Best Network Administration Degree Programs

Network administration is the practice of managing, maintaining, and securing computer networks and IT infrastructure. Unlike cybersecurity (which focuses on protecting against threats) or information technology (which covers broader IT support), network administration specifically centers on network design, configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting.

A network administration degree covers networking protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP), network hardware (routers, switches, firewalls), operating systems (Windows Server, Linux), virtualization technologies, cloud networking, and network security fundamentals. Students learn to design network architectures, configure enterprise equipment, and maintain network performance.

Network administrators work across all industries that rely on computer networks: corporations, government agencies, healthcare systems, educational institutions, and managed service providers. The role is critical as organizations increasingly depend on reliable network connectivity for daily operations.

Network administration is ideal for students who enjoy technical problem-solving, have an interest in how computer networks function, and prefer hands-on work with technology infrastructure. You should be comfortable with logical troubleshooting and detail-oriented tasks.

• Technical problem solvers who enjoy diagnosing and fixing network issues
• Detail-oriented students who can manage complex system configurations
• Hands-on learners who prefer working with hardware and software
• Team players who can communicate technical issues to non-technical users
• Students seeking stable careers in essential IT infrastructure roles

Network administration programs are available at multiple levels, each suited to different career goals and experience levels.

An associate's degree in network administration covers networking fundamentals, TCP/IP, routing/switching, and network security basics. Combined with CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA certification, graduates qualify for junior network administrator positions with starting salaries of $50,000-$65,000.

Programs provide hands-on experience with routers, switches, and network troubleshooting tools essential for entry-level positions.

A bachelor's degree prepares students for network engineer or senior network administrator roles. BLS reports network and computer systems administrators earn a median of $103,875 annually. Programs cover advanced networking, network security, wireless technologies, and cloud networking.

Cisco and other vendor certifications (CCNP, CCIE) remain important complements to degree credentials in networking careers.

A master's degree provides advanced training in network architecture, security, and emerging technologies like SD-WAN and network automation. Valuable for network architect or IT management positions.

With network infrastructure increasingly moving to cloud, modern curricula emphasize cloud networking, automation with tools like Ansible, and software-defined networking principles.

Our analysis of 300+ accredited network administration bachelor's programs identifies the top undergraduate options based on graduation rates, program size, tuition costs, and career outcomes. Top programs include Utah Valley University, Kean University, NUC University.

A bachelor's degree in network administration typically takes 4 years and prepares graduates for entry-level positions. The median tuition across programs is around $15,000/year for in-state students at public universities.

View The Best Bachelor's Network Administration Programs in The U.S. →

For advanced study, we ranked 200+ graduate programs in network administration. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25% and opens doors to senior roles and specializations. Leading programs include .

Master's programs typically take 1-2 years to complete and offer deeper expertise in specialized areas like machine learning, data engineering, or analytics leadership.

View The Best Master's Network Administration Programs in The U.S. →

Online network administration programs offer flexibility for working professionals. We evaluated 215 online programs based on accreditation, outcomes, and employer recognition. Top online programs include Arizona State University, Southern New Hampshire University, Penn State World Campus.

The best online programs maintain the same academic rigor as on-campus counterparts while offering asynchronous coursework, virtual labs, and flexible scheduling.

View The Best Online Network Administration Programs in The U.S. →

Quality network administration education doesn't require massive debt. Our affordability rankings highlight 100+ programs with the best tuition rates. The most affordable options include Utah Valley University, Kean University, NUC University, with tuition starting at $5,614/year.

Public universities with in-state tuition benefits offer the best value, particularly SUNY, California State, and Texas state systems.

View The Most Affordable Network Administration Programs in The U.S. →

Network administration graduates enter stable, well-compensated careers in essential IT infrastructure roles. The BLS projects steady 5% job growth for network administrators through 2032, driven by increasing reliance on digital infrastructure and cloud technologies. For detailed compensation data, see our comprehensive analysis of network administration career paths.

Network administration programs typically include courses in networking fundamentals, operating systems, network security, hardware configuration, and cloud technologies. Hands-on lab work is emphasized throughout most programs.

• Networking Fundamentals: TCP/IP, OSI model, routing and switching protocols
• Operating Systems: Windows Server, Linux administration, virtualization
• Network Hardware: Routers, switches, firewalls, wireless access points
• Network Security: Basic security principles, VPN configuration, access control
• Cloud Technologies: AWS, Azure, cloud networking, hybrid environments
• Troubleshooting: Network monitoring tools, performance optimization, incident response

Most programs also include industry certification preparation for CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, or Microsoft certifications. Many programs feature dedicated networking labs with enterprise equipment for hands-on experience.

Explore our comprehensive rankings to find the best network administration program for your goals, budget, and learning preferences

Network administration deals with the infrastructure that connects everything—routers, switches, firewalls, wireless systems, and increasingly cloud networking. Networks are foundational; when they fail, everything fails.

The field requires systematic troubleshooting skills and comfort working with physical infrastructure. Unlike software development where you can experiment freely, network changes can take down production systems, requiring careful change management.

Traditional networking is evolving toward software-defined networking and cloud-native approaches. Modern network professionals need programming skills (Python, Ansible) in addition to traditional networking knowledge.

For students interested in IT infrastructure careers, yes. Network administration offers stable employment with median salaries around $95,360, steady job growth, and essential skills that remain in demand as organizations increasingly rely on digital connectivity.

When it's worth it: You enjoy technical problem-solving, prefer hands-on work with technology, and want a specialized role in IT infrastructure. The field offers clear career progression from technician to administrator to network architect or IT manager.

When to consider alternatives: You're more interested in software development (computer science may be better), want broader IT knowledge (information technology covers more areas), or specifically want to focus on security (cybersecurity is more specialized).

While a degree provides comprehensive knowledge, alternative paths exist for those with different goals or timelines

• CompTIA Network+ Certification — Industry-standard entry-level networking certification
• Cisco CCNA Certification — Leading vendor certification for Cisco networking equipment
• CompTIA A+ Certification — Foundation certification covering basic IT and networking
• Cloud Certifications — AWS, Azure, or GCP certifications for cloud networking
• IT Bootcamps — Accelerated programs combining multiple IT disciplines

Many professionals combine formal education with industry certifications. Starting with certifications can provide entry-level opportunities while you pursue a degree for advancement.