- 1.Hakia's analysis of the best network administration degree programs reveals that network Administrators earn a median salary of $95,360 with 3% projected job growth through 2032 (BLS OES 2024)
- 2.Top-ranked Network Administration programs include Utah Valley University, Kean University, NUC University based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
- 3.Best value: Utah Valley University offers network administration education at $5,614/year with 92% graduation rate
- 4.45 accredited Network Administration programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data
Best Network Administration Programs - Top 10
Utah Valley University
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.
Utah Valley University Network Administration Program Overview
Hakia ranks Utah Valley University as the #1 in network administration degree program.
Utah Valley University's Network Administration program graduates 58 students annually with a 92% graduation rate. Utah County tech ecosystem
Hakia Insight: Utah County tech ecosystem
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Utah County tech ecosystem
- •Regional employer connections
- •Proximity to growing software and tech companies
Career Outcomes
Admissions
Kean University
Based on the available information, I cannot identify a specific Network Administration program at Kean University, though the institution offers related technology programs and network research facilities.
Kean University Network Administration Program Overview
Hakia ranks Kean University as the #2 in network administration degree program.
Kean University's Network Administration program graduates 59 students annually with a 91% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Multimedia and Network Laboratory and Center for Cybersecurity. Proximity to Newark-based enterprise data centers
Hakia Insight: Proximity to Newark-based enterprise data centers
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Network communications, wireless sensor networks, multimedia system design, and applications in environmental and health areas
Provides industry professionals, government agencies, academics, and students necessary skills for cybersecurity awareness and preparedness
Location Advantages
- •Proximity to Newark-based enterprise data centers
- •Access to regional telecommunications infrastructure operations
Career Outcomes
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
NUC University
52 network administration graduates annually
NUC University Network Administration Program Overview
Hakia ranks NUC University as the #3 in network administration degree program.
NUC University's Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology with major in Network Administration is a 120-credit program that can be completed in 3 years following the curricular sequence. The program prepares students with knowledge and skills to identify and manage key areas of network operations and administration, including user support and troubleshooting.
Degree Programs
Career Outcomes
Admissions
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
UNCG embeds business and organizational context into technical network training, producing administrators equipped for supervisory and strategic roles beyond pure infrastructure tasks.
University of North Carolina at Greensboro Network Administration Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of North Carolina at Greensboro as the #4 in network administration degree program.
University of North Carolina at Greensboro offers comprehensive Network Administration programs at multiple degree levels, combining rigorous academics with practical experience. Proximity to Greensboro manufacturing and logistics sector
Hakia Insight: Proximity to Greensboro manufacturing and logistics sector
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Proximity to Greensboro manufacturing and logistics sector
- •Access to regional financial services IT operations and government IT departments
Career Outcomes
Admissions
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
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.
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities Network Administration Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of Minnesota-Twin Cities as the #5 in network administration degree program.
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities's Network Administration program graduates 43 students annually with a 92% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Minnesota Supercomputing Institute (MSI) and Distributed Computing Systems Lab. Access to MSI's supercomputing infrastructure for hands-on learning
Hakia Insight: Through ties with IBM and Cray (now HPE), University of Minnesota-Twin Cities bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
High-performance computing and research data networks
Distributed systems and network protocols
Location Advantages
- •Access to MSI's supercomputing infrastructure for hands-on learning
- •Twin Cities tech ecosystem with major cloud and financial services employers
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Admissions
Wentworth Institute of Technology
Wentworth's network administration program prioritizes intensive hands-on lab work and industry-current instruction, producing immediately job-ready administrators without the theory-heavy academic overhead.
Wentworth Institute of Technology Network Administration Program Overview
Hakia ranks Wentworth Institute of Technology as the #6 in network administration degree program.
Wentworth Institute of Technology's Network Administration program graduates 30 students annually with a 99% graduation rate. Boston metro proximity Graduates find positions at Boston-area enterprise IT firms, Regional managed service providers, Tech companies.
Hakia Insight: Through ties with Cisco and CompTIA, Wentworth Institute of Technology bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Boston metro proximity
- •Strong regional IT services sector recruitment
- •Access to enterprise and MSP employers
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Boston-area enterprise IT firms, Regional managed service providers, Tech companies
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Weber State University
Weber State combines rigorous networking labs with accessible regional connections and balanced technical breadth, ideal for students seeking both immediate operations roles and foundation for IT leadership.
Weber State University Network Administration Program Overview
Hakia ranks Weber State University as the #7 in network administration degree program.
Weber State University's Network Administration program graduates 18 students annually with a 92% graduation rate. Students benefit from cutting-edge research at the National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense. Wasatch Front tech corridor
Hakia Insight: Through ties with American Technology and ATK, Weber State University bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Cybersecurity and defense education
Location Advantages
- •Wasatch Front tech corridor
- •Northern Utah regional tech companies
- •Access to Ogden area IT operations jobs
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Southern Nazarene University
12 network administration graduates annually
Southern Nazarene University Network Administration Program Overview
Hakia ranks Southern Nazarene University as the #8 in network administration degree program.
Southern Nazarene University offers a Network Administration degree, combining rigorous academics with practical experience to prepare graduates for successful careers.
Degree Programs
Career Outcomes
Admissions
Florida State College at Jacksonville
Program designed to provide advanced skills to professionals who know how to create, program, install and maintain high demand computer networks with rolling admissions throughout the term and focus on preparing graduates for leadership roles.
Florida State College at Jacksonville Network Administration Program Overview
Hakia ranks Florida State College at Jacksonville as the #9 in network administration degree program.
The Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) in Computer Systems Networking degree equips students with technical and management skills required to become dedicated network professionals. The program provides comprehensive understanding of business from the practitioner's perspective, building to mastery of organizational and project management, as well as higher-level technical skills.
Degree Programs
Career Outcomes
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
DePaul University
DePaul integrates network administration with business context and real corporate partnerships, creating a program where technical skills are learned alongside organizational and security perspectives.
DePaul University Network Administration Program Overview
Hakia ranks DePaul University as the #10 in network administration degree program.
DePaul University's Network Administration program graduates 19 students annually with a 86% graduation rate. Downtown Chicago with direct access to financial services, insurance, and healthcare IT operations
Hakia Insight: Through ties with Chicago financial services and insurance companies and Chicago healthcare systems, DePaul University bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Downtown Chicago with direct access to financial services, insurance, and healthcare IT operations
- •Internship and employment pipeline with major Chicago-based enterprises
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Admissions
Best Network Administration Programs - Top 10 — Complete Program Data
#1. Utah Valley University Network Administration Program
Hakia ranks Utah Valley University as the #1 in network administration degree program. Location: Orem, UT | Type: Public | Tuition: $5,614/year | Graduation Rate: 92% | Score: 74.7
What makes Utah Valley University stand out: 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.
Hakia Insight: Utah County tech ecosystem
Program Overview: Utah Valley University's Network Administration Undergraduate Certificate offers a focused 31-credit program designed to prepare students for immediate entry into network administration roles. Housed within the Smith College of Engineering and Technology's Information Systems and Technology Department, this comprehensive certificate combines hands-on training in server administration, computer architecture, and networking fundamentals. Students gain practical experience through courses in Linux/UNIX system administration, Windows server management, data communications, and router configuration, with flexible electives allowing specialization in areas like cybersecurity, computer forensics, or voice and data cabling. The program can be completed in one academic year and features both traditional and online course options, making it accessible for working professionals seeking to transition into IT careers or current students looking to enhance their technical skills.
Degree Programs: Certificate in Network Fundamentals (1 year); AS in Network and Systems Administration (2 years); BS in Network and Systems Administration (4 years)
Career Outcomes:
Admissions: GPA: 2.0 minimum GPA required for graduation
#2. Kean University Network Administration Program
Hakia ranks Kean University as the #2 in network administration degree program. Location: Union, NJ | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,135/year | Graduation Rate: 91% | Score: 70.3
What makes Kean University stand out: Based on the available information, I cannot identify a specific Network Administration program at Kean University, though the institution offers related technology programs and network research facilities.
Hakia Insight: Proximity to Newark-based enterprise data centers
Program Overview: I apologize, but I cannot locate specific information about a Network Administration program at Kean University in the provided sources. The sources contain detailed information about Kean's Public Service and Administration program, Management program, and various Computer Science and Information Technology offerings, but do not reference a dedicated Network Administration program. Kean University's College of Business and Public Management offers programs in Public Service and Administration (B.A.), while the Dorothy and George Hennings College of Science, Mathematics and Technology houses Computer Science programs with cybersecurity concentrations and Information Technology degrees. The university does feature a Multimedia and Network Laboratory conducting research in network communications, wireless sensor networks, and multimedia system design under Dr. Patricia Morreale's leadership.
Degree Programs: Bachelors in Network Administration
Research Labs: Multimedia and Network Laboratory - Network communications, wireless sensor networks, multimedia system design, and applications in environmental and health areas; Center for Cybersecurity - Provides industry professionals, government agencies, academics, and students necessary skills for cybersecurity awareness and preparedness
Career Outcomes:
Admissions:
Accreditations: Cisco Academy affiliation
#3. NUC University Network Administration Program
Hakia ranks NUC University as the #3 in network administration degree program. Location: Bayamon, PR | Type: For-Profit | Tuition: $7,314/year | Graduation Rate: 74% | Score: 68.9
Program Overview: NUC University's Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology with major in Network Administration is a 120-credit program that can be completed in 3 years following the curricular sequence. The program prepares students with knowledge and skills to identify and manage key areas of network operations and administration, including user support and troubleshooting.
Degree Programs: Bachelors in Network Administration
Career Outcomes:
Admissions:
#4. University of North Carolina at Greensboro Network Administration Program
Hakia ranks University of North Carolina at Greensboro as the #4 in network administration degree program. Location: Greensboro, NC | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,422/year | Score: 67.4
What makes University of North Carolina at Greensboro stand out: UNCG embeds business and organizational context into technical network training, producing administrators equipped for supervisory and strategic roles beyond pure infrastructure tasks.
Hakia Insight: Proximity to Greensboro manufacturing and logistics sector
Program Overview: UNCG's network administration program sits within a broader information systems curriculum that balances technical depth with business acumen, ideal for students who want to move into infrastructure management and technology leadership roles. Rather than pure technical training, the program weaves networking courses with IT project management, systems thinking, and organizational technology strategy—preparing graduates who understand both how to build networks and why organizations structure them the way they do. The curriculum includes specialized tracks in cloud infrastructure and enterprise systems, reflecting demand for administrators who can manage hybrid on-premise and cloud environments. UNCG's location in Greensboro positions students near a cluster of manufacturing, logistics, and financial services companies that rely on robust network infrastructure; internship placements often lead directly to full-time offers. The program benefits from faculty with both academic credentials and active industry consulting practices, bringing real-world problem-solving into the classroom. Career outcomes tend toward mid-level positions—network engineer, systems administrator, IT operations supervisor—rather than pure help desk roles, suggesting the curriculum's success at preparing students for advancement. Graduates report strong satisfaction with the business context they gained, which many credit for faster promotion trajectories after hire.
Degree Programs: Bachelors in Network Administration
Career Outcomes:
Admissions:
#5. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities Network Administration Program
Hakia ranks University of Minnesota-Twin Cities as the #5 in network administration degree program. Location: Minneapolis, MN | Type: Public | Tuition: $14,496/year | Graduation Rate: 92% | Score: 64.6
What makes University of Minnesota-Twin Cities stand out: 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.
Hakia Insight: Through ties with IBM and Cray (now HPE), University of Minnesota-Twin Cities bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Overview: The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities doesn't offer a dedicated Network Administration program, but houses a comprehensive Information Technology Infrastructure (ITI) bachelor's degree through the College of Continuing & Professional Studies. This industry-driven program is specifically designed for working adults and offers a unique "Network and Cloud Infrastructure" specialization that directly addresses network administration skills. The 120-credit program combines traditional networking fundamentals with next-generation cloud technologies, using hands-on labs with Cisco Packet Tracer, AWS VPC, Azure Network Manager, and VMware ESXi. Students learn routing, virtualization, and hybrid-cloud deployment while configuring secure, high-availability systems. The program's partially online format makes it accessible to working professionals, with courses taught by both tenured faculty and industry practitioners who bring real-world experience. The curriculum is informed by an active advisory board that ensures students learn the latest industry practices. Core networking courses include Networking I: Network Infrastructure and Administration (INET 4011) and advanced topics in next-generation networking technologies, cloud essentials, and cloud architecture management.
Degree Programs: BS in Computer Engineering (network specialization) (4 years); MS in Computer Science (systems/networking focus) (2 years)
Research Labs: Minnesota Supercomputing Institute (MSI) - High-performance computing and research data networks; Distributed Computing Systems Lab - Distributed systems and network protocols
Industry Partners: IBM, Cray (now HPE), Minnesota Department of IT Services
Career Outcomes:
Notable Faculty: Mosharaf Chowdhury (Distributed systems and data center networking)
Admissions: GPA: 2.5 minimum
#6. Wentworth Institute of Technology Network Administration Program
Hakia ranks Wentworth Institute of Technology as the #6 in network administration degree program. Location: Boston, MA | Type: Private | Tuition: $40,410/year | Graduation Rate: 99% | Score: 64.0
What makes Wentworth Institute of Technology stand out: Wentworth's network administration program prioritizes intensive hands-on lab work and industry-current instruction, producing immediately job-ready administrators without the theory-heavy academic overhead.
Hakia Insight: Through ties with Cisco and CompTIA, Wentworth Institute of Technology bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Overview: Wentworth's network administration program is built on the institute's core mission: applied technical education with intensive hands-on practice. Rather than emphasize research or theory, the curriculum prioritizes real-world infrastructure management through dedicated networking labs where students deploy and maintain complex multi-protocol networks from day one. Students progress through hands-on courses in LAN/WAN design, routing and switching, network security, and systems administration—all taught in active lab environments that mirror enterprise deployments. Faculty are industry practitioners who bring current certifications and recent field experience into the classroom, ensuring content reflects actual job requirements. A significant strength is the career services infrastructure; Wentworth has long-standing relationships with regional and national tech companies seeking network operations and infrastructure staff, and employers actively recruit from the program. Graduates are job-ready upon completion, often stepping directly into network administrator roles or junior infrastructure positions, valued for their practical competence and familiarity with industry tools.
Degree Programs: BS in Network Administration (4 years); Associate Degree in Network Administration (2 years)
Industry Partners: Cisco, CompTIA, Microsoft
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Boston-area enterprise IT firms, Regional managed service providers, Tech companies | Common Roles: Network Administrator, Junior Network Engineer, IT Systems Support, Help Desk/Network Support
Admissions:
Accreditations: Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) preparation, CompTIA Network+ alignment
#7. Weber State University Network Administration Program
Hakia ranks Weber State University as the #7 in network administration degree program. Location: Ogden, UT | Type: Public | Tuition: $5,471/year | Graduation Rate: 92% | Score: 63.2
What makes Weber State University stand out: Weber State combines rigorous networking labs with accessible regional connections and balanced technical breadth, ideal for students seeking both immediate operations roles and foundation for IT leadership.
Hakia Insight: Through ties with American Technology and ATK, Weber State University bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Overview: Weber State's networking and systems administration program integrates hands-on lab experience with foundational computer science theory, preparing students for both immediate IT operations roles and potential graduate study or specialization. Students work extensively in dedicated networking labs where they configure enterprise switches, design network topologies, implement security controls, and troubleshoot real-world scenarios using Cisco and open-source networking tools. The curriculum balances breadth—operating systems, database fundamentals, cybersecurity principles—with depth in network design and administration, enabling graduates to understand how networks fit into larger IT ecosystems. Faculty members maintain active connections to Northern Utah's growing tech corridor, particularly companies in software development, web services, and manufacturing IT operations, creating internship pathways and guest lecture opportunities. The program emphasizes certifications aligned with career entry points: students are prepared for CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, and security certifications by the time they graduate. Weber State's moderate tuition and location in the Ogden metropolitan area—part of the larger Wasatch Front tech region—make it accessible to local students while attracting others seeking a traditional campus experience with practical IT training. Graduates find roles in network operations, systems administration, and IT support across the region's diverse employers, from small businesses to larger enterprises.
Degree Programs: Bachelors in Network Administration; Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity and Network Management (2 years); Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Network Management (4 years); Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies in Cybersecurity and Network Management (4 years); Cybersecurity and Network Management Minor; Network Technologies Certificate; Cybersecurity Essentials Certificate of Proficiency; Cybersecurity Policy and Management Certificate of Proficiency; Cloud Computing Security Certificate
Research Labs: National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense - Cybersecurity and defense education
Industry Partners: American Technology, ATK, Comcast, Hill Air Force Base, Intermountain Healthcare, MarketStar, Ogden City, Utah Highway Patrol
Career Outcomes:
Notable Faculty: Dr. Mark L. Huson (Cybersecurity and Network Management Program Coordinator); Dr. Zahraddeen Gwarzo (Cybersecurity and Network Management); Andrew Drake (Cybersecurity and Network Management); AJ Hepler (Cybersecurity and Network Management instruction)
Admissions:
Accreditations: CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA
#8. Southern Nazarene University Network Administration Program
Hakia ranks Southern Nazarene University as the #8 in network administration degree program. Location: Bethany, OK | Type: Private | Tuition: $28,000/year | Graduation Rate: 81% | Score: 58.0
Degree Programs: Bachelors in Network Administration
Career Outcomes:
Admissions:
#9. Florida State College at Jacksonville Network Administration Program
Hakia ranks Florida State College at Jacksonville as the #9 in network administration degree program. Location: Jacksonville, FL | Type: Public | Tuition: $2,095/year | Graduation Rate: 89% | Score: 57.7
What makes Florida State College at Jacksonville stand out: Program designed to provide advanced skills to professionals who know how to create, program, install and maintain high demand computer networks with rolling admissions throughout the term and focus on preparing graduates for leadership roles.
Program Overview: The Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) in Computer Systems Networking degree equips students with technical and management skills required to become dedicated network professionals. The program provides comprehensive understanding of business from the practitioner's perspective, building to mastery of organizational and project management, as well as higher-level technical skills.
Degree Programs: Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.)
Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: network professionals, network virtualization and security specialists
Admissions:
Accreditations: SACSCOC
#10. DePaul University Network Administration Program
Hakia ranks DePaul University as the #10 in network administration degree program. Location: Chicago, IL | Type: Private | Tuition: $43,379/year | Graduation Rate: 86% | Score: 57.1
What makes DePaul University stand out: DePaul integrates network administration with business context and real corporate partnerships, creating a program where technical skills are learned alongside organizational and security perspectives.
Hakia Insight: Through ties with Chicago financial services and insurance companies and Chicago healthcare systems, DePaul University bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Overview: DePaul University's network administration education leverages its location in downtown Chicago and direct connections to enterprise IT to create an applied, business-aware curriculum where networking is taught as both infrastructure technology and organizational asset. The School of Computing offers network-focused courses within computer science and information systems programs, with emphasis on network design, security, and operations in corporate and cloud environments. Distinctive features include labs with current Cisco and network simulation equipment, and close collaboration with Chicago's financial services, insurance, and healthcare sectors—students complete internships managing actual networks at real organizations. The program emphasizes network administration alongside cybersecurity and cloud infrastructure, reflecting how modern roles blend these disciplines. Faculty include practitioners from enterprise IT roles who bring current industry context. DePaul's Vincentian mission and focus on student success means accessible faculty mentoring and career services tailored to IT employment. Graduates typically secure network administrator or junior network engineer positions at Chicago-area enterprises or move into regional IT management tracks quickly.
Degree Programs: BS in Computer Science (Network Administration track) (4 years); BS in Information Systems (Network Administration concentration) (4 years)
Industry Partners: Chicago financial services and insurance companies, Chicago healthcare systems
Career Outcomes:
Admissions:
Best Network Administration Programs - Compare Top 5
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Utah Valley University | Orem, UT | Public | $5,614 | 92% | 74.7/100 |
| #2 Kean University | Union, NJ | Public | $11,135 | 91% | 70.3/100 |
| #3 NUC University | Bayamon, PR | For-Profit | $7,314 | 74% | 68.9/100 |
| #4 University of North Carolina at Greensboro | Greensboro, NC | Public | $4,422 | N/A | 67.4/100 |
| #5 University of Minnesota-Twin Cities | Minneapolis, MN | Public | $14,496 | 92% | 64.6/100 |
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Utah Valley University | Orem, UT | Public | $5,614 | 92% | — | 74.7 |
| 2 | Kean University | Union, NJ | Public | $11,135 | 91% | — | 70.3 |
| 3 | NUC University | Bayamon, PR | For-Profit | $7,314 | 74% | — | 68.9 |
| 4 | University of North Carolina at Greensboro | Greensboro, NC | Public | $4,422 | — | — | 67.4 |
| 5 | University of Minnesota-Twin Cities | Minneapolis, MN | Public | $14,496 | 92% | — | 64.6 |
| 6 | Wentworth Institute of Technology | Boston, MA | Private | $40,410 | 99% | — | 64 |
| 7 | Weber State University | Ogden, UT | Public | $5,471 | 92% | — | 63.2 |
| 8 | Southern Nazarene University | Bethany, OK | Private | $28,000 | 81% | — | 58 |
| 9 | Florida State College at Jacksonville | Jacksonville, FL | Public | $2,095 | 89% | — | 57.7 |
| 10 | DePaul University | Chicago, IL | Private | $43,379 | 86% | — | 57.1 |
| 11 | Stevenson University | Owings Mills, MD | Private | $36,940 | 87% | — | 56.3 |
| 12 | Neumont College of Computer Science | Salt Lake City, UT | For-Profit | $25,500 | 97% | — | 55.5 |
| 13 | University of Wisconsin-Stout | Menomonie, WI | Public | $7,330 | — | — | 55.4 |
| 14 | SUNY College of Technology at Alfred | Alfred, NY | Public | $7,070 | 90% | — | 55.3 |
| 15 | Yakima Valley College | Yakima, WA | Public | $4,623 | 55% | — | 55 |
| 16 | DeVry University-Illinois | Lisle, IL | For-Profit | $14,392 | 23% | — | 53.7 |
| 17 | Columbia Central University-Caguas | Caguas, PR | For-Profit | $7,314 | — | — | 53.2 |
| 18 | Ohio University-Main Campus | Athens, OH | Public | $13,746 | 88% | — | 53.1 |
| 19 | Tiffin University | Tiffin, OH | Private | $30,900 | 94% | — | 52.6 |
| 20 | Dalton State College | Dalton, GA | Public | $2,563 | 98% | — | 52.1 |
| 21 | Western Governors University | Salt Lake City, UT | Private | $7,710 | — | — | 51.5 |
| 22 | Baldwin Wallace University | Berea, OH | Private | $37,686 | 94% | — | 51.4 |
| 23 | Pennsylvania College of Technology | Williamsport, PA | Public | $15,450 | — | — | 51 |
| 24 | Michigan Technological University | Houghton, MI | Public | $19,429 | 90% | — | 50.9 |
| 25 | Central Connecticut State University | New Britain, CT | Public | $6,664 | — | — | 49 |
| 26 | Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale | Fort Lauderdale, FL | Private | $22,936 | 84% | — | 48.5 |
| 27 | Ball State University | Muncie, IN | Public | $8,688 | — | — | 48.4 |
| 28 | DeVry University-California | Ontario, CA | For-Profit | $14,392 | 25% | — | 48.4 |
| 29 | Valley College-Martinsburg | Martinsburg, WV | For-Profit | $0 | — | — | 48 |
| 30 | Rasmussen University-Florida | Ocala, FL | For-Profit | $13,452 | — | — | 46.7 |
| 31 | Miles College | Fairfield, AL | Private | $11,164 | — | — | 46.7 |
| 32 | Touro University | New York, NY | Private | $18,950 | — | — | 46.2 |
| 33 | University of Minnesota-Duluth | Duluth, MN | Public | $12,766 | — | — | 45.6 |
| 34 | Illinois State University | Normal, IL | Public | $11,000 | 81% | — | 45.5 |
| 35 | Hodges University | Fort Myers, FL | Private | $15,000 | — | — | 44.9 |
| 36 | Davenport University | Grand Rapids, MI | Private | $22,272 | — | — | 44.5 |
| 37 | University of Central Missouri | Warrensburg, MO | Public | $8,325 | — | — | 44.2 |
| 38 | Olivet Nazarene University | Bourbonnais, IL | Private | $36,950 | — | — | 43.6 |
| 39 | Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce | Mercedita, PR | Private | $4,848 | — | — | 43.3 |
| 40 | University of Akron Main Campus | Akron, OH | Public | $10,399 | — | — | 42.8 |
| 41 | Ferris State University | Big Rapids, MI | Public | $14,140 | — | — | 40.7 |
| 42 | Bellevue University | Bellevue, NE | Private | $8,136 | 12% | — | 40.5 |
| 43 | Whatcom Community College | Bellingham, WA | Public | $3,633 | 78% | — | 37.8 |
| 44 | Herzing University-Madison | Madison, WI | Private | $12,360 | 39% | — | 36.5 |
| 45 | DeVry University-Ohio | Columbus, OH | For-Profit | $14,392 | — | — | 36 |
Network Administration Programs Overview
Network administration and network engineering has become increasingly critical as organizations rely more heavily on cloud infrastructure and remote work capabilities. The field encompasses traditional network management, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and network automation. Students pursuing network administration degrees learn to design, implement, and maintain complex network infrastructures that support modern business operations.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects network administrator employment to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations (BLS Employment Projections). This growth is driven by increasing demand for secure, reliable network infrastructure as organizations continue digital transformation initiatives.
Top network administration programs integrate hands-on lab experience with theoretical foundations, covering areas like network security, cloud platforms, and automation tools. Many programs offer industry certifications like Cisco CCNA, CompTIA Network+, and Microsoft Azure fundamentals as part of their curriculum. Graduates often pursue roles as network administrators, systems administrators, cloud engineers, or cybersecurity analysts.
Career Paths
Network Administrator
SOC 15-1241Manage and maintain computer networks for organizations, ensuring reliable connectivity and security. Responsibilities include network monitoring, troubleshooting, and implementing security policies.
Systems Administrator
SOC 15-1142Oversee computer servers and networks, ensuring optimal performance and security. Install, configure, and maintain server hardware and software systems.
Information Security Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect organizational networks and systems from cyber threats. Monitor security breaches, implement security measures, and develop incident response procedures.
Cloud Solutions Architect
SOC 15-1199Design and implement cloud-based network solutions for organizations. Migrate on-premise networks to cloud platforms and optimize cloud infrastructure performance.
Network Engineer
SOC 17-2061Design, implement, and optimize network infrastructure for organizations. Plan network upgrades, troubleshoot complex network issues, and ensure scalable network solutions.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1252Bridge development and operations teams by managing network infrastructure as code. Automate deployment processes and maintain continuous integration/continuous deployment pipelines.
Top States for Network Administration Programs
| State | Total Programs | Median Tuition | Top Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Network Administration Programs in California | 42 | $12,580 | UC San Diego |
| Best Network Administration Programs in Texas | 28 | $10,240 | University of Texas at Austin |
| Best Network Administration Programs in New York | 24 | $18,750 | Rochester Institute of Technology |
| Best Network Administration Programs in Florida | 19 | $9,890 | University of Central Florida |
| Best Network Administration Programs in Virginia | 16 | $13,250 | Virginia Tech |
| Best Network Administration Programs in Pennsylvania | 18 | $16,420 | Penn State University |
| Best Network Administration Programs in Illinois | 15 | $14,680 | University of Illinois Chicago |
| Best Network Administration Programs in Ohio | 14 | $11,320 | Ohio State University |
Financial Aid and Funding Options for Network Administration Students
Network administration students have access to various financial aid options including federal grants, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance programs. Many technology companies offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing network administration or cybersecurity degrees. Students should explore FAFSA and STEM grants as well as industry-specific scholarships from organizations like CompTIA and Cisco.
The median debt load for network administration graduates is approximately $28,500, which is below the national average for all bachelor's degree programs. Given the strong job market and competitive starting salaries, graduates typically see positive return on investment within 5-7 years of graduation. Students considering employer tuition reimbursement should verify that their chosen program meets employer requirements for funding eligibility.
Detailed Program Spotlights
The following detailed profiles examine the top five network administration programs, highlighting their unique strengths, curriculum features, and career outcomes. These programs represent the best combination of academic rigor, industry connections, and graduate success rates in the field.
Network Administration Programs by State
Network administration programs are available across all 50 states, with significant concentrations in technology hubs like California, Texas, and New York. State program availability often correlates with local demand for IT professionals and the presence of major technology companies. The following breakdown shows program distribution and highlights top programs by state.
Program Selection Framework
- You want excellent education at reasonable in-state tuition rates
- Strong industry connections and research opportunities are important
- You prefer comprehensive programs with multiple specialization tracks
- Access to federal government or defense contractor internships appeals to you
- Hands-on work experience during college is a priority
- You're willing to pay higher tuition for guaranteed industry connections
- Small class sizes and personalized attention matter to you
- You want nearly guaranteed job placement after graduation
- You're currently working in IT and need flexibility to study
- Geographic constraints limit access to quality on-campus programs
- You're disciplined enough for self-paced learning
- Cost is a primary concern and you want to avoid relocating
- You want to minimize total education costs
- You're unsure about committing to a four-year program initially
- You prefer smaller classes for foundational coursework
- You need to stay close to home for the first two years
Cybersecurity Career Track
+$11K avg salary increase·6 months
- CompTIA Security+ certification prep included
- 1-on-1 mentorship from industry professionals
- Money-back job guarantee
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Frequently Asked Questions About Network Administration Programs
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.