University campus in Connecticut
Updated June 28, 2026

Best Network Administration Degree Programs in Connecticut, 2026 Rankings

Compare the top network administration colleges in Connecticut. 6 accredited network administration schools ranked by graduation rate, career outcomes, and value, from Connecticut State Community College to United States Coast Guard Academy.

#1 ProgramUnited States Coast Guard...
Avg Salary$105,050
Tuition From$4,392/yr
Job Growth+22%
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology

7

Programs ranked

IPEDS 2024

$105,050

Connecticut median network administration salary

BLS OEWS 2024

68/100

Top program score

Hakia methodology

5%

U.S. job growth (2023–33)

BLS projections

Key Takeaways

Best network administration degree programs: United States Coast Guard..., Central Connecticut State, U of New Haven

Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality

IPEDS 2024

Tuition ranges from $4,392 to $55,510/year

Connecticut State Communi... offers the most affordable option at $4,392/yr

IPEDS 2024

Network Administration degree programs available: 1 associate's, 3 master's in Connecticut

From community college pathways to advanced research degrees

IPEDS 2024

Connecticut community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs

1 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees

Education Commission of the States

Major employers: United Technologies, Cigna, Travelers, Hartford Financial

Tech hubs in Stamford and Hartford

Hakia Research 2026

Network Administration degree programs near 37+ cities across Connecticut

Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location

IPEDS 2024

Updated June 28, 2026

How we ranked Connecticut Network Administration programs

We rank 7 accredited network administration programs in Connecticut using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.

Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodology

Are Network Administration Degree Programs in Connecticut Worth It?

Answer
$105,050
Yes. The best network administration degree programs in Connecticut deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $105,050 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $32,213/year.

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Network Administration Degree Rankings in Connecticut

Compare the top-ranked Network Administration programs in Connecticut by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.

Best Associate's Network Administration Programs in Connecticut

1
Programs ranked
$4,392
Avg tuition/yr
0%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Connecticut offers 1 accredited associate's degree programs in network administration, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Connecticut State Communi..., which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.

Costs & Value

Community colleges in Connecticut offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $4,392/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $57,778 in Connecticut.

Career Pathways

Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Connecticut's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Stamford, Hartford, New Haven areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like United Technologies, Cigna, Travelers hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.

Curriculum & Specializations

Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among network administration schools in Connecticut, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their network administration degrees in Connecticut.

Best Bachelor's Network Administration Programs in Connecticut

3
Programs ranked
$25,382
Avg tuition/yr
0%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Connecticut ranks among the nation's top destinations for network administration education, with 3 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 2 public and 1 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are United States Coast Guard..., Central Connecticut State, U of New Haven, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from Connecticut network administration programs earn a median salary of $89,293, 9% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Stamford, Hartford, New Haven metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including United Technologies, Cigna, Travelers.

Costs & Value

Tuition ranges from $6,664 to $44,100 annually, with an average of $25,382/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 0%, with the highest reaching -Infinity%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.

Curriculum & Specializations

Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Connecticut's leading technology employers. For students seeking network administration degrees in Connecticut, these top-ranked network administration schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

Best Master's Network Administration Programs in Connecticut

3
Programs ranked
$50,003
Avg tuition/yr
69%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Connecticut offers 3 master's degree programs in network administration, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of New Haven, Quinnipiac, Fairfield, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.

Career Outcomes

Master's graduates in Connecticut earn a median salary of $105,050, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Stamford, Hartford, New Haven creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with United Technologies, Cigna, Travelers actively recruiting from these programs.

Costs & Value

Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $50,003/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.

Curriculum & Specializations

Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Connecticut's network administration schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

Network Administration Degree Costs & Tuition in Connecticut

MetricValue
Average in-state tuition$32,213/year
Average out-of-state tuition$80,533/year
Community college tuition$8,053/year
4-year savings for residents$193,280
2+2 transfer pathway savings$48,320

Source: IPEDS 2024

Financial Aid & Scholarships for Network Administration Students in Connecticut

State Aid Programs

Connecticut students pursuing Network Administration degrees have access to multiple layers of financial support. The state's Governors Scholarship Program offers merit-based awards specifically for students attending Connecticut public institutions, making programs at community colleges and state universities more accessible. Additionally, all federal financial aid options are available through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. The Connecticut Office of Higher Education administers these programs and provides comprehensive guidance through their official portal, ensuring students understand their eligibility and application timelines.

Key Programs & Amounts

Beyond state and federal aid, many Connecticut institutions offering Network Administration programs provide institutional scholarships and assistantships. Students should contact financial aid offices at leading programs like the University of New Haven, Central Connecticut State University, and Connecticut State Community College to inquire about program-specific scholarships. The College Scorecard allows prospective students to compare net price calculations across institutions, showing what students actually pay after aid is applied. For transfer students, Connecticut's Transfer and Articulation Policy (TAP) guarantees admission pathways that protect financial aid eligibility and credit transfer, reducing overall time-to-degree and associated costs. Related technical fields like Cybersecurity in Connecticut and Information Security in Connecticut often share similar funding opportunities.

Network Administration Degree ROI Calculator, Connecticut

Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a network administration degree in Connecticut. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.

Network Administration Degree ROI Calculator

Estimate your return on investment for a network administration degree

Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type

20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI

+1116%

Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.

Net Gain

$2,064,777

Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.

Break-Even

5 years

Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.

COL-Adjusted Salary

$94,118

Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.

Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.

Detailed Breakdown

How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data

Total Investment$185,000

Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)

Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000

Direct cost of the degree program

Opportunity Cost$140,000

4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time

20-Year Earnings (with degree)$3,100,185

Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth

20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408

What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth

Starting Salary (New York City, NY)$160,000

Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)

Annualized Return5.6%

Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)

Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com

Network Administration Salaries by Metro Area

Median annual salary in Connecticut metro areas

Stamford$116K
Hartford$110K
New Haven$105K
View data table
CategoryValue
Stamford$116K
Hartford$110K
New Haven$105K

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Hakia.com

Top Employers Hiring Network Administration Graduates in Connecticut

Find network administration jobs in Connecticut. These major employers across Connecticut metro areas are actively hiring network administration degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.

Network Administration Jobs in Stamford

CT
Charter Communications
telecom
Indeed
tech
WWE
entertainment
Synchrony Financial
finance

Network Administration Jobs in Hartford

CT
The Hartford
insurance
Travelers
insurance
Infosys
consulting
Raytheon Technologies
defense

Network Administration Jobs in New Haven

CT
Yale University
education
Seeq Corporation
tech

Transfer Pathways for Network Administration Degrees in Connecticut

State Transfer System

Connecticut's strong transfer system provides seamless pathways for students progressing from associate to bachelor degree programs. The Transfer and Articulation Policy (TAP) guarantees admission to state universities for students completing associate degrees with specified coursework, eliminating barriers to degree completion. Connecticut has 8 two-year institutions offering network administration and related programs (IPEDS), with 1 institution (Connecticut State Community College) offering the associate degree in network administration with 35 completions. Associate degree graduates can transfer directly to the state's bachelor's degree programs at institutions like Central Connecticut State University and Southern Connecticut State University. The TAP system ensures credits transfer seamlessly, allowing students to complete foundational coursework at community colleges before advancing to four-year institutions. This pathway reduces time-to-degree and educational costs, making bachelor's degrees more accessible to working professionals and financially disadvantaged students. Community college attendees also benefit from smaller class sizes and personalized instruction during foundational coursework.

How Transfers Work

Specific articulation agreements between Connecticut's community colleges and bachelor's degree institutions streamline the transfer process for network administration students. Students who complete the associate degree at Connecticut State Community College can transfer credits directly toward bachelor's programs at Central Connecticut State University, Eastern Connecticut State University, and Southern Connecticut State University. The guaranteed transfer pathways eliminate lost credits and allow three-plus-two enrollment patterns where students complete two years of coursework at community colleges and final years at universities. The Connecticut Office of Higher Education manages articulation agreements ensuring curriculum alignment and seamless credit transfer. Additionally, the Governors Scholarship Program provides merit-based funding for students attending Connecticut public institutions, enhancing affordability for transfer students. Students should work with academic advisors at both institutions to verify specific course equivalencies and ensure smooth transitions. Related pathways exist in Cloud Computing in Connecticut and Information Technology in Connecticut, offering additional specialization opportunities for transfer students.

Why Pursue a Network Administration Degree in Connecticut?

Industry & Workforce

Connecticut offers exceptional opportunities for students pursuing network administration degrees, with 7 institutions currently offering programs across associate, bachelor, and master degree levels (IPEDS). The state's strong educational infrastructure includes leading programs at the University of New Haven, which completed 55 students in network administration, and Central Connecticut State University with 38 completions. These institutions provide pathways for students seeking careers in one of technology's most in-demand fields, preparing graduates for roles managing critical IT infrastructure across diverse organizations.

Salary Outlook

Connecticut's geographic location and economic landscape make it an ideal location for network administration studies. The state is home to major technology employers including Cigna, Travelers, United Technologies, and Hartford HealthCare, offering abundant internship and employment opportunities for graduates. Major metropolitan areas including the Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, Hartford-East Hartford-Middletown, and New Haven-Milford metro areas serve as tech hubs with growing demand for skilled network professionals. For budget-conscious students, Connecticut's public four-year institutions offer competitive in-state tuition averaging $11,621, significantly lower than the out-of-state average of $26,277 (IPEDS). Students can explore related fields through programs like Cloud Computing in Connecticut and Cybersecurity in Connecticut, building comprehensive IT expertise. For national context, visit National best Network Administration programs and Most affordable Network Administration programs.

Network Administration Program Availability in Connecticut

6 Programs
Connecticut offers 6 accredited network administration programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Stamford, Hartford, New Haven.

Source: IPEDS 2024

Network Administration Job Market & Salary Data in Connecticut

Employment Outlook

Connecticut's network administration job market is supported by a strong higher education infrastructure and a concentration of major technology employers. The state offers 7 institutions providing network administration programs at various degree levels, with 35 associate's completions, 79 bachelor's completions, and 52 master's completions annually (IPEDS). These graduates enter a competitive job market shaped by Connecticut's location in the Northeast Corridor and proximity to major metropolitan areas including the Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, Hartford-East Hartford-Middletown, and New Haven-Milford metros. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Connecticut's technology sector continues to expand, with network administration roles increasingly in demand across multiple industries.

Salaries by Metro

The state's major employment hubs are concentrated in key cities: Hartford, New Haven, Stamford, Bridgeport, Waterbury, Norwalk, and Danbury. Network administration professionals can leverage Connecticut's strong public university system, where average public in-state tuition for four-year institutions is $11,621 compared to $26,277 for out-of-state students (Connecticut Office of Higher Education). Career prospects are enhanced by the Transfer and Articulation Policy (TAP), which provides guaranteed admission pathways for transfer students from Connecticut's community colleges to four-year institutions. Students interested in expanding their expertise can explore related fields through Cloud Computing in Connecticut and Cybersecurity in Connecticut programs, which share significant overlap with network administration skill sets.

Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)

New graduates and career changers

Senior (8+ yrs)

Technical leads and architects

Median Salary in Connecticut$68,283$152,323
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred

Online vs On-Campus Network Administration Programs in Connecticut

Online Programs

0 available in Connecticut

On-Campus Programs

Traditional classroom experience

Typical Tuition$28,992/yr$32,213/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)

Compare Network Administration Programs in Other States

Network Administration Degree Programs in Connecticut: FAQ

What are the best network administration degree programs in Connecticut?
The best network administration degree programs in Connecticut based on our methodology are: 1) United States Coast Guard Academy (highly ranked), 2) Central Connecticut State University, and 3) University of New Haven. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Connecticut offers 6 total accredited programs across 3 public and 3 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 3 bachelor's programs.
How much do network administration degree programs cost in Connecticut?
Network Administration degree program costs in Connecticut vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $32,213/year, while private institutions average $70,869/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $8,053/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $128,852 at public schools to $283,474 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can network administration degree graduates earn in Connecticut?
Network Administration professionals in Connecticut earn a median salary of $105,050, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $68,283, while senior roles exceed $152,323. Salaries vary by metro area: Stamford ($115,555), Hartford ($110,303) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online network administration degree programs in Connecticut?
Yes, Connecticut offers 0 accredited online Network Administration programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from various state universities. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire network administration degree graduates in Connecticut?
Major Network Administration employers in Connecticut include United Technologies, Cigna, Travelers, Hartford Financial, ESPN. The Stamford and Hartford metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Connecticut universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Connecticut's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a network administration degree program worth it in Connecticut?
A network administration degree program in Connecticut offers strong ROI with a $105,050 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $32,213/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($118,706), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do network administration degree programs take in Connecticut?
Standard completion times for network administration degree programs in Connecticut are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Connecticut community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Connecticut university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for network administration degree students in Connecticut?
Connecticut network administration degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Connecticut state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Connecticut's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.

Data Sources

Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates

Connecticut salary and employment data

Official University Websites

Program details and admissions information

Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

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Taylor Rupe

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.

The research behind the rankings

In-depth Network Administration program profiles in Connecticut

Hand-researched detail on the top-ranked programs: degree pathways, research labs, industry partners, career outcomes, and admissions. Tap any school to expand.

Best Associate's Network Administration programs

#1Connecticut State Community CollegeHartford, CT

Hakia insight. Connecticut State Community College's associate degree feeds directly into employers like Travelers Insurance and Hartford HealthCare—both Fortune 500 companies with sophisticated internal IT—meaning graduates often skip the typical 'junior tech' bottleneck and start in mid-level support roles where technical depth matters immediately.

At the associate's level, if you're weighing whether to invest time in a network administration degree, here's the real value: you'll get hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and protocols in a lab environment, paired with a clear pathway into help desk and junior network roles across Connecticut's growing tech sector. The program emphasizes practical troubleshooting and real-world scenarios—firewall configuration, network monitoring, cybersecurity fundamentals—rather than theory alone. Many graduates land positions within 6 months at local healthcare systems, financial services firms, and state agencies that actively recruit from CSCC. The two-year format means you can enter the workforce quickly, earn while learning on the job, and transfer credits toward a bachelor's if you decide to continue later.

Programs offered

  • Associate of Science in Network Administration · 2 years · on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Network Administration · 2 years · online

Career outcomes

Top employers: Connecticut Department of Administrative Services, Hartford HealthCare, Travelers Insurance, Yale New Haven Health System, Local school districts, Connecticut banks and financial institutions

Best Bachelor's Network Administration programs

#1United States Coast Guard AcademyNew London, CT

Hakia insight. The Coast Guard Academy's Cyber Systems program doesn't just teach networking; its placement pipeline into NSA, U.S. Cyber Command, and MIT Lincoln Labs means undergraduates can transition directly into federal research and operations roles that typically require a security clearance and years of private-sector experience.

At the bachelor's level, the Cyber Systems program offers state-of-the-art facilities including dedicated research enclaves and provides unique internship opportunities at elite organizations like NSA, U.S. Cyber Command, and federally funded national labs. The program is designed around NSA and DHS criteria for cybersecurity excellence and includes hands-on experience in cutting-edge areas like malware analysis and network defense.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Network Administration · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Network Administration · 4 years · online

Career outcomes

Top employers: Coast Guard Cyber Command (CGCYBER), U.S. Cyber Command (USCYBER), National Security Agency (NSA), MIT Lincoln Labs, Idaho National Labs

Accreditation & certifications

NSA/DHS CAE CDEABET
#2Central Connecticut State UniversityNew Britain, CT

Why it stands out. CCSU's network administration program combines comprehensive technical training with business management skills while providing hands-on experience through industry partnerships with Cisco, VMware, and CompTIA in state-of-the-art facilities.

Hakia insight. CCSU's triple partnership with Cisco, VMware, and CompTIA gives students access to three vendor-specific academies in one program—meaning graduates earn multiple industry certifications while pursuing their degree, an efficiency that typically requires students to stack expensive courses after graduation.

At the bachelor's level, the Networking Information Technology program at CCSU prepares graduates to design, implement, and support networked systems in both standard and enterprise settings with a comprehensive curriculum covering network security, enterprise messaging systems, and advanced networking technologies. The program builds expertise in network management, security technologies, and business plan development including marketing and implementation.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Network Administration · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Network Administration · 4 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • Networking and Cybersecurity Laboratory — Networking and cybersecurity skills practice
  • Electronics Laboratory — Circuit design, digital logic, microcomputers, and embedded systems
  • CCSU Cybersecurity Center — Cybersecurity research and education

Industry partners

Cisco Networking AcademyVMware IT AcademyCompTIAFortinet

Career outcomes

Top employers: local companies, national companies, international companies, state agencies, school systems, hospitals, banks

Notable faculty

  • Dr. Xiaobing Hou (Cybersecurity and Computer Electronics & Graphics Technology)
  • Dr. Chad Williams (Computer Science)
  • Dr. Shuju Wu (Engineering Technology)
  • Dr. Shushan Zhao (Cybersecurity education and competitions)

Accreditation & certifications

ATMAENSA Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense EducationNSA Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations

Location advantage: Applied Innovation Hub with cutting-edge facilities Access to state-of-the-art networking and cybersecurity laboratories

#3University of New HavenWest Haven, CT

Why it stands out. The University of New Haven's network administration program uniquely combines advanced wireless networking research with practical industry certifications, featuring faculty with extensive experience at major telecommunications companies like Nortel Networks and Cisco.

Hakia insight. University of New Haven's NSA Center of Academic Excellence designation in Cyber Operations combined with faculty expertise in 5G and LTE networks (Dr. Esmailpour) positions students to work on next-generation infrastructure rather than legacy systems, a rarity for four-year network programs.

At the bachelor's level, the University of New Haven's Cybersecurity and Networks program is NSA-designated as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations and STEM-designated by the Department of Homeland Security. The program offers three specialized focus areas including network administration and security, preparing students for careers as network security analysts, network designers, and network security technicians.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Network Administration · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Network Administration · 4 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • University of New Haven Cloud Computing and Big Data Research Group (DiSC) — Cloud computing and big data analytics applications

Industry partners

EricssonCisco SystemsRIMNortel NetworksDaimler ChryslerMicrosoft Corporation

Notable faculty

  • Dr. Amir Esmailpour (Wireless communications, networking, LTE, WiMAX, 5G networks, cloud computing)
  • Dr. Fazel Mohammadi (Electrical Engineering)
  • Dr. Moin Bhuiyan (Electrical Engineering)
  • Dr. Ali Golbazi (Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering)
  • Dr. Christopher Martinez (Computer Engineering)

Accreditation & certifications

NSA CAE

Best Master's Network Administration programs

#1University of New HavenWest Haven, CT

Why it stands out. Flexible project completion: Master's Project, Thesis track (6 credits), or project-based electives. STEM-designated program

Hakia insight. UNH's Master's allows thesis, project, or elective-based completion in 30 credits—flexibility that appeals to working IT professionals, but the real value is the Cloud Computing and Big Data Research Group access, letting part-time students co-author infrastructure research rather than just consume curriculum.

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Networks is a 30-credit STEM-designated program designed for working professionals seeking expertise in network security, cyber forensics, and enterprise systems. The program accommodates students with or without prior programming experience and offers flexible project completion options: a Master's Project (CSCI 6690), a traditional Thesis track (CSCI 6698-6699), or project-based courses. Students select from four focus areas—cyber forensics, cyber security, wireless networking, or enterprise networking—with electives in ethical hacking, cryptography, cloud computing, and system administration. The curriculum includes 9 required credits, 15 cybersecurity/network electives, and 6 computer science electives. Up to 12 additional prerequisite credits may be required based on background. International applicants and scholarship candidates must submit GRE scores; GRE is optional for US graduates. The program supports career advancement in high-demand cybersecurity roles with hands-on technical training and specialized certifications embedded in coursework.

Programs offered

  • Cybersecurity and Networks, M.S. · 1-2 years · on-campus

Research labs & institutes

  • University of New Haven Cloud Computing and Big Data Research Group (DiSC) — Cloud computing and big data analytics applications

Industry partners

EricssonCisco SystemsRIMNortel NetworksDaimler ChryslerMicrosoft Corporation

Notable faculty

  • Dr. Amir Esmailpour (Wireless communications, networking, LTE, WiMAX, 5G networks, cloud computing)
  • Dr. Fazel Mohammadi (Electrical Engineering)
  • Dr. Moin Bhuiyan (Electrical Engineering)
  • Dr. Ali Golbazi (Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering)
  • Dr. Christopher Martinez (Computer Engineering)

Accreditation & certifications

NSA CAE
#2Quinnipiac UniversityHamden, CT

Why it stands out. Quinnipiac's program uniquely bridges traditional network infrastructure with cloud and software-defined networking, preparing graduates for the hybrid IT environments they'll actually encounter.

Hakia insight. Quinnipiac's master's program explicitly bridges traditional network infrastructure and software-defined networking in one degree, addressing the actual job market reality where enterprises now run hybrid on-premise and cloud environments—most programs still teach these as separate specializations.

At the master's level, quinnipiac's approach to network administration sits within a broader School of Engineering program that balances infrastructure fundamentals with emerging distributed systems and cloud architecture—a deliberate choice that keeps graduates relevant as enterprise IT shifts toward hybrid and cloud-native environments. The curriculum progresses from traditional LAN/WAN concepts through software-defined networking and containerized environments, ensuring students understand both legacy systems (still dominant in many enterprises) and modern DevOps tooling. Faculty actively integrate cybersecurity considerations into network design courses, recognizing that network administrators today are expected to understand threat landscapes and implement zero-trust principles. The program benefits from Quinnipiac's location in the Greater New Haven tech corridor and maintains connections with regional financial services and healthcare organizations, which offer internship placements and real-world project collaboration. Graduates typically move into Network Administrator, Infrastructure Engineer, or Cloud Operations roles; the emphasis on cloud-native skills particularly helps placement into growth-oriented companies and modernization initiatives at larger firms. The capstone project requirement gives students the chance to design and present a complete network infrastructure solution, mirroring the kind of project proposal work they'll encounter in professional roles.

Programs offered

  • Master of Science in Network Administration · 1-2 years · on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Network Administration · 1-2 years · online

Location advantage: Located in Greater New Haven tech corridor with connections to regional financial services and healthcare IT

#3Fairfield UniversityFairfield, CT

Why it stands out. Fairfield embeds network administration within a rigorous computer science framework that emphasizes systems thinking and ethics, differentiating graduates who later advance into architecture and leadership roles.

Hakia insight. Fairfield's embedding of network administration within computer science rather than IT silos means graduates study systems architecture and ethics alongside routing and switching, creating a cohort of network specialists who advance into CTO and infrastructure leadership roles faster than peers from narrower programs.

At the master's level, rather than isolating network administration as a standalone specialty, Fairfield integrates it into a rigorous computer science curriculum where networking is treated as a systems-level discipline alongside operating systems, distributed computing, and cybersecurity. This integration means students develop a deeper conceptual understanding of why networks are architected the way they are, rather than memorizing device configurations—a foundation that serves career advancement particularly well. The Jesuit institution's emphasis on ethics and responsible technology use surfaces explicitly in network security and access control modules, preparing graduates to think critically about surveillance, privacy, and compliance (HIPAA, GDPR, PCI-DSS) as inherent to network administration. Faculty research interests in distributed systems and network security create a program environment where current challenges—like securing multi-cloud environments and detecting advanced persistent threats—are live topics, not afterthoughts. Fairfield's proximity to New York City and established relationships with financial institutions and Fortune 500 companies headquartered in the Northeast provide internship pipelines; students frequently work on real infrastructure projects during their studies. Graduates often advance quickly into senior administrator or network architect roles because they've learned to think strategically about network design rather than tactically about individual devices.

Programs offered

  • Master of Science in Network Administration · 1-2 years · on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Network Administration · 1-2 years · online

Location advantage: Proximity to New York City financial services hub and Fortune 500 corporate headquarters