Online Network Administration Degrees 2021
A bachelor's degree in network administration can lead to new and exciting career opportunities. Here, we list the top programs available.
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Network administrators keep an organization's computer network system functioning optimally. Companies in every industry employ these professionals to establish the organization's day-to-day needs, make computer system repairs and upgrades, and maintain IT security. Online programs train administrators who can effectively carry out these duties to maximize company and staff productivity.
Network administration degree graduates can enjoy great job prospects and earning potential, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS reports that network and computer systems administrators with a bachelor's degree earn a median annual salary of $83,510. This guide provides information about network administrator career options, coursework in online network administration degrees, and scholarship opportunities.
View Our Rankings List HereCommonly Asked Questions on Network Administration
A system administrator performs many duties. They install, maintain, and repair hardware and software; monitor computer systems for performance; ensure optimal IT security; and train staff in the use of these systems.
Career options include network administrator, computer and information systems manager, computer systems analyst, and computer network architect.
According to the BLS, network administrators can earn median annual salaries of over $83,000. Favorable job prospects between 2019-2029 also help make this degree a good investment.
A network administrator oversees the network computers' functions within a system. The system administrator performs more comprehensive IT tasks such as software and hardware installation, data recovery and backup, and staff training. At some companies, a network administrator may perform overlapping duties.
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Why Get a Degree in Network Administration?
IT professionals can enjoy job growth stability, and a network administration program empowers enrollees with advanced technical skills employers value. The BLS projects network and computer systems administrator jobs to grow 4% between 2019-2029.
A bachelor's degree may also give network administrators a competitive edge over peers. About 42% of network administrators hold a bachelor's degree, followed by some college but no degree (24%), and an associate degree (16%). Students can pursue a network administrator degree online without sacrificing work or other obligations. A favorable job outlook helps make the degree worth the necessary time and investment.
How Much Does a Network Administration Degree Cost?
Network administrator degree costs vary by college and depend on several factors. Students can expect to pay between $218-$370 per credit, or $26,160-$44,400 total program tuition based on a sampling of schools. Online learning grants degree-seekers access to some of the best bachelor's in network administration programs nationwide. E-Learning also helps learners save on tuition and other expenses.
Online learning offers cost savings on accommodation, transportation, childcare, and related expenses. Many schools offer a flat-rate tuition for all online learners regardless of residency. As such, students can avoid the expensive out-of-state tuition price tag.
Many institutions recognize that students often begin their postsecondary education at community and technical colleges. Generous credit transfer policies also help degree-seekers save on tuition. Students can satisfy general education and lower-level requirements with transfer credits. They may also receive credit for work and military experience.
A school's financial aid package may also help make an online network administration degree more affordable.
How Much Do Network Administration Majors Make?
Network administration majors generally find employment nationwide, and employers in all sectors need their expertise. They find the most jobs in the computer systems design and related services field, followed by educational services and the information sector. These administrators generally enjoy a salary of more than double the $39,810 median annual salary for all other occupations, along with great employment growth prospects.
While many graduates assume roles as well-paid network and computer systems administrators, they also qualify for other careers with even better job prospects. Computer network architects typically hold a bachelor's degree in majors such as network administration. They enjoy a $112,690 median annual salary, and the BLS projects 5% job growth for the profession between 2019-2029.
With work experience or advanced training, network administrators can assume roles as computer and information systems managers. These IT professionals earn a $146,360 median annual salary. The BLS projects 10% job growth for these managers between 2019-2029, which far outpaces the 4% average employment growth for all other occupations.
Courses in Network Administration
The curriculum for a network administration degree varies depending on the school. Four-year colleges typically award a BS or BAS for baccalaureate-level computer and IT programs. Students complete 120-126 credits including general education coursework such as English, applied algebra, and technical writing. The network administration coursework builds learners' skills in areas like fundamentals of networking, network security, cloud deployment and operations, and Linux system administration.
Students demonstrate their technical proficiency when they work on individual or team projects. Internship opportunities give students hands-on experience with a local company. Enrollees often culminate the degree with a capstone project they can include in their portfolios. Graduates exit the program with well-defined analytical and problem-solving skills. The following offers a sample curriculum including three courses students can expect to take.
Students explore the key components of computer networking systems and different networks such as a local area network (LAN) and wide area network (WAN). Enrollees advance to the installation, configuration, and security of networks, applications, and devices. This course typically prepares students for the CompTIA Network+ certification exam.Fundamentals of Networking
This course examines cloud computing and the use of various techniques and tools in cloud environments such as Amazon Web Services and Google Cloud. Students learn about cloud types, infrastructure, scalability, deployment and operations, and the monitoring and provisioning of cloud resources. They also learn best practices in cloud data backup and recovery.Cloud Deployment and Operations
This course examines cloud computing and the use of various techniques and tools in cloud environments such as Amazon Web Services and Google Cloud. Students learn about cloud types, infrastructure, scalability, deployment and operations, and the monitoring and provisioning of cloud resources. They also learn best practices in cloud data backup and recovery.Cloud Deployment and Operations
This course explores concepts and terminology in data management. Students learn about Structured Query Language (SQL) and Data Definition Language, commonly used for data management and manipulation. They learn how to use SQL to write programs, database structures, and debug programming. They also perform data modeling and learn how to implement database security measures such as authentication.Database Management
Certifications and Licensure for Network Administration
Certifications verify that learners possess the knowledge and skills necessary to perform certain tasks in their profession. While professionals do not require licensure to work in IT fields, employers expect them to hold some common certifications. The following lists three certifications that stand out to employers.
Scholarships for Network Administration
College students use scholarships to help defray tuition costs and other education-related expenses. Funding organizations sponsor scholarships for students in computing and IT programs, including learners seeking network administrator careers. Eligibility requirements include academic performance and financial need. The following list includes three general and network administration scholarship opportunities.
| Scholarship | Amount | Who Can Apply |
|---|---|---|
Upsilon Pi Epsilon Scholarships |
$1,000-$3,000 | UPE, the international honor society for IT and computing, awards scholarships to undergraduate and graduate members enrolled in a relevant program. Degree-seekers complete an application that includes school transcripts, a UPE student activity outline at their respective colleges, and long-term career goals. |
Employment BOOST College Scholarships |
$1,000 | A resume writing company, Employment BOOST offers scholarships to students majoring, or planning to major, in a science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) field. Students must demonstrate a minimum 3.6 GPA and write an essay. |
Scholarship America Dream Award |
Varies | Scholarship America helps students achieve their college dreams. The organization awards scholarships to students planning to enroll at a two-year or four-year college, with preference given to learners pursuing STEM majors. Students must hold a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrate financial need. |
Online Bachelor's In Network Administration Programs 2021
Students in CSU-Global's online bachelor's in network administration program learn to lead organizations using the latest IT principles. Coursework explores information systems design and management. Students learn basic programming and statistics in business analytics. Degree-seekers can choose from more than 20 specializations. Examples include emergency management and public relations.
Resources for distance learners include guides covering online education and answers to frequently asked questions. For help with coursework, students can access virtual tutoring sessions. They can also use library databases and the online writing center. Learners can receive IT assistance at all hours.
First-year applicants submit either high school transcripts or GED scores. Other application requirements include ACT or SAT scores. Learners with more than 24 previous credits apply as transfer students. In-state and out-of-state students pay the same tuition rates. Students with a minimum 3.7 undergraduate GPA can qualify for the university's Academic Excellence Scholarship.
ASU students can earn a bachelor's in network administration online. The curriculum covers operating system architecture. Students learn how to manage configurations and active directories. Another class teaches web programming for computer-human interfaces. Each course lasts 7.5 weeks, allowing learners to graduate sooner. The program culminates with a comprehensive capstone project.
Online degree-seekers can access career, time-management, and wellness resources. ASU's success coaches work individually with students to help them register for courses and set goals. Online students can access library research tools and databases.
First-year applicants need a high school diploma and a minimum 3.0 GPA. They also submit ACT or SAT scores. Transfer applicants may provide GED scores. Arizona residents pay slightly reduced tuition rates. The university maintains a searchable online database of scholarships.
A private university located in St. Louis, Missouri, Maryville offers an online bachelor's in network administration. The degree focuses on key business insights. Core coursework explores cybersecurity principles and applied operating systems. Other core classes cover collaboration and teaching. Students master various operating systems and develop fundamental project-management skills.
Maryville's student advisors and support coaches help learners access career and academic resources. Undergraduate students can access online tutoring in subjects including computers and technology.
First-year applicants need a high school diploma or passing GED scores. Applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA requirement may receive conditional admission. Maryville accepts transfer credit earned with a minimum 2.0 GPA. Incoming first-year students with at least a 3.5 high school GPA may qualify for up to $14,000 in automatic institutional aid.
UAB offers an online bachelor's in network administration program. The program confers a BS in information systems. Students analyze the principles of accounting, business communications, and operations management. The capstone project comprises an extended essay that asks learners to synthesize economics, management, and production policy concepts.
Degree-seekers use Handshake to post their resume, network with potential employers, and apply for jobs. Distance learners can access informative guides. These guides cover the online learning experience and student support services. The university offers virtual services, including a writing center, library assistance, and IT support.
Applicants complete a brief form before submitting official high school or undergraduate transcripts. UAB pairs each prospective student with an enrollment advisor. All online learners pay in-state tuition rates, regardless of residency. Students can also apply for institutional scholarships.
A public university located in Terre Haute, ISU delivers an online bachelor's in network administration. The degree suits aspiring business analysts, database administrators, and IT specialists. Core courses include business applications development and project management. Another core course is network administration and security.
During their senior year, learners complete a capstone project synthesizing business and IT expertise. Through Handshake, online students can access career coaching, network with alumni, and prepare for their job search. ISU also offers more than 20 in-depth career guides.
First-year applicants submit high school transcripts. ISU waives the standardized test score requirement for applicants ages 21 and up. The university accepts transfer credits earned with a minimum 2.0 GPA. In-state learners receive a significant tuition discount. ISU maintains many institutional scholarship programs.
DBU offers an online bachelor's in systems technology and information management. The online bachelor's in network administration program requires courses in IT project management. Coursework also includes information systems analysis and design and IT cybersecurity. Learners complete a 120-hour internship at a local company or organization. Students can earn credit through travel opportunities sponsored by the university.
Students receive a Handshake account and free career and personality assessments. Career advisors help degree-seekers access resources and plan their future. Students can schedule virtual advising appointments.
DBU offers four start dates each year. Applicants submit high school transcripts and standardized test scores. DBU does not charge an application fee. All undergraduate students pay the same per-credit tuition rate. Incoming first-year students with a minimum 3.0 high school GPA can qualify for automatic scholarships.
ORU is a Christian university located in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Distance learners can earn a bachelor's in network administration online. The curriculum features courses in information management and integrative programming. Students learn system administration and maintenance. Graduates often become systems software engineers, database administrators, and program analysts.
ORU provides free applications for career exploration, grammar checking, and networking. The university library offers citation and research guides. Learners can schedule a virtual appointment with a librarian. Or, they can post questions on the ask-a-librarian website.
First-year applicants submit standardized test scores. They also submit high school transcripts or GED scores. The university accepts transfer credits. Online students pay a per-semester technology fee. Active-duty service members save approximately 40% on tuition. ORU awards institutional scholarships based on prior academic performance.
ODU's online bachelor's in network administration program features U.S. government and private institution research opportunities. Core courses focus on systems analysis and design, project management, and database concepts. The program concludes with a writing-intensive course focusing on strategic decisions and functional competency.
Online degree-seekers can access Handshake resources, resume guides, and interviewing tips. New students take career assessments and access internship and job postings.
Applicants submit high school transcripts and standardized test scores. ODU recommends but does not need applicants to submit a resume and recommendation letters. Virginia students pay significantly reduced tuition rates. Students must provide the FAFSA results to apply for institutional scholarships. ODU offers a cost estimator to help learners plan their expenses.
SPC offers a bachelor's in network administration program with five concentration options. Examples include cybersecurity, project management, and software development. The core curriculum features courses in the legal aspects of managing technology. Students also learn software design methodologies and IT services management.
Online degree-seekers can speak with a career or academic advisor. Learners also benefit from research consultations, tutoring, and technical support services. Video tutorials introduce students to SPC resources.
Learners near St. Petersburg, Florida, can choose to study in a hybrid format. Applicants need an associate degree and a minimum 2.0 undergraduate GPA. Each concentration requires unique prerequisites. Florida residents pay the most affordable tuition rate. New students can apply for all institutional scholarships with one application.
Keiser's online bachelor's in network administration program confers a BS in management information systems. Coursework explores operations management. Learners study business analytics and international business. Students choose from electives such as critical thinking and professional writing. Keiser offers the program on several Florida campuses, allowing degree-seekers to learn in a hybrid format.
Keiser connects students with internships and mock interviews. Learners can attend professional development workshops online. Workshops cover topics such as workplace professionalism and money-management strategies. Degree-seekers can improve their employability by completing self-paced success skills tutorials.
Applicants submit high school transcripts or GED scores. They speak with an admissions advisor and attend an in-person or virtual open house. Keiser charges all learners the same tuition rates. Their institutional scholarships do not require a separate application.
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