Master’s Degrees in Network Administration are among the highest and most valuable education you can pursue for a career in network administration, cyber security, and IT management. The best network administration master’s degrees may have concentration options that will qualify you for many senior-level tech positions.
In this article, you’ll learn about some of the best schools for network administration master’s degree programs. Additionally, you’ll find some of the top positions that the best Master’s Degrees in Network Administration can help you land.
What Is Network Administration?
Network administration is a tech field that deals with computer hardware and software maintenance, issues, and upgrades. Your responsibilities as a network administrator primarily include system troubleshooting, software upgrades, security tests, and network design.
Where Can I Get a Master’s Degree in Network Administration?
Some of the best colleges where you can get a Master’s Degree in Network Administration include Central Washington University, University of Colorado Boulder, East Carolina University, and Touro College. You can also find online programs in this field, which teach the same problem-solving skills and hard skills.
What Schools Offer the Best Network Administration Master’s Degrees?
- Central Washington University
- Touro College
- University of Colorado Boulder
- East Carolina University
- Boston University
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Master’s Degree in Network Administration?
A few Master’s in Network Administration requirements include a bachelor’s degree, preferably in a tech-related field, three letters of recommendation, and a resume. The exact admission requirements will vary from school to school. An online bachelor’s degree is also a valid prerequisite, as long as it covers the same core courses as an in-person program.
Some other common requirements for a Master’s in Network Administration include a minimum GPA, a statement of purpose, and GRE test scores. Some schools may require students have relevant technical professional experience if they don’t have a computer science degree.
Network Administration Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field
- GPA of 3.0
- 1-3 letters of recommendation
- Resume
- GRE scores
How to Get a Master’s Degree in Network Administration
You can get a Master’s in Network Administration by completing all the credit requirements, including core and elective courses. Some schools may also require students to complete a thesis project to get a network administration master’s degree.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Master’s Degree in Network Administration?
You usually need between 30 and 35 credits for a Master’s Degree in Network Administration. This takes most students around two years to complete. Some schools have accelerated options, allowing students to get a network administration master’s degree in only three semesters. Online network administration degrees are also usually faster.
Network Administration Master’s Degree Requirements
- GPA of 3.0
- 20 core credits
- 10-15 elective credits
- Completion of a capstone project (if required)
- Completion of a thesis (if required)
Best Network Administration Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Auburn University | Master of Science in Computer Information Systems and Cyber Security | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Boston University | Master of Science in Computer Information Systems | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Central Washington University | Master of Science in Information Technology and Administrative Management | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Dakota State University | Master of Science in Information Systems | Higher Learning Commission |
| East Carolina University | Master of Science in Network Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Johns Hopkins University | Master of Science in Computer Science | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| North Carolina State University | Master of Science in Computer Networking | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Touro College | Master of Science in Network Administration and Cybersecurity | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Colorado Boulder | Master of Science in Network Engineering | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of Florida | Master of Science in Computer Engineering | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Best Schools for Network Administration: Top Network Administration Master’s Degree Programs
Listed below are descriptions of the best network administration master’s programs. When choosing which master’s degree program is right for you, it’s helpful to consider the location, tuition, and unique benefits offered by each one.
What Is a Network Administration Master’s Degree?
A network administration master’s degree is a two-year graduate degree that covers intermediate to advanced networking and security concepts. In a Master’s Degree in Network Administration program, you learn about database administration, network security, cyber security, and programming. However, each institution’s program will slightly vary.
How Important Is a Master’s Degree in Network Administration?
A Master’s Degree in Network Administration is important if you want to land managerial roles in this field, like computer and information systems manager, or negotiate a higher salary. Another reason why a network administration master’s degree is important is it can be an essential step if you want to go on to earn a doctoral degree in the future.
What Types of Master’s Degree Can You Get in Network Administration?
You can get the following types of Master’s Degrees in Network Administration:
- Master of Science
- Master of Engineering
The best type of degree for network administration is a Master of Science in Network Administration because it covers a wide range of technical skills. This is helpful because most roles for these graduates are in the technology field, and foundational knowledge in tech is vital for a high average salary.
Is It Better to Get a Master of Science or Master of Engineering in Network Administration?
It is better to get a Master of Science because it is research-based and will help students gain the technical and soft skills required for advanced roles in this field. A Master of Science is also the most common degree offered for network administration students.
What Is the Difference Between a Network Administration Master’s Degree and a Network Administration Certificate?
The main difference between a network administration master’s degree and a certificate in network administration is the number of credit hours required. A network administration certificate can usually be completed in less than a year and helps students master specific skills.
It is better to get a Master’s Degree in Network Administration if your end goal is to land a managerial role. If you are trying to decide between a network administration certificate vs master’s degree, consider your long-term goals and how much time and resources you want to devote to your studies.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Master’s Degree in Network Administration?
A network administration master’s degree costs an average of $19,314 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. This will vary depending on which school you attend. Your Master’s Degree in Network Administration cost of tuition will usually be lower at a public school.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Network Administration Master’s Degree?
It usually takes around two years to get a Master’s Degree in Network Administration. Your Master’s in Network Administration length depends on how many credits you take per semester. Most programs require between 30 and 40 degree credits.
How Hard Is It to Get a Master’s Degree in Network Administration?
A network administration master’s degree is hard to get because network administration requires an unusual mix of technical and soft skills. Getting a network administration master’s degree is hard because you will need to maintain an impressive grade point average and complete a range of highly analytical courses.
Why Should You Get a Network Administration Master’s Degree?
You should get a network administration master’s degree if you want to negotiate a higher salary or land a managerial role in this field. Another benefit of a Master’s in Network Administration is that an advanced degree will help you stand out from the crowd on the job market, and network administration graduates can work in a range of fields.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Master’s Degree Program in Network Administration?
Master’s Degree in Network Administration courses cover important areas including business data communication and network security. You will also find various elective courses or concentration options on your Master’s in Network Administration course list. Below, you will find short descriptions of some common network administration courses.
Business Data Communication
This course will go over the basics of network security and management concepts. Students will gain experience with computer networks and prepare for roles like network architect and computer systems analyst. They will also learn about business processes, business solutions, and relevant software applications.
Network Security
Gaining a comprehensive understanding of network security and intrusion detection is essential for all network administration students. In this type of course, you may learn about areas like communication security, physical security, disaster recovery, and network security topologies.
Cloud Computing
A cloud computing course will cover virtual systems and virtualization technologies. Students will also practice the hands-on skills they need to manage, plan, and design business application models.
Information Infrastructure Design
An advanced information infrastructure design course will cover the skills students need to design reliable information infrastructure in a professional business setting. The curriculum may cover skills like dynamic routing and switching protocols.
Computer Networking
Students will learn how networks work, including computer hardware and transmission systems and network applications. This course will also cover up-to-date network technologies like Bluetooth, video conferencing, and wireless networks. This is the most important course for prospective network professionals.
Continuing Education Paths for Network Administration Master’s Degree Graduates
The best continuing education path to take with a network administration master’s degree is to gain industry-relevant certifications like the CompTIA Network+ Certification. This can help you further develop your skills and improve your resume. Master’s degree graduates also have the option of earning a doctorate degree in the field.
Related Network Administration Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Network Administration Master’s Degree Programs
The best network administration master’s degree programs can help you advance your career in the field. With so many options, it can be difficult to decide on which school to attend. If you are wondering what to look for in a college for a Master’s Degree in Network Administration, take a look at our list of criteria below.
Accreditation
Attending an accredited school for your Master’s Degree in Network Administration is very important. Potential employers will want to see that you attended an accredited institution because it proves you gained a high-quality education. Unaccredited do not adhere to the same standards, which means they don’t offer reliable curricula.
Flexibility and Format
Many schools offer Master’s Degrees in Network Administration in various formats, including online or part-time. Consider what learning format best fits your needs and choose a college that fits those criteria. Attending an online or part-time program is a popular choice for many working professionals because it allows you to work and study at the same time.
Cost
Gaining a network administration master’s degree can be an expensive decision. Make sure you look into all the required fees you need to pay in addition to tuition. Attending a public school in your state can help you save money.
Concentration Options
Many network administration programs include network administration as a concentration as part of a larger degree. Review all your concentration options and select one that will best set you up for your chosen career. You could learn about business intelligence, network topologies, cyber security, and more.
Barriers to Admission
Many schools that offer network administration master’s degree programs have rigorous admission requirements. You may need to have an above-average GPA or a bachelor’s degree in a specific field. Carefully review all the admission criteria and look into your chosen schools’ admission rates to get an idea of your chances so you don’t end up wasting money on application fees.
What Is the Most Affordable Network Administration Master’s Degree?
The most affordable Master’s Degree in Network Administration on our list is offered by Dakota State University, which costs in-state students $3,365 per semester. Other affordable network administration master’s degree programs are offered by Auburn University, East Carolina University, and Central Washington University.
Salary and Job Outlook for Network Administration Master’s Degree Graduates
Network administration jobs are known to come with an impressive salary and strong benefits. In this section, we will cover network administration master’s degree jobs. You will find job descriptions, job outlooks, and salary information.
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 because network administration skills are in high demand. Many careers for master’s degree graduates in this field have above-average job outlooks. Having a master’s degree will also help you stand out from applicants who only have a bachelor’s degree.
What’s the Average Network Administration Master’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for a Master’s Degree in Network Administration graduate is $80,000, according to PayScale. Keep in mind that your salary for network administration will heavily depend on your location, level of experience, and job title.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Network Administration Master’s Degree?
Some of the jobs you can get with a network administration master’s degree include upper-level and managerial positions in tech companies. Some of the highest-paying network administration jobs for master’s degree holders include information systems manager and computer network architect.
Network Administration Degree Jobs
- Computer and information systems manager
- Computer network architect
- Penetration tester
- Software developer
- Information security analyst
Potential Careers With a Network Administration Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Master’s Degree in Network Administration?
You can make between $80,600 and $159,000 with a Master’s Degree in Network Administration. Keep in mind that your salary will depend on several factors, including your location, job responsibilities, and level of experience.
Highest-Paying 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 |
| Penetration Tester | $116,323 |
| Software Developer | $110,140 |
| Cisco Network Engineer | $102,767 |
| Information Security Analyst | $102,600 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $99,270 |
| Database Architect | $98,860 |
| Network Engineer | $91,945 |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrator | $80,600 |
Best Jobs for Database Administration Master’s Degree Grads
The best database administration master degree jobs come with impressive salaries and benefits. Below we provide detailed information about some of the best-paying Master’s Degree in Database Administration jobs. Most of the information below has been sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Informational Outlook Handbook.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is a Master’s Degree in Network Administration Worth It?
Yes, a Master’s Degree in Network Administration is worth it if you are hoping to progress in your career and land a managerial position. Having your master’s degree will qualify you for senior-level positions, allow you to earn a higher salary, and open up many career opportunities. You’ll also find getting a network administration master’s degree worth it if you are interested in getting a doctoral degree in the future.
Additional Reading About Network Administration
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Network Administration Master’s Degree FAQ
No, you do not need a master’s degree to become a network administrator. You can enter this profession with a bachelor’s degree, associate degree, or a network administration bootcamp. However, if you’re interested in a senior-level position, you’ll likely be required to have a master’s degree in a relevant field.
A master’s degree program in network administration covers network security, data communication systems, system administration, and computer networking. You can also add a concentration in cyber security, business analytics, or data science.
A network administration master’s degree can help you become an information security analyst, network engineer, network security analyst, penetration tester, and network analyst. There are also many senior-level positions you can qualify for with a master’s degree.
Yes, network administration is a good career. Many jobs in this field come with a very impressive job outlook. Once you have a few years of experience or a master’s degree, you should have access to a wide array of job opportunities. A Bachelor’s Degree in Network Administration can also help you start a successful career in this field.
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.
