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Key Takeaways
Best network administration degree programs: Lewis-Clark State College, ,
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $3,400 to $7,388/year
College of Western Idaho offers the most affordable option at $3,400/yr
Network Administration degree programs available: 7 associate's, 2 master's in Idaho
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
Idaho community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
7 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: Micron Technology, HP, Clearwater Analytics, Kount
Tech hubs in Boise and Idaho Falls
Hakia Research 2026
Network Administration degree programs near 16+ cities across Idaho
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Idaho Network Administration programs
We rank 10 accredited network administration programs in Idaho 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.
Are Network Administration Degree Programs in Idaho Worth It?
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Network Administration Degree Rankings in Idaho
Compare the top-ranked Network Administration programs in Idaho by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Network Administration Programs in Idaho
Program Landscape
Idaho offers 7 accredited associate's degree programs in network administration, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include College of Western Idaho, College of Eastern Idaho, Brigham Young University-..., which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Idaho offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $4,908/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 $52,619 in Idaho.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Idaho's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Boise, Idaho Falls, Meridian areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Micron Technology, HP, Clearwater Analytics 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 Idaho, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their network administration degrees in Idaho.
Show all 7 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Lewis-Clark State College | Lewiston, ID | Public | $7,388 | — | 41.2 |
| #7 | North Idaho College | Coeur d'Alene, ID | Public | $4,000 | — | 52.9 |
Best Bachelor's Network Administration Programs in Idaho
Program Landscape
Idaho ranks among the nation's top destinations for network administration education, with 1 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 1 public and 0 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Lewis-Clark State College, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Idaho network administration programs earn a median salary of $81,320, 17% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Boise, Idaho Falls, Meridian metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Micron Technology, HP, Clearwater Analytics.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $7,388 to $7,388 annually, with an average of $7,388/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 Idaho's leading technology employers. For students seeking network administration degrees in Idaho, these top-ranked network administration schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Best Master's Network Administration Programs in Idaho
Program Landscape
Idaho offers 2 master's degree programs in network administration, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Boise State, U of Idaho, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Idaho earn a median salary of $95,670, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Boise, Idaho Falls, Meridian creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Micron Technology, HP, Clearwater Analytics 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 $6,241/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 Idaho'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 Idaho
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $5,204/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $13,010/year |
| Community college tuition | $1,301/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $31,224 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $7,806 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Network Administration Students in Idaho
State Aid Programs
Idaho residents pursuing network administration degrees have access to multiple financial aid pathways to reduce their educational costs. The Idaho Opportunity Scholarship provides need- and merit-based awards up to $3,500 per year for eligible Idaho residents, making it a valuable resource for students attending public institutions throughout the state. This state-specific aid complements federal financial assistance available through the Federal Student Aid program, which includes grants, loans, and work-study opportunities for all eligible students regardless of state residency.
Key Programs & Amounts
To apply for financial aid, prospective students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) through StudentAid.gov, which determines eligibility for federal Pell Grants, loans, and work-study programs. Many Idaho institutions also offer institutional scholarships and grants beyond state and federal aid. Students can explore cost-effective options at community colleges like the College of Western Idaho and College of Eastern Idaho, which charge lower tuition rates than four-year universities, while still maintaining credit transfer agreements through the Idaho General Education Statewide Transfer Policy. This policy ensures that general education credits earned at two-year institutions transfer seamlessly to bachelor's degree programs at public universities, allowing students to minimize overall education costs. Additionally, prospective students should research employer-sponsored tuition assistance programs through major Idaho employers such as Micron Technology and HP Inc., which frequently offer educational benefits to employees and their families pursuing technical certifications and degrees.
Network Administration Degree ROI Calculator, Idaho
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a network administration degree in Idaho. 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
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
$133,333
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
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Direct cost of the degree program
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
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 Idaho metro areas
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Boise | $105K |
| Idaho Falls | $100K |
| Meridian | $96K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Network Administration Graduates in Idaho
Find network administration jobs in Idaho. These major employers across Idaho metro areas are actively hiring network administration degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Network Administration Jobs in Boise
IDNetwork Administration Jobs in Idaho Falls
IDTransfer Pathways for Network Administration Degrees in Idaho
State Transfer System
Idaho provides seamless transfer pathways for network administration students through the Idaho General Education Statewide Transfer Policy (Idaho General Education Statewide Transfer Policy), which ensures that general education credits completed at any public institution transfer smoothly to four-year universities. This policy supports approximately 109 associate's degree completions annually at Idaho's 5 two-year institutions, helping articulation from community colleges to bachelor's programs. Students at College of Western Idaho, College of Eastern Idaho, College of Southern Idaho, Brigham Young University-Idaho, and Idaho State University can complete foundational networking coursework and earn an associate's degree before transferring to bachelor's programs at Boise State University, University of Idaho, or Idaho State University without loss of credits.
How Transfers Work
Many Idaho community colleges maintain formal articulation agreements with four-year institutions, explicitly mapping associate's coursework to bachelor's degree requirements in network administration. The transfer-friendly environment reduces time-to-degree and total cost of attendance, particularly valuable given that two-year institutions charge as little as $3,400 to $4,560 annually, compared to four-year public institution averages of $6,084. Students following this pathway first earn an affordable associate's degree, then seamlessly transition to a bachelor's program while maintaining financial efficiency. For detailed information on specific articulation agreements, contact admissions offices at College of Western Idaho (33 completions) or other community colleges. Explore complementary fields through Information Technology in Idaho, Cybersecurity in Idaho, and Cloud Computing in Idaho to broaden your IT foundation. Compare transfer-friendly national programs at National Best Bachelor's Programs.
Why Pursue a Network Administration Degree in Idaho?
Industry & Workforce
Idaho offers a strong pathway to a network administration career with 11 institutions delivering programs across associate's, bachelor's, and master's degree levels (IPEDS). In 2023, Idaho schools awarded 109 associate's degrees, 2 bachelor's degrees, and 3 master's degrees in network administration, demonstrating strong community college engagement and growing university-level offerings. The state's two-year institutions, 5 in total, serve as critical entry points for students pursuing IT careers, with leading programs at College of Western Idaho (33 completions), College of Eastern Idaho (26 completions), and College of Southern Idaho (13 completions).
Salary Outlook
Idaho's tech hubs in Boise, Meridian, and the Treasure Valley region create exceptional career opportunities. Major employers including Micron Technology, HP Inc., and St. Luke's Health System actively recruit network administration professionals. Public four-year institutions charge an average in-state tuition of just $6,084, making Idaho significantly more affordable than the national average. Top-ranked programs like Boise State University ($5,941 tuition) and Brigham Young University-Idaho ($4,656 tuition) combine quality education with exceptional affordability. Additionally, Idaho residents may qualify for the Idaho Opportunity Scholarship, offering need- and merit-based awards up to $3,500 annually. Explore related IT fields by reviewing Cloud Computing in Idaho, Cybersecurity in Idaho, and Information Technology in Idaho to build a comprehensive IT skill set.
Network Administration Program Availability in Idaho
Source: IPEDS 2024
Network Administration Job Market & Salary Data in Idaho
Employment Outlook
Idaho's network administration job market is experiencing steady demand across multiple regions, with significant opportunities in the state's major metropolitan areas. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Idaho continues to develop its technology infrastructure, creating consistent hiring needs for qualified network administrators. The Boise City metro area leads regional demand, followed by emerging opportunities in Idaho Falls and Coeur d'Alene. Beyond these major hubs, secondary markets in Nampa, Meridian, Pocatello, and Twin Falls are expanding their tech workforces. This geographic distribution means network administration graduates have flexibility in choosing between established tech centers and growing regional markets, each offering distinct career pathways and quality-of-life considerations.
Salaries by Metro
Educational programs across Idaho are producing qualified graduates to meet this demand. According to IPEDS data, Idaho institutions awarded 109 associate's degrees, 2 bachelor's degrees, and 3 master's degrees in network administration during the 2023 academic year. Leading producers include College of Western Idaho with 33 completions and College of Eastern Idaho with 26 completions, demonstrating the strong emphasis on practical, career-focused education. For students pursuing bachelor's or master's degrees, Boise State University and the University of Idaho remain top choices. To explore related career pathways, consider investigating Cloud Computing in Idaho or Cybersecurity in Idaho, which complement network administration skills and expand employment options.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Online vs On-Campus Network Administration Programs in Idaho
Online Programs
0 available in Idaho
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Compare Network Administration Programs in Other States
- Total Programs
- 37
- Median Tuition
- $4,500
- Total Programs
- 11
- Median Tuition
- $5,000
- Total Programs
- 5
- Median Tuition
- $6,000
- Total Programs
- 13
- Median Tuition
- $6,000
- Total Programs
- 3
- Median Tuition
- $3,200
- Total Programs
- 5
- Median Tuition
- $4,800
- Total Programs
- 72
- Median Tuition
- $1,300
- Total Programs
- 53
- Median Tuition
- $6,000
Network Administration Degree Programs in Idaho: FAQ
What are the best network administration degree programs in Idaho?
How much do network administration degree programs cost in Idaho?
What salary can network administration degree graduates earn in Idaho?
Are there online network administration degree programs in Idaho?
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Is a network administration degree program worth it in Idaho?
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What financial aid is available for network administration degree students in Idaho?
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Idaho salary and employment data
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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.