourSAT range: 500-640Minimum GPA: 2.6Enrollment periods per year: RollingCourse delivery method: Asynchronous and synchronous
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 57%Avg. annual net price: $33,428Years to completion: FourSAT range: Not publicly availableMinimum GPA: 2.8Enrollment periods per year: Over threeCourse delivery method: Asynchronous
Acceptance rate: 99%Graduation rate: Not publicly availableAvg. annual net price: Not publicly availableYears to completion: FourSAT range: 460-600Minimum GPA: 2.8Enrollment periods per year: RollingCourse delivery method: Asynchronous
Acceptance rate: 83%Graduation rate: 59%Avg. annual net price: $29,064Years to completion: FourSAT range: 510-630Minimum GPA: 2.5Enrollment periods per year: ThreeCourse delivery method: Asynchronous and synchronous
Acceptance rate: 85%Graduation rate: 61%Avg. annual net price: $33,561Years to completion: FourSAT range: 540-670Minimum GPA: Not publicly availableEnrollment periods per year: Over twoCourse delivery method: Asynchronous
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 46%Avg. annual net price: $15,616Years to completion: Three to fourSAT range: Not publicly availableMinimum GPA: Not publicly availableEnrollment periods per year: FourCourse delivery method: Asynchronous
Like many information technology programs, network administration programs emphasize practical learning. You should expect to complete various hands-on assignments, lab experiences, and internships. As an online student, you receive similar training as on-campus learners but with more independent study requirements.
Bachelor’s in network administration courses
Network administration degree curriculums can include a variety of core courses. Some programs focus primarily on network-related training, whereas others offer broad training touching on many information technology topics. Network management In this course, students learn how to build, secure, and troubleshoot networks. They learn to evaluate network performance, identify upgrades, and install hardware and software. Database systems Students in this course learn how to design, secure, and manage database systems. They also learn to maintain databases, mine data, and analyze the information for business applications. Network and information security This course teaches students how to secure networks and information systems. They look at the leading types of attacks and protection measures. They also learn to identify vulnerabilities and implement solutions. Management information systems Students in this course learn to oversee and operate management information systems for organizations. They may also acquire skills in data analytics and business intelligence.
Network administration degree levels
Many schools offer network administration degrees at various levels. Each degree offers you something unique, including entry-level career preparation at the undergraduate level and management preparation at the graduate level. Use the information below to understand what each degree offers, and choose a level based on your personal educational interests and career goals.
Associate in network administration
Length: One to two yearsCost: $11,389/year in 2018-19Post-grad careers: Computer systems administrator, computer support specialist, and customer service representative
In a network administration associate program, students learn the fundamentals of networking and networking technologies. They learn to set up and troubleshoot networks, while also developing a foundation in information technology. This may include understanding the major systems and business information technology applications. Graduates may qualify for various entry-level positions in the computer and information technology field. They can also build on their training with a bachelor’s degree or beyond.
Bachelor’s in network administration
Length: Three to four yearsCost: $28,123/year in 2018-19Post-grad careers: Network administrator, database administrator, and information security analyst
In a network administration degree at the bachelor’s level, students develop skills in designing, implementing, and managing networks for organizations. They also learn to secure networks and install the necessary upgrades. Network administration programs also explore the fundamentals of information technology management, including managing systems and databases. Graduates can pursue many entry-level computer and information technology careers. They can also qualify for a master’s degree.
Graduate certificate in network administration
Length: 2-12 monthsCost: VariesPost-grad careers: Computer network architect, computer systems analyst, and information security analyst
A network administration graduate certificate curriculum can vary considerably depending on the school and program. Some programs offer an introduction to network administration for students with no professional or educational background in the discipline. Others feature more specialized and advanced training for professionals looking to advance their information technology careers. Depending on their previous training and experience, graduates may be able to access computer management and analyst careers.
Master’s in network administration
Length: One to three yearsCost: $19,792/year in 2019-20Post-grad careers: Computer and information systems manager, computer and information research scientist, and top executive
A network administration program at the master’s level explores more advanced topics in the discipline, including designing, building, securing, and upgrading networks. Students also acquire advanced training in related computer fields, such as data management and systems design and analysis. Graduates can pursue most computer and information technology careers, including management, analyst, and consultant positions. They can continue their training in a doctoral program as well.
In conclusion
Organizations need their computer networks to be effective and well managed. With a network administration degree, you can acquire the skills to oversee organizational networks and the careers that come with those responsibilities. For more information on the top-ranked programs above, reach out directly to the schools listed above.
