Find Your Perfect School
An online Bachelor in Network Administration degree program is a great option for students seeking the skills necessary to manage and maintain computer networks. This degree program teaches students how to determine and manage the different components of computer network operations, learn to troubleshoot problems, and secure networks from cyberattacks.
Consider this: Best Schools with Online Bachelor’s in Network Security
Why should students choose online Bachelor’s in Network Administration degree programs?
First, Systems and Network Administration programs lead to high-paying jobs in the IT field. The median yearly salary for network administrators is $82,170, as disclosed by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Second, there is a growing demand for network administrators who can help businesses set up and manage their own computer networks. Many employers require a network administrator that holds a bachelor’s degree in the field and substantial knowledge of how computer systems networking works.
Graduates with an online Bachelor’s in Network Administration can work in a variety of industries, including information technology, healthcare, finance, manufacturing, education, and government.
Quick Summarization
Earning an online bachelor’s degree is the best way to get started with your Network Administration career. Through this online program, students gain the competency to advance in their careers and earn higher salaries after graduation.
Methodology
Choosing the best school offering online Bachelor’s in Network Administration programs requires discernment! Students must consider specific criteria that make a college, university, or institution an excellent choice.
Each online bachelor’s degree in Network Administration that made it to our list excels because of these academic features:
- Presents a curriculum that explores essential topics in Network Administration, such as networking concepts, security, and troubleshooting, working alongside computer network architects and other similar computer systems and network professionals,
- Classes are taught by faculty members who have years of experience in Network Administration,
- Sharpens students’ knowledge and skills needed for them to land high-paying jobs or pursue a master’s degree upon graduation,
- Hosted through a robust online learning platform that gives students 24/7 access to course materials, e-books, and other resources, as well as interact with faculty, school staff, and classmates,
- Offers various kinds of financial aid options and offer scholarships for deserving students.
- Gives easy access to support services, such as tutoring and career consultation,
- Recognized by reputable accrediting agencies to ensure that it meets high standards of academic quality,
- Receives stellar feedback from Network Administration majors, alumni and industry associations or employers,
To know more about the process used to choose the best colleges and their online programs, please visit our Methodology page.
10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Network Administration
Bellevue University
Individuals who are looking to advance in their careers in IT should take up a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. This 100% online program teaches Information Technology majors the essentials of networking systems. Students are required to complete a research study, internship, certification, or a faculty-approved IT project that lets them apply the strategies, lessons, and techniques to real-world situations.
Students learn to:
- apply the fundamental principles of networks, cloud environments, and servers,
- work with the best practices for configuration, upgrading, and installation of computer systems,
- communicate effectively in IT business context,
- collaborate with professors who have years of experience in IT leadership roles to help them organize projects that allow the students to put what they’ve learned into practice through internships.
The most important IT skills this online degree in Network Administration will teach students include:
- Configuring and troubleshooting
- Managing servers
- Cloud computing and governance
- Network management and infrastructure
- Network security protocols and managing risks
This online bachelor’s degree in Network Administration will prepare IT professionals for industry-specific certifications to demonstrate their technical know-how. Its curriculum is designed to align with exam preparation criteria. Additionally, students can take the Certification Component elective course, which has a certification-focused plan of study, and coordinate with a faculty sponsor.
Western Governors University
Western Governors University offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Online IT Management that lets students earn an information technology management degree online and graduate as IT experts. Through this online degree program, students will be prepared to meet the needs of organizations, overcoming system failures and software delays, and positively impacting their bottom line.
This online Bachelor’s in IT Management increases the earning potential of IT professionals, prepares them for leadership roles, and presents other career advancement opportunities. Its coursework focuses on key areas, such as business, networks and security, management and leadership, and information systems management. These will all be crucial in ensuring graduates will be able to effectively combine important IT and business strategies to ensure organizations will be able to efficiently utilize technology.
Before graduation, students will need to complete a capstone project that demonstrates everything they have learned and worked hard for. This project will also allow them to apply what they’ve learned to real-world situations by proposing solutions to actual issues that businesses face on a regular basis.
This fully online bachelor’s degree in Network Administration is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). It is also a competency-based education that allows working individuals to study at their own pace and not wait for other members to start a new semester.
WGU offers IT Management certificates, including:
- Leadership
- Strategic Thinking & Innovation
- Information Technology Management
Capella University
The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology offered by Capella University helps students establish their Cisco networking systems expertise. This prepares them to play vital roles in business operations in the future. With a minor in Cisco network technology, students will gain the necessary skills to design and implement integrated networks across various professional environments.
This online degree program will also give students a chance to immerse themselves in hands-on learning and obtain crucial know-how of the functions and systems businesses rely on every day, from RFID architecture and wireless networks to security and cloud computing. Plus, they will be able to apply important networking skills to support businesses in reaching their goals and expanding their professional horizons.
Aside from valuable industry experience that can be added to their portfolios after graduation, students will also have the chance to take certification exams in CompTIA, Cisco, and SAS completely free. Moreover, they will have the necessary hands-on training with Cisco network technology and other relevant tools through interactive simulations, innovative resources, and virtual labs.
Capella University students are guaranteed that this institution complies with industry standards through its accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. Aside from that, all courses are taught by highly experienced and distinguished faculty members with top credentials.
Dakota State University
Dakota State University’s Bachelor of Science in Network and Security Administration will teach students about the basics of networking, penetration testing, operating systems, scripting, and system administration. It also offers hands-on experience through the university’s virtual and physical labs that ensure students will be able to work in a safe environment while working with enterprise-level hardware, including VoIP phones, firewalls, switches, and routers.
This institution allows students to immerse themselves and join various clubs and organizations, such as the Defensive Security, CybHER, and Gaming clubs to enhance their computing interests and boost their resumes. Additionally, the school competes in network defense competitions, such as the Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition, and Esports, as well as in research opportunities inside the campus.
- Network and security administration majors will be able to implement technical security controls for the protection of IT assets.
- Apply crucial skills for the administration of enterprise networks and systems.
- Inspect network security vulnerabilities by using penetration testing techniques.
DSU’s online bachelor’s degree in network and security administration is a 4+1 program that allows full-time students to earn their bachelor’s alongside their master’s degrees in just 5 years. Students can combine their Bachelor’s in Network and Security Administration with a Master of Science in Cyber Defense or Information Systems. This will not only help students realize their professional dreams faster but also save them money in the long run.
Central Washington University
Central Washington University’s Bachelor of Science in Information Technology & Administrative Management bridges the gap between IT and administrative management, preparing students to be career-ready graduates. At CWU, students can expect to receive quality and engaging teaching combined with a top-quality curriculum. Plus, they will receive one-on-one advising throughout their degrees.
At CWU, information technology and administrative management majors attend small classes to ensure that instructors will be able to provide full attention to everyone in the class. Aside from that, they get full support in navigating the internship market to ensure they have real-world experience when they graduate. At the end of the program, students will be able to develop soft and tech skills through coursework that is influenced by industry standards and its Advisory Board.
Throughout the course of the program, students will gain the following knowledge and skillsets:
- Manage retail organizations
- Oversee large projects
- Maintain networks
- Build web pages and mobile apps
- Facilitate change management
- Protect information assets
- Administrative management
CWU’s Bachelor of Science in Information Technology & Administrative Management is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), indicating the institution’s integrity, quality, and performance. This is a fully online and self-paced competency-based program, which is ideal for students who wish to earn a bachelor’s degree and remain in the workforce.
Champlain College
Champlain College’s Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems program is designed to meet the needs of modern businesses by helping students bridge the gap between business and information technology. This program will hone students’ skills in managing and planning an organization’s technology needs.
This management information systems program will teach students both foundational and business skills, as well as problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to ensure well-rounded employees who will be able to solve today’s IT challenges. This program also shapes graduates to become experienced business and IT professionals with diverse skill sets.
- Create policies, procedures, and models for efficient and secure options of databases, data analysis and visualization tools, and database management systems to support businesses in their operations and decision-making.
- Assess the value of different IT systems and their ability to support businesses, from the supply chain, inventory management, and manufacturing to customer relations.
- Identify the impact of various options in the development, design, integration, and configuration of hardware and software components on the overall value and quality of IT systems.
- Use project, human resource, and process management principles and best practices for the implementation, management, and acquisition of IT systems in legal and ethical organizational environments.
- Master software, programming languages, and technical problems, such as Linux Server, PyCharm, Python, VMware, Windows Server, and SQL.
Online degree students will get free access to the Fast Start Formula Career Bundle, a comprehensive resource that teaches about standing out from the crowd using innovative digital tools, communication methods, networking techniques, and personal brand. This is taught by Jen Morris, a leading executive career coach who is committed to supporting students in their career journey.
Champlain College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). It is a designated Military Friendly School for its commitment to supporting the armed forces community. This institution has also been named among the top schools with accelerated bachelor’s degrees.
Colorado Technical University
Colorado Technical University offers a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a Concentration in Network Management that will teach students about IT basics, including computers, database systems, programming, and connectivity to allow them to evaluate and implement various networking requirements.
This online bachelor’s program in information technology will also provide students with knowledge in computer system architecture, database and security, and networking, as well as complex technical subjects, including cloud computing, IT system development, network management, project management, ethics, and system administration. Aside from the Network Management track, IT majors can choose a concentration in Security and Software System Engineering.
Furthermore, the BSIT program will equip students with a robust technical background and valuable skills in analytics, critical thinking, and problem-solving. This enables them to be effective individuals that can take on significant technical roles involved in designing, planning, integrating, developing, administrating, and configuring different enterprise information systems, from email to cloud computing.
Core courses for this online bachelor’s degree in Network Management include:
- Unix Fundamentals
- Fundamentals of Database Systems
- User Interface Design
- Principles of Network Security
- Structured Query Language for Data Management
- Fundamentals of Networking
- Computer Networks and Communications
- IT Support Systems
- Systems Analysis, Design and Integration
Upon graduation, students will be able to familiarize themselves with the tools and techniques necessary to detect intrusion into computer systems. They will be able to implement, manage, and maintain network infrastructures and server systems.
Southern New Hampshire University
Through the Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems offered by Southern New Hampshire University, students will be able to learn how to serve as an intermediary between business and IT units, as well as develop IT systems that support an organization’s goals.
This online information systems program will also give students various opportunities for hands-on experience with various business intelligence applications. This will also teach students about the crucial knowledge and skills needed to leverage technology to support any organization’s strategic goals.
- Utilize business intelligence applications in analyzing data models.
- Apply concepts to create and implement systems that support a business or organization’s goals.
- Evaluate existing business information systems and identify new ones.
- Formulate effective communication strategies.
Students at SNHU will get access to support services, from day 1 to graduation day. They will also be able to access their online classrooms 24/7, as well as learning resources, ensuring students will have everything they need within easy reach.
Aside from that computer information systems majors will have opportunities to join in annual national events and competitions, such as the National Cyber League (NCL) competitions. Students can join a team to solve cybersecurity challenges, like recovering from ransomware attacks or pen test vulnerable sites.
This program aims to prepare students in implementing effective solutions to support organizational needs. This is through a curriculum that explores key technological concepts, including scripting, application development, systems thinking, database environments, and object-oriented design and analysis. There are courses that cover enterprise information systems, business intelligence and reporting, and client systems support.
SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Its computer information systems program and its concentrations are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
Fort Hays State University
Fort Hays State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Information Networking and Telecommunications with a Concentration in Computer Networking and Telecommunications. This online degree program provides extensive networking expertise in small class sizes and easy access to faculty members.
Fort Hays State University has a computing environment and lab that are supported by Cisco and VMware. This ensures that students will have plenty of opportunities to get hands-on experience in real-world situations to ensure they graduate with a competitive resume. Aside from that, it features courses that will prepare students for industry certifications, such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP ENCOR).
Some of the courses required to complete this online degree program include the following:
- Introduction to Web Development
- Foundations of Information Networking
- Research Methods in Informatics
- Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurial Leadership
- Public Policy, Ethics and Law in Telecommunications
- Internetworking (CCNA Prep)
- Network Architecture and Data Communications
- Programming with Python
- Fundamentals of Network Security
- Linux in Networking
Herzing University
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Networking offered by Herzing University is a 120-credit online degree program that prepares students for successful careers in network systems architecture, management, and maintenance. It has courses that provide students with fundamental knowledge and skills in cloud computing, systems administration, routers and switches, and network security.
This online bachelor’s degree in computer networking has a career-focused curriculum that lets students develop the crucial knowledge and skills to build a foundation for career growth. It features courses that help students prepare for industry certifications, such as Cisco, Microsoft, and CompTIA. Its curriculum emphasizes principles of information technology security, helping them develop IT solutions based on an organization’s needs. At the end of the program, graduates will be able to explain technical information to non-technical audiences.
This program has a flexible schedule wherein students can take classes anytime they like, which is perfect for working adults. Aside from that, students are given access to extensive virtual services, such as technical support, library services, academic advising, and tutoring. Even after graduation, Herzing University alumni can have access to ongoing career advancement through comprehensive and personalized student services with lifelong career coaching.
One of the things that make Herzing University’s online bachelor’s program in computer networking is that students are given a chance to earn dual credit for a Master of Business Administration (MBA). Qualified students can apply up to 12 credits toward an MBA degree. Plus, they can consider the university’s dual concentration option to put more emphasis on their MBA credential.
This program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
An additional resource: Best Schools with Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration
Career Outlook for Graduates with Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Network Administration
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Employment of network and computer systems administrators is projected to grow 3 percent from 2021 to 2031.” While this may be slower than average for other occupations, there be new job openings of around 23,900 for graduates of Network Administration every year over the next decade.
Below are some of the most popular and highest-paying career paths for Network Administration graduates.
- Network Administrator $84,810
- Computer Network Architect $116,780
- Database Administrator $98,860
- Computer Systems Analyst $93,730
- Information Security Analyst $103,590
- Network Security Manager $96,352
- Wireless Network Engineer $81,234
- System Engineer $79,642
- Network Programmer $72,111
- Network Service Technician $68,660
- Telecommunications Specialist $64,509
Differences Between Network Administrators and Network Engineers
Network administrators and network engineers are both IT professionals who play significant roles in ensuring that computer networks run as smoothly as possible all the time.
While both roles require strong technical skills and must be able to perform under extreme pressure, network administrators and network engineers are responsible for different tasks within an organization.
Network administrators oversee the day-to-day operation of computer networks. Generally, they have a more hands-on role that involves maintaining and troubleshooting computer networks. Aside from that, they need to have a robust knowledge of networking concepts and the latest technologies. They may also need to report to a network engineer.
Network engineers, on the other hand, are responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining computer networks. They take care of a variety of technologies, including routers, firewalls, switches, and wireless access points. On top of that, they must be able to troubleshoot complex network problems and have a deep understanding of networking concepts. Network engineers may have to report to a chief technology officer or another executive
Certifications That Help Network Administration Graduates Advance in Their Careers
Network Administration degree holders may consider pursuing industry or vendor certifications. These courses are designed to teach and evaluate students’ knowledge in monitoring, troubleshooting, and installation of network systems. Completing one of these programs will give graduates an opportunity to demonstrate their expertise in certain technologies.
This demonstrates a network administrator’s ability to navigate the ever-changing IT landscape. This exam covers automation, programmability, IP services, networking fundamentals, and security fundamentals.
This proves that a technician has the skills and knowledge to “diagnose, restore, repair, and replace critical Cisco networking and system devices.” Network technicians must undergo this training to stay productive in the field and expand their expertise.
This certification is the industry standard that helps establish a network administrator’s career in the field of IT. It is also the preferred credential by many employers.
This certifies network administrators that they are experts in implementing, monitoring, and maintaining Microsoft solutions. This certification has 3 levels: Fundamentals, Associate, and Expert. Some of the most sought-after certifications include Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals, Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate, Microsoft Certified: Azure for SAP Workloads Specialty, and Microsoft Certified: Azure Virtual Desktop Specialty.
VMware is one of the top providers of multi-cloud servers for a myriad of apps, allowing digital innovation with enterprise control. This company offers certifications to give network administrators a chance to demonstrate critical skills in integrating and managing VMware technology. These include VMware Certified Technical Associate – Data Center Virtualization 2023, VMware Certified Professional – Data Center Virtualization 2023, VMware Certified Advanced Professional – Data Center Virtualization 2023, VMware Certified Advanced Professional – Data Center Virtualization Deploy 2023, and VMware Certified Design Expert – Data Center Virtualization 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can a Network Administration graduate increase their earning potential or advance in their career?
A Network Administration degree can increase their earnings and advance in their careers by pursuing a master’s degree. With a graduate degree, individuals will be able to pursue higher-paying careers, including computer and information research scientists, chief security officers, and computer and information systems managers.
Some of the master’s degrees that Network Administration graduates can pursue include the following:
- Master’s in Computer Engineering
- MBA in Information Systems Management
- Master’s in Information Systems Security
- Master’s in Management Information Systems
- Master’s in Computer Science
How long does it usually take to earn an online Bachelor’s degree in Network Administration?
According to the U.S. News & World Report, an online degree in Network Administration program generally requires students to complete 120 to 128 credit hours or 4 years. Fortunately, some schools offer accelerated options, allowing students to finish the degree in 2 to 3 years.
How much does an online Bachelor’s degree in Network Administration cost?
The per-credit cost for an online bachelor’s degree in Network Administration can range from $225 to $640, which means that students can expect to pay between $27,000 and $71,000.
The cost of an online bachelor’s degree in Network Administration depends on several factors. For one, state residency matters to a lot of schools with some charging in-state students higher tuition rates. Thankfully, some charge a flat rate regardless of state residency.
What are the usual admission requirements for an online Bachelor’s in Network Administration?
Applicants must possess a high school or GED diploma. Some schools may also require applicants to prove program readiness with a STEM course, such as engineering or advanced mathematics, in high school.
Students who are interested in enrolling in an online bachelor’s degree in Network Administration must also submit a college application and ACT composite core of 21 or a combined SAT score of at least 1080. College entrance exam results may also be used by the college or university to award students with merit-based scholarships.
Aside from official transcripts, applicants may also be required letters of recommendation and application essays or personal statements that answer specific questions.
Key Points to Ponder
- Network administrators are highly in-demand because they help streamline processes, from payrolls to bank transactions.
- An online bachelor’s degree in Network Administration will provide interested individuals with the needed knowledge and skills to provide the highest quality solutions for networking problems.
- Getting a bachelor’s degree in Network Administration online gives students the flexibility and freedom they need to finish the program at their own pace.
Take a look at this: Best Schools with Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology