Best Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries
Trying to find the best Bachelor’s Degrees in Network Administration? You’ve come to the right place. We have gathered all of the information you need about network administration bachelor’s degree programs, as well as the jobs and pay you can get after graduating.
Network administration is a high-paying career in the IT sector that offers a great chance for job stability. If you’re interested in pursuing one of the best Bachelor’s Degrees in Network Administration, check out this guide. It will introduce you to some of the best network administration bachelor’s degrees based on the quality of the curriculum and school reputation. Let’s take a look.
What Is Network Administration?
Network administration is an IT role that consists of installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting computer networks. This occupation may also involve other tasks, such as designing solutions and planning strategies for possible updates in the system.
Find Your Bootcamp Match
- Career Karma matches you with top tech bootcamps
- Access exclusive scholarships and prep courses
By continuing you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy , and you consent to receive offers and opportunities from Career Karma by telephone, text message, and email.
Where Can I Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Network Administration?
The best colleges where you can get a Bachelor’s Degree in Network Administration are located all around the country, and often online. These colleges are accredited, offer useful curricular content, and train students to ultimately become network administration professionals.
What Schools Offer the Best Network Administration Bachelor’s Degrees?
- Dakota State University
- Michigan Technological University
- Pennsylvania College of Technology
- Utah Valley University
- Yakima Valley College
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Network Administration?
The admissions requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Network Administration include a minimum education requirement, application process, and sometimes standardized testing. You may also need to provide letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal essay.
To meet the requirements for a Bachelor’s in Network Administration, you must have a high school diploma or a GED diploma. You’ll also have to pass the particular school’s application process, which typically includes a form and fee. Make sure to consult with an admissions representative to find out the specific requirements for your program.
Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
- 2.0+ cumulative GPA
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Completed application form and fee (if applicable)
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Resume and/or personal essay
How to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Network Administration
The best way to get a network administration bachelor’s degree is by preparing for your degree in high school or before enrolling. You may need knowledge of network systems and administrative practices beforehand, but it is typically not required.
Once enrolled in your program of choice, the best way to get a Bachelor’s in Network Administration is to study hard and maintain good grades. Most programs require you to have a certain cumulative GPA to be able to graduate, so planning ahead is key to getting this degree.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Bachelor’s Degree in Network Administration?
You need 120 credits for a Bachelor’s in Network Administration. Most schools will stick to this number, but some may require more or less. If you choose a more specialized degree program or one that operates on a quarter schedule, you may have to complete upwards of 180 credits in order to graduate.
Network Administration Degree Requirements
- 40 to 60 general education credits
- 60 to 80 core education credits
- Lower-level courses such as Intro to Computers and Intro to Cyber Operations
- Higher-level courses such as Advanced Routing and Switching and Defensive Network Security
- Maintain “C” grades or higher in all required degree courses
Best Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Dakota State University | Bachelor of Science in Network and Security Administration | Higher Learning Commission |
| Edinboro University of Pennsylvania | Bachelor of Science in Network and System Administration | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Michigan Technological University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Network and System Administration | Higher Learning Commission |
| New England Institute of Technology | Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Network Engineering | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| New York School of Career and Applied Studies | Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Network Administration | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Pennsylvania College of Technology | Bachelor of Science in Network Administration and Engineering Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems: Networking and Security | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| University of Alabama | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Utah Valley University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology: Network Administration and Security Emphasis | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Yakima Valley College | Bachelor of Applied Science in Networking: System Administration | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
Best Schools for Network Administration: Top Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The best schools for a network administration bachelor’s degree are located all around the country. These schools offer both in-person and online study options, some of which offer completely online degree programs.
If you are interested in enrolling in one of the top network administration bachelor’s programs, check out this list. The following list includes the best schools for a Bachelor’s Degree in Network Administration in the United States. We compiled this group of schools and programs based on their outcomes, curriculum, and opportunities. All the information was taken from each school’s website.
Dakota State University
Madison, SD
Dakota State University is a non-profit organization in Madison, South Dakota, that offers more than 45 undergraduate programs. It is widely known for its computer science, business, and marketing programs.
Bachelor of Science in Network and Security Administration
This Bachelor’s Degree in Network and Security Administration will teach you relevant technical skills like network set-up, penetration testing, IDS, and firewall configuration. This program is based around a plethora of hands-on labs, ensuring you get the most out of your education.
Bachelor of Science in Network and Security Administration Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $4,417.50/semester (in state); $5,968.50/semester (out of state)
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 49%
Bachelor of Science in Network and Security Administration Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.6+*
- Standardized Tests: ACT (18+) or SAT (950+)*
- Application Fee: $20
- Minimum Education: High school or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Rank in top 60% of your graduating class*
Applying to Dakota State University
- Complete online application
- Pay $20 application fee
- Submit official transcripts showing 2.6+ GPA
- Submit ACT or SAT scores
- Submit proof of ranking in top 60% of your graduating class
*Applicants are only required to meet one of the following: GPA requirement, standardized test requirement, or class ranking requirement
Edinboro University of Pennsylvania
Edinboro, PA
Edinboro University of Pennsylvania is located in Northwestern Pennsylvania and offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in over 100 fields. It was founded in 1857, and since has been serving thousands of students on its 585-acre campus.
Bachelor of Science in Network and System Administration
This network and system administration bachelor’s degree is designed to help you become a successful systems administrator . Required courses will cover wide area networks (WANs), long area networks (LANs), and intranets. This program includes an internship period where you’ll put your knowledge into practice and gain valuable hands-on experience.
Bachelor of Science in Network and System Administration Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition (and Fees): $10,543.40/year (in state); $15,062.20/year (out of state)
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 43%
Bachelor of Science in Network and System Administration Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0+
- Standardized Tests: Optional for 2022
- Application Fee: $30
- Minimum Education: High school or equivalent
- Other Requirements: No other requirements
Applying to Edinboro University of Pennsylvania
- Complete online application
- Pay $30 application fee
- Submit all high school transcripts with 3.0+ GPA or equivalent
- Submit any dual credit or college course transcripts (if applicable)
- Submit ACT/SAT scores (optional for 2022)
Michigan Technological University
Houghton, MI
Michigan Tech is a public university that was established in 1885 as a mining school for engineers. It currently offers over 140 degree programs, including a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Network and System Administration.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Network and System Administration
Major courses will dive into network security foundational topics such as penetration testing, computer network configuration, troubleshooting, and communication infrastructure optimization. This program is also offered as part of an accelerated master’s program, meaning you could earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in just five years.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Network and System Administration Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $16,654/year (in state); $37,800/year (out of state)
- Required Credits: 122 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 72%
Bachelor of Science in Computer Network and System Administration Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0+*
- Standardized Tests: Optional for 2022
- Application Fee: No fee
- Minimum Education: High school or equivalent
- Other Requirements: No other requirements
Applying to Michigan Technological University
- Complete free, online application
- Submit high school transcripts with 3.0+ GPA or equivalent
- Submit ACT and/or SAT scores (optional for students with 3.0+ GPA in 2022)
- Submit any dual credit or college credit transcripts (if applicable)
- To increase admission chances, ask your high school counselor to fill out the High School Counselor Information page about your academic history
*Students with a GPA below 3.0 will still be considered, but are required to submit ACT or SAT scores. Chances of admission improve if both standardized test scores are submitted.
New England Institute of Technology
East Greenwich, RI
New England Insitute of Technology was founded in 1940 in East Greenwich, Rhode Island. This educational institute focuses on hands-on learning in the nearly 50 programs offered both on-campus and online.
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Network Engineering
New England Institute of Technology offers a cyber security and network engineering bachelor’s degree program that combines security fundamentals and network administration. You will learn about different topics such as incident response, network communication, and network forensics.
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Network Engineering Overview
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Tuition: $32,100/year
- Required Credits: 118 credits
- Program Length: 18 months to 3 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 48%
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Network Engineering Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum GPA
- Standardized Tests: No tests required
- Application Fee: $50
- Minimum Education: High school or equivalent
- Other Requirements: 2-3 letters of recommendation, 300-500 word personal essay (optional but strongly recommended)
Applying to New England Institute of Technology
- Complete online application
- Pay $50 application fee
- Submit copies of official high school transcripts (or equivalent)
- Submit 2 to 3 letters of recommendation, preferably from teachers, employers, and/or mentors
- Submit a personal essay of 300 to 500 words on a topic of your choice
New York School of Career and Applied Studies
New York, NY
The New York School of Career and Applied Studies is a division of the Touro College and University System with locations in Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn. This institution offers flexible associate and bachelor’s degree programs to over 2,500 students each year.
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Network Administration
This school’s cyber security and network administration program helps you understand network hardware and software, cyber security fundamentals, and how to optimize a computer system.
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Network Administration Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $15,380/year
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 53%
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Network Administration Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum GPA
- Standardized Tests: Tests optional, but scores can be used in place of placement exams
- Application Fee: $50
- Minimum Education: High school or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Interview with admissions counselor
Applying to New York School of Career and Applied Studies
- Complete online application
- Pay $50 application fee
- Submit high school transcripts or equivalent
- Submit ACT or SAT scores (optional)
- Schedule interview with admissions counselor
Pennsylvania College of Technology
Williamsport, PA
The Pennsylvania College of Technology , also known as Penn College, is one of the leading schools in the field of technology. This school offers over 100 different programs to thousands of students each year and focuses on preparing students for real-world careers.
Bachelor of Science in Network Administration and Engineering Technology
Network administration degree programs like this will give you a strong foundation in network technology. Core courses will cover how to design network infrastructure, communication networks, security principles, and performance optimization.
Bachelor of Science in Network Administration and Engineering Technology Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition (and Fees): $19,849/year (in state); $28,165/year (out of state)
- Required Credits: 126 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 47%
Bachelor of Science in Network Administration and Engineering Technology Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum GPA
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT (no minimum scores)
- Application Fee: $50
- Minimum Education: High school or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Placement testing
Applying to Pennsylvania College of Technology
- Complete online application
- Pay $50 application fee
- Submit high school transcripts or equivalent
- Submit ACT or SAT scores
- Complete required placement testing
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH
Southern New Hampshire University is a university based in Manchester, New Hampshire. It currently offers 200 accredited associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees that can be earned completely online.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems: Networking and Security
This degree is available in a totally online, flexible environment, making it perfect for the working student. It focuses on teaching the fundamentals of business, information systems, and cyber security. You will take courses such as Computer Systems Security and Intro to Computer Networking.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems: Networking and Security Overview
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Tuition: $320/credit
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: Online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 37%
Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems: Networking and Security Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum GPA
- Standardized Tests: No tests required
- Application Fee: No fee
- Minimum Education: High school or equivalent
- Other Requirements: No other requirements
Applying to Southern New Hampshire University
- Complete the free, online application
- Complete the transcript release form for all prior educational institutions
- Sign the electronic attestation form to confirm you have completed high school or equivalent
- Apply for financial aid (optional)
- Meet with admissions team for next steps
University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL
The University of Alabama is one of the oldest colleges in the state, and it’s known for its flagship programs in business, marketing, and management. This university serves over 26,000 students in nearly 200 degree programs each year.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
This program will provide you with hands-on experience training in areas like software engineering, network administration, and web development. This will provide you with a broad education, allowing you to find work in a variety of tech-related fields.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $357/credit hour (in state); $850/credit hour (out of state)
- Required Credits: 119 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 72%
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum GPA
- Standardized Tests: Tests optional for 2022
- Application Fee: $40
- Minimum Education: High school or equivalent
- Other Requirements: No other requirements
Applying to University of Alabama
- Complete online application
- Pay $40 application fee
- Submit high school transcripts or equivalent
- Submit ACT or SAT scores (or apply as “Test Optional” for 2022)
- Apply for financial aid (optional)
Utah Valley University
Orem, UT
Utah Valley University was founded in Orem, Utah, in 1941 as a vocational school. Now, it is an integrated community college and university that offers dual credit courses to over 12,000 high school students and degree programs to over 40,000 college students.
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology - Network Administration and Security Emphasis
Utah Valley University’s degree in information technology prepares students to install, manage, and maintain the computing infrastructure of organizations. With this emphasis on network administration and security, students can work as data communication consultants, information security analysts, and network administrators.
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology - Network Administration and Security Emphasis Overview
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Tuition: $2,684/year (in state); $8,225/year (out of state)
- Required Credits: 122 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 32%
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology - Network Administration and Security Emphasis Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum GPA
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT (for merit-based scholarship purposes only)
- Application Fee: $35
- Minimum Education: High school or equivalent
- Other Requirements: English placement test
Applying to Utah Valley University
- Complete online application
- Pay $35 application fee
- Submit high school transcripts or equivalent
- Submit copies of driver’s license or state photo ID
- Schedule English placement test
Yakima Valley College
Yakima, WA
Yakima Valley College is a Washington state public institution that offers both in-person and online programs. This institution prides itself on offering a wide variety of majors, dual credit courses to high school students, and low-income-based tuition assistance.
Bachelor of Applied Science in Networking - System Administration
This degree in network administration will help you develop both ethical and technical skills. You will learn about regulatory compliance, ethical, social, and legal considerations, developing networking solutions, and troubleshooting.
Bachelor of Applied Science in Networking - System Administration Overview
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Tuition (and Fees): $1,428.42/credit (in state); $1,582.22/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 180 credits
- Program Length: 2 to 4 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 28%
Bachelor of Applied Science in Networking - System Administration Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.0+
- Standardized Tests: No tests required
- Application Fee: $30
- Minimum Education: Associate degree from an accredited college
- Other Requirements: Placement testing
Applying to Yakima Valley College
- Complete online application
- Pay $30 application fee
- Submit high school and college transcripts
- Use preparation materials to study for placement tests
- Complete online placement testing
What Is a Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree?
A Bachelor’s Degree in Network Administration is an undergraduate college degree that teaches you the fundamentals of computer network operations. You will learn about operating systems, web development, and other computer science fundamentals.
Typically, a network administration bachelor’s degree is a four-year degree that can be completed either in-person or online via an educational institution. This can be completed faster in some programs, or even as part of an accelerated master’s degree .
How Important Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Network Administration?
It is very important to have a bachelor’s degree in network administration. This degree provides crucial education and training for your future career and life goals. The main reasons why a network administration bachelor’s degree is so important include:
- Necessary education and training for future jobs
- Provides required education to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree
- Gives you a leg up on the competition without degrees when job hunting
What Types of Bachelor’s Degree Can You Get in Network Administration?
You can get the following types of Bachelor’s Degrees in Network Administration:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Bachelor of Science (BS)
- Bachelor of Arts (BA)
The type of network administration bachelor’s degree you should get depends on your goals. For a general education, opt for a bachelor’s degree. If you want a more technical education, go for the BS. Finally, for a more cultured education, choose a BA.
Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Network Administration?
It is better to get a Bachelor of Science in Network Administration because it best prepares you for technical work. The difference between a Bachelor of Science in Network Administration and a Bachelor of Arts is that the BS will prepare you with more hands-on training, while the BA degree will focus on theories and conceptual learning.
A Bachelor of Science in Network Administration is better for getting you a job than a Bachelor of Arts because of the skills it teaches. Since you focus more on hands-on learning, you will be better prepared to join the workforce upon graduating.
What Is the Difference Between a Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree and a Network Administration Certificate?
The main difference between a network administration bachelor’s degree and a certificate in network administration is the curriculum. Certificates in network administration don’t take as long to earn, so the curriculum tends to focus on just the basics or specializes in a few key skills. A degree, on the other hand, allows you to study both.
You should get a network administration bachelor’s degree instead of a certificate because you will gain a much more in-depth education. Not only will you earn fundamentals and specialized skills, but you will also study the history, theories, and important concepts of the field.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Network Administration?
A network administration bachelor’s degree costs an average of $28,775 per year , according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). This includes both public and private institutions. This cost will be higher or lower depending on other factors, such as whether you’re an in-state or out-of-state student.
Financing options will vary depending on the institution. However, on average, you’ll see that most offer loans, financing plans, and scholarships. Some schools may even offer discounts for certain students. You can contact the admissions department of your chosen school to learn more about their financial aid opportunities.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree?
It takes four years to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Network Administration. This degree is usually comprised of 120 to 180 credits, 180 typically being quarter credits. The average full-time student will have no trouble completing this degree in four years.
For part-time students, you may need to add a year or two to your estimated completion time. On the other hand, accelerated learning options available at many institutions can shave off a year or two. Be sure to work closely with your academic advisor to find the ideal program length for your goals.
How Hard Is It to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Network Administration?
A Bachelor’s Degree in Network Administration is hard to get for many students. The reason a network administration bachelor’s degree is so hard to get is that it requires students to learn very complex and technical course material.
Why Should You Get a Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree?
The benefits of getting a Bachelor’s Degree in Network Administration include:
- Teaches invaluable tech, cyber security, and business skills applicable to many fields of work
- Properly prepares you for a career in network administration, cyber security, or information technology
- Gives you the necessary education to pursue a higher-level degree
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Bachelor’s Degree Program in Network Administration?
The required courses for a network administration bachelor’s degree include both lower and upper-level classes. You will take many introductory courses as well as more focused, specialized courses as you advance in your degree. Below is a Bachelor’s in Network Administration course list example.
Introduction to Programming
One of the network administration courses for a bachelor’s degree that you will likely take is Introduction to Programming. This course will take you through the basics of programming in various languages such as JavaScript and Python.
Networking Essentials
Another one of the required courses for a network administration bachelor’s degree is Networking Essentials. In Networking Essentials, you will study the basics of how to configure, troubleshoot, and maintain a network.
Fundamentals of Cyber Security
Fundamentals of Cyber Security is a common network administration bachelor’s degree course. This is a mid-level course that introduces students to cyber security. You will study the CIA Triad of confidentiality, integrity, and availability, and how to apply this to cyber security policies.
Advanced Cyber Security
One of the upper-level courses required for a network administration bachelor’s degree is Advanced Cyber Security. This course builds on the Fundamentals of Cyber Security course, focusing on how to best protect networks and often including topics such as penetration testing and ethical hacking.
Data Communications
Another one of the upper-level classes required for a network administration major for a bachelor’s degree is Data Communications. In this course, you will study TCP and IP protocols, data links, and the characteristics of transmission media.
Continuing Education Paths for Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
The best path to take with a network administration bachelor’s degree is toward a higher-level degree. Earning a master’s or doctoral network administration program will open up even more job opportunities, increase your salary, and give you as much network administration knowledge as possible.
Related Network Administration Degrees
What to Look For in the Best Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The best network administration bachelor’s degrees have great faculty, flexibility, and good curricular content. To help decide how to choose a program, the list below details what you can expect from a network administration bachelor’s degree program.
Faculty Credentials
Faculty credentials are essentially proof of an instructor or professor’s expertise in the field. Finding a program with good faculty credentials ensures you will learn from someone with experience who can teach you the most useful skills.
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
Having a good student-to-faculty ratio allows you to experience more one-on-one learning. Many programs offer class sizes of 30+ students, so finding one with smaller class sizes is key. Since this type of degree covers so many complicated topics, being able to work directly with your professor is extremely helpful.
Flexibility
Many students have to work while they study, so finding a flexible program is crucial. Enrolling in an online program can work well, but there are also in-person programs with flexible scheduling options. Take some time to research both and determine which is best for you.
Curricular Content
One of the most important things to consider for any degree program is the curricular content. Finding a degree program with up-to-date textbooks and a regularly evaluated curriculum will ensure your education is consistent with modern market demands.
Cost
Even if you apply for financial aid, finding a program within your budget is huge to your educational experience. Take your time when researching programs to ensure you find all of the required fees, as well as the school’s financial aid options.
What Is the Most Affordable Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree?
The most affordable Bachelor’s Degrees in Network Administration are:
- Utah Valley University’s Bachelor of Science in Information Technology: Network Administration and Security Emphasis
- Dakota State University’s Bachelor of Science in Network and Security Administration
- Southern New Hampshire University’s Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems: Networking and Security
- Edinboro University of Pennsylvania’s Bachelor of Science in Network and System Administration
- University of Alabama’s Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Salary and Job Outlook for Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
There are many network administration bachelor’s degree jobs you can get after graduating. In this section, we will go over the best jobs you can get, as well as the average Bachelor’s in Network Administration salary.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree?
It is relatively easy to get a job with a network administration bachelor’s degree. This is because most employers prefer candidates with degrees, so you will be the preferred choice. It is also an in-demand field, and there are plenty of jobs available to apply to.
What’s the Average Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with a Bachelor’s Degree in Network Administration is $73,000, according to PayScale. This will grow exponentially as you gain experience and learn more specialized skills in your field.
The median salary for a network administrator is $80,600, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This can vary depending on your professional experience and technical skills. BLS estimates that the demand for network administrators is expected to grow five percent from 2020 to 2030.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with a network administration bachelor’s degree pay well, offer great career experience, and will provide you with a sense of satisfaction. These career opportunities are in a variety of tech fields.
Network Administration Degree Jobs
- Computer and Information Systems Manager
- Software Developer
- Database Administrator
- Network Administrator
- Technical Support Specialist
Potential Careers With a Network Administration Degree
How Much Money Can You Make With a Bachelor’s Degree in Network Administration?
You can make between $57,000 and $160,000 per year with a Bachelor’s in Network Administration. The amount of money you make will largely depend on your exact job title, years of experience, and location.
As stated previously, the average salary for this degree is around $73,000. Even if you start out earning closer to $57,000, you can expect pay raises and salary increases as you progress in your work. If you are not satisfied with your pay, you could consider switching to one of the highest-paying jobs listed at the top of the table below.
Highest-Paying Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Manager | $159,110 |
| Systems Architect | $120,520 |
| Software Developer | $110,140 |
| Information Security Analyst | $102,600 |
| Database Administrator | $98,860 |
| Network Security Engineer | $92,352 |
| Network Administrator | $80,600 |
| Network Engineer | $76,431 |
| Network Consultant | $71,221 |
| Technical Support Specialist | $57,910 |
Best Jobs for Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for network administration bachelor’s degree grads are high-paying and satisfying. Below, we will go into detail about these jobs. You will learn about the average annual salaries, job outlook, number of jobs, and highest-paying states for each job.
Computer and Information Systems Manager
Average Salary: $159,110
Computer and information systems managers develop strategies to improve a company’s IT infrastructure. This includes updating current networks and systems and planning troubleshooting techniques. This is a leadership position that requires communication skills, technical competencies, and other professional skills.
- Average Salary: $159,110
- Job Outlook: 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 482,000
- Highest-Paying States: New York, California, New Jersey
Systems Architect
Average Salary: $120,520
Systems architects develop the IT infrastructure of a company. They determine the type of hardware, software, cloud services, network security, web portals, and Internet/intranet connections. This is also another leadership position where you’ll need to have analytical skills, logical thinking, and practical skills.
- Average Salary: $120,520
- Job Outlook: 5% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 165,200
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Rhode Island, Delaware
Software Developer
Average Salary: $110,140
Software developers use programming skills and critical thinking to develop new applications. They also test software programs and troubleshoot any issues related to coding. Software development often involves a wide variety of programming languages like C, C++, JavaScript, and Python. Software developers require technology management and time management skills.
- Average Salary: $110,140
- Job Outlook: 22% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 1,847,900
- Highest-Paying States: California, Washington, Maryland
Information Security Analyst
Average Salary: $102,600
A systems analyst is a cyber security specialist that protects computer networks from virtual attacks. They plan risk management strategies and install firewalls and hardware to protect the system, and can work in a wide range of fields.
- Average Salary: $102,600
- Job Outlook: 33% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 141,200
- Highest-Paying States: California, New York, Maryland
Database Administrator
Average Salary: $98,860
A database administrator ensures the integrity and accessibility of an organization’s database management systems. Their responsibility is to organize the database system so that it is accessible to employees and easy to use. This data might include financial records, shipping information, or customer information.
- Average Salary: $98,860
- Job Outlook: 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 168,000
- Highest-Paying States: California, Texas, Illinois
Network Security Engineer
Average Salary: $92,352
A network security engineer is an IT professional who oversees and protects computer networks from cyber attacks such as malware, data breaches, bugs, and other cyber crimes. They must conduct frequent tests in the system to evaluate its performance and create updated security measures.
- Average Salary: $92,352
- Job Outlook: 5% job growth from 2020 to 2030*
- Number of Jobs: 350,300*
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Maryland, California*
Network Administrator
Average Salary: $80,600
If you become a network administrator , you’ll be responsible for organizing, installing, and maintaining an organization’s IT infrastructure and computer networks. This usually includes LANs, WANs, firewalls, and cloud servers.
- Average Salary: $80,600
- Job Outlook: 5% job growth from 2020 to 2030*
- Number of Jobs: 350,300*
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Maryland, California*
Network Engineer
Average Salary: $76,431
A network engineer is responsible for ensuring data communication in computer networks. They must configure, maintain and troubleshoot computer networks in an organization to enable data transfer between computers.
- Average Salary: $76,431
- Job Outlook: 5% job growth from 2020 to 2030*
- Number of Jobs: 350,300*
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Maryland, California*
Network Consultant
Average Salary: $71,221
A network consultant evaluates the performance of computer network infrastructure and certifies its functionality. They usually work as independent consultants, but they can also be part of a consulting IT agency.
- Average Salary: $71,221
- Job Outlook: 5% job growth from 2020 to 2030*
- Number of Jobs: 350,300*
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Maryland, California*
Technical Support Specialist
Average Salary: $57,910
Computer support specialists help companies and independent clients with their network infrastructure. They help solve common network issues. This is considered an entry-level position in the IT industry.
- Average Salary: $57,910
- Job Outlook: 9% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 844,600
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Washington, Massachusetts
*Job statistics from BLS report on Network and Computer Systems Administrators
Best Jobs According to Your Major
Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Network Administration Worth It?
Yes, a Bachelor’s in Network Administration is worth it. You should obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Network Administration if you have critical thinking and problem-solving skills and are ready to dive into very technical classes. This degree will prepare you for work in various tech fields and help you earn a high salary.
This career might be complicated for those with zero technical knowledge, so prospective students may want to research the field and learn foundational skills before committing to a program.
Additional Reading About Network Administration
[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/network-administration-degrees/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/how-to-become-a-network-administrator/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/network-administration-associate-degrees/
Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
Yes, network administration can be extremely challenging if you don’t have any experience in IT or
computer science
. It requires hard work to gain the knowledge of network operating systems technology professionals need to excel in this field.
Yes, you can become a network administrator without a bachelor’s degree if you have the necessary skills and relevant experience. However, most employers prefer bachelor’s degree holders for a network administrator position, and this level of education will help you earn a higher annual wage.
To become a network administrator, you must have IT skills and experience working with networks. On top of your technical skills, you will need communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Yes, you can work as a network administrator from home. You can usually manage IT security from a remote location and might be able to set up and maintain cloud infrastructure from home as well.
