If you want to advance your career in cyber security management or network design then this list of the best network engineering schools is for you. Network engineering and security are crucial elements of the data, business, and information technology industries. The best network engineering schools ensure you meet the criteria for a lucrative career in these industries.
Our guide covers the top 10 best network engineering colleges that offer associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. We also include national rankings, the best network technology jobs, network administration majors, and their program information.
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Best Network Engineering College and University Rankings: Top 10 Network Engineering Schools at a Glance
| School | State | Formats Available | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | AZ | In-person, online | #117 |
| Cornell University | NY | In-person | #15 |
| DeVry University | IL | In-person, online | #119-157 |
| North Dakota State University | ND | In-person | #277 |
| Purdue University | IN | In-person, online | #49 |
| Rochester Institute of Technology | NY | In-person | #117 |
| San Jose State University | CA | In-person | #22 |
| Pennsylvania State University | PA | In-person | #63 |
| University of Michigan | MI | In-person | #23 |
| University of Phoenix | AZ | Online | #299-391 |
Network Engineering School Rankings: Best Network Engineering Colleges and Universities
Below is a list of the best network engineering universities that will help you become a network engineer, network analyst, network technician, or land other network security-based jobs. Our list covers computer science, cyber security, systems engineering, and computer engineering programs that prepare students for a career in network engineering.
According to the US News & World Report, Arizona State University is the most innovative university in the country. It is a public school founded in 1885 and has a robust research program. It offers more than 800 academic programs online and on campus and had a Fall 2021 enrollment of 135,729 students.
Arizona State University Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 88%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- US News Ranking: #117
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #132
Best Arizona State University Network Engineering Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Engineering Computer Systems. This degree requires a total of 120 credit hours, completed in four years. Its curriculum combines engineering, programming, data science, and systems engineering. You’ll acquire advanced technical skills in systems design, enterprise networks, data structures, and engineering statistics.
- Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering. This bachelor's degree teaches operating systems, software construction, and project management. It is offered both online and in person and requires a total of 120 credit hours.
- Master of Science in Computer Engineering. This two-year master's degree offers concentration options in electrical engineering and computer systems. The computer systems specialization will help advance your career in cyber security and networking. You can choose between a 30-credit thesis or a written exam plan of study.
- PhD in Computer Systems Engineering. This PhD program helps students establish advanced careers in software development, network architectures, or computer hardware. It contains 84 credits of research, electives, graduate courses, and a dissertation.
- Online Master of Computer Science- Cyber Security. This cyber security degree can help you land jobs in information security, network operations, applied cryptography, or systems analysis. This online degree takes 30 credit hours in 18 to 36 months to complete. You will learn artificial intelligence, software testing, operating systems, machine learning, and data processing.
Arizona State University Network Engineering Key Takeaway
Arizona State University is an innovative institution that offers robust programs in network technology and computer science.
Cornell University is among the top private universities and was established in 1865. It has high-quality journalism, electrical engineering, computer science, and biology programs. It offers more than 200 advanced degrees and had a Fall 2021 total population of 25,582 students.
Cornell University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 11%
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- US News Ranking: #17
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #22
Best Cornell University Network Engineering Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Information Science Systems, and Technology. Information technology bachelor's degrees can help you become a network administrator, systems analyst, or penetration tester. It takes four to five years to complete and consists of advanced programming, technical and electrical electives, and general courses.
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This computer science program is 120 credit hours of introductory and advanced tech-based core courses. You learn object oriented programming, embedded systems, Python, and network functions.
- Master of Science in Computer Science. The job outlook for computer scientists is 22 percent from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and this degree helps you land senior jobs with high job outlooks. It takes four semesters to complete and you can choose from artificial intelligence, systems, and scientific computation concentrations.
- PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering. This PhD is based on research and obtaining advanced technical skills in hardware and software programs. Your projects focus on network engineering, robotics, electromagnetics, or computer architecture. There are candidacy exams, dissertation process, and thesis defense to complete.
Cornell University Network Engineering Key Takeaway
Cornell University is a world renowned university with highly-reputable computer science and engineering programs. These programs make landing a lucrative job in the network engineering sector an easier process.
DeVry University is a private school where students can study through online or in-person programs. It was established in 1931 and has focused on teaching technological skills since its inception. It currently offers programs in business, healthcare, technology, and accounting.
DeVry University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 44%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Degrees Offered: Associate, bachelor’s, master's
- US News Ranking: #119-157
- Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A
Best DeVry University Network Engineering Programs
- Associate Degree in Network Systems Administration. This degree helps students prepare for cyber security analytics or network security careers. It prepares you for the Cisco Certified Network Certificate and teaches networking, operating systems, and systems analysis.
- Bachelor’s in Information Technology and Networking Degree with a Specialization in Cyber Security. The best network engineering bachelor's degrees can help you get cyber security, database architecture, or information assurance jobs. This online degree requires 120 credit hours and teaches the skills relevant to CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, and CompTIA PenTest+ certification exams.
- Online Master’s in Network and Communications Management. If you want to advance your computing career into a managerial position then get this 45-credit online degree. It offers two specializations in information security or project management.
DeVry University Network Engineering Key Takeaway
DeVry University’s network engineering and cyber security programs are a great choice for students looking for affordable and flexible online college degrees. Students in DeVry’s technology-based programs are also given free laptops.
North Dakota State University is a public research institution founded in 1890 and currently offers 231 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. According to the US News & World Report, North Dakota State University ranks 277th among the best national universities.
North Dakota State University Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 94%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- US News Ranking: #277
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #401-500
Best North Dakota State University Network Engineering Programs
- Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering. This computer engineering degree takes 126 credit hours to complete. It focuses on computer architecture, cyber systems, embedded systems, and computer systems. Some popular career outcomes include data scientist, network engineer, information security analyst, or game developer.
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. In this 120-credit hour computer science program you learn software engineering, programming languages, computer systems, and discrete mathematics. You can get computing, network, or data science jobs.
- Master of Science in Computer Science. You can opt for a thesis-based 32-credit plan or culminating experience-based 36-credit plan. You’ll learn software development, cyber security, network security, artificial intelligence, and database systems.
- PhD in Computer Science. This PhD requires between 30 to 51 credit hours depending on your academic accolades and pathway. You can focus your doctoral dissertation on cyber security, artificial intelligence, software development, or database systems.
North Dakota State University Network Engineering Key Takeaway
North Dakota State University’s national university ranking paired with its good academic reputation provides students with a fruitful network engineering education.
Purdue University is a globally recognized school best known for its tier-one research programs. It is most popular for its computer science, English, business administration, and mechanical engineering programs. It was founded in 1869 and offers both online and in-person degrees across tons of states.
Purdue University Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 67%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- US News Ranking: #49
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #105
Best Purdue University Network Engineering Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Infrastructure and Network Engineering Technology. This program will allow you to master computer systems design and architecture. You will gain advanced skills to get employed in network security and architecture positions through courses in operating systems, computer security, software testing, and embedded systems.
- Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Technology. This technology bachelor’s degree requires 120 credit hours. It covers systems development, design thinking, cyber security, and data management. You can enter systems or network engineering administration professions with this degree.
- Master of Science in Computer and Information Technology. This master’s program requires 25 credit hours of graduate and research courses. It focuses on quantitative methods, information technology, network security, and engineering programming.
- PhD in Computer Science. A PhD in Computer Science provides you with advanced research and programming skills. Purdue’s PhD timeline is five years and includes research, core courses, preliminary exams, thesis, and defense components.
Purdue University Network Engineering Key Takeaway
Getting an advanced degree from a tier-one research school such as Purdue University will boost your candidacy for network engineering and other jobs.
Rochester Institute of Technology is a research-based private school established in 1829 in New York. It is best known for its computer science, engineering, design, and business programs. It has a total enrollment of 19,000 students and more than 135,000 alumni.
Rochester Institute of Technology Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 74%
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Degrees Offered: Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- US News Ranking: #117
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #800-1000
Best Rochester Institute of Technology Network Engineering Programs
- Associate in Occupational Studies in Applied Computer Technology. This degree is for students wanting to enter the network security or network engineering fields with two years of education. It requires 63 credit hours and covers network security, web design, data security, and digital systems integration.
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. With a 98 percent graduate outcome rate, this computer engineering degree is for those looking for a high job placement education opportunity. It requires 129 credits that can be completed in five years. You learn software engineering, C, communication networks, and computer engineering.
- Master of Science in Computing Security. This computing security master’s program specializes in cryptography and computer systems. It takes 30 credit hours in a two-year timeframe. With this degree, you can become a backend developer, network systems engineer, cyber security analyst, or security engineer.
- PhD in Computing and Information Sciences. Rochester Institute of Technology reports a 100 percent graduate outcome rate for its computer science doctorate students. This PhD covers research topics across artificial intelligence, software engineering, network security, and data science topics.
Rochester Institute of Technology Network Engineering Key Takeaway
Rochester Institute of Technology reports a high graduate outcome and job placement rate for its popular degrees in computer science and engineering.
San Jose State University is a public institution founded in 1857. According to the US News & World Report, San Jose State University ranks 22nd on the 2022 Best Regional Universities West list. It is recognized for its journalism, engineering, computer science, and psychology programs.
San Jose State University Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 67%
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s
- US News Ranking: #22
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #1001-1200
Best San Jose State University Network Engineering Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. The average salary for a computer science bachelor’s degree holder is $87,000. This degree will help you land high-paying jobs in the tech and data fields. It requires 120 credit hours with courses in computer architecture, programming paradigms, information security, and network management.
- Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology, Computer Network System Management Concentration. Majoring in engineering technology and systems management is a great way to land lucrative networking engineering jobs. This program consists of 120 credit hours with a curriculum covering software quality management, network security, cyber security, and cloud computing.
- Master of Science in Software Engineering. Software engineering master’s degrees advance your career in software development, network engineering, or computer science sectors. This program requires you to complete 33 credits in network security, computer network design, application development, and software systems.
San Jose State University Network Engineering Key Takeaway
San Jose State University offers a wide range of reputable programs in computer science and network engineering.
The Pennsylvania State University was founded in 1855 and is a top-tier research university. It offers more than 275 undergraduate majors and has 24 campuses and online programs. According to the US News & World Report, Penn State ranks 63rd among National Universities and 34th among the most innovative schools.
The Pennsylvania State University Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 78%
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Degrees Offered: Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- US News Ranking: #63
- Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A
Best The Pennsylvania State University Network Engineering Programs
- Associate in Information Sciences and Technology. This two-year program covers systems analysis, networking, web design, programming, and data organization. You can apply for entry-level network administration, data administration, or system security positions or further your education by completing a bachelor’s degree program.
- Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security Analytics and Operations. If you want to venture into cyber security, network security, or systems engineering, this degree is for you. It requires 123 credits in network security, information security management, application development, and programming courses.
- Master of Science in Computer Science and Engineering. Master’s Degrees in Computer Science and Computer Engineering help you build a fruitful career across countless tech fields. This program requires 31 credits of courses, thesis, and research. Its focus areas are computer architecture, operating systems design, and algorithms.
- PhD in Computer Science. This PhD requires between 21 to 33 credits depending on the student's qualifications. It is an extension of the computer science master’s program and focuses its research on computer architecture and data structures.
The Pennsylvania State University Network Engineering Key Takeaway
The Pennsylvania State University has a high national university and innovative school ranking making it a great choice for pursuing a network engineering education.
University of Michigan was established in 1817 and is a popular public research school, especially for its education, liberal arts, and research programs. It had a total enrollment of more than 50,000 students for its Fall 2021 cohort.
University of Michigan Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 26%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- US News Ranking: #23
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #24
Best University of Michigan Network Engineering Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. The core courses of this computer science degree cover computer architecture, cryptography, software engineering, and operating systems. You need to complete 55 to 56 credits of core courses and can venture into game design, artificial intelligence, network engineering, or software development fields.
- Bachelor of Science in Data Science. Getting a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Science that covers data architecture, database management systems, and information systems can help you enter data network engineering professions. This degree requires a minimum of 42 credits that include core, capstone, and elective courses.
- PhD in Computer and Information Science. This PhD consists of 34 credits of thesis work and core courses. It covers advanced research topics in software engineering, system security, and data science.
- Master of Science in Data Science. If you want to advance your career in database networking and systems fields, then this data science master’s degree is for you. It requires 25 credits of coursework and residency work. You will learn big data computing, machine learning, advanced database systems, and data structure engineering.
University of Michigan Network Engineering Key Takeaway
University of Michigan offers a variety of computer science, data science, and software engineering courses that will help solidify your career in network engineering.
University of Phoenix is a private university with robust online and on-campus educational programs. It was founded in 1976 and offers over 300 undergraduate and graduate degrees to its student body.
University of Phoenix Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: Open admission policy
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Degrees Offered: Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s
- US News Ranking: #299-391
- Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A
Best University of Phoenix Network Engineering Programs
- Associate of Arts with a concentration in Information Technology with an Information Assurance and Security Certificate. Having a professional certificate paired with a higher-ed degree is a great resume booster. This 60-credit online associate program is a great way to land entry-level network engineering or IT jobs.
- Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security. Cyber security and network security are closely related subject areas that encompass the study of security in cyber space. This bachelor’s program requires 120 credit hours and is offered online. It covers computer infrastructure, ethical hacking, and enterprise management.
- Master of Information Systems. This information systems master’s degree helps students enter senior information technology or networking professions. It is offered online and requires 36 credit hours for completion. You can choose between its flexible online or traditional delivery formats.
University of Phoenix Network Engineering Key Takeaway
University of Phoenix is a good choice for students wanting a flexible online education. Its got very affordable programs that help its students fulfill their network engineering career goals.
Best Bachelor’s Degree Programs
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The Best Schools for Network Engineering: Types of College Degrees and University Programs Offered
The best schools for network engineering offer high-quality associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs. The pathway to a fruitful career in network engineering can stem from any of these qualifications.
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However, if you get an associate degree you will only qualify for junior network administration positions and will need to get further industry experience. Below is an overview of the various types of college degrees you can get to build a career in network engineering.
A network engineering community college certificate showcases your proficiency in the field. It isn’t counted among the higher education degrees and can be completed in one to two semesters.
You’ll learn foundational information technology, network communication systems, and computer systems. You can use this certificate to get a job in networking and accumulate industry experience to move up the career ladder.
Associate Degrees in Network Engineering are two-year programs that cover foundational to intermediate computer science and networking subjects. You can get them at community colleges, state colleges, and some four-year institutions.
Some of the common courses in these programs include information assurance, network administration, information technology, and software development. You can apply for entry-level positions in cyber security analytics, network engineering, or information assurance with this degree.
Network engineering bachelor’s degrees typically take four years to complete and universities require anywhere between 120 to 130 credit hours. Bachelor’s degrees are the industry standard educational requirement.
The core subjects will vary depending on your choice of network engineering majors and cover programming, computer science, database systems, network security, software engineering, cyber security, and data science subjects. You can apply for network engineering, software development, cyber security, or computer science positions with this degree.
A Master’s Degree in Network Engineering is a graduate program that can take up to three years to complete. The typical elements of a master’s degree include graduate courses, a thesis, and capstone courses.
There are tons of network engineering specializations you can choose to focus on for your master’s thesis. You may want to consider specializing in cyber security engineering, network engineering, information technology, computer architecture, or database management systems. Your specialization will depend on your professional and academic goals.
A network engineering graduate certificate is for bachelor’s degree holders looking to add higher educational qualifications to their resume without committing to a formal degree. They can take around one to one and a half years and offer specializations in network security, computer architecture, or computer engineering.
You can also get a network engineering graduate certificate to prepare for a doctorate degree and gain the advanced programming and software engineering skills needed to excel in a PhD program.
Network engineering doctorate degrees are for students looking to pursue an academic or research career in network engineering. You can get a PhD in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Database Systems to advance a career in network engineering.
Depending on your research topic approval and dissertation process, your degree can take between five to 10 years to complete. It covers advanced subjects and research related to computer architecture, cyber security, computer science, and information assurance.
Comparing Popular Degree Options
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Best Network Engineering Schools: Other Network Engineering University Rankings
The choice for the best network engineering schools depend on your financial and degree preferences. Below is a list of the programs that hold top network engineering university rankings, categorized into different types of schools.
Best Online Network Engineering Schools
- DeVry University. DeVry University is a popular online university offering tons of undergraduate and graduate degrees. The private institution has online computer science, network engineering, and software engineering programs. You can also get a Master’s Degree in Network and Communications Management at this school.
- Full Sail University. Full Sail University is a private school that offers online programs and certificates in application development, business intelligence, and plenty of other technical subject areas. You can get a Bachelor’s in Computer Science or Cyber Security to advance your network engineering career.
- Southern New Hampshire University. Southern New Hampshire University is counted among the top online schools that offer technology-based programs. You can enroll in its online computer science bachelor’s degree to learn network engineering skills.
Best Community Colleges for Network Engineering
- Hawkeye Community College. Hawkeye Community College offers undergraduate certificates and associate degrees covering business, education, psychology, and technology. You can get an Associate Degree in Network Administration and Engineering to kickstart your networking career.
- Hillsborough Community College. Hillsborough Community College is a public school in Florida. Its information technology associate degree is a great choice for aspiring network engineers.
- St. Louis Community College. St. Louis Community College offers tons of associate degree programs that serve as transfer programs for a bachelor’s degree. You can get an Associate Degree in Business Management or Network Engineering to enter a business networking bachelor’s program or entry-level job.
Best Undergraduate Schools for Network Engineering
- Arizona State University. Best known for its research initiatives and innovation, Arizona State University is a great choice of technology programs. It offers online and in-person undergraduate programs in computer science, software engineering, data science, cyber security, and information technology.
- The Pennsylvania State University. Penn State offers associate and bachelor’s degrees in subjects related to network engineering. Undergraduate students receive support from faculty and have access to on-campus resources and events.
- Purdue University. Purdue University is a globally recognized school with countless undergraduate majors. You can get a Bachelor’s in Computer Science or information technology to prepare for a fruitful career in network engineering.
Best Graduate Schools for Network Engineering
- Cornell University. Cornell University is a popular and reputable Ivy League institution that offers graduate programs in business, computer science, and liberal arts. You can get a Master’s Degree or PhD in Computer Engineering or Information Technology to land senior network engineering roles.
- North Dakota State University. North Dakota State University offers graduate programs in cyber security, computer science, and information assurance topics.
- University of Michigan. University of Michigan’s data science and information science graduate programs are a great choice for those looking to enter database systems management or network engineering fields.
Best Network Engineering Schools With Dual Degree Programs
- Fayetteville State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Computer Engineering and Chemical Engineering. Fayetteville State University’s dual degree program is for students looking to work in computer architecture and chemical engineering. It can be completed in five years.
- Illinois Institute of Technology | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering and Electrical Engineering. At this prestigious university students can obtain a dual degree to start a career in network engineering and systems architecture. You need to complete 146 credits in database systems, systems circuits, and engineering electronics.
- Rochester Institute of Technology | Associate of Science and Bachelor of Science in Applied Computer Technology. This associate and bachelor’s degree program in computer technology is designed specifically for hard-of-hearing and deaf students looking for a dual tech degree. It covers computer networking, software systems, and computer hardware.
Best Schools With Accelerated Network Engineering Programs
- Columbia Southern University | Bachelor of Science in Information Systems and Cyber Security. This accelerated program teaches you advanced information systems and cyber security topics in as little as twelve months. Students with ample transfer credits can complete this degree with 72 credit hours.
- North Dakota State University | Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Computer Science. The combination of master’s and bachelor’s programs is a great way to get advanced qualifications in a short time frame. You can complete this degree in five years and master network security, software development, and AI.
- Rochester Institute of Technology | Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Computing Security. For those interested in landing a senior role in cyber security, information assurance, or network security, this program is for you. It requires 147 credits and can be completed in five years.
Easy Colleges to Get Into
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Is Graduate School for Network Engineering Worth It?
Yes, it is worth going to graduate school for network engineering. Having a Master’s Degree or a PhD in Network Engineering can help you land senior-level, high-paying jobs in the information technology industry. Graduate education also provides you with the opportunity to work with and understand the latest engineering and security technologies.
What Jobs Can You Do With a Network Engineering Degree?
The jobs you can do with a network engineering degree are computer network architect, network security engineer, and network engineer. You can also get lucrative jobs in the database management systems or computer architecture fields. Our list of the best network engineering schools can help you acquire the required education and technical skills needed to get the best network engineering jobs at any level.
How Much Can I Earn With a Degree in Network Engineering?
You can earn between $51,208 to $168,687 per year with a degree in network engineering. However, your salary range will vary based on your qualifications. According to PayScale, the average salary for an Associate of Science in Network Engineering is $60,000 and the average salary for a Bachelor of Science in Network Engineering is $80,000.
The salary ranges for master’s and PhD holders will be higher and can vary by a significant amount depending on your designation. According to PayScale, the average salary for Master of Science in Network Engineering is $93,000.
Highest-Paying Network Engineering Careers
| Profession | Minimum Education | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Chief Security Officer | PhD | $168,687 |
| Computer Network Architect | Bachelor’s Degree | $120,520 |
| Machine Learning Engineer | Master’s Degree | $110,855 |
| Information Security Analyst | Bachelor’s Degree | $102,600 |
| Computer Science Professor | PhD | $86,712 |
| Computer Systems Administrator | Bachelor’s Degree | $80,600 |
| Network Systems Administrator | Bachelor’s Degree | $80,600 |
| Network Engineer | Bachelor’s Degree | $76,498 |
| Network Specialist | Associate Degree | $59,583 |
| Information Technology Support Specialist | Associate Degree | $51,208 |
Best Jobs With a Network Engineering Degree
The best jobs with a network engineering degree are computer network architect, information security analyst, machine learning engineer, and director of cyber security. Below are the types of jobs you can get for each degree level and the average salary for those positions.
The best network engineering associate degree jobs are junior or entry-level positions that include technical support or administration duties. Your job duties include assisting network security engineers or information technology managers to meet the company’s network needs.
Top Network Engineering Careers With an Associate Degree
The best Bachelor’s Degree in Network Engineering jobs are in the computer science, cyber security, information assurance, or database systems fields. They require an intermediate to advanced understanding of computer architecture and system security that a bachelor’s degree will provide.
Top Network Engineering Careers With a Bachelor’s Degree
The best network engineering master’s degree jobs are typically managerial or senior positions. A master’s program specializes in teaching the advanced network engineering, systems architecture, and software development skills needed for these information technology positions.
Top Network Engineering Careers With a Master’s Degree
The best network engineering doctorate jobs are in research, academic, or executive professions. A PhD displays your expertise and advanced understanding of network engineering and information technology subject areas.
Top Network Engineering Careers With a PhD
The best internships opportunities for network engineering students stem from the software engineering, cyber security, or computer science fields. You can use your internship opportunities to solidify your network security and engineering skills.
Top Network Engineering Internships
- Emerson Cyber Security Engineer Intern: $81,204
- InfoSec Engineer Intern: $75,858
- Amia Networks Inc. Software Engineer Intern: $42.50/hour
How Can I Pay for Network Engineering School?
You can pay for network engineering school by taking an education loan, applying for scholarship opportunities, or landing a teaching assistantship position. Below are popular financing methods you can use to pay for your network engineering school.
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Every student should complete FAFSA each year they are in school. Your school uses FAFSA to determine your financial aid eligibility and award you grants, work-study, and scholarships.
- Internal scholarships. Universities offer tons of internal scholarship opportunities to their students. These opportunities are often based on merit, financial requirements, or student background.
- Work-study. A work-study plan provides tuition, housing, and food assistance to students by requiring them to work part-time in an on-campus or off-campus position.
- Teaching assistantships. Teaching assistantships are offered to senior undergraduate or graduate students looking to waive their tuition costs. You need to have a high cumulative GPA to land this position.
How to Pay for Your Chosen School Education Path
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Choosing the Best Network Engineering School for You
To choose the best networking engineering school for you, consider factors like tuition, curriculum, graduation rates, and school rankings. Below are explanations of each of these important factors that should be taken into account while choosing the best school for you.
Tuition Rates
The tuition of a degree program is one of the most crucial factors to consider. Choose a school that offers a network engineering program with tuition rates that match your financial capabilities to avoid significant financial burden or student loan debt.
Curriculum
The tech field of network engineering spans a wide range of information technology sectors including cyber security, database systems, computer science, data science, and information technology. Choose a school that offers a network engineering curriculum closest to your career goals to ensure it meets your needs and teaches the appropriate skills.
Graduation Rate
The graduation rate of a program is a great way to gauge your probability of academic success in a network engineering program. You should consider the school’s reputation and check for high job placement and graduation rates.
How to Get Into the Right School for Your Profession
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Does It Matter What College I Go to for Network Engineering?
Yes, it does matter what college you go to for network engineering. A network engineering degree from a top-ranked Ivy League institution will enhance your candidacy and increase your chances of landing a high-paying job after graduation. Therefore, getting this degree from a highly reputable school will provide you with an upper hand in the current job market.
However, a network engineering degree from the other schools mentioned on our list can also lead to fruitful careers. Getting a high cumulative GPA and mastering technical skills are key to building a lucrative career in the field.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Network Engineering University Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Schools for Network Engineering
We ranked the best network engineering schools by consulting the university rankings conducted by US News & World Report and Times Higher Education. To further refine our network engineering university ranking methodology, we gave special consideration to things like reputation, graduation rate, student-to-faculty ratio, and breadth and depth of network engineering degree program offerings.
Additional Reading About Network Engineering
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Best Network Engineering Schools FAQ
You can get a computer science, network engineering, or information technology bachelor’s degree to get a job as a network engineer. You can also get an Associate, Master’s, or Doctoral Degree in Network Engineering or relevant tech subjects to get a job in the field.
A network engineering degree covers computer architecture, systems administration, information technology, computer engineering, cyber security, and network engineering topics.
Yes, it is hard to learn network engineering because the subject requires you to master software systems, computer architecture, network security, and programming skills.
Yes, you need to know coding to become a network engineer. Network engineers work with Python, JavaScript, and Bash for their jobs.
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