Best Network Administration Programs in Illinois 2025

Illinois ranks among the top 10 states for network administration employment, with over 8,500 network administrators currently employed across the state. The Chicago metropolitan area drives much of this demand, hosting major corporations like Abbott, Boeing, and McDonald's that require extensive network infrastructure management.

Network administrators in Illinois earn a median annual wage of $89,760, which is 6% higher than the national median of $84,810 (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Entry-level positions typically start around $65,400, while experienced professionals can earn upwards of $120,000 annually.

The Illinois Department of Employment Security projects 5% job growth for network administrators through 2032, aligning with national trends. Key growth drivers include cloud migration projects, cybersecurity initiatives, and the expansion of remote work infrastructure. Major employers actively recruiting network administrators include major tech companies and financial institutions in Chicago, healthcare systems throughout the state, and educational institutions.

Illinois network administration graduates benefit from proximity to major data centers and cloud infrastructure hubs. Amazon Web Services, Microsoft, and Google all maintain significant presences in the Chicago area, creating opportunities for specialization in cloud computing and DevOps practices.

Illinois offers 16 bachelor's-level network administration programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are DePaul University, Illinois State University, Lewis University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $79,240 in the Illinois market.

A bachelor's in network administration typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Network Administration Bachelor's Programs guide.

For graduate study, Illinois offers 8 master's-level network administration programs. Leading institutions include DePaul University, DeVry University-Illinois, Illinois Institute of Technology. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Illinois reaching $147,160 or more.

For budget-conscious students, the most affordable network administration programs in Illinois are at Governors State University ($7,872/year), Western Illinois University ($9,359/year), University of Illinois Springfield ($9,865/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Illinois's competitive tech salaries.

At Governors State University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $31,488 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $79,240, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.7 years.

Admission requirements for network administration programs in Illinois vary by institution type and degree level. Most bachelor's degree programs require a high school diploma or equivalent with a minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0. Community college programs typically have open admission policies but may require placement testing for mathematics and English proficiency.

For competitive programs like Illinois Institute of Technology, applicants should have strong backgrounds in mathematics and science. Recommended high school coursework includes algebra II, trigonometry, physics, and any available computer science courses. SAT scores of 1200+ or ACT scores of 25+ strengthen applications to four-year institutions.

• High school diploma or GED certificate
• Official transcripts from all previous institutions
• Minimum GPA requirements (typically 2.5-3.0 for bachelor's programs)
• Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) for university programs
• Personal statement or essay (required by some institutions)
• Letters of recommendation (1-2 for competitive programs)

Transfer students should note that Illinois has strong articulation agreements between community colleges and state universities. Students completing an Associate of Applied Science in Network Administration at institutions like College of DuPage can transfer up to 60 credits toward a bachelor's degree at participating universities. This pathway allows students to save significantly on tuition costs while maintaining academic progression.

International students must additionally provide TOEFL or IELTS scores demonstrating English proficiency. Most programs require TOEFL scores of 80+ (internet-based) or IELTS scores of 6.5+. Some institutions offer conditional admission with English as a Second Language (ESL) coursework.

Network administration programs in Illinois offer diverse cost structures ranging from $4,000 annually at community colleges to $50,000 at private institutions. In-state students at public universities like University of Illinois Springfield pay approximately $13,000 per year in tuition, while out-of-state students face costs of $25,000 or more.

Illinois residents benefit from several state-specific financial aid programs. The Monetary Award Program (MAP) provides need-based grants of up to $5,000 annually for eligible students attending Illinois institutions. The Illinois Student Assistance Commission also offers merit-based scholarships specifically for STEM programs, including network administration and information technology degrees.

Federal financial aid through the FAFSA program remains the primary funding source for most students. The average Pell Grant award in Illinois is $4,800, and network administration students often qualify for additional federal work-study opportunities in campus IT departments. These positions provide practical experience while helping offset educational costs.

• Illinois MAP Grant: Up to $5,000 annually for state residents
• Federal Pell Grant: Average $4,800 for eligible students
• Institutional scholarships: Merit and need-based awards
• Employer tuition reimbursement: Many IT employers offer educational assistance
• Military benefits: Veterans' education benefits accepted at all ranked institutions
• Work-study programs: Campus IT positions provide relevant experience

Students should also consider employer tuition reimbursement programs, as many Illinois technology companies offer educational assistance. Major employers like Motorola Solutions, Caterpillar, and State Farm frequently provide tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing network administration or related technology degrees.