University campus in Oklahoma
Updated June 28, 2026

Best Network Administration Degree Programs in Oklahoma, 2026 Rankings

Compare the top network administration colleges in Oklahoma. 6 accredited network administration schools ranked by graduation rate, career outcomes, and value, from Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City to Southern Nazarene University.

#1 ProgramSouthern Nazarene
Avg Salary$89,340
Tuition From$3,119/yr
Job Growth+22%
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology

8

Programs ranked

IPEDS 2024

$89,340

Oklahoma 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: Southern Nazarene, U of Tulsa, Oral Roberts

Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality

IPEDS 2024

Tuition ranges from $3,119 to $46,932/year

Oklahoma State University... offers the most affordable option at $3,119/yr

IPEDS 2024

Network Administration degree programs available: 2 associate's, 2 master's in Oklahoma

From community college pathways to advanced research degrees

IPEDS 2024

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

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

Education Commission of the States

Major employers: Paycom, Devon Energy, ONEOK, Love's Travel Stops

Tech hubs in Oklahoma City and Tulsa

Hakia Research 2026

Network Administration degree programs near 50+ cities across Oklahoma

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

IPEDS 2024

Updated June 28, 2026

How we ranked Oklahoma Network Administration programs

We rank 8 accredited network administration programs in Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma Worth It?

Answer
$89,340
Yes. The best network administration degree programs in Oklahoma deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $89,340 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $22,404/year.

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Network Administration Degree Rankings in Oklahoma

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

Best Associate's Network Administration Programs in Oklahoma

2
Programs ranked
$10,788
Avg tuition/yr
51%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Oklahoma offers 2 accredited associate's degree programs in network administration, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Oklahoma State University..., Mid-America Christian, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.

Costs & Value

Community colleges in Oklahoma offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $10,788/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 $49,137 in Oklahoma.

Career Pathways

Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Oklahoma's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Paycom, Devon Energy, ONEOK 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 Oklahoma, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their network administration degrees in Oklahoma.

Best Bachelor's Network Administration Programs in Oklahoma

4
Programs ranked
$31,472
Avg tuition/yr
76%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Oklahoma ranks among the nation's top destinations for network administration education, with 4 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 0 public and 4 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Southern Nazarene, U of Tulsa, Oral Roberts, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from Oklahoma network administration programs earn a median salary of $75,939, 23% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Paycom, Devon Energy, ONEOK.

Costs & Value

Tuition ranges from $18,456 to $46,932 annually, with an average of $31,472/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 76%, with the highest reaching 96%. 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 Oklahoma's leading technology employers. For students seeking network administration degrees in Oklahoma, these top-ranked network administration schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

Best Master's Network Administration Programs in Oklahoma

2
Programs ranked
$26,175
Avg tuition/yr
83%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Oklahoma 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, U of Tulsa, Oklahoma State, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.

Career Outcomes

Master's graduates in Oklahoma earn a median salary of $89,340, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Paycom, Devon Energy, ONEOK 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 $26,175/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 Oklahoma'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 Oklahoma

MetricValue
Average in-state tuition$22,404/year
Average out-of-state tuition$56,010/year
Community college tuition$5,601/year
4-year savings for residents$134,424
2+2 transfer pathway savings$33,606

Source: IPEDS 2024

Financial Aid & Scholarships for Network Administration Students in Oklahoma

State Aid Programs

Oklahoma students pursuing Network Administration degrees have access to multiple financial aid pathways designed to make higher education affordable. The primary federal resource is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), available through Federal Student Aid, which determines eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. For Oklahoma residents planning ahead, Oklahoma's Promise offers a unique tuition coverage program for students enrolled in 8th–10th grade at Oklahoma public institutions, significantly reducing out-of-pocket costs for undergraduate programs across the state.

Key Programs & Amounts

Beyond federal aid, Oklahoma's public four-year institutions offer competitive in-state tuition rates averaging $5,487 annually, making state schools particularly accessible (IPEDS). Individual institutions like Oklahoma State University-Main Campus and University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus provide institutional scholarships and assistantships specifically for technology and IT majors. Students should also explore College Scorecard to compare net prices and financial aid packages across Network Administration programs. The Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education coordinates state-level aid and can provide guidance on grants and workforce development funding for IT specializations, particularly beneficial for learners in rural regions and underserved communities.

Network Administration Degree ROI Calculator, Oklahoma

Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a network administration degree in Oklahoma. 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

+907%

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

Net Gain

$1,677,254

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

$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

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)$2,712,662

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 (Austin, TX)$140,000

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

Annualized Return4.9%

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 Oklahoma metro areas

Oklahoma City$98K
Tulsa$94K
Norman$89K
View data table
CategoryValue
Oklahoma City$98K
Tulsa$94K
Norman$89K

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Hakia.com

Top Employers Hiring Network Administration Graduates in Oklahoma

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

Network Administration Jobs in Oklahoma City

OK
Paycom
tech
Tinker Air Force Base
military
Devon Energy
energy
Love's Travel Stops
retail

Network Administration Jobs in Tulsa

OK
ONEOK
energy
Oseberg
data
Tulsa Remote
tech-incentive
QuikTrip
retail

Transfer Pathways for Network Administration Degrees in Oklahoma

State Transfer System

Oklahoma's transfer system provides clear, standardized pathways for network administration students progressing from associate's to bachelor's degrees. The Oklahoma Course Transfer and Articulation (OCTA) system establishes statewide agreements ensuring that coursework completed at one institution transfers seamlessly to another (Oklahoma Course Transfer and Articulation). With 3 community colleges and technical schools offering Associate's degrees in network administration, including Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology ($4,574 tuition), Oklahoma City Community College ($3,025), and Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City ($3,119), students can complete foundational coursework affordably before transferring to bachelor's programs. This model significantly reduces overall degree costs while maintaining educational quality and allowing students to work or manage other commitments during initial studies.

How Transfers Work

Students completing Associate's degrees at Oklahoma's two-year institutions can transfer directly into Bachelor's programs at 4-year institutions like Oklahoma State University-Main Campus, the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus, Northwestern Oklahoma State University, and Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology. The articulation agreements ensure that credits earned in network administration courses at community colleges count toward bachelor's degree requirements, eliminating redundancy and lost credit hours. Additionally, Oklahoma's Promise financial aid program covers tuition at public institutions for eligible students, supporting both initial community college attendance and later transfer to four-year schools (Oklahoma's Promise). For working professionals, many bachelor's programs, particularly at Oklahoma State University-Main Campus, the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus, and Northwestern Oklahoma State University, are available online, supporting flexible transfer pathways (Online Bachelor's Programs). More information on affordability is available through Most Affordable Programs.

Why Pursue a Network Administration Degree in Oklahoma?

Industry & Workforce

Oklahoma offers a strong and accessible pathway into network administration with 10 institutions across the state offering programs at multiple degree levels (IPEDS). Students can pursue Associate's degrees at 3 institutions, Bachelor's degrees at 4 institutions, and Master's degrees at 2 institutions, providing flexible entry and advancement options. The state's network administration landscape is anchored by strong performers like the University of Tulsa, which leads the state with 37 completions, and Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City with 15 completions. This variety ensures that prospective students can find programs matching their academic goals and career timeline.

Salary Outlook

Oklahoma's affordability advantage makes network administration education accessible to more students. Public four-year institutions in the state charge an average in-state tuition of just $5,487, significantly lower than the national average (College Scorecard). Top-ranked schools like Oklahoma State University-Main Campus ($5,417) and the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus ($5,070) combine excellence with affordability. For students seeking additional financial support, Oklahoma's Promise covers tuition at public institutions for eligible students, removing barriers to entry (Oklahoma's Promise). Major employment hubs in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, home to employers like Integris Health, the University of Oklahoma, and Tinker Air Force Base, provide strong career opportunities for network administration graduates. Explore related IT career paths through Cybersecurity in Oklahoma and Cloud Computing in Oklahoma to see the broader tech landscape in the state.

Network Administration Program Availability in Oklahoma

6 Programs
Oklahoma offers 6 accredited network administration programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman.

Source: IPEDS 2024

Network Administration Job Market & Salary Data in Oklahoma

Employment Outlook

Oklahoma's network administration job market reflects strong demand across the state's major metropolitan areas and diverse industry sectors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Oklahoma City and Tulsa serve as the primary employment hubs for IT professionals, including network administrators. These metro areas benefit from strong healthcare systems, aerospace and defense operations, and growing technology sectors that consistently require skilled network infrastructure professionals. The state's 10 institutions offering network administration programs at various degree levels indicate sustained educational support for this career field, with particularly strong completion rates at the graduate level where 35 master's degrees were awarded in 2023.

Salaries by Metro

Prospective network administrators in Oklahoma will find employment opportunities concentrated in Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman, Broken Arrow, Edmond, and Stillwater. The job market is supported by major employers across healthcare, education, and federal sectors, creating diverse career pathways for graduates. According to IPEDS data, Oklahoma awarded 18 bachelor's degrees and 16 associate's degrees in network administration during 2023, providing a steady pipeline of qualified professionals to meet regional employer demand. Students seeking comprehensive labor market information should consult the Bureau of Labor Statistics state data for current salary ranges and employment projections. For comparison with neighboring states' opportunities, review our guides on Network Administration in Texas and Network Administration in California.

Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)

New graduates and career changers

Senior (8+ yrs)

Technical leads and architects

Median Salary in Oklahoma$58,071$129,543
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred

Online vs On-Campus Network Administration Programs in Oklahoma

Online Programs

0 available in Oklahoma

On-Campus Programs

Traditional classroom experience

Typical Tuition$20,164/yr$22,404/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 Oklahoma: FAQ

What are the best network administration degree programs in Oklahoma?
The best network administration degree programs in Oklahoma based on our methodology are: 1) Southern Nazarene University (81% graduation rate), 2) University of Tulsa, and 3) Oral Roberts University. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Oklahoma offers 6 total accredited programs across 2 public and 4 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 4 bachelor's programs.
How much do network administration degree programs cost in Oklahoma?
Network Administration degree program costs in Oklahoma vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $22,404/year, while private institutions average $49,289/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $5,601/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $89,616 at public schools to $197,155 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 Oklahoma?
Network Administration professionals in Oklahoma earn a median salary of $89,340, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $58,071, while senior roles exceed $129,543. Salaries vary by metro area: Oklahoma City ($98,274), Tulsa ($93,807) 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 Oklahoma?
Yes, Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma?
Major Network Administration employers in Oklahoma include Paycom, Devon Energy, ONEOK, Love's Travel Stops, Tinker AFB. The Oklahoma City and Tulsa metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Oklahoma universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Oklahoma's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a network administration degree program worth it in Oklahoma?
A network administration degree program in Oklahoma offers strong ROI with a $89,340 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $22,404/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($100,954), 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 Oklahoma?
Standard completion times for network administration degree programs in Oklahoma 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. Oklahoma community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Oklahoma university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for network administration degree students in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma 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. Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma'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

Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma

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

#1Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma CityOklahoma City, OK

Hakia insight. OSU-OKC students earn an OSU degree at community college tuition while tapping into relationships with state agencies and health systems like Integris—a credential arbitrage that costs roughly 40% less than OSU's main campus.

At the associate's level, if you want university resources without the main-campus tuition, OSU-OKC's network administration track gives you access to OSU's curriculum and degree recognition at a community college price point. You'll study network fundamentals, cybersecurity basics, and system administration in a blend of classroom and lab work, with clear pathways to transfer into OSU's four-year IT programs or stop at the associate degree for immediate employment. Many graduates land jobs with state agencies and large employers in Oklahoma City who value the OSU credential.

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: Oklahoma State agencies, Integris Health, Local school districts, Banking and financial services, Telecommunications companies

#2Mid-America Christian UniversityOklahoma City, OK

Hakia insight. Data quality issue: this school's database entry references funeral service education, not network administration—prospective students should verify current program offerings directly.

At the associate's level, this content is about Mid-America College of Funeral Service, not a Network Administration program. The page describes funeral service education programs, not information technology or network administration.

Programs offered

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

Best Bachelor's Network Administration programs

#1Southern Nazarene UniversityBethany, OK

Hakia insight. Insufficient data provided for a meaningful insight; program details, partnerships, and outcomes would be needed to identify Southern Nazarene's competitive distinction.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Network Administration · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Network Administration · 4 years · online
#2University of TulsaTulsa, OK

Why it stands out. Tulsa's network administration focus combines practical lab-intensive training with direct mentorship from faculty experienced in enterprise infrastructure, positioned strategically to feed into Oklahoma's telecommunications and energy sector networks.

Hakia insight. University of Tulsa's partnership with Williams Companies and Schlumberger positions undergrads to intern on infrastructure that literally powers regional energy grids—hands-on experience most competitors offer only in capstone projects, if at all.

At the bachelor's level, the University of Tulsa's network administration program emphasizes hands-on infrastructure management and real-world troubleshooting through its integration within the engineering and computer science curriculum. Students gain practical experience with enterprise-level systems, routing and switching technologies, and network security protocols in well-equipped labs before entering the job market. The program benefits from Tulsa's position as a regional technology hub with strong connections to oil and gas companies, telecommunications firms, and Fortune 500 operations centers that rely heavily on robust network infrastructure. Faculty bring industry experience from decades managing large-scale networks, translating directly into coursework that bridges academic theory and operational demands. Graduates emerge prepared for CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, and vendor-specific certifications, with many securing positions in network operations centers, systems administration, or infrastructure support roles immediately after graduation. The smaller class sizes characteristic of Tulsa's private institution setting allow for individualized mentorship and networking opportunities that larger programs cannot match. Career outcomes consistently show strong placement in mid-tier to senior technical roles within 12 months, particularly among students who pair their degree with industry certifications during their studies.

Programs offered

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

Industry partners

IBMJ.P. MorganWilliams CompaniesSchlumbergerONEOKSaint Francis Health SystemsNORDAMDeloitteErnst & YoungConocoPhillipsAT&TBank of AmericaEYNew Jersey NetsSavannah BananasL3Harris TechnologiesMidFirst Bank

Notable faculty

  • Cayman Seagraves (AI-powered real estate innovation)

Accreditation & certifications

ABET accredited engineering programs

Location advantage: Proximity to Oklahoma City technology corridor Access to energy sector infrastructure employers Regional telecommunications company headquarters

#3Oral Roberts UniversityTulsa, OK

Why it stands out. The program's distinctive advantage is its integration of cybersecurity architecture and threat modeling throughout the networking curriculum, preparing graduates for security-focused infrastructure roles.

Hakia insight. Oral Roberts embeds threat modeling and security architecture throughout its networking curriculum rather than relegating cybersecurity to an elective, which means every graduate finishes with defensive thinking baked into their infrastructure mindset.

At the bachelor's level, ORU's network administration and cybersecurity specialization within its computer science program reflects the institution's investment in preparing students for security-first infrastructure roles—network courses include threat modeling, intrusion detection, and secure network design from day one rather than treating security as an afterthought. The program attracts students specifically interested in protecting mission-critical systems; faculty expertise spans network security architecture, secure software development, and systems hardening. Labs feature both offensive and defensive security tools, allowing students to test network defenses and understand attacker methodologies before graduating. ORU's relatively small student body and strong alumni network in technology sectors (aerospace, energy, defense contracting) create informal mentoring and internship pipelines—many students begin career-relevant work by sophomore year. The curriculum's emphasis on ethical decision-making and the implications of security failures in critical infrastructure distinguishes ORU graduates from those at programs treating cybersecurity as purely technical. Tulsa's proximity to major energy companies and aerospace contractors means that infrastructure security roles and network engineering positions are regularly available to graduating seniors.

Programs offered

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

Location advantage: Tulsa energy sector infrastructure and IT operations Aerospace and defense contractor presence Access to mission-critical infrastructure employers

#4Mid-America Christian UniversityOklahoma City, OK

Hakia insight. Data quality issue: this school's database entry references funeral service education, not network administration—prospective students should verify current program offerings directly.

At the bachelor's level, this content is about Mid-America College of Funeral Service, not a Network Administration program. The page describes funeral service education programs, not information technology or network administration.

Programs offered

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

Best Master's Network Administration programs

#1University of TulsaTulsa, OK

Why it stands out. Tulsa's network administration focus combines practical lab-intensive training with direct mentorship from faculty experienced in enterprise infrastructure, positioned strategically to feed into Oklahoma's telecommunications and energy sector networks.

Hakia insight. Tulsa's master's program pairs IBM, J.P. Morgan, and Williams Companies partnerships with faculty mentorship in enterprise infrastructure, creating a rare pipeline where graduate students move directly into infrastructure leadership roles rather than junior administration positions.

At the master's level, the University of Tulsa's network administration program emphasizes hands-on infrastructure management and real-world troubleshooting through its integration within the engineering and computer science curriculum. Students gain practical experience with enterprise-level systems, routing and switching technologies, and network security protocols in well-equipped labs before entering the job market. The program benefits from Tulsa's position as a regional technology hub with strong connections to oil and gas companies, telecommunications firms, and Fortune 500 operations centers that rely heavily on robust network infrastructure. Faculty bring industry experience from decades managing large-scale networks, translating directly into coursework that bridges academic theory and operational demands. Graduates emerge prepared for CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, and vendor-specific certifications, with many securing positions in network operations centers, systems administration, or infrastructure support roles immediately after graduation. The smaller class sizes characteristic of Tulsa's private institution setting allow for individualized mentorship and networking opportunities that larger programs cannot match. Career outcomes consistently show strong placement in mid-tier to senior technical roles within 12 months, particularly among students who pair their degree with industry certifications during their studies.

Programs offered

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

Industry partners

IBMJ.P. MorganWilliams CompaniesSchlumbergerONEOKSaint Francis Health SystemsNORDAMDeloitteErnst & YoungConocoPhillipsAT&TBank of AmericaEYNew Jersey NetsSavannah BananasL3Harris TechnologiesMidFirst Bank

Notable faculty

  • Cayman Seagraves (AI-powered real estate innovation)

Accreditation & certifications

ABET accredited engineering programs

Location advantage: Proximity to Oklahoma City technology corridor Access to energy sector infrastructure employers Regional telecommunications company headquarters

#2Oklahoma State University-Main CampusStillwater, OK

Why it stands out. OSU-Main positions network administration within a research-active CS curriculum, giving students exposure to advanced topics like software-defined networking and networked systems research alongside practical administration skills.

Hakia insight. OSU-Main's research labs—particularly the Center for Telecommunications Network and Security—let master's students conduct research on software-defined networking while studying administration, a research-to-practice loop that distinguishes it from schools where networking is purely applied.

At the master's level, oklahoma State's computer science program offers network administration and systems specialization options within a research-active computer science environment, positioning students at the intersection of academic rigor and infrastructure expertise. The Stillwater campus hosts faculty conducting research in distributed systems, cybersecurity, and networked computing—contexts where networking knowledge is essential to the research itself. This means network administration students benefit from exposure to cutting-edge networking research (software-defined networking, network security protocols, cloud infrastructure) while still pursuing career-track coursework in practical administration. The program emphasizes not just *operating* networks but *understanding* their behavior under stress, security threats, and at scale—a mindset that separates infrastructure engineers from technicians. OSU's extensive alumni network in energy, agriculture tech, and software industries creates pathways for networking graduates to move into specialized roles (e.g., network security engineering, cloud operations) relatively quickly. The program suits students who want both immediate employment options as network administrators and the intellectual foundation to advance into more specialized technical leadership later.

Programs offered

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

Research labs & institutes

  • School of Computing — Distributed systems, cybersecurity, networked computing
  • Statistical Signal Processing Lab — Statistical signal processing and data fusion for communications and wireless sensor networks
  • Center for Telecommunications Network and Security — Telecommunications network analysis, design and secure communications protocols

Industry partners

Williams TelecommunicationsU.S. Air ForceMotorola Government Electronics GroupU.S. Department of EducationU.S. Department of DefenseQualcomm Inc.Qualcomm Technologies Inc.Guoxin Lucent Technologies Network Technologies Company

Career outcomes

Top employers: Phillips 66, OGE Energy, ConocoPhillips

Notable faculty

  • Dr. Qi Cheng (Statistical signal processing and data fusion for communications and wireless sensor networks)
  • Dr. Sabit Ekin (Design and performance analysis of communications systems, interference management in next-generation wireless and cognitive radio networks)
  • Dr. Subhash Kak (Data security and cryptography, information theory, neural networks, and quantum information)
  • Dr. George Scheets (Telecommunications network analysis and design, secure communications protocols)

Location advantage: Energy sector (oil & gas) headquarters in Oklahoma with substantial IT infrastructure needs Agriculture technology and engineering research ecosystem