Compare 385 accredited network administration bachelor's and master's degree programs using data from IPEDS 2024 and BLS 2024. Our rankings analyze graduation rates, tuition costs, student-faculty ratios, and career outcomes for network and computer systems administrators.
Programs Ranked:385
Median Tuition:$11,850/yr
Avg Graduation Rate:65%
Median Starting Salary:$62,000
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Key Takeaways
1.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 2024 completion data
Ranked #2 among network administration bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (85.6/100): 68% graduation rate, $129,180 median salary, $20,206 in-state tuition, 15 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.
Ranked #3 among network administration bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (83.7/100): 48% graduation rate, $129,180 median salary, $6,998 in-state tuition, 19 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.
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Central Connecticut State University Network Administration Program Overview
Hakia ranks Central Connecticut State University as the #3 in network administration degree program.
Central's networking BS leans hard into industry credentials, mapping coursework to A+, Network+, CCNA, and Security+ and backing it with ATMAE accreditation and a required internship or co-op. As a four-year degree it asks more time and tuition than the associate options here, and a 48 percent graduation rate means roughly half don't finish, so the hands-on labs and Cisco Academy ties matter most to students who can commit to the full sequence.
Ranked #4 among network administration bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (83.2/100): 55% graduation rate, $129,180 median salary, $7,070 in-state tuition, 6 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.
Ranked #5 among network administration bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (82.8/100): 54% graduation rate, $129,180 median salary, $11,885 in-state tuition, 3 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.
Ranked #6 among network administration bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (82.6/100): 56% graduation rate, $129,180 median salary, $7,600 in-state tuition, 11 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.
Ranked #8 among network administration bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (79.2/100): 49% graduation rate, $129,180 median salary, $33,730 in-state tuition, 2 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.
Ranked #9 among network administration bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (76.9/100): 51% graduation rate, $129,180 median salary, $29,400 in-state tuition, 21 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.
Ranked #10 among network administration bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (76.1/100): 43% graduation rate, $129,180 median salary, $4,004 in-state tuition, 2 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.
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Program Strengths
43% graduation rate
$129,180 median salary
$4,004 in-state tuition
2 graduates annually
Best Network Administration Programs - Top 10, Complete Program Data
#1. Ball State University — Bachelor's Network Administration (Online)
Hakia ranks Ball State University's online bachelor's network administration program #1. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Muncie, IN | Type: Public | Tuition: $8,948/year | Graduation Rate: 62% | Median Salary: $129,180 | Score: 88.3
#2. Michigan Technological University — Bachelor's Network Administration
Hakia ranks Michigan Technological University's bachelor's network administration program #2. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Houghton, MI | Type: Public | Tuition: $20,206/year | Graduation Rate: 68% | Median Salary: $129,180 | Score: 85.6
#3. Central Connecticut State University — Bachelor's Network Administration
Hakia ranks Central Connecticut State University's bachelor's network administration program #3. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: New Britain, CT | Type: Public | Tuition: $6,998/year | Graduation Rate: 48% | Median Salary: $129,180 | Score: 83.7
#4. SUNY College of Technology at Alfred — Bachelor's Network Administration
Hakia ranks SUNY College of Technology at Alfred's bachelor's network administration program #4. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Alfred, NY | Type: Public | Tuition: $7,070/year | Graduation Rate: 55% | Median Salary: $129,180 | Score: 83.2
#5. NUC University — Bachelor's Network Administration
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.
$62,000
Starting Salary
$95,000
Mid-Career
+8.4%
Job Growth
24,500
Annual Openings
Career Paths
Network Administrator
SOC 15-1241
+0.05%
Manage and maintain computer networks for organizations, ensuring reliable connectivity and security. Responsibilities include network monitoring, troubleshooting, and implementing security policies.
Median Salary:$84,810
Systems Administrator
SOC 15-1142
+0.03%
Oversee computer servers and networks, ensuring optimal performance and security. Install, configure, and maintain server hardware and software systems.
Median Salary:$80,600
Cloud Solutions Architect
SOC 15-1199
+0.25%
Design and implement cloud-based network solutions for organizations. Migrate on-premise networks to cloud platforms and optimize cloud infrastructure performance.
Median Salary:$126,830
Network Engineer
SOC 17-2061
+0.07%
Design, implement, and optimize network infrastructure for organizations. Plan network upgrades, troubleshoot complex network issues, and ensure scalable network solutions.
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 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
Top-Tier Public Programs (Georgia Tech, UMD, Virginia Tech)
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
Private Programs with Co-op (RIT, Northeastern)
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
Online Network Administration Programs
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
Community College Transfer Path
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
Frequently Asked Questions About Network Administration Programs
What's the difference between network administration and cybersecurity programs?
Network administration programs focus on managing and maintaining computer networks, including installation, configuration, and troubleshooting of network infrastructure. Cybersecurity programs emphasize protecting networks and systems from threats, including risk assessment, incident response, and security policy development. Many modern programs integrate both areas, as network security has become essential to network administration roles. Graduates of network administration programs can pursue cybersecurity specializations through additional certifications or graduate study.
Can I complete a network administration degree online?
Many accredited network administration degrees are available online with virtual lab environments. Top online programs use remote access to real networking equipment or simulation software that closely mirrors enterprise environments. Hands-on experience with physical equipment remains valuable, so consider programs that offer optional on-campus lab sessions or partner with local employers for practical training. Online programs work well for working IT professionals who already have some hands-on experience.
What certifications should I pursue during my network administration program?
The most valuable entry-level certifications include CompTIA Network+ for networking fundamentals, Cisco CCNA for routing and switching, and CompTIA Security+ for basic cybersecurity knowledge. Cloud certifications like AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner or Microsoft Azure Fundamentals are increasingly important as organizations migrate to cloud infrastructure. Many programs integrate certification preparation into their curriculum, allowing students to earn credentials before graduation. Choose certifications that align with your career goals and local job market demands.
How much can I expect to earn with a network administration degree?
Network administration graduates start at $50,000-$65,000 annually, with median salaries reaching $84,810 according to BLS 2024 data. Earnings vary significantly by location, industry, and specialization. Network administrators in major metropolitan areas like San Francisco, New York, or Washington D.C. often earn 20-40% above the national median. Those who specialize in cloud computing, cybersecurity, or network automation can command higher salaries, often exceeding $100,000 within 5-7 years of experience.
Is network administration a growing career field?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 5% job growth for network administrators from 2022-2032, faster than average for all occupations. Growth is driven by increasing reliance on cloud services, remote work infrastructure, and cybersecurity concerns. The field is evolving toward cloud-based and software-defined networking, so graduates should develop skills in cloud platforms, automation, and cybersecurity to remain competitive. Traditional on-premise network roles may decline while cloud and hybrid infrastructure positions increase.
What programming languages should network administrators learn?
While network administration traditionally required minimal programming, modern roles increasingly involve automation and scripting. Python is the most valuable language for network automation, followed by PowerShell for Windows environments and Bash for Linux systems. JavaScript knowledge helps with web-based network management tools, while SQL is useful for network monitoring and reporting systems. Many programs now include basic programming and scripting courses to prepare graduates for automation-heavy roles in modern IT environments.
How do I choose between a bachelor's degree and professional certifications?
Bachelor's degrees provide comprehensive theoretical foundations, critical thinking skills, and broader career flexibility, while certifications demonstrate specific technical competencies to employers. For entry-level positions, a degree often provides better long-term career prospects and higher earning potential. However, experienced IT professionals may advance effectively through certifications alone, especially in rapidly changing areas like cloud networking. The best approach often combines both: a degree for foundational knowledge and ongoing certifications to maintain current technical skills.
What are the most important skills for network administrators in 2025?
Modern network administrators need a blend of traditional networking skills and emerging technologies. Core competencies include TCP/IP, routing and switching, network security, and troubleshooting. Increasingly important are cloud networking (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), network automation and scripting, cybersecurity practices, and software-defined networking (SDN). Soft skills like problem-solving, communication, and project management are essential as network administrators often interact with non-technical stakeholders and lead infrastructure projects.
How We Rank Network Administration Degree Programs
Based on 742 programs from IPEDS 2024
Ball State University's Bachelor's in Network Administration leads our ranking of 22 network administration programs, scored on graduation rate, selectivity, career outcomes, and cost using IPEDS 2024 and BLS data. In-state tuition across the list spans $2,616 to $36,378.
Ranking Factors
Program Completions35%
Number of graduates per year in this specific field (CIP code). Larger programs indicate established departments with more resources, course offerings, and career services. Measured from IPEDS Completions data.
Graduation Rate25%
Percentage of students completing their degree within 150% of expected time (6 years for bachelor's, 3 years for associate's). Higher rates indicate better student support and program quality. Source: IPEDS Graduation Rates survey.
Selectivity20%
Admission rate (lower = more selective). More selective institutions have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.
Career Outcomes20%
National salary data for network administration graduates, factored into institutional scores based on job market strength.
Ranking Categories
Best Programs
Overall quality using all four factors weighted as shown above. Ideal for students seeking the strongest academic experience.
Online Programs
Same methodology, filtered to schools with fully online or hybrid options (IPEDS Distance Education data). Some schools may have lower graduation rates due to different student demographics.
Most Affordable
Ranked primarily by net cost (tuition minus average institutional aid), with quality factors as tiebreakers. Best for cost-conscious students.
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.
