On this page
Key Takeaways
Best network administration degree programs: U of Arkansas Grantham, U of Central Arkansas, Arkansas Tech
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $2,568 to $29,488/year
Arkansas Tech offers the most affordable option at $5,995/yr
Network Administration degree programs available: 6 associate's, 1 master's in Arkansas
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
2 online network administration degree programs in Arkansas
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Arkansas community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
6 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: Walmart, Tyson Foods, JB Hunt, Dillards
Tech hubs in Bentonville and Little Rock
Hakia Research 2026
Network Administration degree programs near 42+ cities across Arkansas
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Arkansas Network Administration programs
We rank 11 accredited network administration programs in Arkansas 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 Arkansas Worth It?
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Network Administration Degree Rankings in Arkansas
Compare the top-ranked Network Administration programs in Arkansas by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Network Administration Programs in Arkansas
Program Landscape
Arkansas offers 6 accredited associate's degree programs in network administration, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Arkansas Tech, Southeast Arkansas College, Black River Technical Col..., which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Arkansas offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $3,563/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 $47,152 in Arkansas.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Arkansas's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Bentonville, Little Rock, Fayetteville areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Walmart, Tyson Foods, JB Hunt 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 Arkansas, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their network administration degrees in Arkansas.
Show all 6 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | National Park College | Hot Springs, AR | Public | $3,600 | — | 44.6 |
Best Bachelor's Network Administration Programs in Arkansas
Program Landscape
Arkansas ranks among the nation's top destinations for network administration education, with 4 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 3 public and 1 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Arkansas Grantham, U of Central Arkansas, Arkansas Tech, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Arkansas network administration programs earn a median salary of $72,871, 26% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Bentonville, Little Rock, Fayetteville metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Walmart, Tyson Foods, JB Hunt.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $5,995 to $24,240 annually, with an average of $11,114/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 0%, with the highest reaching -Infinity%. 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 Arkansas's leading technology employers. For students seeking network administration degrees in Arkansas, these top-ranked network administration schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Best Master's Network Administration Programs in Arkansas
Program Landscape
Arkansas offers 1 master's degree programs in network administration, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, John Brown, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Arkansas earn a median salary of $85,730, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Bentonville, Little Rock, Fayetteville creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Walmart, Tyson Foods, JB Hunt 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 $29,488/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 Arkansas'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 Arkansas
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $8,933/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $22,333/year |
| Community college tuition | $2,233/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $53,600 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $13,400 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Network Administration Students in Arkansas
State Aid Programs
Arkansas students pursuing Network Administration degrees have access to strong state and federal financial aid programs. The Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship awards up to $5,000 per year for academically talented students, making it a significant resource for qualifying applicants across the state's 15 institutions offering this program. Additionally, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens pathways to federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities that can substantially reduce out-of-pocket costs. Students should complete the FAFSA as early as possible to maximize eligibility for need-based aid at both public universities and community colleges throughout Arkansas.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state scholarships, many Arkansas institutions offer merit-based and institutional aid directly to Network Administration students. The Arkansas Division of Higher Education administers several programs designed to make higher education affordable for state residents. Students can also explore federal student loan options and grants through StudentAid.gov, which provides comprehensive information on loan forgiveness programs and income-driven repayment plans. For those considering community college pathways, institutions like University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College and University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton offer lower starting costs with the ability to transfer credits to four-year programs via the Arkansas Course Transfer System (ACTS), which guarantees course transfer among public institutions.
Network Administration Degree ROI Calculator, Arkansas
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a network administration degree in Arkansas. 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 Arkansas metro areas
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Bentonville | $94K |
| Little Rock | $90K |
| Fayetteville | $86K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Network Administration Graduates in Arkansas
Find network administration jobs in Arkansas. These major employers across Arkansas metro areas are actively hiring network administration degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Network Administration Jobs in Bentonville-Rogers
ARNetwork Administration Jobs in Little Rock
ARNetwork Administration Jobs in Fayetteville
ARTransfer Pathways for Network Administration Degrees in Arkansas
State Transfer System
Arkansas simplifies the transfer process for Network Administration students through the Arkansas Course Transfer System (ACTS), a statewide initiative that guarantees course transfer and credit recognition among public institutions. ACTS ensures that students completing associate's degrees at community colleges can seamlessly transition to bachelor's degree programs at universities without losing credits or extending time-to-degree. Arkansas operates 8 associate's-granting institutions offering network administration programs, including University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College, NorthWest Arkansas Community College, Arkansas State University Mid-South, and University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton. Students earning an associate's degree in Network Administration or a related field can transfer to bachelor's programs at Arkansas Tech University, University of Central Arkansas, Arkansas State University, or the University of Arkansas, with all community college coursework applying toward the bachelor's degree.
How Transfers Work
The ACTS framework establishes clear articulation agreements between two-year and four-year institutions, guaranteeing that transferring students meet prerequisite requirements and progress efficiently toward graduation. A typical transfer pathway begins at an affordable community college, such as University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton ($2,688 tuition), for foundational network administration coursework, then continues at a bachelor's-granting institution like Arkansas Tech University ($5,995 tuition) for advanced specialization. This approach minimizes costs while maintaining educational quality. Students save significantly on tuition during their first two years while earning transferable credits. Transfer students should work with academic advisors at both institutions to ensure course alignment and verify that electives satisfy bachelor's degree requirements. The Arkansas Division of Higher Education provides ACTS guidelines and institutional contacts to help smooth transitions. For additional context on related fields, explore Cloud Computing in Arkansas and Information Technology in Arkansas programs that follow similar transfer structures.
Why Pursue a Network Administration Degree in Arkansas?
Industry & Workforce
Arkansas offers a strong ecosystem for Network Administration education, with 15 institutions providing programs across all degree levels (IPEDS). In 2023, the state produced 91 completions across associate's, bachelor's, and master's programs, demonstrating sustained demand for skilled network professionals. The state's 25 two-year institutions and 30 four-year universities create flexible pathways for students at all educational levels, whether seeking an entry-level associate's degree or advanced master's credentials. Arkansas Tech University leads completion numbers with 23 graduates, followed closely by the University of Arkansas Grantham with 22 completions, positioning these schools as proven leaders in network administration training.
Salary Outlook
Arkansas's major tech hubs. Little Rock, Fayetteville, and the Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers metro area, host major employers including Walmart, Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt, all requiring substantial IT infrastructure and network professionals (BLS State Data). Public four-year tuition averages just $6,494 in-state, significantly below national costs, while associate's programs at schools like University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton charge only $2,688 per year. For those seeking affordable bachelor's degrees, Arkansas Tech University offers tuition of $5,995, making Arkansas an exceptionally cost-effective destination for network administration studies. These financial advantages, combined with strong regional job markets, make Arkansas an ideal location for launching a network administration career. Students should explore Cloud Computing in Arkansas and Cybersecurity in Arkansas as complementary specializations to enhance career prospects.
Network Administration Program Availability in Arkansas
Source: IPEDS 2024
Network Administration Job Market & Salary Data in Arkansas
Employment Outlook
Arkansas's network administration job market reflects steady demand across multiple sectors and regions. The state is home to major technology hubs centered in Little Rock, Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Springdale, Bentonville, and Rogers, with the Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers and Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway metropolitan areas serving as primary employment centers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, network administration positions remain in consistent demand across Arkansas's diverse economic landscape. Educational institutions and private employers throughout the state actively recruit network administration professionals to support their IT infrastructure and digital transformation initiatives.
Salaries by Metro
The state's commitment to network administration education is evident in its strong program offerings. Arkansas currently has 15 institutions offering network administration programs across all degree levels, including 8 associate's programs with 36 completions, 5 bachelor's programs with 54 completions, and 2 master's programs generating 1 completion annually (IPEDS Data). Public four-year institutions in Arkansas offer competitive tuition rates, with average public in-state tuition at $6,494 and out-of-state tuition at $13,730, making the state an affordable option for network administration students. Career advancement opportunities extend beyond initial certification through master's-level programs offered at select institutions, supporting professional development pathways for experienced network administrators seeking specialized expertise in emerging technologies.
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 Arkansas
Online Programs
2 available in Arkansas
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Compare Network Administration Programs in Other States
- Total Programs
- 53
- Median Tuition
- $6,000
- Total Programs
- 11
- Median Tuition
- $3,400
- Total Programs
- 14
- Median Tuition
- $3,500
- Total Programs
- 9
- Median Tuition
- $20,400
- Total Programs
- 27
- Median Tuition
- $8,200
- Total Programs
- 8
- Median Tuition
- $23,200
- Total Programs
- 72
- Median Tuition
- $1,300
- Total Programs
- 37
- Median Tuition
- $4,500
Network Administration Degree Programs in Arkansas: FAQ
What are the best network administration degree programs in Arkansas?
How much do network administration degree programs cost in Arkansas?
What salary can network administration degree graduates earn in Arkansas?
Are there online network administration degree programs in Arkansas?
What companies hire network administration degree graduates in Arkansas?
Is a network administration degree program worth it in Arkansas?
How long do network administration degree programs take in Arkansas?
What financial aid is available for network administration degree students in Arkansas?
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Arkansas 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.