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Earning your network administration bachelor's degree online is a great way to start or advance your career. A degree will qualify you for new jobs and set you apart from the competition. Earning your degree online could help you complete your program faster and allow you to schedule your courses around existing obligations. This guide will help you determine if this is the right degree for you and, if so, how to go about choosing a program. You'll find information about classes, scholarships, and possible career paths, as well as a ranking of the best online programs available.
How Much Can You Make in a Network Administration Career?
Earning your network administration bachelor's degree online can boost your career. It won't guarantee you a job or a given salary, but it will open up new career paths. The table provides some information on five potential career paths you could follow with the skills you'll learn during your program. This is not an exhaustive list, so don't feel limited to what you see in the table.
Network and Computer Systems Administrator Median Annual Salary: $81,110
Job Growth 2016-2026:
6%
Job Description
These professionals manage the daily operations of computer networks within an organization. They deal with both the digital and physical aspects of a network, assist users in accessing the network, and integrate new technology into an existing network. Depending on the size of the organization, they may also be responsible for network security.
Computer and Information Systems Manager Median Annual Salary: $139,220
Job Growth 2016-2026:
12%
Job Description
These professionals take a high level approach to the information systems used within their organization, coming up with plans to improve or expand those systems based on the needs of the company. In larger organizations, they may have other people working for them who will implement those plans, but in a smaller company, they may do so themselves.
Computer Network Architect Median Annual Salary: $104,650
Job Growth 2016-2026:
6%
Job Description
These professionals design and implement networks. They work within organizations or for outside consulting firms. They work with small networks, large networks spanning multiple locations, and with cloud-based networks. They have to think about physical and digital architectures for such networks, and in smaller organizations may also be responsible for system maintenance.
Software Developer Median Annual Salary: $103,560
Job Growth 2016-2026:
24%
Job Description
These professionals design software, including software used in network administration, security and communication between systems. They program the software as well, or may be in charge of testing it after it has reached a stable build. They may need additional training outside of network administration.
Information Security Analyst Median Annual Salary: $95,510
Job Growth 2016-2026:
28%
Job Description
These professionals analyze and monitor existing networks to find weaknesses or determine how a breach or other security failure happened. They use this information to suggest changes that can improve the security of the network. They work as outside consultants or within a company, where they may be responsible for developing and implementing changes.
Sources: BLS 2018
A network administration degree can help you get a job just about anywhere in the country, but the salary you earn from a given position can vary due to several factors. The most important of these is location. Cost of living and median income can vary by city and state. The section below will give you some idea of how much salaries can vary to help you plan for your future.
What Courses Can be Taken for an Online Network Administration Degree?
Every bachelor's degree in network administration is unique, and each program has specific course requirements. Most programs will cover the same general topics, albeit with different focuses. Some may focus more on design, while others focus on security. The table below outlines five courses you may take, though the names and specifics will vary from one program to another.
Database Systems
These courses address the types of software used in conjunction with physical networks to keep them running efficiently.
Cybersecurity
Here, you'll discuss the kinds of threats networks face. You'll learn how to prepare for those threats and how to respond to them when they occur.
Network Design
Network design courses cover the techniques and best practices of creating networks. You'll discuss the kinds of network architectures available and how to implement them.
Operating Systems
In these courses, you'll discuss the structural aspects of different operating systems and how networks are influenced by them.
Systems Analysis and Design
Here, you'll study techniques used to analyze existing systems to find faults or weaknesses that can be fixed or improved, and you'll learn how to go about solving those problems.
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions on Courses and Careers in Network Administration Program
Choosing where to get your network administration degree is up to you, but there are a lot of factors worth considering. Below, you'll find five commonly asked questions about online programs along with answers to help you get started in the decision-making process.
Do I have to choose a school in my own state?
No. Online programs can typically be completed from anywhere. However, residency may impact what you pay for tuition, with residents of the state generally paying less. Make sure to look at each program's tuition rates to see if they are impacted by location.
What if there are internship or practicum requirements?
If a program requires you to complete an internship (or gives you the opportunity to do so for credit), then you can typically find one close to your location. Online programs are designed for people to attend around the world, so requirements like this are usually very flexible.
How should I choose my classes?
Your program will have some course requirements, but it should also allow you the freedom to choose other classes, both within your degree and for your general education requirements. Select courses that sound interesting to you and, if you have a specific career path in mind, those that will help you achieve your goals.
Is an online education as good as one on campus?
You will get the same quality of instruction online because most courses are taught by the same instructors, regardless of modality. The real difference comes in how the courses are presented and in the ability to meet other students and participate in university culture.
Will I have to choose a concentration?
That depends on the program. Some programs require you to, while others offer you the opportunity to choose, and some require a specific order of courses. Choosing a concentration allows you to specialize in one aspect of network administration, which can help you develop a specific career path that capitalizes on your skillset.
Scholarships & Financial Aid for Network Administration Programs
A bachelor's in network administration can be pricey, but there are many financial aid options available. We've included five examples of scholarships to help you get started in your search. Scholarships, unlike student loans, don't have to be repaid but they are competitive and generally awarded to people from specific populations.
Out to Innovate Scholarships
The National Organization of Gay and Lesbian Scientists and Technical Professionals awards two $5,000 scholarships each year through their Out to Innovate program: one for undergraduates and one for graduates. Applicants must be in their third year or above, have a 3.0 or higher GPA, and must be active participants in groups that promote LGBTQ inclusion and visibility. Applications require an essay, letters of recommendation, and transcripts.
Richard E. Merwin Scholarship
IEEE, a prominent professional organization for people in computer and engineering fields, offers scholarships every year in varying amounts of $1,000 or more. Applicants must be active IEEE members in their third year of study or higher, pursuing a computer-related degree. Transcripts, letters of recommendation, and records of extracurricular activities are required.
Scholarships for Women Studying Information Security
Applied Computer Security Associates and the Computing Research Association-Women have been providing scholarships since 2011. Candidates must be enrolled in their third year or higher at a school in the US. They must provide an essay, letters of recommendation, a resume, and a transcript. Awards can be up to $10,000.
Upsilon Pi Epsilon Scholarships
Upsilon Pi Epsilon is the International Honor Society for the Computing and Information Disciplines; each year they award five scholarships of $1,000 to $2,500. These are available to undergraduate and graduate members of the organization. Applications require transcripts and letters of recommendation.
Women Techmakers Scholarships
These scholarships are awarded to women who demonstrate leadership, a dedication to furthering the cause of women in technology, and a strong academic record. The scholarships are for $10,000 in the United States and $5,000 in Canada and are open to undergraduate and graduate students. Applicants must include essay responses to five questions, a letter of recommendation, transcripts and a resume.
