- 1.Network Administration professionals earn a median salary of $95,360/year, with 3% job growth projected through 2032—steady growth.
- 2.Our top-ranked network administration programs are Carnegie Mellon University, University of California-Irvine, and University of Southern California—selected based on graduation rates, program size, and career outcomes.
- 3.Best value: North Carolina A & T State University offers network administration degrees at just $3,540/year with a 84% graduation rate.
- 4.88 accredited network administration programs available nationwide, with options at every degree level from associate's to doctoral.
- 5.Entry-level positions typically require a bachelor's degree; master's degrees unlock senior roles with 20-40% higher salaries and leadership opportunities.
Source: A network administration degree provides solid career prospects with $95,360 median salary and steady job growth. The increasing reliance on digital infrastructure ensures continued demand for network professionals. ROI analysis shows graduates typically recoup education costs within 3-5 years of employment (BLS OEWS 2024).
Best Network Administration Programs - Top 10
These are the best network administration programs in the United States based on our comprehensive methodology that considers graduation rates, program size, institutional reputation, and career outcomes. Rankings are updated annually using data from IPEDS and BLS.
Best Network Administration Programs - Top 10
Carnegie Mellon University
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
CMU operates the Software Engineering Institute, a federally funded R&D center that has been the leader in software engineering and cybersecurity research since 1984, working directly with the Department of Defense and government agencies to solve national security challenges.
Program Overview
Carnegie Mellon University does not appear to offer a dedicated Network Administration program based on the provided sources. However, CMU houses world-class cybersecurity and technology management programs through multiple schools. The Software Engineering Institute (SEI) serves as a federally funded research and development center focusing on cybersecurity, AI engineering, and software security since 1984. CyLab, CMU's interdisciplinary security initiative, brings together over 50 researchers and 80 students from the College of Engineering, School of Computer Science, and Heinz College to address cyber threats. The Heinz College offers technology-focused programs like the Master of Science in Software Management through the Integrated Innovation Institute, which combines engineering, design, and business perspectives for software industry leadership.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Interdisciplinary security initiative with 50+ researchers addressing cyber terrorism and hacking threats
Federally funded R&D center for software engineering, cybersecurity, and AI engineering
PwC-sponsored center examining digital technology impacts across industries
Location Advantages
- •Pittsburgh serves as home base with Silicon Valley campus for technology programs
- •Direct access to federal agencies and defense contractors through SEI connections
- •Strong presence in both East Coast government sector and West Coast tech industry
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Amazon, Major Silicon Valley companies, Government contractors
Admissions
University of California-Irvine
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
UCI's Networked Systems program is one of the few graduate programs that truly integrates computer science and electrical engineering perspectives on networking, transcending traditional departmental boundaries to provide comprehensive education in both the theoretical foundations and practical applications of networked systems.
Program Overview
UC Irvine offers a Master of Science in Networked Systems, an interdisciplinary graduate program that bridges the gap between computer science and electrical engineering. This program is jointly administered by faculty from the Department of Computer Science in the Donald Bren School of Information and Computer Sciences and the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science in The Henry Samueli School of Engineering. Students can choose between Plan I (Thesis Plan) or Plan II (Comprehensive Examination Plan), both requiring completion of core courses in networking fundamentals, breadth courses spanning technical areas and technology management, and concentration courses covering networks, performance, middleware, communications, and operations research. The program uniquely combines software, hardware, and communications technology to address the full spectrum of networked systems including telephone networks, cable TV networks, wireless and mobile networks, cellular phone networks, and Internet infrastructure.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Located in Irvine, California within Orange County's thriving technology corridor
- •Close proximity to major tech companies and networking industry leaders in Southern California
Career Outcomes
Admissions
University of Southern California
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
USC Viterbi's Distance Education Network (DEN@Viterbi) pioneered remote engineering education, allowing students worldwide to access the same rigorous curriculum and faculty as on-campus students through high-quality live streaming and comprehensive online resources.
Program Overview
USC does not appear to offer a specific Network Administration program based on the available source content. The university's computing and technology education is primarily housed within the Viterbi School of Engineering, which offers robust computer science and engineering programs through the Thomas Lord Department of Computer Science and various engineering departments. USC Viterbi provides both on-campus and online graduate programs through their Distance Education Network (DEN@Viterbi), allowing working professionals to pursue advanced degrees while maintaining their careers. The school has strong research focus areas in systems, databases, software engineering, cyber-physical systems, and security, with specialized labs like the Center for Computer Systems Security and the Networked Systems Lab that could appeal to those interested in network administration concepts.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Security research and infrastructure protection
Network design, management, and software-defined networking
Network traffic analysis and measurement
Location Advantages
- •Los Angeles tech ecosystem access
- •Strong alumni network in technology companies
- •Proximity to major entertainment and media companies requiring network infrastructure
Career Outcomes
Technology companies, Entertainment industry, Government contractors
Admissions
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
UMN's ITI program uniquely blends traditional network administration with modern cloud infrastructure through hands-on labs using industry-standard tools like Cisco, AWS, and Azure, while maintaining 100% job placement rates for graduates within three months.
Johns Hopkins University
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
As America's first research university, Johns Hopkins pioneered the integration of research and education, giving students unprecedented access to faculty conducting groundbreaking work in their fields.
Northeastern University
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
Northeastern houses the world's largest radiofrequency channel emulator (the Colosseum) developed by DARPA, and serves as the academic lead for the $100 million Platforms for Advanced Wireless Research initiative, providing unparalleled access to cutting-edge networking research and industry partnerships.
Kean University
Masters: Larger Programs
59 network administration graduates annually
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
NC State's Computer Networking program uniquely combines traditional networking fundamentals with emerging technologies like cognitive radio and MIMO systems, while offering one of the few fully online networking master's degrees available to US residents and military personnel worldwide.
Utah Valley University
Masters: Smaller Programs
UVU's Network Administration certificate stands out for its dual-track flexibility, allowing students to choose between Linux/UNIX and Windows administration paths while maintaining strong foundations in both enterprise environments that most employers require.
Stevens Institute of Technology
Doctoral: High Research (R2)
Stevens evolved its telecommunications program into one of the first graduate programs to specifically address 5G networks and software-defined networking as business transformation tools, bridging the gap between technical implementation and strategic business applications.
Our rankings methodology weighs program strength (25%), graduation rate (20%), career outcomes (15%), institutional quality (12%), industry recognition (10%), selectivity (10%), and data transparency (8%). Learn more about our methodology →
Who Should Study Network Administration?
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 Degree Levels Compared
Network administration programs are available at multiple levels, each suited to different career goals and experience levels.
Network Administration Programs by Degree Level
2-year programs for career entry or transfer to bachelor's programs
Top-ranked undergraduate programs nationwide
Top graduate programs for specialization and advancement
Flexible online programs for working professionals
Best Network Administration Programs - Bachelor's
A bachelor's degree in network administration is the standard credential for entry-level positions. These 4-year programs provide comprehensive training and hands-on experience.
Best Network Administration Programs - Top 3 Bachelor's
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
43 graduates, 92% grad rate, Score: 67.7
Kean University
59 graduates, 91% grad rate, Score: 66.2
Utah Valley University
58 graduates, 92% grad rate, Score: 64.2
4. University of North Carolina at Greensboro (Greensboro, NC) - Score: 62.6, Tuition: $4,422
5. Wentworth Institute of Technology (Boston, MA) - Score: 60.6, Tuition: $40,410
6. DePaul University (Chicago, IL) - Score: 59.7, Tuition: $43,379
7. Weber State University (Ogden, UT) - Score: 58.4, Tuition: $5,471
8. Florida State College at Jacksonville (Jacksonville, FL) - Score: 57.4, Tuition: $2,095
9. Ohio University-Main Campus (Athens, OH) - Score: 57.3, Tuition: $13,746
10. Stevenson University (Owings Mills, MD) - Score: 56.4, Tuition: $36,940
Best Network Administration Programs - Master's
A master's degree in network administration prepares students for senior and specialized roles. These 1-2 year programs offer advanced expertise and leadership training.
Best Network Administration Programs - Top 3 Master's
Carnegie Mellon University
168 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 100.0
University of California-Irvine
16 graduates, 96% grad rate, Score: 69.4
University of Southern California
1 graduates, 92% grad rate, Score: 69.4
4. Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, MD) - Score: 67.7, Tuition: $62,840
5. Northeastern University (Boston, MA) - Score: 67.5, Tuition: $62,000
6. North Carolina State University at Raleigh (Raleigh, NC) - Score: 66.2, Tuition: $6,535
7. Stevens Institute of Technology (Hoboken, NJ) - Score: 64.0, Tuition: $58,680
8. North Carolina A & T State University (Greensboro, NC) - Score: 63.0, Tuition: $3,540
9. George Mason University (Fairfax, VA) - Score: 59.9, Tuition: $10,095
10. Rochester Institute of Technology (Rochester, NY) - Score: 58.9, Tuition: $55,784
Best Network Administration Programs - Online
Online network administration programs offer flexibility for working professionals. Top accredited programs provide the same curriculum quality as on-campus alternatives.
Best Network Administration Programs - Top 3 Online
Carnegie Mellon University
168 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 100.0
University of California-Irvine
16 graduates, 96% grad rate, Score: 69.4
University of Southern California
1 graduates, 92% grad rate, Score: 69.4
4. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities (Minneapolis, MN) - Score: 67.7, Tuition: $14,496
5. Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, MD) - Score: 67.7, Tuition: $62,840
6. Northeastern University (Boston, MA) - Score: 67.5, Tuition: $62,000
7. Kean University (Union, NJ) - Score: 66.2, Tuition: $11,135
8. North Carolina State University at Raleigh (Raleigh, NC) - Score: 66.2, Tuition: $6,535
9. Utah Valley University (Orem, UT) - Score: 64.2, Tuition: $5,614
10. Stevens Institute of Technology (Hoboken, NJ) - Score: 64.0, Tuition: $58,680
Best Network Administration Programs - Associate's
An associate's degree in network administration provides a 2-year pathway into the field. These programs are ideal for career starters or those planning to transfer to a 4-year program.
Best Network Administration Programs - Top 3 Associate's
Weber State University
18 graduates, 92% grad rate, Score: 54.5
Idaho State University
12 graduates, 87% grad rate, Score: 54.0
Bellevue College
18 graduates, 96% grad rate, Score: 52.8
4. Columbia Basin College (Pasco, WA) - Score: 52.0, Tuition: $5,514
5. Valencia College (Orlando, FL) - Score: 50.8, Tuition: $1,984
6. Edmonds College (Lynnwood, WA) - Score: 49.7, Tuition: $4,073
7. Florida State College at Jacksonville (Jacksonville, FL) - Score: 48.6, Tuition: $2,095
8. Palm Beach State College (Lake Worth, FL) - Score: 48.1, Tuition: $3,030
9. State College of Florida-Manatee-Sarasota (Bradenton, FL) - Score: 47.5, Tuition: $2,365
10. Olympic College (Bremerton, WA) - Score: 47.2, Tuition: $4,197
Best Network Administration Programs - Graduate
Graduate programs in network administration (PhD and doctoral degrees) prepare students for research, academic, and senior leadership positions.
Best Network Administration Programs - Top 3 Graduate
Marymount University
36 graduates, 99% grad rate, Score: 69.0
University of California-Irvine
3 graduates, 96% grad rate, Score: 66.0
Capitol Technology University
30 graduates, 87% grad rate, Score: 64.5
4. Northeastern University (Boston, MA) - Score: 61.2, Tuition: $62,000
5. Dakota State University (Madison, SD) - Score: 50.8, Tuition: $7,616
6. Sam Houston State University (Huntsville, TX) - Score: 50.0, Tuition: $5,856
7. Nova Southeastern University (Fort Lauderdale, FL) - Score: 42.5, Tuition: $35,880
8. St. Thomas University (Miami Gardens, FL) - Score: 35.0, Tuition: $33,580
9. Capella University (Minneapolis, MN) - Score: 33.2, Tuition: $14,436
Most Affordable Network Administration Programs
Looking for quality network administration education without the hefty price tag? These programs offer the best value—balancing tuition costs with strong academic outcomes and career prospects. Our Value Score factors in graduation rates, program strength, and institutional quality relative to cost.
Top 5 Most Affordable Network Administration Programs
| Rank | Institution | Location | Tuition | Value Score | Grad Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | North Carolina A & T State University | Greensboro, NC | $3,540 | 126.0 | 84% |
| 2 | University of North Carolina at Greensboro | Greensboro, NC | $4,422 | 125.2 | — |
| 3 | Florida State College at Jacksonville | Jacksonville, FL | $2,095 | 114.8 | 89% |
| 4 | Utah Valley University | Orem, UT | $5,614 | 114.4 | 92% |
| 5 | Dalton State College | Dalton, GA | $2,563 | 111.8 | 98% |
Network Administration Career Outcomes
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.
Career Paths
Network Administrator
SOC 15-1244Manage and maintain computer networks, including hardware, software, and security systems.
Network Systems Administrator
SOC 15-1244Configure and maintain network infrastructure, including servers, routers, and switches.
Information Security Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect network infrastructure from cyber threats and security breaches.
Computer Systems Analyst
SOC 15-1211Analyze network systems and recommend improvements to organizational efficiency.
IT Manager
SOC 11-3021Plan, coordinate, and direct network administration teams and IT infrastructure.
Network Administration Curriculum Overview
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.
Network Administration Programs by State
Arizona
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Florida
Georgia
Illinois
Indiana
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin
Network Administration vs Related Fields
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.
Which Should You Choose?
- You want to focus specifically on network infrastructure and connectivity
- You enjoy hands-on work with networking hardware and software
- You prefer specialized technical roles over broad IT support
- You're interested in network design and optimization
- You want broader IT knowledge covering multiple technology areas
- You prefer user support and business technology integration
- You're interested in IT management and strategy
- You want more career flexibility across IT domains
- You're primarily interested in protecting against security threats
- You want to specialize in risk assessment and incident response
- You're interested in compliance and security frameworks
- You prefer focusing on security rather than general network management
- You want theoretical foundations in computing and algorithms
- You're interested in software development over infrastructure
- You want maximum career flexibility across tech roles
- You enjoy programming and software engineering
Is a Network Administration Degree Worth It?
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).
Alternative Paths to Network Administration
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.
Network Administration Degree FAQ
Based on 485 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES 2024, NSA CAE Database
Number of network administration graduates from IPEDS 2023, indicating program resources and faculty depth
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023, measuring student success
State-level salary data from BLS OES 2024 for relevant occupations
Carnegie Classification with bonus for R1 research universities
NSA/DHS CAE-CD designation for cybersecurity programs, ABET accreditation for engineering
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
Completeness of reported metrics to IPEDS
Related Resources
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.