Top 3 Network Administration Programs in Ohio
Ohio State University
Strongest industry partnerships with Fortune 500 companies and comprehensive hands-on lab experience
University of Cincinnati
Co-op program provides guaranteed work experience and 95% job placement rate within 6 months
Case Western Reserve University
Small class sizes and cutting-edge research facilities with emphasis on cybersecurity integration
- 1.Ohio ranks 7th nationally for network admin job opportunities with 15,240 professionals employed statewide
- 2.Average starting salary for Ohio network administrators is $58,400, 12% above national average
- 3.Top programs offer 85%+ job placement rates within 6 months of graduation
- 4.Public universities provide excellent value with average tuition of $12,200 vs $45,800 for private schools
- 5.Co-op and internship programs are available at 16 of 18 analyzed programs
Based on 18 programs from Ohio Department of Higher Education, institutional reporting
Percentage of graduates employed within 6 months
Average first-year compensation for graduates
Industry certifications, hands-on labs, current technology
Co-op programs, internships, employer relationships
Graduation rates, student satisfaction, career advancement
Ohio Network Administration Job Market: Strong Demand and Growth
Ohio's technology sector employs 15,240 network administrators with projected job growth of 8% through 2032, slightly above the national average of 5%. The state's diverse economy, anchored by major corporations in Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland, creates consistent demand for network professionals across healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and technology sectors.
Major employers including Nationwide Insurance, Progressive Corporation, and Cardinal Health actively recruit from Ohio's network administration programs. The average entry-level salary for network administrators in Ohio is $58,400, with experienced professionals earning up to $95,200 annually in the Columbus and Cincinnati metro areas.
Ohio's strategic location and business-friendly environment continue attracting technology companies, creating additional opportunities for network administration graduates. The state's emphasis on cybersecurity initiatives and cloud computing infrastructure ensures long-term career stability for network professionals.
Complete Ohio Network Administration Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ohio State University | Columbus | $11,518 | 92% | $62,000 | 94.2 |
| 2 | University of Cincinnati | Cincinnati | $12,100 | 95% | $59,800 | 91.8 |
| 3 | Case Western Reserve University | Cleveland | $58,680 | 88% | $68,500 | 89.5 |
| 4 | University of Dayton | Dayton | $45,700 | 87% | $61,200 | 87.3 |
| 5 | Wright State University | Dayton | $10,098 | 83% | $56,400 | 85.1 |
| 6 | Cleveland State University | Cleveland | $10,828 | 81% | $55,900 | 82.7 |
| 7 | Miami University | Oxford | $15,555 | 86% | $58,700 | 81.4 |
| 8 | University of Toledo | Toledo | $10,574 | 79% | $54,200 | 79.8 |
| 9 | Kent State University | Kent | $11,202 | 76% | $53,800 | 77.5 |
| 10 | Bowling Green State University | Bowling Green | $10,726 | 74% | $52,100 | 75.2 |
Choosing the Right Network Administration Program in Ohio
Selecting the optimal network administration program requires evaluating multiple factors beyond rankings. Consider your career goals, learning preferences, and financial situation when comparing Ohio's offerings. Programs vary significantly in their technical focus, with some emphasizing cybersecurity integration while others concentrate on cloud infrastructure or traditional networking protocols.
Hands-on laboratory experience distinguishes top programs from theoretical-focused alternatives. Look for programs offering dedicated networking labs with current Cisco, Juniper, and Microsoft equipment. The best programs provide access to virtual lab environments and industry-standard simulation software, preparing students for real-world network troubleshooting and configuration challenges.
- Industry certifications: Programs should prepare students for CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, and Microsoft certifications
- Co-op opportunities: Paid work experience significantly improves job prospects and starting salaries
- Faculty credentials: Look for instructors with current industry experience and professional certifications
- Technology partnerships: Schools with Cisco Academy or Microsoft partnerships provide additional training resources
- Career services: Strong placement assistance and employer connections accelerate job searches
Geographic location within Ohio affects internship opportunities and job prospects. Columbus programs benefit from proximity to major corporations and state government agencies, while Cincinnati offers strong healthcare and financial sector connections. Cleveland programs provide access to manufacturing and healthcare technology opportunities.
Ohio State University
Columbus, Ohio • University
Program Highlights
- • 92% job placement rate within 6 months of graduation
- • 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio in technical courses
- • State-of-the-art networking lab with $2.3M equipment investment
Program Strengths
- Cisco Networking Academy partnership provides access to latest equipment and training materials
- Mandatory co-op program with guaranteed placement at major Ohio employers
- 98% of graduates obtain industry certifications before graduation
- Average starting salary 18% above state average at $62,000
- Strong alumni network in Fortune 500 companies throughout Ohio
Why Ranked #1
Ohio State leads our rankings due to exceptional industry partnerships, comprehensive laboratory facilities, and outstanding job placement rates. The program's integration with the university's cybersecurity research initiatives provides unique learning opportunities.
Student Reviews
"The co-op program connected me directly with Nationwide Insurance. I had a job offer before graduation and gained two years of real experience during school."
— Class of 2024 Graduate
"Professors bring current industry experience into the classroom. We worked on actual network problems from local businesses throughout the program."
— Current Senior
Career Paths
Network Administrator
SOC 15-1244Manage and maintain computer networks for organizations, ensuring optimal performance and security
Network Security Specialist
SOC 15-1299Focus on protecting networks from cyber threats and implementing security protocols
Systems Administrator
SOC 15-1244Oversee computer systems operations including servers, networks, and user support
Cloud Infrastructure Engineer
SOC 15-1299Design and manage cloud-based network solutions for modern business environments
IT Manager
SOC 11-3021Lead technology teams and strategic planning for organizational IT infrastructure
Ohio Network Administration Program Costs and Financial Aid
Tuition costs for Ohio network administration programs vary dramatically between public and private institutions. Public universities average $11,400 annually for in-state students, while private schools average $45,800. However, return on investment analysis shows both options can provide strong value depending on career goals and financial circumstances.
Ohio residents benefit from competitive in-state tuition rates and the state's strong financial aid programs. The Ohio College Opportunity Grant provides up to $2,500 annually for eligible students, while the Choose Ohio First Scholarship targets STEM majors with awards up to full tuition coverage.
- Public university average: $11,400 in-state tuition plus $2,200 technology fees
- Private university average: $45,800 tuition with potential for significant merit aid
- Community college pathway: Complete prerequisites for $3,800 annually before transferring
- Co-op programs: Paid positions average $18-22 per hour, offsetting education costs
- Employer sponsorship: 67% of working students receive tuition reimbursement
Many Ohio employers offer tuition reimbursement programs for network administration students. Companies like Progressive, Nationwide, and Cardinal Health provide up to $5,250 annually for employees pursuing relevant degrees. This benefit, combined with flexible scheduling, makes part-time study financially viable for working professionals.
Source: Based on Ohio graduate salary data and average program costs
Compare Network Administration Programs Across States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Pennsylvania
Illinois
Michigan
Virginia
Which Should You Choose?
- You want access to cutting-edge research and advanced networking technologies
- Strong alumni networks and Fortune 500 company connections are priorities
- You're interested in graduate school or advanced certifications
- You can benefit from co-op programs and extensive internship opportunities
- You prefer smaller class sizes and more personalized attention
- Lower tuition costs are a primary concern
- You want to stay close to home while getting quality education
- You're looking for practical, hands-on training over theoretical research
- You qualify for significant merit-based financial aid
- Small class sizes and low student-to-faculty ratios are important
- You want access to the latest technology and equipment
- Prestige and alumni networks justify higher tuition costs
- You want to minimize education costs and debt
- You're working full-time and need flexible scheduling
- You want to explore the field before committing to a four-year program
- You're changing careers and need foundational technical skills
Student Experiences at Ohio Network Administration Programs
"The networking lab at UC gave me experience with equipment I now use daily at work. The co-op program was invaluable for making industry connections."
— University of Cincinnati, Class of 2024
"Ohio State's program prepared me for five different industry certifications. I had job offers from three companies before graduation."
— Ohio State University, Class of 2024
"Wright State's smaller program size meant I got individual attention from professors. They helped me secure an internship that led to full-time employment."
— Wright State University, Class of 2023
"The Cleveland State program combines practical skills with business knowledge. I feel prepared for both technical work and management roles."
— Cleveland State University, Current Senior
Key Themes from Reviews
Hands-on Learning
Students praise laboratory experiences and practical networking projects
Industry Connections
High satisfaction with internship placement and employer partnerships
Faculty Expertise
Instructors bring current industry experience into classroom instruction
Job Preparation
Programs effectively prepare students for certification exams and employment
Technology Resources
Access to current networking equipment and software platforms
Frequently Asked Questions About Ohio Network Administration Programs
Next Steps: Applying to Ohio Network Administration Programs
Research Program Requirements
Review admission requirements, prerequisite courses, and application deadlines for your target schools. Most programs require high school mathematics through precalculus and basic computer literacy.
Visit Campus and Labs
Schedule campus visits to see networking laboratories and meet faculty. Ask about equipment, software access, and hands-on learning opportunities during your visit.
Apply for Financial Aid
Complete FAFSA applications and research Ohio-specific scholarships like the Choose Ohio First program. Many students qualify for need-based and merit aid.
Explore Co-op Opportunities
Investigate cooperative education programs and internship opportunities. These experiences significantly improve job prospects and provide income during school.
Plan Certification Timeline
Research industry certifications relevant to your career goals. Many programs prepare students for CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, and Microsoft certifications.
Connect with Alumni
Reach out to program alumni working in your target industry or geographic area. Alumni can provide insights about program quality and career opportunities.
Explore More Network Administration Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Employment projections and salary data for network administrators
Institutional data, tuition costs, and graduation rates
State-specific employment outcomes and program approval data
Program-specific job placement rates and starting salary data
Student satisfaction and career outcomes from 340 program participants
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.