Network Administration is an exciting field that allows you to use your skills to help solve some of the most challenging networking problems facing organizations today. It’s a very demanding field with many exciting opportunities and excellent salary potential available to Network Administration graduates. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, network administrators earn a median salary of $80,600 per year, much higher than the average.
What Is a Network Administrator
A network administrator is a professional that ensures an organization’s computer network runs smoothly and securely. They monitor and troubleshoot problems, upgrade equipment, and plan for future needs. Network administrators must constantly stay on top of new technologies to keep their skills up to date.
Difference Between A Network Administrator And A System Administrator
A system administrator and a network administrator may be used interchangeably in some organizations, and their responsibilities are often overlapping. However, their roles differ technically. Here are the key differences between the two.
| Network Administrator | System Administrator |
| Responsible for monitoring and maintaining network performance. | Responsible for overseeing computer systems’ functionality. |
| Installs and configures WAN and LAN. | Installs software and updates. |
| Provide maintenance for the hub where all the servers are located. | Maintains network components and design elements. |
| Focus on network resilience and computer infrastructure. | Roll out new software and install internet filters. |
<h2>Can I Get A Network Administration Degree Online</h2>
Network administration programs are available online at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Completely online degrees are available for associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Here is an overview of the available degree programs for Network Administration.
| Program | Duration | Credits (may vary) | Admission requirements ( may vary) |
| Associate of Science (AS), Associate of applied science (AAS) | 2 years | 60 credits | Proof of high school graduation or SAT/CAT scores 2.5 cumulative high school GPA |
| Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) | 4 years | 120-180 credits | High school diploma, or equivalent Letters of recommendation Standardized test scores |
| Master of Science (MS) | 1-2 Years | 30 and 35 credits | Baccalaureate degree from an accredited school. Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent). Letters of recommendation |
Choosing An Online Degree In Network Administration
Before selecting an online Network Administration degree program, students should consider the following factors.
Program Format: Some schools offer classes year-round, while others have two semesters. Some colleges may limit students’ access to specific times or days.
Accreditation: Accreditation is an important factor when choosing an online associate in a network administration program because it indicates whether the university or college has been evaluated for quality and effectiveness.
Student Support: Whether technical support or advising services, having a dedicated staff member on hand can make all the difference when it comes to getting through tough times during students’ studies.
Certifications: Some schools offer programs that qualify graduates for industry certifications.
Here is a list of the most affordable Network Administration Degrees.
10 Cheapest Online Associate’s Degrees In Network Administration
#1. Sinclair College
Program: AAS Computer Information Systems/Network Engineering
Tuition: $136.03 per credit
Accreditation: Regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
The Computer Information Systems/Network Engineering AAS program teaches students how to use Cisco routing protocols, troubleshoot routers, components, methods, and technologies required for network and Internet communications, VoIP addressing, and network security threats. They also learn how to use network appliances and applications for network security, wireless networking standards and components, basic switching concepts, Cisco switches, and configure Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) for logically separated networks.
#2. Bossier Parish Community College
Program: Cyber Technology, Network Security Concentration, AAS
Tuition: $138.96 per credit
Accreditation: Programmatic accreditation by (ATMAE) Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering
The A.S in Cyber Technology with a concentration in Network Security equips students with the skills required to manage an organization’s network security requirements. In addition to preparing individuals to function as entry-level network security specialists, the program provides instruction on technologies for conducting forensic analyses, securing network assets, and managing organizational security.
#3. Lake Superior College</h3>
Program: Network Administration and Cybersecurity AAS
Tuition: $183.33 per credit
Accreditation and Ranking: Regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and ranked and ranks #7 Best Community Colleges in Minnesota
The online Network Administration and Cybersecurity AAS program at Lake Superior equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to get certified. This program teaches students how to provide technical support for computer networks in business environments. In addition, they learn both networking and systems administration fundamentals, as well as defensive strategies to secure IT systems.
#4. Gateway Technical College
Program: AS IT – Network Specialist
Tuition: $188.90 per credit (in-state); $283.35 per credit (out-of-state)
Accreditation and Ranking: Regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
With the 60-credirt online IT – Network Specialist associate degree from Gateway, you will gain expertise in setting up, supporting, securing, and maintaining computer networks and clouds. Develop the skills that companies today need to remain connected to employees, customers, and partners.
Sample course:
- Cloud Technologies
- Network Security
- Red Hat Enterprise Linux I
- Server Technologies
#5. Great Basin College
Program: AAS Networking Specialist
Tuition: $285.00 per credit hour
Accreditation and Ranking: Regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and is ranked #1 Most Liberal Colleges in Nevada
Great Basin College offers a 60-credit hour AAS in Network Specialist program. Graduates of this program will be able to install and configure network services, create and maintain computer networks, and keep the availability of network resources to authorized users.
Sample Courses:
- Linux Systems Administration
- Microsoft Networking
- CCNA Internetworking Fundamentals
- Fundamentals of Wireless LANs
- Fundamentals of Network Security
#6. South College
Program: AS Network Administration & Security
Tuition: $310 per credit hour
Accreditation: Regionally accredited by SACSCOC
The Associate of Science in Network Administration & Security program provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to set up, maintain, support, and configure computer networks in a variety of computing environments and to implement and monitor computer security measures within them. Students in this program take courses in the humanities, social science, mathematics, and business areas in addition to their major curriculum courses to enhance their overall knowledge and critical thinking abilities.
#7. Rasmussen University
Program: AS Network Systems Administration
Tuition: $319 per credit hour
Accreditation and Ranking: Regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Rasmussen’s online AS in Network Systems Administration program provides students with the technical skills in demand today. By working with industry hardware and software, students can earn their online Network Systems Administration degree in as little as 18 months. Furthermore, they can understand networks, network maintenance, and network security.
#8.Dakota State University
Program: AS – Network and Security Administration.
Tuition: $354.75 per credit
Accreditation and Ranking: Regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and ranks #5 Colleges with the Best Academics in South Dakota
The AS in Network Security and Administration program at DSU trains students to understand the principles of basic security, systems, and networking. The Academic Server Room, as well as the school’s labs, will be available to students. As part of these labs, students will be able to work with network setups and exploits and practice defensive hacking and network forensics using enterprise-level hardware, such as VoIP phones.
#9. Community College of Baltimore County
Program: AAS Network Technology
Tuition: $372 per credit
Accreditation: Regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Network Technology AAS degree at CCBC is a 60-credit program that equips students with technical skills needed for entry-level employment as well as courses required for four-year institutions. Students may choose Cisco, Red Hat, Microsoft, IT Support, or General concentrations depending on their work or transfer requirements.
Sample Courses:
- Switching, Routing, and Wireless Essentials
- Advanced TCP/IP
- Virtualization & Cloud Computing Using VMWare
- Local Area Networks
#10. Devry University
Program: AAS Network Systems Administration
Tuition: $514 per credit
Accreditation: Regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
The 67 credit hour AAS in Network Systems Administration at Devry can help students develop the skills needed to succeed in this field. Graduates can also prepare for certifications such as (CCNA) Cisco Certified Network Associate through this degree program.
Experienced professors will guide students to learn the concepts, tools, and techniques employed by leading companies like Cisco Systems. The course also covers network installation and configuration, troubleshooting, and performance monitoring.
10 Cheapest Online Bachelor’s Degrees In Network Administration
<h3>#1. Florida State College Jacksonville</h3>
Program: BAS Computer Systems Networking
Tuition: $104.88 per credit (Resident); $401.27 per credit (Non-resident)
Accreditation: Accredited by SACSCOC
Students who earn a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Systems Networking degree at FSCJ are equipped with the technical and management skills necessary to become dedicated network professionals. The curriculum is excellent for those interested in system design and analysis, network flow optimization, network management and control, information security, network configuring, and troubleshooting
#2. American National University
Program: BS Network Administration
Tuition: $302 per credit hour
Accreditation: Accredited by DEAC- Distance Education Accrediting Commission
The online Network Administration program at ANU helps students prepare to take on challenges that arise with computer systems and apply for mid-level positions such as network administrator managers, network engineers, or network analysts in the enterprise. The program integrates knowledge and technical skills with a strong emphasis on professional skills in several areas, including leadership and communications.
#3. NUC University
Program: BS IT with a major in Network Administration
Tuition: $320.00 per credit hour
Accreditation: Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
The BS, IT with a major in Network Administration equips students with the relevant knowledge and skills to recognize and manage critical areas of network operations and administration. This includes user support and troubleshooting.
- Network Troubleshooting
- Protocols and Communications TCP/IP
- Wireless and Mobile Computing
- Implementing and Managing a Network
- Advanced Network Administration
#4. American International University
Program: Bachelor of Science in Network Administration
Tuition:$345 per credit hour
Accreditation and Ranking: Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and ranks #10 Best Value Colleges in Springfield, MA Area
In this online Network Administration degree program, you will learn to core IT skills along with comprehensive network administration concepts. This Bachelor of Science program is created to help students learn how to analyze, create, and maintain diverse computer networks across a range of industries. The program provides students with the chance to study a wide and in-depth overview of the parameters, processes, and expectations for a network administrator operating in the industry today.
#5. Utah Valley University
Program: BS Information Technology – Network Administration and Security Emphasis
Tuition: $345 per credit hour (resident); $928 per credit hour (non-resident)
Accreditation and ranking: Accredited by the NWCCU and ranks #8 Best Value Colleges in Utah
The BS in Information Technology (IT) degree teaches students to install, maintain, and operate the computing infrastructure through which organizational systems run. The Network Administration and Security emphasis enables students to pursue careers as Information security analysts, data communication consultants, and network administrators. The core of the BS IT program prepares students to have a strong base in Data communication, computer architecture, networks, information security, and system administration.
#6. Dakota State University
Program: BS Network Administration
Tuition: $354 per credit hour
Accreditation: Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and ranks #8 Best Value Colleges in South Dakota.
DSU offers a BS in Network and Security Administration, where students have access to virtual and physical labs. Students learn how to manage network confidentiality integrity/availability, work with vulnerable web applications and patch them. Furthermore, students are taught penetration testing procedures and how to configure firewalls and intrusion detection systems.
Course sample:
- Hardware, virtual & data communication.
- Web Development
- Networking
- Info Security Management
- Defensive Network Security
#7. Point University
Program: Bachelor of Science in Information Technology in Network Administration
Tuition: $410 per credit hour
Accreditation and Ranking: Accredited by SACSCOC and ranks #9 of the Best Academics in Georgia.
As part of the online BS in Information Technology in Network Administration program at Point University, students gain a broad understanding of web development, project management, and data management. The network administration program provides students with the knowledge and skills they need to write scripts, manage web servers, and understand an organization’s technology requirements.
#8. Herzing University
Program: BS Computer Networking
Tuition: $490 per credit hour
Accreditation: Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
The Herzing University BS in Computer Networking degree is designed to help students acquire strong foundations in the fundamentals of IT security, networking infrastructure, and the collection, management, and dissemination of data. Course topics include computer architecture, programming logic & languages, network security, routers and switches, network infrastructure, cloud computing, and more.
#9. Pierce College
Program: BS In Information Technology -concentration in Networking, Administration, And Information Security
Tuition: $600 per credit hour
Accreditation: Accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Pierce College offers a 121-credit program in IT with a concentration in Networking, Administration, and Information Security that broadens the student’s technical knowledge and positions them for a rewarding career. They learn career-oriented expertise in areas like designing, implementing, and integrating the hardware, software, and security-critical to businesses in any industry.
#10. Western Governors University
Program: BS in Network Engineering and Security
Tuition: $3,625 per 6-month term
Accreditation and Ranking: Accredited by the (NWCCU) Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and ranks #5 Best value colleges in Utah.
The BS in Network Engineering and Security program at WGU was developed with input from the IT Program Council and networking expert professionals. The program covers several important subjects, including SDN, IT fundamentals, networks and security, spreadsheets, scripting and programming, data management, interconnecting network devices, web development, and security. This networking program is built to give students the knowledge and skills required to succeed in their careers.
7 Cheapest Online Master’s Degrees In Network Administration
#1. East Carolina University
Program: MS in Network Technology
Tuition: $263.83 per credit (resident); $994.33 per credit (non-resident)
Accreditation and Ranking: Accredited by SACSCOC and ranked #8 Top public universities in North Carolina
The MS Network Technology at East Carolina University program is designed for students with baccalaureate degrees in networking-related disciplines. The 33-credit curriculum encompasses a common set of courses and a choice of four concentrations: computer networking management, digital communications technology, information security, and web technologies. Computer networking applications such as network infrastructure management, networked systems design, network security, and technical problem-solving in technology-driven organizations are emphasized in the program.
#2. Stratford University
Program: MS in Networking and Telecommunications
Tuition: $495 per credit
Accreditation: Accredited by Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools
The MS in Networking and Telecommunications program provides a knowledge base for technology professionals involved with the design, development, operation, implementation, and management of networks and telecommunications systems. The courses provide theoretical knowledge and skills in a broad range of modern communication networks. Furthermore, students are taught the ethical, legal, and policy aspects of the networking and telecommunications industries. After completion of the program, graduates are able to design, deploy, and maintain high-quality modern telecommunications networks and systems and direct the telecommunications and networking divisions within an organization.
#3. Liberty University
Program: MSIT – Network Design and Security
Tuition: $565 per course
Accreditation and Ranking: Accredited by SACSCOC and ranks #5 Best online colleges in America.
Liberty’s M.S. in Network Security and Design is tailored to core IT courses and network specialization. The 36-credit classes provide in-depth training in a wide range of topics, including IT infrastructure, software development, systems analysis, database design, and statistical analysis. You will also learn about a variety of defenses that are used to combat network attacks, malicious codes, and hostile content.
Sample Courses:
- Systems Analysis, Modeling, and Design
- Network Architecture and Design
- Telecommunications and Network Security
- Applied Network Security
#4. Touro University
Program: M.S. in Network Administration and Cybersecurity program
Tuition: $620 per credit hour
Accreditation: Accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education
The M.S. in Network Administration and Cybersecurity at Touro University is a 33-credit program offering an extensive list of courses to help graduates develop their careers. The program focuses on cybersecurity and highlights planning, operating, and monitoring sophisticated networks of linked computers inside organizations and throughout the internet.
#5. Boston University Metropolitan College
Program: MS in Computer Information Systems with Computer Networks Concentration
Tuition: $940 per credit hour
Accreditation: Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education and ranks #7 Colleges with the Best Academics in Massachusetts
Boston University’s MET’s concentration in Computer Networks equips students with a broad foundation in information technology and an extensive understanding of computer data communications and advanced networking, allowing them to analyze, design, acquire, manage, and apply cutting-edge computer networking strategies and technologies.
#6. Rochester Institute of Technology
Program: MS Networking and Systems Administration
Tuition: $1,286 per credit hour
Accreditation: Accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education
An MS degree in networking and systems administration provides students with the knowledge and technical skills they need to succeed in this environment. By examining the theoretical and practical aspects of this continuously evolving field, the program addresses current networking and systems administration issues. An enterprise-scale networking course examines emerging network technologies, high-performance computing, high-performance network programming, and security issues involved in enterprise networks.
#7. Strayer University
Program: MSIS in Enterprise Network Management
Tuition: $2,490 per course
Accreditation: Accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
The MSIS in Network Management at Strayer University can prepare students to address complex challenges, analyze new technological developments and operate network environments. Students graduate with the ability to develop network management strategies, including resource monitoring, data collection and interpretation, and data visualization. Additionally, they learn how to create a disaster recovery plan and a cloud-based business continuity plan.
Sample Courses:
- Enterprise Wireless Networks
- Advanced Systems Analysis and Design
- Strategic Planning for Database Systems
- Network Architecture and Analysis
What Degree Do You Need In Network Administration
Network Administration is a career that requires many different technical skills and knowledge areas. Most jobs are based on the size and scope of the organization, but most require at least an associate’s degree and most often a bachelor’s degree. Some employers will also require that you have a certain number of hours of experience in the field.
The following chart highlights degree levels for professionals working in Network Administration based on data collected from Zippia
What Jobs Can You Get With A Network Administrator Degree
Network administrators can find themselves working in both large corporations and small business settings; as an individual, you’ll likely find yourself working as part of a team with other IT professionals who specialize in different areas of the job. Here are some of the most popular jobs and salaries available for Network Administration Degrees.
Certifications for Network Administrators
A certification will help you get hired quickly and easily. If you have a certification, it shows that you have the knowledge and skills to do the job. Here are some useful certifications you may need as a Network Administrator:
1. Cisco Certified Network Associate
CCNA certifications provide job and skill training for network administrators, engineers, and specialists. This program teaches you how to install, monitor, and troubleshoot network infrastructure. An exam covering a wide range of IT fundamentals follows the course materials. It is a suitable choice for those just starting out in this field since there are no prerequisites.
2. Cisco Certified Technician
A Cisco Certified Technician program is an excellent choice if you’re just starting out in the field. This certification demonstrates your ability to diagnose, repair, and replace Cisco networking devices.
3. Certified Network Computer Technician
This certification shows that you have a firm understanding of computer electronics as well as network and internet technologies. The program is offered by ETA International, a not-for-profit trade association that certifies technology-related industries. A 70% or higher is required on the exam to obtain the certification. The certification must be renewed annually after receiving it.
4. CompTIA Network+
Network+ is a certification offered by CompTIA, an organization that provides education, training, and certification for IT professionals. You will gain knowledge and skills in setting up networks, configuring and managing network devices, identifying the pros and cons of existing network configurations, and troubleshooting network programs with this program.
5. Microsoft Certified Administrator
Microsoft Certified Administrators implement and monitor Microsoft solutions. The majority of these services are related to networking and security.
Is Network Administration A Good Career?
The answer is a resounding yes. It is generally agreed that a career as a network administrator is worth it. The main reason is the vast amount of knowledge and experience that can be garnered from this field. Additionally, many organizations are always in need of new administrators as technology becomes more advanced. A career as a network administrator also offers a high salary, low entry barriers, and the prospect of future growth.
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