The best online network administration bachelor’s degrees provide a convenient medium for launching your career in network administration. These online network administration bachelor’s degrees have gained popularity in recent times because they are more affordable and accessible than in-person degrees.
Think of this article as your complete guide to choosing an online bachelor’s degree in network security. It contains details about the best schools in the industry and a list of some of the best network administration bachelor’s degree jobs. This piece aims to help you make an informed decision by detailing the benefits of a network administration bachelor’s degree online.
Where Can I Get a Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Online?
You can get a network administration bachelor’s degree online from American InterContinental University, American National University, Arizona State University, Bellevue University, and Colorado State University. Other options are Western Governors University, Southern New Hampshire University, Pennsylvania State World Campus, Oregon State University, and Drexel University.
What Schools Offer the Best Network Administration Bachelor Degrees?
- American InterContinental University
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Oregon State University
- Pennsylvania State World Campus
- Drexel University
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree?
The admission requirements for an online network administration bachelor’s degree is a high school diploma or an equivalent GED certificate. If you already have an associate degree in network administration, you can submit your associate degree along with an official transcript from an accredited university.
Depending on the school you are applying to, you may also need to submit your score on standardized tests. The most common tests accepted by colleges are the SAT and the ACT. The score for entrance also varies from one school to another. The school may set a minimum GPA requirement ranging from 2.5 to 3.5, with options for provisional admission.
Online Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma/GED
- Official transcript
- Standardized Tests scores
- English proficiency
- GPA above average
How to Get a Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Online
You will get a network administration bachelor’s degree after meeting your school’s graduation requirements. The best online network administration bachelor’s degrees set similar graduation requirements. These include a minimum GPA, passing core courses, and the completion of 120 credits or more. Most bachelor’s degrees in network administration are rounded up by a capstone project.
Network Administration Degree Requirements
- Minimum GPA
- 120-180 credits
- Core network administration courses
- General education requirements
- Capstone projects
Best Online Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| American InterContinental University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) Degree with a concentration in Network Administration | Higher Learning Commission |
| American National University | Bachelor’s Degree in Network Administration | Distance Education Accrediting Commission, Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools |
| Arizona State University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools |
| Bellevue University | Bachelor of Science in Systems and Network Administration | Higher Learning Commission |
| Colorado State University | Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems and Business Analytics | Higher Learning Commission |
| Drexel University | Bachelor of Science in Computing and Security Technology (BSCST) | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Oregon State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Pennsylvania State University-World Campus | Bachelor of Science in Information Sciences and Technology |
Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Bachelor of Science (BS) in Information Technologies | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Western Governors University | Bachelor’s Degree in Network Operations and Security | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
Best Schools for Network Administration: Top Online Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Programs
If you are interested in alternatives to in-person education, you can try remote learning. Many schools offer online bachelor’s degrees in network administration to online students. Below are some of the best online network administration bachelor’s degrees.
What Is an Online Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree?
An online network administration bachelor’s degree is an undergraduate degree in network administration obtained virtually rather than through on-campus learning. These elearning degrees provide flexibility and convenience to those who can’t enroll in in-person programs.
An online bachelor’s degree in network administration may last for four years, just like a traditional bachelor’s degree, or three years for an accelerated option. If you enroll in a part-time or self-paced program, completing your online bachelor’s degree may require a time commitment of up to five years.
Online vs In-Person Network Administration Degrees
You get the same education from an online network administration bachelor’s degree as an in-person bachelor’s degree in network administration. The only difference is where the classes take place. Most schools that offer the best online network administration bachelor’s degrees also have on-campus options for those with the time and resources for the full college experience.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Network Administration
- It is flexible. The primary selling point for online learning is its flexibility for people of all ages and backgrounds. It does not matter if you are a full-time worker, part-time worker, or someone who wants to travel the world and study at the same time.
- It is affordable. Another hallmark of online learning is affordability. The cost of attendance is usually lower than a traditional on-campus degree. You won’t have to pay for accommodation, lab fees, or other on-campus college expenses.
- Teaches time management. Online learning might be flexible and affordable, but it takes a high level of self-motivation and time management to complete programs at the right time. You will learn to avoid distractions and focus on your goals.
- Set your own pace. Some schools allow students to decide when they take classes, how long they learn, and when they finish the program. Learning at your own pace is flexible and makes getting the degree less overwhelming.
- It is less intimidating. Those who experience social anxiety may feel more comfortable asking questions online over chat or video conferencing platforms.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Bachelor’s Degree in Network
- Join or build a community on campus. If you opt for an in-person bachelor’s degree in network administration, you can decide to stay on campus. Through face-to-face interaction, you can build a community or join a community of like-minded people.
- It isn’t just about education. For many young people, college is a rite of passage beyond getting an education. Attending a university in person allows you to explore all the social and psychological benefits of experiencing this rite of passage. You will not feel like you are missing out.
- You can work with school software. Some of the best network administration bachelor’s degree programs involve technical projects that require heavy software. You can access this software in a proper computer lab on the university campus.
- Access to on-campus job opportunities. While attending college in person, you can look for jobs that allow you to earn and study simultaneously. You can become an IT assistant, library staff, mailroom assistant, or resident advisor.
- Structured learning environment. Not everyone finds college easy, especially fresh high school graduates. By attending in-person classes, you can benefit from the structured learning that comes with it. You are more likely to be self-motivated to attend classes in person.
What Types of Online Bachelor’s Degrees Can You Get in Network Administration?
You can get a Bachelor of Science in Network Administration, a Bachelor of Arts in Ntwork Administration, or a Bachelor of Applied Science in Network Administration. The most common option is the Bachelor of Science in Network Administration.
Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Network Administration?
It is better to get a Bachelor of Science in Network Administration if you prefer science and engineering. A Bachelor of Science is more technical and heavier in math and physics. Suppose you’re more into the humanities side of things.
In that case, a Bachelor of Arts in Network Security covers core network security subjects along with liberal arts, humanities, social science, and similar fields. It teaches you communication, interpersonal, and technical skills. Regardless of whether you choose a bachelor of science versus a bachelor of arts, you’ll be well prepared for employment in this field.
How Much Does a Network Administration Degree Cost?
A network administration bachelor’s degree costs about $16,647 for tuition. According to the latest report from the National Center for Education Statistics, this is an average cost across all institutions. The fees and other expenses that make up the cost of attendance vary by school and state. Make sure you use a tuition estimate calculator provided by the school to determine your cost of attendance.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Online?
It typically takes four years to get a network administration bachelor’s degree online. However, an accelerated degree program could take three to three and a half years to complete. At the same time, those in part-time programs could take up to five years to complete a bachelor’s degree. If you opt for a self-paced degree that comes with more flexibility, you will have more control over when you graduate.
Are Online Bachelor’s Degrees Respected?
Yes, online bachelor’s degrees are respected in the United States and other parts of the world. Prospective employers do not care if you got your degree online or in person. You must ensure your degree is from a nationally accredited university with distance learning accreditation.
Is Network Administration Hard to Learn Online?
No, network administration is not hard to learn online, especially if you enjoy working with computers. If you have already dabbled in computer programming and are interested in working with computer servers, you won’t find it difficult to learn online. Although there will be a need for hands-on experiments, there are ways to do this online. The main challenge will be your own self-motivation and time management skills.
Network Administration Bootcamp vs Online Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree: Which Is Better?
If you’re wondering if a network administration bachelor’s degree is better than a network administration bootcamp, consider the top benefits of each program below. Each program has its own set of strengths and weaknesses. The right path for you will depend on your resources and long-term career goals.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree
- Reputable. Bachelor’s degrees have respect in the marketplace, so earning an undergraduate degree could add value to your resume.
- High compensation. Having a bachelor’s degree increases your chances of having a higher annual salary and can diversify your career prospects.
- Internships. Bachelor’s degree students often earn practical experience during their studies through internships. Internships help to develop up-to-date job skills and provide networking opportunities.
- Job opportunities. A bachelor’s degree opens up a variety of career opportunities. Many companies require potential candidates to have a bachelor’s degree before applying for a network administrator position.
- Further your education. Network administration graduates have the opportunity to further their careers with additional training and more advanced education programs such as master’s or doctorate degrees.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Network Administration Bootcamp
- Short-term. Coding bootcamps are usually short-term, lasting between six and 12 months. If you’re not interested in pursuing a four-year degree, you should consider a network administration bootcamp.
- Up-to-date curriculum. Coding bootcamps are known for having up-to-date curricula. This allows students to develop a relevant skill set for the real world.
- Hands-on experience. Networking bootcamps offer a practical approach. You will focus on the practice instead of spending hours on theory. Some also include an internship period.
- Employment opportunities. Coding bootcamps usually have hiring partners to help you find a job after graduation. You will often receive career services like career coaching, resume, and interview preparation.
- Flexibility. One of the most significant advantages of bootcamps is that they offer flexibility. This includes full-time and part-time modalities, as well as flexible schedules.
Why You Should Get a Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Online?
You should get a network administration bachelor’s degree online because it is a convenient way to get an education without changing your routine. Online network administration degrees aren’t less valuable than degrees obtained traditionally.
If money is tight, you can still hold on to your job while getting your bachelor’s degree from an affordable online school or you can apply for financial aid. Prospective employers do not care if you learn on-campus or online as long as you have the required skillset.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Bachelor’s Degree Program in Network Administration?
Education courses you can take in an online bachelor’s degree program in network administration include the basics of information technology, operating systems administration, types of network security, database architecture, and cloud computing in network administration. Look for a comprehensive curriculum in your school search.
Basics of Information Technology
The best online network administration bachelor’s degrees teach information technology, a vital part of information systems. The course introduces operating systems and networking, software development, computer organization, and computer ethics.
Operating Systems Administration
Knowing how to manage multiple operating systems will make your work in network administration more manageable. Individual organizations run their networks on different operating systems like Unix, Microsoft Windows, macOS, and Linux. You will learn foundational skills on how these operating systems work and how to perform your tasks as a network administrator on each option.
Types of Network Security
Network security is another crucial aspect of network administration because it ensures that an organization’s system remains protected from external and internal attacks. The common types of network security are application security, firewall installation, DDoS mitigation, access control, and network segmentation.
Database Architecture
Databases are virtual warehouses that house data for network administration and other purposes within an organization. You’ll learn how traditional database architecture works, how to secure it, and how to create your database.
Cloud Computing in Network Administration
Cloud computing has become the gold standard for most organizations’ data storage and computing power. This is because it provides on-demand supply, saves cost and space, and provides backups. A network administrator needs to understand how cloud computing works and how to manipulate cloud systems.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
The most common continuing education path for an online network administration bachelor’s degree graduate is a master’s degree in network administration, network security, information technology, computer science, or related fields. Choosing to specialize in one aspect of network administration through a master’s degree program is a good way to increase your career potential.
After securing your master’s degree, the next step would be a doctorate degree. However, a few advanced professional certifications in network administration will be more than enough to boost your resume.
Related Online Network Administration Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Online Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Programs
In the best online network administration bachelor’s degree programs, you should look for accreditation, flexibility, curriculum strength, delivery method, cost, and outcomes. Find out what the online school offers and see if it matches your career path.
Accreditation
Every university has to be accredited for the degree to be valid in the United States. If the college or university isn’t accredited, you may not get any professional recognition or advance to a master’s degree in network administration. You should also look out for programmatic accreditation for network administration.
Curriculum Strength
Think about what you’ll be learning during the program and ensure it covers the foundations of information technology, types of network security, cloud computing, and other core aspects of network administration. If you have a specialization in mind, find out if the school offers your specialization options or at least has some of the courses that will help you succeed.
Delivery Method
Not all accessible online degrees are delivered 100 percent online. Some are hybrid degrees that require some face-to-face attendance. If the degree is 100 percent online, you should find out if the program is synchronous or asynchronous. Ensure you have access to instructors during interactive sessions or office hours.
Cost
Cost is important when exploring online programs. While online degrees are usually more affordable than in-person degrees, some online schools are more expensive than others. Consider what you can afford and if the school offers financial aid or scholarships.
Outcomes
Most schools list their outcomes to motivate prospective students. These outcomes could be job placement rates, graduation and retention rate, or post-graduation average salary. Schools that exhibit successful outcomes better your chances of success once you’ve completed your degree.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree?
The most affordable online network administration bachelor’s degree is the Bachelor’s Degree in Network Operations and Security from Western Governors University. This degree costs about $3,625 per six-month term. According to the National Center for Education, the school’s annual tuition costs about $7,452.
Can I Get a Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Online for Free?
No, you can’t get a network administration bachelor’s degree online for free. However, you may find college scholarships or apply for financial aid, which can significantly or fully cover the cost of your degree program. If your primary aim is to learn network administration and not just to get a bachelor’s degree, there are other options you can explore, like free online classes.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
Network administration bachelor’s degree jobs can be highly lucrative. You can start applying for your desired job with your degree from the best online network administration bachelor’s degree programs.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with a network administration bachelor’s degree because the field is versatile. There are many technology jobs open to you after securing your bachelor’s degree. With this degree, there are also options you could explore outside of the tech industry.
As a bachelor’s degree holder with no experience, you can increase your chances of getting a job by applying for entry-level positions first. Getting entry-level certifications in network administration will also increase your chances.
What’s the Average Online Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Salary?
The average online network administration bachelor’s degree-holder salary is $80,600, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The salary ranges from $34,500 to $106,000, depending on your professional experience, location, industry, and job description. The highest paying states for network administrators with a bachelor’s degree are California, Alaska, Washington, and New Jersey.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree?
Jobs you can get with an online network administration bachelor’s degree include network administrator, systems analyst, network analyst, computer network architect, database administrator, information technology analyst, or network security engineer. You will be able to explore any field in information technology you choose.
Bachelor’s Degree Jobs
- Computer Network Architect
- Network Security Engineer
- Information Technology Analysis
- Database Administration
- Network Administrator
Potential Careers With an Online Network Administration Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree?
You can make between $80,600 and $120,520 with your bachelor’s degree in network administration. Entry-level bachelor’s degree graduates earn less than those with more years of experience. Your location, specialization, and employment plan will also influence your annual wage.
Highest-Paying Online Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Computer Network Architect | $120,520 |
| Network Security Engineer | $102,600 |
| Information Technology Analysis | $99,270 |
| Database Administration | $98,860 |
| Network Administrator | $80,600 |
Best Jobs for Online Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for online network administration bachelor’s degree graduates are network administration, computer network architects, network security engineers, information technology analysts, and database administration.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Online Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online network administration bachelor’s degree is worth it for anyone who wants to officially launch their career in network administration. While there are many other ways to learn network administration, an online bachelor’s degree comes with industry recognition. This will give your resume a significant boost and make it easier to get higher-paying roles.
A bachelor’s degree in network administration is also the pathway to more advanced degrees like a master’s degree in network administration. Most importantly, getting your degree online ensures that you save money, learn on your own schedule, and are still able to attend to your current obligations.
Additional Reading About Network Administration
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Online Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
A network administrator needs a bachelor’s degree in network administration, computer science, information technology, or a related field. Some employers may be willing to give you a chance in entry-level positions if you have an associate degree or bootcamp certificate of completion.
An entry-level network administrator is responsible for installing, maintaining, and ensuring the smooth operation of an organization’s network system. They may also need to take inventory of damaged hardware, replace it, and ensure that the hardware is compatible with the software.
Yes, a network administrator needs to know how to program. This is why the best online bachelor’s degree in network administration includes courses on programming. You don’t need to be a master of programming languages, but you need to understand the key concepts of programming.
To become a network administrator with no experience, you should get an IT certification and create a project portfolio. You may get an entry-level position if you can prove to prospective employers that you have the skills required to oversee their networks.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
