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Key Takeaways
Best network administration degree programs: Lipscomb, Southern Adventist, South College
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $13,725 to $37,300/year
Strayer University-Tennessee offers the most affordable option at $13,725/yr
Network Administration degree programs available: 2 associate's, 2 master's in Tennessee
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
2 online network administration degree programs in Tennessee
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Tennessee 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: HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein, Lyft
Tech hubs in Nashville and Knoxville
Hakia Research 2026
Network Administration degree programs near 63+ cities across Tennessee
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated July 13, 2026
How we ranked Tennessee Network Administration programs
We rank 9 accredited network administration programs in Tennessee 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 Tennessee Worth It?
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Network Administration Degree Rankings in Tennessee
Compare the top-ranked Network Administration programs in Tennessee by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Network Administration Programs in Tennessee
Program Landscape
Tennessee offers 2 accredited associate's degree programs in network administration, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Miller-Motte College-Chat..., South College, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Tennessee offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $16,450/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 $59,659 in Tennessee.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Tennessee's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein 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 Tennessee, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their network administration degrees in Tennessee.
Best Bachelor's Network Administration Programs in Tennessee
Program Landscape
Tennessee ranks among the nation's top destinations for network administration education, with 5 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 0 public and 4 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Lipscomb, Southern Adventist, South College, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Tennessee network administration programs earn a median salary of $92,200, 6% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $16,450 to $37,300 annually, with an average of $27,790/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 82%, with the highest reaching 90%. 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 Tennessee's leading technology employers. For students seeking network administration degrees in Tennessee, these top-ranked network administration schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Best Master's Network Administration Programs in Tennessee
Program Landscape
Tennessee 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, Strayer University-Tennessee, South College, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Tennessee earn a median salary of $108,470, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein 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 $15,088/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 Tennessee'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 Tennessee
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $25,446/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $63,615/year |
| Community college tuition | $6,362/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $152,676 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $38,168 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Network Administration Students in Tennessee
State Aid Programs
Tennessee offers exceptional financial aid opportunities for students pursuing network administration degrees. The state's flagship program, Tennessee Promise, covers full tuition and fees at community colleges, making it an ideal entry point for students starting with associate's degrees in network administration. Additionally, Tennessee HOPE provides up to $4,500 per year for eligible students attending four-year institutions, significantly reducing the burden of higher education costs. These state-funded programs are administered through the Tennessee Higher Education Commission and represent a substantial commitment to making IT education accessible. Students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at StudentAid.gov to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state grants, Tennessee institutions offer institutional scholarships and financial aid packages tailored to network administration majors. Many four-year universities, including those ranked among the best bachelor's programs in network administration, provide merit-based scholarships for strong academic performers. Community colleges participating in the Tennessee Transfer Pathways system ensure that students can transition credits seamlessly while maintaining financial aid eligibility. For detailed guidance on federal aid options, students should visit Federal Student Aid, while comprehensive information about Tennessee-specific programs is available through the Tennessee Higher Education Commission website. Combined with Tennessee's lack of state income tax, these financial advantages make the state particularly affordable for network administration students.
Network Administration Degree ROI Calculator, Tennessee
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a network administration degree in Tennessee. 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 Tennessee metro areas
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Nashville | $119K |
| Knoxville | $114K |
| Memphis | $108K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Network Administration Graduates in Tennessee
Find network administration jobs in Tennessee. These major employers across Tennessee metro areas are actively hiring network administration degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Network Administration Jobs in Nashville
TNNetwork Administration Jobs in Knoxville
TNNetwork Administration Jobs in Memphis
TNTransfer Pathways for Network Administration Degrees in Tennessee
State Transfer System
Tennessee's transfer system provides structured pathways for network administration students moving from two-year to four-year institutions. The Tennessee Transfer Pathways program guarantees that credits earned at 4 associate's degree-granting institutions will transfer seamlessly to the state's 10 bachelor's degree programs in network administration. This system eliminates course redundancy and ensures students complete their degrees efficiently while maintaining cost savings. Students completing an associate's degree at community colleges like Volunteer State Community College, Northeast State Community College, or Pellissippi State Community College can transfer with full junior standing into bachelor's programs, reducing overall time-to-degree and tuition costs.
How Transfers Work
Articulation agreements between Tennessee's community colleges and universities specify which courses fulfill bachelor's degree requirements, allowing students to plan transfer strategies early. The Tennessee Promise program covers community college tuition entirely, making the first two years free before students transfer to four-year institutions where average in-state tuition is $8,520 annually. Transfer students benefit from guaranteed admission standards and reduced application barriers at participating universities. For detailed pathway information and specific course mappings, students should visit Tennessee Transfer Pathways or contact their community college advising office. Combined with Tennessee's state financial aid programs, the transfer pathway system makes network administration degrees highly accessible. Students interested in related IT fields can also explore Information Security in Tennessee or Cloud Computing in Tennessee pathways.
Why Pursue a Network Administration Degree in Tennessee?
Industry & Workforce
Tennessee offers strong opportunities for network administration students across 17 institutions providing specialized programming at all degree levels (IPEDS). The state hosts 4 associate's programs, 10 bachelor's programs, and 3 master's programs in network administration, creating multiple pathways for learners at different academic stages. Top-ranked institutions like The University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Tennessee Technological University, and Middle Tennessee State University provide quality education at affordable public in-state tuition rates averaging $8,520 for four-year institutions (BLS State Data).
Salary Outlook
Tennessee's geographic advantage includes major tech hubs and corporate centers in Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga, where employers like Amazon, FedEx, Nissan, and HCA Healthcare actively recruit IT professionals. The state's zero state income tax provides a significant financial advantage for graduates building their careers. Additionally, Tennessee's affordability is amplified through state financial aid programs including Tennessee Promise, which covers community college tuition costs. Students can explore related IT pathways through Cloud Computing in Tennessee, Cybersecurity in Tennessee, and Information Security in Tennessee to build comprehensive technical expertise in the networking field.
Tennessee Take-Home Pay Advantage
Source: Tennessee Department of Revenue
Network Administration Job Market & Salary Data in Tennessee
Employment Outlook
Tennessee's network administration job market is supported by a diverse employer base across multiple metropolitan areas and industry sectors. The state's major metro regions. Nashville-Davidson-Murfreesboro-Franklin, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga, all maintain active demand for network administration professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Tennessee's technology sector continues to grow, with network infrastructure roles remaining essential across healthcare, logistics, higher education, and automotive manufacturing. The state's lack of income tax provides an additional financial advantage for professionals seeking to maximize earnings potential in this field.
Salaries by Metro
Major employers driving demand for network administrators include Vanderbilt University, HCA Healthcare, Amazon, FedEx, and Nissan, all of which maintain significant operations throughout Tennessee. These organizations require strong network infrastructure and skilled professionals to manage complex IT systems. The Nashville-Davidson-Murfreesboro-Franklin metro area, in particular, is a growing tech hub with substantial opportunities in healthcare IT and corporate technology services. Students pursuing network administration degrees at institutions like The University of Tennessee-Knoxville or Middle Tennessee State University can leverage proximity to these employment centers and benefit from established connections between academic programs and regional employers. Career seekers should consult the College Scorecard for detailed employment outcomes from Tennessee institutions offering network administration credentials.
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 Tennessee
Online Programs
2 available in Tennessee
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Compare Network Administration Programs in Other States
- Total Programs
- 7
- Median Tuition
- $10,500
- Total Programs
- 22
- Median Tuition
- $14,700
- Total Programs
- 12
- Median Tuition
- $4,400
- Total Programs
- 40
- Median Tuition
- $2,800
- Total Programs
- 11
- Median Tuition
- $10,700
- Total Programs
- 14
- Median Tuition
- $3,500
- Total Programs
- 11
- Median Tuition
- $6,000
- Total Programs
- 27
- Median Tuition
- $8,200
Network Administration Degree Programs in Tennessee: FAQ
What are the best network administration degree programs in Tennessee?
How much do network administration degree programs cost in Tennessee?
What salary can network administration degree graduates earn in Tennessee?
Are there online network administration degree programs in Tennessee?
What companies hire network administration degree graduates in Tennessee?
Is a network administration degree program worth it in Tennessee?
How long do network administration degree programs take in Tennessee?
What financial aid is available for network administration degree students in Tennessee?
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Tennessee 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.