People who have a degree in network administration ensure that the company’s software programs, computers, and security functions run smoothly. These professionals are an important part of the IT department and can find employment in various industries.
What Is Network Administration?
Network administration includes various tasks that allow a network to run efficiently and smoothly. Without network administration, it would get difficult for a network to maintain its operations. Professionals working in this field are responsible for keeping a company’s network operating and up-to-date. They connect and coordinate multiple software and systems used in an organization. Network administrators have to install, evaluate, and design network systems as well.
Associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees are available in this field.
What Can I Do with a Network Administration Degree?
With a degree in network administration, graduates can find job opportunities in diverse fields and earn lucrative salary packages. They can use their skills in various settings, including multinational corporations and educational industries. The degree develops various skills in students and prepares them to take leadership roles. These professionals should have strong data analysis and computer programming skills. They are also expected to translate complex and technical languages for their audiences.
These are some of the career options for network administration degree holders.
Computer Network Architects
Computer network architects create data communication networks which include intranets, wide area networks (WANs), and local area networks (LANs). They create layouts and plans for various data communication networks while taking information security into consideration.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | State with the Highest Salary, 2019 |
| $112,690 | 5% | $115,110 | California | 18,210 |
| Virginia | $128,530 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Database Administrators
Database administrators use multiple specialized software to perform tasks, like storing and organizing data. They use this data for customer shopping records and financial information. These professionals make sure that data is secure and available to users.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | State with the Highest Salary, 2019 |
| $$93,750 | 9% | $96,110 | California | 13,530 |
| New Jersey | $115,600 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Software Developers, Systems Software
Software developers test, design, and create computer software. Some of these professionals work on developing applications that help people perform their tasks, while others work on maintaining and developing underlying systems.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | State with the Highest Salary, 2019 |
| $107,510 | 10% | $111,620 | California | 249,620 |
| California | $134,370 |
What to Expect from a Network Administration Degree?
Various colleges offer a network administration degree across the country. Some schools offer a separate degree in network administration, while others offer it as a specialization for a computer science degree. Some of the specializations offered include system analysis, software development, information security, data analytics, etc. Courses offered in these programs include foundations of cybersecurity, database operations, project management, network design, information systems management, and systems analysis.
How to Choose a Network Administration Degree?
These are some of the things you should consider before choosing a program:
- Pick an accredited program
- Consider the program format that is offered
- Check if there are any scholarships offered
- Consider the cost of the program
- Consider the location of the program
- Check if they are offering your desired specialization
- Check if it is a campus-based or online program
Network Administration Degree Admission Requirements
To earn an undergraduate degree, students should have high school transcripts and SAT scores. While those who want to get a graduate degree should have a bachelor’s degree, GRE scores, and letters of recommendation. Each school may have different requirements.