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Key Takeaways
Best network administration degree programs: Mississippi State, ,
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $2,700 to $9,665/year
Hinds Community College offers the most affordable option at $3,550/yr
Network Administration degree programs available: 12 associate's, 1 master's in Mississippi
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
1 online network administration degree programs in Mississippi
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Mississippi community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
12 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman
Tech hubs in Jackson and Gulfport
Hakia Research 2026
Network Administration degree programs near 43+ cities across Mississippi
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Mississippi Network Administration programs
We rank 14 accredited network administration programs in Mississippi 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 Mississippi Worth It?
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Network Administration Degree Rankings in Mississippi
Compare the top-ranked Network Administration programs in Mississippi by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Network Administration Programs in Mississippi
Program Landscape
Mississippi offers 12 accredited associate's degree programs in network administration, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Hinds Community College, Jones County Junior College, Mississippi Gulf Coast Co..., which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Mississippi offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $3,398/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 $45,348 in Mississippi.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Mississippi's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin 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 Mississippi, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their network administration degrees in Mississippi.
Show all 12 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Northwest Mississippi Community College | Senatobia, MS | Public | $3,400 | — | 44.0 |
| #7 | East Central Community College | Decatur, MS | Public | $3,560 | — | 44.0 |
| #8 | Holmes Community College | Goodman, MS | Public | $2,700 | — | 43.2 |
| #9 | Pearl River Community College | Poplarville, MS | Public | $3,400 | — | 42.4 |
| #10 | Southwest Mississippi Community College | Summit, MS | Public | $3,360 | — | 40.6 |
| #11 | Copiah-Lincoln Community College | Wesson, MS | Public | $3,500 | — | 40.6 |
| #12 | Meridian Community College | Meridian, MS | Public | $3,658 | — | 37.1 |
Best Bachelor's Network Administration Programs in Mississippi
Program Landscape
Mississippi 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 Mississippi State, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Mississippi network administration programs earn a median salary of $70,083, 29% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $9,665 to $9,665 annually, with an average of $9,665/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 92%, with the highest reaching 92%. 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 Mississippi's leading technology employers. For students seeking network administration degrees in Mississippi, these top-ranked network administration schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Mississippi State University
Best Master's Network Administration Programs in Mississippi
Program Landscape
Mississippi offers 1 master's degree programs in network administration, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Mississippi State, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Mississippi earn a median salary of $82,450, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin 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 $9,665/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 Mississippi's network administration schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
Mississippi State University
Network Administration Degree Costs & Tuition in Mississippi
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $3,880/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $9,700/year |
| Community college tuition | $970/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $23,280 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $5,820 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Network Administration Students in Mississippi
State Aid Programs
Mississippi students pursuing Network Administration degrees have access to multiple layers of financial support. The primary federal aid avenue is through the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), which qualifies students for grants, loans, and work-study programs (Federal Student Aid). Beyond federal aid, Mississippi residents with strong academic records may qualify for the Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grant, a merit-based award administered by the state's higher education board (Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grant). This grant recognizes high-achieving students and can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs across the state's public institutions.
Key Programs & Amounts
Individual institutions also offer institutional scholarships and financial packages tailored to Network Administration majors. Community colleges like Hinds Community College, Jones County Junior College, and Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, which together account for the majority of the state's 173 associate's degree completions, feature lower tuition barriers and may offer need-based aid. Four-year institutions such as Jackson State University and University of Mississippi provide additional scholarship opportunities tied to merit, need, and program affiliation. Students should consult the College Scorecard to compare net price calculations and aid packages across Mississippi's 15 institutions offering Network Administration programs.
Network Administration Degree ROI Calculator, Mississippi
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a network administration degree in Mississippi. 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 Mississippi metro areas
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Jackson | $91K |
| Gulfport | $87K |
| Hattiesburg | $82K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Network Administration Graduates in Mississippi
Find network administration jobs in Mississippi. These major employers across Mississippi metro areas are actively hiring network administration degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Network Administration Jobs in Jackson
MSNetwork Administration Jobs in Gulfport
MSTransfer Pathways for Network Administration Degrees in Mississippi
State Transfer System
Mississippi's strong transfer system makes it seamless for associate's degree holders to advance to bachelor's and master's programs. The Mississippi Articulation and Transfer Tool facilitates credit recognition across institutions, ensuring that coursework completed at community colleges transfers without loss of progress or credits. With 12 associate's programs and 17 two-year institutions statewide, students have numerous affordable entry points. Hinds Community College (38 completions), Jones County Junior College (26 completions), and Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (22 completions) serve as primary feeders to four-year universities. Starting at a community college costs as little as $2,700–$3,550 annually, compared to $8,642 at public universities, allowing students to complete foundational coursework affordably before transferring.
How Transfers Work
The pathway from associate's to bachelor's to master's is well-established. After completing an associate's in network administration at institutions like Itawamba Community College or Holmes Community College, students can transfer to Mississippi State University, Jackson State University, or University of Southern Mississippi to pursue a bachelor's degree. Bachelor's graduates may then pursue master's programs at Mississippi State or Jackson State, which offer advanced credentials for management and specialization roles. Financial aid transfers smoothly through the process via the Federal Student Aid office, and Mississippi residents may qualify for additional support through the Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grant (Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning). To diversify your IT expertise, consider complementary degrees in Cloud Computing in Mississippi or explore Cybersecurity in Mississippi alongside your network administration pathway.
Why Pursue a Network Administration Degree in Mississippi?
Industry & Workforce
Mississippi offers a strong pathway into network administration through 15 institutions delivering this critical IT discipline (IPEDS). The state's higher education landscape includes 12 associate's programs, 1 bachelor's program, and 2 master's programs in network administration, providing flexible entry and advancement options. Whether you're starting at a community college or pursuing an advanced degree, Mississippi's institutions serve a growing demand for skilled network professionals. The state's major employers, including University of Mississippi Medical Center, Walmart, Sanderson Farms, and Nissan, all depend on strong network infrastructure, creating abundant career opportunities across Jackson, Gulfport, Biloxi, and other major cities.
Salary Outlook
Affordability is a significant advantage for Mississippi students. Average public in-state tuition at four-year institutions is just $8,642 annually, while community college options start as low as $2,700 per year (College Scorecard). Top-ranked programs like Mississippi State University ($9,665) and Jackson State University ($8,520) combine quality education with manageable costs. Additionally, Mississippi residents may qualify for merit-based aid through the Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grant (Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning), enhancing affordability further. For career-focused learners, explore related fields like Cybersecurity in Mississippi and Cloud Computing in Mississippi to maximize your IT career options.
Network Administration Program Availability in Mississippi
Source: IPEDS 2024
Network Administration Job Market & Salary Data in Mississippi
Employment Outlook
Mississippi's network administration job market is supported by a diverse employer base across multiple metro areas and industry sectors. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, network administrators are in steady demand throughout the state, with concentrations in the Jackson metro area, the Gulfport-Biloxi coastal region, and emerging tech hubs in North Mississippi. The state's higher education institutions, healthcare systems, and manufacturing operations create consistent demand for skilled network professionals who can manage critical IT infrastructure across enterprise environments.
Salaries by Metro
The Jackson metropolitan area represents the largest job market for network administration professionals, driven by the University of Mississippi Medical Center, state government operations, and corporate headquarters. The Gulfport-Biloxi metro area offers additional opportunities in hospitality, logistics, and regional business services. Major employers actively recruit network administrators to support digital transformation initiatives and maintain increasingly complex IT ecosystems. Students graduating from Mississippi's 15 institutions offering network administration programs, including 12 associate's degree programs and 1 bachelor's degree program, find employment pathways across these regional markets. According to College Scorecard, graduates benefit from strong regional placement rates when credentials align with employer skill requirements, particularly in database management, cybersecurity integration, and cloud infrastructure.
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 Mississippi
Online Programs
1 available in Mississippi
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Compare Network Administration Programs in Other States
- Total Programs
- 11
- Median Tuition
- $3,400
- Total Programs
- 11
- Median Tuition
- $6,000
- Total Programs
- 9
- Median Tuition
- $20,400
- Total Programs
- 11
- Median Tuition
- $10,700
- Total Programs
- 72
- Median Tuition
- $1,300
- Total Programs
- 37
- Median Tuition
- $4,500
- Total Programs
- 53
- Median Tuition
- $6,000
- Total Programs
- 55
- Median Tuition
- $14,400
Network Administration Degree Programs in Mississippi: FAQ
What are the best network administration degree programs in Mississippi?
How much do network administration degree programs cost in Mississippi?
What salary can network administration degree graduates earn in Mississippi?
Are there online network administration degree programs in Mississippi?
What companies hire network administration degree graduates in Mississippi?
Is a network administration degree program worth it in Mississippi?
How long do network administration degree programs take in Mississippi?
What financial aid is available for network administration degree students in Mississippi?
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Mississippi 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.