- 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 2023 completion data
Best Network Administration Programs - Top 10 Best Value
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.
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
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.
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.
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
NUC University
52 network administration graduates annually
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 for Network Administration based on 74% graduation rate, 52 graduates, and overall score of 68.9/100. Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Program Strengths
- 74% graduation rate
- 52 network administration graduates annually
- Accredited institution
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
106 network administration graduates annually
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.
Wentworth Institute of Technology
30 network administration graduates annually
Weber State University
18 network administration graduates annually
Southern Nazarene University
12 network administration graduates annually
Florida State College at Jacksonville
38 network administration graduates annually
DePaul University
19 network administration graduates annually
Best Network Administration Programs - Compare Top 5 Best Value
| 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 |
Best Value Network Administration Programs 2026
| Rank | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Utah Valley University | Orem, UT | — | $5,614 | — | — | — | 74.7 |
| 2 | Kean University | Union, NJ | — | $11,135 | — | — | — | 70.3 |
| 3 | NUC University | Bayamon, PR | — | $7,314 | — | — | — | 68.9 |
| 4 | University of North Carolina at Greensboro | Greensboro, NC | — | $4,422 | — | — | — | 67.4 |
| 5 | University of Minnesota-Twin Cities | Minneapolis, MN | — | $14,496 | — | — | — | 64.6 |
| 6 | Wentworth Institute of Technology | Boston, MA | — | $40,410 | — | — | — | 64 |
| 7 | Weber State University | Ogden, UT | — | $5,471 | — | — | — | 63.2 |
| 8 | Southern Nazarene University | Bethany, OK | — | $28,000 | — | — | — | 58 |
| 9 | Florida State College at Jacksonville | Jacksonville, FL | — | $2,095 | — | — | — | 57.7 |
| 10 | DePaul University | Chicago, IL | — | $43,379 | — | — | — | 57.1 |
| 11 | Stevenson University | Owings Mills, MD | — | $36,940 | — | — | — | 56.3 |
| 12 | Neumont College of Computer Science | Salt Lake City, UT | — | $25,500 | — | — | — | 55.5 |
| 13 | University of Wisconsin-Stout | Menomonie, WI | — | $7,330 | — | — | — | 55.4 |
| 14 | SUNY College of Technology at Alfred | Alfred, NY | — | $7,070 | — | — | — | 55.3 |
| 15 | Yakima Valley College | Yakima, WA | — | $4,623 | — | — | — | 55 |
| 16 | DeVry University-Illinois | Lisle, IL | — | $14,392 | — | — | — | 53.7 |
| 17 | Columbia Central University-Caguas | Caguas, PR | — | $7,314 | — | — | — | 53.2 |
| 18 | Ohio University-Main Campus | Athens, OH | — | $13,746 | — | — | — | 53.1 |
| 19 | Tiffin University | Tiffin, OH | — | $30,900 | — | — | — | 52.6 |
| 20 | Dalton State College | Dalton, GA | — | $2,563 | — | — | — | 52.1 |
| 21 | Western Governors University | Salt Lake City, UT | — | $7,710 | — | — | — | 51.5 |
| 22 | Baldwin Wallace University | Berea, OH | — | $37,686 | — | — | — | 51.4 |
| 23 | Pennsylvania College of Technology | Williamsport, PA | — | $15,450 | — | — | — | 51 |
| 24 | Michigan Technological University | Houghton, MI | — | $19,429 | — | — | — | 50.9 |
| 25 | Central Connecticut State University | New Britain, CT | — | $6,664 | — | — | — | 49 |
Showing 1–25 of 45
Career Paths
Network Administrator
SOC 15-1244Manage and maintain computer networks, ensuring security and optimal performance
Systems Administrator
SOC 15-1244Install, configure, and maintain computer systems and servers
Network Security Specialist
SOC 15-1212Implement and monitor security measures for network infrastructure
Cloud Network Engineer
SOC 15-1241Design and manage cloud-based network architectures and services
Financial Aid and Scholarships for Network Administration Students
Federal financial aid significantly impacts program value for eligible students. The average Pell Grant award of $7,395 for 2025-26 can cover substantial portions of tuition at affordable programs (Federal Student Aid). Students should complete the FAFSA application early to maximize aid eligibility and consider programs with generous institutional aid policies.
Technology-specific scholarships provide additional funding opportunities. Organizations like CompTIA, Cisco, and local IT professional associations offer scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 annually. Many employers provide tuition reimbursement for network administration education, particularly for employees pursuing relevant certifications alongside degree programs.
State-based aid programs vary significantly. California's Cal Grant program, Texas's TEXAS Grant, and similar state initiatives can reduce net costs by thousands of dollars annually. Students should research both state and institutional aid options before making program decisions, as effective aid packages can make higher-priced programs competitive with lower-cost alternatives.
- Complete FAFSA by state deadlines (as early as October 1st)
- Apply for institution-specific scholarships and grants
- Research employer tuition reimbursement policies
- Consider work-study programs for hands-on IT experience
- Explore veteran education benefits if applicable
What Makes a Network Administration Program High Value
High-value network administration programs deliver strong career outcomes while minimizing educational debt. The best programs combine affordable tuition with industry-relevant curricula, experienced faculty, and robust career services. Network administrators earn a median salary of $84,810 nationally (BLS), making the field an attractive option for students seeking stable, well-paying tech careers.
Value extends beyond sticker price. Programs that integrate industry certifications like CompTIA Network+ and Cisco CCNA into their curriculum provide additional value by reducing post-graduation certification costs. Students should prioritize programs offering hands-on lab experiences, virtual networking environments, and internship partnerships with local employers.
Regional accreditation ensures credit transferability and federal financial aid eligibility. Programmatic accreditation from organizations like ABET adds credibility but isn't required for network administration programs. More important are industry partnerships, alumni networks in tech sectors, and career placement statistics that demonstrate real employment outcomes.
Choosing the Right Value Program for Your Situation
- You need flexible scheduling around work commitments
- You want to minimize total educational debt
- You have some IT experience and can learn independently
- You prioritize fast completion and career entry
- You prefer face-to-face instruction and peer interaction
- You need extensive hands-on lab access
- You're eligible for substantial state-based financial aid
- You want traditional college experience alongside education
- You already hold an associate degree or relevant experience
- You want to minimize opportunity costs of education
- You can handle intensive course loads
- You have urgent career change or advancement needs
Frequently Asked Questions About Network Administration Program Value
Based on 127 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Network Administration degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific network administration salaries from BLS OES 2024
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal database of college costs, graduation rates, and employment outcomes
Employment projections and salary data for network administrators
Institutional data on enrollment, completion, and financial aid
Industry salary reports and career progression data for IT professionals
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.