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Key Takeaways
Best network administration degree programs: Columbia Southern, U of Alabama, Miles College
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $5,528 to $12,360/year
Columbia Southern offers the most affordable option at $5,528/yr
Network Administration degree programs available: 1 associate's, 5 master's in Alabama
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
Alabama community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
1 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: NASA Marshall, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, SAIC
Tech hubs in Huntsville and Birmingham
Hakia Research 2026
Network Administration degree programs near 44+ cities across Alabama
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated July 13, 2026
How we ranked Alabama Network Administration programs
We rank 11 accredited network administration programs in Alabama using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Are Network Administration Degree Programs in Alabama Worth It?
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Network Administration Degree Rankings in Alabama
Compare the top-ranked Network Administration programs in Alabama by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Network Administration Programs in Alabama
Program Landscape
Alabama offers 1 accredited associate's degree programs in network administration, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Herzing University-Birmin..., which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Alabama offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $12,360/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $54,186 in Alabama.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Alabama's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Huntsville, Birmingham, Mobile areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like NASA Marshall, Boeing, Lockheed Martin hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among network administration schools in Alabama, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their network administration degrees in Alabama.
Best Bachelor's Network Administration Programs in Alabama
Program Landscape
Alabama ranks among the nation's top destinations for network administration education, with 5 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 2 public and 2 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Columbia Southern, U of Alabama, Miles College, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Alabama network administration programs earn a median salary of $83,742, 15% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Huntsville, Birmingham, Mobile metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including NASA Marshall, Boeing, Lockheed Martin.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $5,528 to $12,360 annually, with an average of $9,989/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 66%, with the highest reaching 90%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Alabama's leading technology employers. For students seeking network administration degrees in Alabama, these top-ranked network administration schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Best Master's Network Administration Programs in Alabama
Program Landscape
Alabama offers 5 master's degree programs in network administration, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of Alabama in Huntsville, U of Alabama at Birmingham, Auburn, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Alabama earn a median salary of $98,520, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Huntsville, Birmingham, Mobile creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with NASA Marshall, Boeing, Lockheed Martin actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $10,071/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Alabama's network administration schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
Network Administration Degree Costs & Tuition in Alabama
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $10,030/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $25,075/year |
| Community college tuition | $2,508/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $60,180 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $15,044 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Network Administration Students in Alabama
State Aid Programs
Alabama residents pursuing network administration degrees have access to multiple financial aid pathways. The Alabama Student Assistance Program provides need-based grants exclusively for Alabama residents attending eligible in-state institutions, making it a critical resource for reducing out-of-pocket costs. Additionally, all students can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) through StudentAid.gov to determine eligibility for federal Pell Grants, federal loans, and work-study opportunities. The Alabama Commission on Higher Education administers these programs and coordinates with institutions across the state to ensure equitable access to aid.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state and federal aid, many Alabama universities offer institutional scholarships and merit-based awards for network administration students. The average public in-state tuition at four-year institutions is $9,589 annually, while out-of-state tuition averages $21,384, making state aid particularly valuable for non-resident students (IPEDS). Community college pathways offer an economical entry point, with associate's programs costing significantly less before transferring via the STARS system, Alabama's Statewide Transfer and Articulation Reporting System. Students should explore institutional aid packages from top-ranked programs like Auburn University's network administration program and review the College Scorecard for detailed aid and affordability data by school.
Network Administration Degree ROI Calculator, Alabama
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a network administration degree in Alabama. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Network Administration Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a network administration degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
$133,333
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Direct cost of the degree program
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Network Administration Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Alabama metro areas
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Huntsville | $108K |
| Birmingham | $103K |
| Mobile | $99K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Network Administration Graduates in Alabama
Find network administration jobs in Alabama. These major employers across Alabama metro areas are actively hiring network administration degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Network Administration Jobs in Huntsville
ALNetwork Administration Jobs in Birmingham
ALNetwork Administration Jobs in Mobile
ALTransfer Pathways for Network Administration Degrees in Alabama
State Transfer System
Alabama's Statewide Transfer and Articulation Reporting System (STARS) facilitates seamless transfer of credits from the state's 26 community colleges to its 36 four-year universities, creating direct pathways for network administration students. The system includes formal articulation agreements that guarantee the acceptance of lower-division coursework, allowing students to complete associate's degrees at community colleges before transferring to bachelor's degree programs without losing credits. Students pursuing an associate's degree in network administration from institutions like John C Calhoun State Community College ($3,810 tuition) or Jefferson State Community College ($3,810 tuition) can transfer with full credit recognition to top-ranked four-year programs, reducing overall education costs significantly.
How Transfers Work
Transfer students benefit from established partnerships between specific community colleges and universities, with many programs offering dedicated transfer advising and clear course-mapping guides. The Alabama Student Assistance Program provides need-based grants for Alabama residents, including transfer students attending in-state institutions, making education more affordable. Students exploring the 2+4 pathway should contact the admissions offices at bachelor's degree institutions such as Auburn University, The University of South Alabama, and University of Alabama at Huntsville to understand specific credit acceptance policies. For comprehensive information about transfer agreements and to verify how credits will apply, visit STARS and consult with your community college academic advisor. Students may also explore related programs in information technology and cybersecurity as complementary transfer pathways.
Why Pursue a Network Administration Degree in Alabama?
Industry & Workforce
Alabama offers a strong ecosystem for network administration education, with 15 institutions currently offering programs at the associate's, bachelor's, and master's degree levels (IPEDS). In 2023, Alabama institutions awarded 95 bachelor's completions and 95 master's completions in network administration, reflecting strong demand and institutional investment in this field. The state's educational infrastructure includes 26 two-year institutions and 36 four-year institutions, providing multiple pathways for students at various academic levels. Leading programs like Auburn University, the University of South Alabama, and The University of Alabama consistently rank among the nation's best, offering rigorous curriculum and industry-relevant training.
Salary Outlook
Alabama's strategic geographic location and thriving technology corridors make it an ideal place to study and launch a career in network administration. Major cities including Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile, and Montgomery host significant tech employers such as Redstone Arsenal, UAB Health System, Mercedes-Benz, and Honda Manufacturing, all seeking skilled network professionals. Tuition costs remain competitive, with average public in-state tuition for four-year institutions at just $9,589 per year, significantly lower than the national average (BLS State Data). Students can also explore related IT specializations through programs in cybersecurity, cloud computing, and information security offered throughout the state, creating diverse career advancement opportunities.
Network Administration Program Availability in Alabama
Source: IPEDS 2024
Network Administration Job Market & Salary Data in Alabama
Employment Outlook
Alabama's network administration job market reflects strong demand across multiple metropolitan regions and industry sectors. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, network administration positions remain critical for businesses modernizing their IT infrastructure. Major employment hubs include the Birmingham-Hoover metro area, Huntsville, Mobile, and Montgomery, each offering distinct career pathways in network administration. The state's average public in-state tuition for four-year institutions stands at $9,589, making Alabama an affordable option for students preparing to enter this competitive field.
Salaries by Metro
The network administration sector in Alabama benefits from significant employer presence across defense, healthcare, automotive, and manufacturing industries. With 15 institutions across the state offering network administration programs at the associate's, bachelor's, and master's levels (IPEDS), Alabama produces a steady pipeline of qualified professionals. Students pursuing bachelor's degrees will find 7 institutions offering programs, with 95 completions annually, while master's programs also support 95 completions per year. This educational infrastructure, combined with relatively affordable tuition compared to out-of-state costs of $21,384, positions Alabama as an accessible entry point for network administration careers. Prospective students should explore related IT fields like Cybersecurity in Alabama and Cloud Computing in Alabama to maximize career flexibility.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Online vs On-Campus Network Administration Programs in Alabama
Online Programs
0 available in Alabama
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Compare Network Administration Programs in Other States
- Total Programs
- 60
- Median Tuition
- $4,600
- Total Programs
- 40
- Median Tuition
- $2,800
- Total Programs
- 9
- Median Tuition
- $20,400
- Total Programs
- 14
- Median Tuition
- $3,500
- Total Programs
- 72
- Median Tuition
- $1,300
- Total Programs
- 37
- Median Tuition
- $4,500
- Total Programs
- 53
- Median Tuition
- $6,000
- Total Programs
- 55
- Median Tuition
- $14,400
Network Administration Degree Programs in Alabama: FAQ
What are the best network administration degree programs in Alabama?
How much do network administration degree programs cost in Alabama?
What salary can network administration degree graduates earn in Alabama?
Are there online network administration degree programs in Alabama?
What companies hire network administration degree graduates in Alabama?
Is a network administration degree program worth it in Alabama?
How long do network administration degree programs take in Alabama?
What financial aid is available for network administration degree students in Alabama?
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Alabama salary and employment data
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.