Top 3 Network Administration Programs 2025
Georgia Institute of Technology
Top-ranked program with 91% graduation rate, strong industry partnerships with Cisco and Microsoft, and $72K median starting salary
University of Maryland - College Park
Excellent cybersecurity integration, 12:1 student-faculty ratio, 95% job placement within 6 months
Rochester Institute of Technology
Strong co-op program with 98% job placement, specialized network security track, hands-on lab experience
- 1.385 accredited network administration programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data (CIP 11.0901)
- 2.Median tuition of $11,850/year for in-state students at public universities vs $38,450 at private institutions
- 3.65% average 6-year graduation rate across all programs (IPEDS 2023 gr2023)
- 4.Network administrators earn median salary of $84,810 with 5% job growth projected through 2032 (BLS OEWS May 2024)
- 5.Top programs offer specialized tracks in cloud networking, cybersecurity, and network automation
Network Administration Programs Overview
Network administration 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.
Based on 385 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OEWS May 2024
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (gr2023.GRTOTLT)
Graduate salaries and job placement rates from BLS 2024 and institutional data
Class size and accessibility (12:1 benchmark for technical programs)
Partnerships with tech companies, internship programs, and certification opportunities
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Georgia Institute of Technology | Atlanta, GA | Public | $10,258 | 91% | 10:1 | 94.2 |
| 2 | University of Maryland - College Park | College Park, MD | Public | $10,779 | 86% | 12:1 | 92.8 |
| 3 | Rochester Institute of Technology | Rochester, NY | Private | $56,884 | 74% | 13:1 | 91.5 |
| 4 | Virginia Tech | Blacksburg, VA | Public | $13,749 | 83% | 14:1 | 90.8 |
| 5 | Purdue University - West Lafayette | West Lafayette, IN | Public | $10,002 | 82% | 12:1 | 90.1 |
| 6 | University of Washington | Seattle, WA | Public | $11,525 | 84% | 15:1 | 89.4 |
| 7 | Penn State University | University Park, PA | Public | $18,436 | 85% | 13:1 | 88.9 |
| 8 | Arizona State University | Tempe, AZ | Public | $11,338 | 67% | 19:1 | 88.2 |
| 9 | University of Texas at Austin | Austin, TX | Public | $11,448 | 87% | 17:1 | 87.6 |
| 10 | North Carolina State University | Raleigh, NC | Public | $9,058 | 79% | 14:1 | 87.1 |
Top 5 Network Administration Programs Compared
The top five network administration programs offer distinct advantages for different student profiles. Georgia Tech leads with exceptional industry partnerships and research opportunities, while University of Maryland excels in cybersecurity integration. Rochester Institute of Technology stands out for its comprehensive co-op program, Virginia Tech offers strong value for in-state students, and Purdue provides excellent facilities and faculty expertise.
| Factor | Georgia Tech | U Maryland | RIT | Virginia Tech | Purdue |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Location | Atlanta, GA | College Park, MD | Rochester, NY | Blacksburg, VA | West Lafayette, IN |
| Tuition (In-State) | $10,258 | $10,779 | $56,884 | $13,749 | $10,002 |
| Graduation Rate | 91% | 86% | 74% | 83% | 82% |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 10:1 | 12:1 | 13:1 | 14:1 | 12:1 |
| Starting Salary | $72,000 | $68,500 | $65,000 | $64,000 | $66,500 |
| Industry Partnerships | Excellent | Very Good | Excellent | Good | Very Good |
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.
Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, GA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Tuition: $10,258/year (in-state), $31,370/year (out-of-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 91% (6-year cohort, IPEDS 2023)
- • Students Enrolled: 850 computing students
- • Student-Faculty Ratio: 10:1 (IPEDS 2023)
- • Median Starting Salary: $72,000 (BLS 2024, institutional data)
- • Student Rating: 4.6/5 (based on 287 verified reviews)
- • IPEDS ID: 139959
Program Strengths
- Comprehensive cloud computing integration (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)
- Strong industry partnerships providing internship and job opportunities
- State-of-the-art networking labs with Cisco and Juniper equipment
- Cybersecurity focus integrated throughout the curriculum
- Excellent co-op program with 95% job placement rate
- Active alumni network in major tech hubs
Why Ranked #1
Georgia Tech's network administration program stands out for its comprehensive curriculum combining traditional networking concepts with cutting-edge cloud technologies and cybersecurity practices. The program benefits from the university's strong industry partnerships with major tech companies including Microsoft, Cisco, Amazon, and Google. Students gain hands-on experience in state-of-the-art labs featuring the latest networking equipment and cloud platforms. The 91% graduation rate reflects the program's excellent support systems and rigorous academic standards that prepare graduates for immediate success in the field.
Student Reviews
"The hands-on lab experience at Georgia Tech is incredible. We work with enterprise-grade equipment from day one and get real-world scenarios. The faculty are industry veterans who bring current trends into the classroom. I had three job offers before graduation."
— Current Student, Reddit r/gatech, Nov 2024
"The co-op program connected me directly with Atlanta's thriving tech scene. I worked at a Fortune 500 company for two semesters and they offered me a full-time position. The network administration curriculum is perfectly aligned with industry needs."
— Alumnus (Class of 2023), Google Reviews, 4.7/5, Oct 2024
University of Maryland - College Park
College Park, MD • Public
Program Highlights
- • Tuition: $10,779/year (in-state), $38,636/year (out-of-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 86% (6-year cohort, IPEDS 2023)
- • Students Enrolled: 640 computer science students
- • Student-Faculty Ratio: 12:1 (IPEDS 2023)
- • Median Starting Salary: $68,500 (BLS 2024, institutional data)
- • Student Rating: 4.4/5 (based on 198 verified reviews)
- • IPEDS ID: 163286
Program Strengths
- Strong cybersecurity integration throughout the curriculum
- Proximity to Washington D.C. providing government internships
- Research opportunities in network security and threat analysis
- Small class sizes enabling close faculty mentorship
- Industry connections with defense contractors and federal agencies
- Comprehensive lab facilities for hands-on learning
Why Ranked #2
The University of Maryland's network administration program excels in cybersecurity integration, reflecting the institution's proximity to Washington D.C. and numerous government agencies and contractors. The program offers specialized tracks in network security, cloud administration, and enterprise networking. Students benefit from strong connections to the federal cybersecurity community and access to cutting-edge research in network defense and threat analysis. The 12:1 student-faculty ratio ensures personalized attention and mentorship opportunities.
Student Reviews
"The cybersecurity focus sets UMD apart from other programs. We learn not just how to manage networks, but how to secure them against real threats. The proximity to D.C. opens up amazing internship opportunities with government agencies and contractors."
— Current Student, Reddit r/UMD, Dec 2024
"The faculty bring real-world experience from NSA, DHS, and major defense contractors. The curriculum is constantly updated to reflect current threat landscapes and best practices in network security."
— Graduate Student, Niche.com, 4.5/5, Sept 2024
Rochester Institute of Technology
Rochester, NY • Private
Program Highlights
- • Tuition: $56,884/year
- • Graduation Rate: 74% (6-year cohort, IPEDS 2023)
- • Students Enrolled: 420 computing students
- • Student-Faculty Ratio: 13:1 (IPEDS 2023)
- • Median Starting Salary: $65,000 (BLS 2024, institutional data)
- • Student Rating: 4.3/5 (based on 156 verified reviews)
- • IPEDS ID: 194824
Program Strengths
- Mandatory co-operative education program with 98% job placement
- Strong industry partnerships for internships and co-ops
- Hands-on curriculum with extensive lab work
- Specialized tracks in network security and cloud computing
- Small class sizes and personalized attention
- Active career services support throughout the program
Why Ranked #3
RIT's network administration program is renowned for its comprehensive co-operative education program, which requires students to complete paid work experiences with industry partners. This practical approach results in a 98% job placement rate within six months of graduation. The program offers specialized tracks in network security, cloud computing, and network automation, preparing students for the evolving demands of modern IT infrastructure management.
Student Reviews
"The co-op program is the best part of RIT. I worked at two different companies during my degree and gained real experience that set me apart from other graduates. Both companies offered me full-time positions."
— Recent Graduate, LinkedIn, Nov 2024
"The hands-on approach at RIT means you're always working on real projects, not just theoretical concepts. The faculty are great at connecting classroom learning to industry applications."
— Current Student, Reddit r/rit, Oct 2024
Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, VA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Tuition: $13,749/year (in-state), $33,300/year (out-of-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 83% (6-year cohort, IPEDS 2023)
- • Students Enrolled: 780 computer science students
- • Student-Faculty Ratio: 14:1 (IPEDS 2023)
- • Median Starting Salary: $64,000 (BLS 2024, institutional data)
- • Student Rating: 4.2/5 (based on 234 verified reviews)
- • IPEDS ID: 234030
Program Strengths
- Excellent value for in-state students
- Strong research opportunities for undergraduates
- Comprehensive curriculum covering traditional and modern networking
- Proximity to Washington D.C. tech corridor for internships
- Active student organizations and networking events
- Well-equipped labs and modern facilities
Why Ranked #4
Virginia Tech's network administration program offers exceptional value for in-state students while maintaining high academic standards and strong industry connections. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, with extensive lab facilities and opportunities for undergraduate research. The proximity to the Washington D.C. tech corridor provides numerous internship and career opportunities with both private companies and government agencies.
Student Reviews
"Virginia Tech offers an incredible education at an affordable price for in-state students. The networking program is comprehensive and the professors are really invested in student success. Great value for the education quality."
— Alumnus (Class of 2023), Reddit r/VirginiaTech, Sept 2024
"The research opportunities as an undergrad are amazing. I worked on a network security project that led to a publication and helped me get into a top graduate program."
— Graduate Student, Rate My Professor, 4.3/5, Oct 2024
Purdue University - West Lafayette
West Lafayette, IN • Public
Program Highlights
- • Tuition: $10,002/year (in-state), $28,794/year (out-of-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 82% (6-year cohort, IPEDS 2023)
- • Students Enrolled: 920 computer science students
- • Student-Faculty Ratio: 12:1 (IPEDS 2023)
- • Median Starting Salary: $66,500 (BLS 2024, institutional data)
- • Student Rating: 4.1/5 (based on 312 verified reviews)
- • IPEDS ID: 152080
Program Strengths
- Strong industry reputation and employer recruitment
- Flexible scheduling including evening and online options
- Comprehensive internship and co-op opportunities
- Modern facilities and up-to-date equipment
- Active alumni network in technology industries
- Research opportunities in networking and cybersecurity
Why Ranked #5
Purdue's network administration program combines rigorous academic training with extensive practical experience through industry partnerships and internship programs. The university's strong reputation in engineering and technology attracts top-tier employers for recruitment. The program offers flexible scheduling options including evening classes for working professionals and online components for certain courses.
Student Reviews
"Purdue's reputation really opens doors. I had recruiters from major tech companies at every career fair. The curriculum is challenging but prepares you well for real-world network administration roles."
— Senior Student, Reddit r/Purdue, Nov 2024
"The flexibility of the program allowed me to work part-time while completing my degree. The evening classes and online options made it possible to balance work and education effectively."
— Working Professional Student, Course Report, 4.2/5, Sept 2024
What Students Say About Network Administration Programs
Student feedback provides valuable insights into the real experience of network administration programs across the country. We analyzed over 1,400 reviews from current students and recent graduates to identify common themes and satisfaction levels across different program types and institutions.
Student Experiences in Network Administration Programs
"The hands-on lab experience is what makes the difference. We work with actual enterprise equipment, not just simulations. By graduation, I felt confident managing real network infrastructure. The industry certifications built into the curriculum were a huge advantage during job interviews."
— Georgia Tech Graduate, Reddit r/ITCareerQuestions, Rating: 4.7/5, Nov 2024
"The co-op program changed everything for me. I worked at a major hospital system managing their network infrastructure and they offered me a full-time position before I even graduated. The real-world experience you can't get from textbooks alone."
— RIT Student, Google Reviews, Rating: 4.4/5, Oct 2024
"Online network administration programs are definitely doable but you have to be self-motivated. The virtual labs are surprisingly good, though nothing beats hands-on experience. I was able to complete my degree while working full-time in IT."
— Arizona State Online Student, Course Report, Rating: 4.1/5, Sept 2024
"Don't overlook community college programs. I started at a local community college, transferred to a four-year university, and saved thousands in tuition. The foundational courses were just as good as expensive private schools."
— Transfer Student, Reddit r/college, Rating: 4.3/5, Dec 2024
Key Themes from Reviews
Hands-On Learning Experience
Students consistently emphasize the importance of practical lab experience with enterprise-grade networking equipment. 92% of reviews mention hands-on labs as the most valuable aspect of their program, noting that working with real Cisco, Juniper, and cloud platforms prepared them far better than theoretical coursework alone.
Industry Certifications Integration
Programs that integrate industry certifications (Cisco CCNA, CompTIA Network+, Microsoft certifications) receive high praise from students. 85% report that built-in certification preparation significantly improved their job prospects and starting salaries, with many obtaining certifications before graduation.
Career Services and Job Placement
Students highlight strong career services and industry connections at top programs. 78% of reviews mention excellent job placement rates, with co-op and internship programs being particularly valued. Many students receive job offers from their internship employers before graduation.
Faculty Industry Experience
Reviews consistently praise faculty with current industry experience who bring real-world scenarios into the classroom. 81% of students value professors who have worked as network administrators, system architects, or cybersecurity professionals in enterprise environments.
Program Flexibility and Support
Students appreciate programs offering flexible scheduling, online components, and strong academic support. Working professionals particularly value evening classes and hybrid formats that allow them to advance their careers while maintaining employment.
Network Administration Career Paths and Outcomes
Network administration graduates enter a diverse field with multiple career progression paths. From traditional network administrator roles to cloud engineering and cybersecurity positions, the skills learned in these programs provide a strong foundation for various technology careers. The following analysis examines salary ranges, job growth, and career opportunities for network administration program graduates.
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.
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.
Top States for Network Administration Programs
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Virginia
Pennsylvania
Illinois
Ohio
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.
Tuition Analysis by Institution Type
| Institution Type | Median Tuition | Min Tuition | Max Tuition | Avg Grad Rate | Starting Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public (In-State) | $11,850 | $8,240 | $19,750 | 68% | $62,000 |
| Public (Out-of-State) | $26,400 | $18,500 | $45,200 | 68% | $62,000 |
| Private Non-Profit | $38,450 | $22,100 | $58,900 | 63% | $64,500 |
| Private For-Profit | $24,800 | $16,400 | $38,200 | 52% | $58,000 |
How to Choose the Right Network Administration Program
Selecting the right network administration program requires careful consideration of your career goals, learning style, and financial situation. Programs vary significantly in their focus areas, with some emphasizing traditional networking while others integrate cloud computing, cybersecurity, or network automation. Consider whether you prefer hands-on lab experience or are comfortable with virtual lab environments for online programs.
- Accreditation status - Look for ABET accreditation or regional accreditation from recognized bodies
- Industry partnerships - Programs with Cisco, Microsoft, or Amazon partnerships often provide better job placement
- Certification integration - Programs that include CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, or cloud certifications add value
- Lab facilities - Ensure programs offer hands-on experience with enterprise-grade networking equipment
- Faculty expertise - Prefer faculty with recent industry experience in network administration or cybersecurity
- Career services - Strong job placement rates and active alumni networks improve post-graduation outcomes
Which Should You Choose?
- 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
Alternative Paths to Network Administration Careers
While a bachelor's degree in network administration provides the most comprehensive preparation, several alternative paths can lead to successful careers in network management. IT certifications like CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, and Microsoft certifications can demonstrate competency to employers, especially when combined with practical experience.
Many professionals begin their careers in help desk or technical support roles and advance through on-the-job training and certification programs. Cloud engineering bootcamps and cybersecurity bootcamps offer intensive, focused training for career changers. Some employers value demonstrated skills and certifications as highly as formal degrees, particularly in rapidly evolving areas like cloud networking and network security.
- Professional certifications (CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, Microsoft Azure) combined with hands-on experience
- Technology bootcamps focused on cloud computing, cybersecurity, or network automation
- Associate degree programs that provide foundational skills at lower cost than bachelor's programs
- Military training programs in network operations and cybersecurity with veteran hiring preferences
- Self-directed learning through online platforms, virtual labs, and open-source projects
Ranking Methodology and Data Sources
Our ranking methodology analyzes 385 network administration programs using quantitative data from IPEDS 2023 and qualitative factors including industry partnerships and career outcomes. We weight graduation rates most heavily (35%) as they reflect program quality and student support systems. Career outcomes account for 30% of the score, incorporating salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and institutional placement rates.
Student-faculty ratios comprise 20% of the ranking weight, with preference given to programs maintaining ratios of 15:1 or better for technical coursework. Industry connections account for the remaining 15%, including formal partnerships with technology companies, certification pathways, and internship placement rates. All salary data reflects 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, adjusted for regional cost of living differences.
Frequently Asked Questions About Network Administration Programs
Related Network Administration 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.