Network administration is one of the most in-demand skillsets in the rapidly changing tech environment. The increasing demand for professionals in this field has made pursuing an online Master’s Degree in Network Administration a popular choice among bachelor’s degree holders.
Here is our in-depth look into the best online network administration master’s degrees. Due to their flexibility and convenience, online degrees are growing in popularity and credibility. In addition to all the details on reputable online network administration master’s degrees, we’re also providing the top network administration master’s degree jobs and salaries for graduates.
Where Can I Get a Network Administration Master’s Degree Online?
You can get a network administration master’s degree online from various accredited universities, including top universities like Arizona State University, Drexel University, Southern New Hampshire University, and the University of Texas at San Antonio.
What Schools Offer the Best Network Administration Master’s Degrees?
- Arizona State University
- Southern New Hampshire University
- University of Texas at San Antonio
- Drexel University
- North Carolina State University
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Network Administration Master’s Degree?
The admission requirements for an online network administration master’s degree vary but generally include a completed application, official undergraduate transcripts, GRE or GMAT scores, a letter of recommendation, an essay, and a resume.
Some schools have a minimum cumulative GPA requirement, while others require specific prerequisite courses, with a specific GPA in those courses. The personal statement, letter of recommendation, and resume are mandatory for some schools and optional for others.
Online Network Administration Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Graduate application
- Standardized test scores
- Official transcripts
- Resume
- Letters of recommendation
How to Get a Network Administration Master’s Degree Online
You get a network administration master’s degree online by fulfilling all of the graduation requirements, such as completing the required number of credits (usually about 30) with a minimum GPA of about 3.0. Similar to admission requirements, graduation requirements vary depending on the school and degree program. Here are some of the more common degree requirements for an online Master’s Degree in Network Administration.
Network Administration Degree Requirements
- Approximately 30 credit hours
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- Portfolio
- Capstone project
Best Online Network Administration Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Master of Science in Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Bellevue University | Master of Science in Computer Information Systems | Higher Learning Commission |
| Boston University | Master of Science in Computer Information Systems, Computer Networks Concentration | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Drexel University | Master of Science in Computer Science | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Fort Hays State University | Master of Professional Studies in Computer Networking | Higher Learning Commission |
| North Carolina State University | Master of Science in Computer Networking | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Master of Science in Information Technology | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Stevens Institute of Technology | Master of Science in Network and Communication Management and Services | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Strayer University | Master of Science in Information Systems, Enterprise Network Management Concentration | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Texas at San Antonio | Master of Science in Information Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Best Schools for Network Administration: Top Online Network Administration Master’s Degree Programs
Many schools offer online Master’s Degrees in Network Administration and related degrees. Every school has a slightly different curriculum, including concentration options and credit requirements. Below is a list of some of the best accredited schools for online network administration master’s degrees.
What Is an Online Network Administration Master’s Degree?
An online network administration master’s degree is typically a two-year degree involving the advanced study of computer networks and information technology. Students learn about network architecture, management, administration, and security while pursuing this degree.
The degree program offers specialized knowledge in various network concepts with a focus on enhancing students’ problem-solving, analytical, and critical-thinking skills. Core courses include Information Technology, Computer Security, Telecommunications, Programming, and Network Server Administration.
Online vs In-Person Network Administration Degrees
Online and in-person network administration degrees have many similarities, but also some big differences. For example, most online programs feature the same faculty that teaches in-person courses. A key difference between these learning formats is the flexibility of scheduling offered by online programs.
Both learning formats have their own advantages. An online network administration master’s degree is just as good as a degree you’d get from attending classes at a college. Below are the top benefits of online and in-person network administration degrees.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Master’s Degree in Network Administration
- Collaborative learning. Online platforms make it easier to communicate with fellow students during different times of the day and week. This makes it more likely that students will work together while learning.
- Flexibility. An online Master’s Degree in Network Administration offers more flexibility of scheduling for students. You can learn at your own pace, and at the time of day that works best for you.
- Convenience. Learning network administration is usually more convenient for online students because they can attend classes from just about anywhere and don’t have to relocate or commute.
- Better suitability. The nature of a degree in network administration is better suited to an online learning format due to the heavy involvement of technology. Earning this degree online allows you to explore some of the practical aspects of the concepts.
- Self-paced learning. An online Master’s Degree in Network Administration allows students to experience self-paced learning. This helps them develop a good work-study balance.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Master’s Degree in Network Administration
- Set schedule. An in-person Master’s Degree in Network Administration follows a set learning schedule that provides students with the structure they might require to work effectively.
- In-person communication. Students can get all their questions answered directly by their instructor in an in-person class. Network administration is a technical field of study, and getting timely answers to your questions is crucial for developing the right concepts.
- Increased engagement. In-person degree programs facilitate more classroom engagement among students. You can engage in academic discussions with your fellow students and teachers more easily when everyone’s in the same room together.
- Access to valuable resources. On-campus learning resources are valuable to all students. This includes access to libraries, labs, and teaching faculty.
- Networking opportunities. In-person learning allows you to socialize and interact with others both inside and outside the classroom. You can build a strong social network to aid in your educational and professional life.
What Types of Online Master’s Degrees Can You Get in Network Administration?
You can get several types of online Master’s Degrees in Network Administration, including a Master of Science, a Master of Computer Science, and a Master of Business Administration. Each degree type has a different focus area and therefore varies in terms of curriculum and coursework.
Is It Better to Get a Master of Science or Master of Business Administration in Network Administration?
It is better to get a Master of Science in Network Administration than a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Network Administration because a Master of Science in Network Administration helps you acquire in-depth knowledge of the subject and related fields of study, with a broader focus area.
On the other hand, a Master of Business Administration mainly focuses on the application and functions of network administration in the field of business only. Both degrees help you specialize in network administration with a slight difference in curriculum.
How Much Does a Network Administration Master’s Degree Cost?
A network administration master’s degree costs around $19,314 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. This number represents annual tuition and related fees.
There are other costs to consider, such as books and other supplies. Each school and program will have its own unique fees and costs. However, online degrees usually save students money that they would otherwise spend on relocating, on-campus room and board, commuting, parking, etc.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Network Administration Master’s Degree Online?
It takes about two years to get a network administration master’s degree online. Students must complete 30 to 40 credit hours to earn this degree, and two years provides enough time to feasibly meet the course load requirement.
Some degree programs, however, offer accelerated degree options that allow students to complete the degree in less than two years. Others allow students to take their time earning their degree, but the time limit usually maxes out at five or six years.
Are Online Network Administration Degrees Respected?
Yes, online network administration degrees are respected. Online students get the same education that on-campus students get. The increasing trend of students’ enrollment in distance learning classes in the US, as reported by Statista, shows the inclination of students toward online degree programs. Since the programs are offered by accredited institutions, they are respected by other institutes and organizations.
Is Network Administration Hard to Learn Online?
No, network administration is not hard to learn online. The tech-based subject matter involved in earning a Master’s Degree in Network Administration lends itself to an online learning format. As long as students meet the computer requirements and commit to completing each course successfully, there should be few obstacles to earning the degree online. Most programs at this level offer students ample virtual resources for any help they require.
Network Administration Bootcamp vs Online Network Administration Master’s Degree: Which Is Better?
Network administration bootcamps offer benefits that online network administration master’s degrees do not, and vice versa. Here we take a closer look at the top benefits of each educational path.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Network Administration Master’s Degree
- Career advancement. Many senior-level tech positions require a master’s degree. Earning a master’s degree online can usually be completed while working, too, so that professionals can retain their current positions with their company.
- A pathway to a doctoral degree. Anyone interested in earning their Doctoral Degree in Cyber Security, Data Management, or Network Security through online classes will be required to have a master’s degree as a prerequisite.
- Expertise in the major. A master’s degree is one of the highest levels of education you can pursue. Employers and other associates recognize it as a commitment of time and energy and a reflection of mastery of a particular field.
- Concentration options. As a network administration student, you can specialize in several different subject areas, including cyber security, data science, and software engineering.
- Increased earning potential. The advanced tech roles that open to network administration master’s degree holders come with a higher starting salary. As you gain experience in these jobs, your income potential only increases.
Top 5 Benefits of a Network Administration Bootcamp
- Less of a time commitment. Unlike degree programs, which last several years, bootcamps can be completed in just a few months.
- A focus on in-demand skills. It’s easier to update the shorter, more specialized curriculum of a bootcamp. This makes bootcamps valuable for staying in step with industry demands, such as those related to new technology and the skills required to use it.
- Increased career opportunities. A network administration bootcamp can help you qualify for positions in junior software development, IT support, network and systems administration, and database administration.
- Career placement services. Most coding bootcamps offer thorough career services, including resume assistance, interview preparation, networking opportunities, and job placement.
- Affordability. The cost of a bootcamp program depends on the subject, location, and format you choose. However, bootcamps are usually much more affordable than degree programs.
Why You Should Get a Network Administration Master’s Degree Online
You should get a network administration master’s degree online because it will increase your knowledge, technical skills, and career options, all without requiring you to leave home. This degree opens the door to career opportunities with high earning potential and long-term growth opportunities.
Online network administration degrees will be an investment of students’ time and money. Scholarships, financial aid, and payment plans can help ease the burden. With the high starting salaries earned by network administration master’s degree holders, graduates can expect to see a return on their investment relatively quickly.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Master’s Degree Program in Network Administration?
You take a combination of core and elective courses in an online program for a Master’s Degree in Network Administration. The courses mainly cover information technology, operating systems, computer systems security, and database management. Below are some of the common courses you will need to take for an online Master’s Degree in Network Administration.
Network Design and Management
This course provides the foundational knowledge of different concepts involved in network management. It covers topics such as information gathering, analysis, designing, evaluation, and management of computer network systems.
Fundamentals of Operating Systems
The fundamentals of operating systems are the functions, mechanisms, and abstractions of computer operating systems. The key topics taught in this course include computer architecture, functions of the operating system, process management, and systems security.
Scripting and Programming
This course covers fundamental concepts about programming languages such as Python, Java, JavaScript, SQL, C, and C++. It blends theoretical knowledge with the practical application of programming languages to strengthen students’ concepts.
Computing Ethics and Security Policy
This course aims to train students to become responsible professionals by following ethical practices while performing their job duties. Computing ethics and security practices help professionals refrain from unfair use of computer networks and maintain the security of the network.
Network Security
In this course, students learn about the effective techniques and practices to ensure the security of computer networks and operating systems. Students learn the use of the latest tools and techniques to prevent computer systems from cyber security breaches and attacks and minimize the resulting potential loss.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Network Administrator Master’s Degree Graduates
The most popular continuing education path for online network administrator master’s degree graduates is a doctoral degree. After earning a Master’s Degree in Network Administration from an accredited institution, graduates can enroll in a PhD program, which requires a time commitment of four to six years to complete.
Related Online Network Administrator Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Network Administration Master’s Degree Programs
The things to look for in the best network administration master’s degree programs are accreditation, cost, specialization options, and flexibility. These factors affect your learning process and your future education and career plans.
Accreditation
Accreditation ensures that the degree program and the resulting education are compliant with the internationally accepted standards. This affects not only your continuing education paths but also the employment opportunities available for you. Also, financial aid is usually available for students enrolled in accredited institutions.
Cost
Cost is a significant factor to consider before applying for admission to a school. Tuition for an online master’s degree program is usually less than an in-person degree program, but there are still other costs to consider beyond tuition. Ensure that you will be able to afford the total cost of the program before committing to it.
Flexibility
The flexible learning schedule that most online master’s degrees provide allows you to learn at your own pace. For example, you may be able to adjust your course load based on how much you’re working, or be able to watch recorded classes at any time, rather than during scheduled times. Make sure that the program is flexible enough to meet your learning needs.
Specialization Options
Most master’s degree programs offer several different concentration or specialization options. When choosing a degree program, make sure that it offers specialization in your desired field of study. Otherwise, you might not qualify for your preferred job positions.
Accelerated Degree Options
If you wish to earn your online master’s degree in less than two years, you may be able to do so via an accelerated degree option. This typically involves taking more courses than usual in a set time period so that you can earn required credits at a faster pace. Check to make sure your degree program offers this option.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Network Administration Master’s Degree?
The most affordable online network administration master’s degree is the Master of Professional Studies in Computer Networking offered by Fort Hays State University. It costs about $4,478 per year in terms of tuition.
Since the degree is completed in two years, you can expect to pay about $8,956 in tuition for this degree. This is considerably more affordable than the other options on our list. Remember that your total cost will include associated fees and course materials.
Can I Get a Network Administration Master’s Degree Online for Free?
No, you cannot get a network administration master’s degree online for free. However, you can learn network administration online through free courses and MOOCs. Various non-profit organizations and universities offer free courses for students along with free certificates.
For those pursuing a degree, there are many federal and private scholarships and grants available to help finance their educational investment. Some schools require students to fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form upon applying for admission.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Network Administration Master’s Degree Graduates
After graduating with an online Master’s Degree in Network Administration, you will be eligible for high-earning jobs in tech. Sources like the best tech job boards can help you explore your career options. A strong portfolio representing your expertise in the field will help you stand out even further to employers.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Network Administration Master’s Degree?
It is not very hard to get a job with a network administration master’s degree. This degree prepares students for the professional world by training them in the most in-demand skills related to technology systems. Many employers will recognize your completion of this degree as a strong dedication and commitment to the development of your professional skills.
What’s the Average Online Network Administration Master’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with a network administration master’s degree is approximately $104,000, according to PayScale. This represents the average base salary exclusive of benefits. Your actual salary will vary depending on factors besides your education, including your level of experience, as well as the location of the job, the company, and the exact job title.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Network Administration Master’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with an online network administration master’s degree are network administrator, network engineer, data analyst, and cyber security specialist. You can become a network architect with a Master’s Degree in Network Administration if you are equipped with the relevant skills.
Network Administration Degree Jobs
- Computer network architects
- Network and computer systems administrators
- Network engineers
- Information security analysts
- Computer and information systems managers
Potential Careers With an Online Network Administration Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Network Administration Master’s Degree?
You can make over $150,000 per year with an online network administration master’s degree. Your earning potential depends on things like your specific skills and experience and how they apply to the job. The more experience you gain, the higher salaries you can expect to earn.
Landing a high-paying job with a Master’s Degree in Network Administration is not that difficult. Be sure to look into how to write an effective cover letter and resume to aid in your efforts. Here are some of the highest-paying online network administration master’s degree jobs out there.
Highest-Paying Online Network Administration Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Network Administration Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Manager | $159,010 |
| Computer Network Architect | $120,520 |
| Information Security Analyst | $102,600 |
| Database Administrator | $98,860 |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrator | $80,600 |
Best Jobs for Online Network Administration Master’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for online network administration master’s degree graduates allow you to put your tech skills to use in innovative ways and come with generous salaries as compensation. Here are some of the highest-paying jobs to consider after earning your graduate degree.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Online Network Administration Master’s Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online network administration master’s degree is worth it. Earning a master’s degree leads to excellent career growth opportunities and opens pathways for pursuing further education in the field for those who are interested.
Online network administration degrees facilitate learning by allowing students to learn in the comfort of their homes and at their desired pace. The development of in-depth computer and systems network knowledge and hands-on skills resulting from this degree makes an employer see you as an ideal candidate for lucrative jobs.
Additional Reading About Network Administration
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Online Network Administration Master’s Degree FAQ
Yes, the job of a network administrator can be difficult. The job requires extensive knowledge and skills in the tech field. Attaining advanced learning through a master’s degree program increases your odds of success in this position.
The highest-paying job for an online Master’s Degree in Network Administration is that of a computer and information systems manager. This job has an average annual salary of $159,010, as reported by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Yes, you can earn a Master’s Degree in Network Administration entirely online. Although some online master’s degree programs require students to come to campus for laboratory experience or exams, the network administration major allows everything to be completed remotely.
Yes, many schools offer accelerated degree options for online master’s degree programs in network administration. You can find this information on the school’s website or in the online catalog of the degree program.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
