In this digital age, there is nothing more critical for a computer-driven business than ensuring network security. A small error or breach on a network can lead to significant disruption to services. These crucial factors explain why there is a rising demand for network engineers in the US and beyond and the best Associate Degrees in Network Engineering will give you the start you need in this career.
Getting an Associate Degree or network security is an excellent first step to launching your career. In this article, you will learn everything there is to know about network engineering associate degree programs. It contains a vivid explanation of the term as well as information about the job outlook, prospective earnings, career paths, and a look at the best network engineering associate degrees for online learning.
What Is Network Engineering?
Network engineering is the act of selecting and implementing the processes, activities, software, and hardware used to ensure the integrity, usability, and security of an organization’s computer network. It may also involve a combination of rules and technological designs explicitly developed to keep a computer network secure.
For network security to work as planned, a network engineer has to coordinate every aspect of an organization’s network infrastructure such that all internal and external threats are kept at bay. Network engineering also covers the measures taken to ensure that only people with security clearance can access certain data sets.
Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Network Engineering?
The best colleges where you can get an Associate Degree in Network Engineering are community colleges and tech schools that focus on in-demand technical skills and hands-on training. Where to get an Associate Degree in Network Engineering will depend on your budget, location, and learning preference.
What Schools Offer the Best Network Engineering Associate Degrees?
- Anoka Technical College
- Bay Mills Community College
- Davenport University
- Palo Alto College
- Sheridan College
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Network Engineering?
For an Associate Degree in Network Engineering, you need to have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent. It will also help if you have credits from STEM courses that you took in math, computer science, design, and technology. You may also need credit in English and other non-tech subjects according to local and regional requirements.
Each community college and school sets its own requirements for admission into the networking major. For example, some might demand a cumulative grade point average of 2.0, while some might require 2.5 or even 3.0. As for the associate degree program itself, you will need between 60 and 70 credits to graduate, which can then be applied to a network-related bachelor’s degree.
Network Engineering Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- Application form. The first step in applying for an Associate Degree in Network Engineering is to apply using an application form. These are found on the school’s website and can usually be filled out online.
- Age requirement. Most community colleges and technical schools will require students to be at least 18 years of age on the first day of class. Some schools may make an exception to this rule.
- High school diploma. Prospective students will need a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent to gain entry into a network engineer associate degree program.
- Transcripts. Most associate degree programs will require students to submit transcripts. These can be high school or college transcripts.
- Application fee. Some schools will require students to pay an application fee. This is usually under $100 and non-refundable.
How to Get an Associate Degree in Network Engineering
The best way to get a network engineering associate degree is to have previous experience with computers or IT, problem-solving skills, and a logical mind. Ideally, you should have some knowledge of basic computer science or network fundamentals going into a college for a network engineering associate degree.
Before starting a network engineering associate degree, students should have some idea of their career path and educational plan. For example, you should know if you want to enter the workforce straight after graduation or if you want to pursue higher education, such as a tech-related master’s degree. Admissions interviews will often cover these topics to ensure you are right for the program.
How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Network Engineering?
You need between 60 and 72 credits for Associate Degrees in Network Engineering. These credits are divided between general education classes and elective classes. Credits earned as part of an associate degree can be transferred to a bachelor’s degree program, which typically requires 120 credits to complete.
Network Engineering Degree Requirements
- General education classes. Students will be required to complete about 30 credits of general education classes. These include fundamentals of math, English, and social sciences. Some schools use SAT or Accuplacer test results to place students in these classes. At the associate degree level, these classes offer lower-level subjects.
- Elective classes. Each program will have a minimum number of elective classes and credits that need to be completed. Students typically have a wide range of subject choices when it comes to elective classes, and these are a great way for students to learn new skills and explore different career paths.
- GPA. Some schools or colleges may require students to maintain a certain GPA to graduate successfully.
- Internship program. The best colleges may have an internship program as part of their network engineering associate degree programs. Students will be required to successfully obtain and complete an internship to obtain their degree.
Best Network Engineering Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Anoka Technical College | Associate in Applied Science in Information Technology, Network Management and Security Specialization | Higher Learning Commission |
| Arkansas State University Three Rivers | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems | Higher Learning Commission |
| Bay Mills Community College | Associate of Applied Science Computer Information Systems | Higher Learning Commission |
| College of Southern Maryland | Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Davenport University | Associate of Applied Science in Networking Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Delaware County Community College | Associate in Applied Sciences in Information Technology, Network Engineering Specialization | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Harford Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Palo Alto College | Associate of Applied Science in Information Security and Assurance | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Sheridan College | Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of Maine at Fort Kent | Associate of Science in Cyber Security and Information Security | New England Commission of Higher Education |
Best Schools for Network Engineering: Top Network Engineering Associate Degree Programs
The best schools for network engineering associate degrees focus on in-demand and up-to-date network engineering subjects like security, computer programming, network technologies, and routing protocols.
The top network engineering associate programs will ensure graduates are ready for entry-level networking jobs or have the knowledge to transfer to a bachelor’s degree program. The best network engineering associate programs will also provide hands-on training and use real-world and collaborative projects to ensure students are well-trained.
Community colleges, technical schools, and some universities offer an Associate Degree in Network Engineering. While an Associate Degree in Network Engineering is an ideal way for newcomers to learn fundamental skills, a Bachelor’s Degree in Network Engineering is required for upper-tier jobs with higher salaries.
Best Online Network Engineering Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| American National University | Associate of Science in Network Support | Distance Education Accrediting Commission |
| Central Texas College | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science, Network Systems Administration Specialization | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Charter College | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Networking Systems | Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools |
| Dakota State University | Associate of Science in Network and Security Administration | Higher Learning Commission |
| Germanna Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Information System Technology, Networking Specialization | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Georgia Piedmont Technical College | Associate of Applied Science: Networking Specialist | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Lake Superior College | Associate of Applied Science in Network Administration and Cybersecurity | Higher Learning Commission |
| MidAmerica Nazarene University | Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security | Higher Learning Commission |
| Minnesota West Community and Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Information Security and Assurance | Higher Learning Commission |
| Montgomery County Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Networking and Cyber Security | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Best Colleges for Network Engineering: Top Online Network Engineering Associate Degree Programs
The best online schools for network engineering associate degrees are focused on providing hands-on skills training in an environment that closely resembles in-person learning. Online learning has become increasingly popular as a more flexible and safer alternative to traditional education in the wake of the pandemic.
Today, you can now find some of the best network engineering associate programs online. If you prefer a fully online Associate Degree in Network Engineering, continue reading, as we further examine the best schools for an online Associate Degree in Network Engineering.
What Is a Network Engineering Associate Degree?
An Associate Degree in Network Engineering is an undergraduate degree that is typically awarded by a community college. These network engineering programs run for about two years, either in person or online. Students can either get a direct associate degree or enroll in similar programs such as an Associate Degree in Computer Science with a concentration in network security.
The best network engineering associate degree curricula cover ethical hacking, computer programming, application security, application end-point security, network installation, and identity management. Access management, cryptography, intrusion prevention, and a wide range of other topics are also relevant to network security.
How Important Is an Associate Degree in Network Engineering?
It is very important to have an Associate Degree in Network Engineering because it trains you for entry-level network jobs or can be used as a pathway to a bachelor’s degree. The main reasons why a network engineering associate degree is important are:
- In-demand skills. Most top network engineering associate programs teach in-demand and up-to-date skills to ensure graduates are job-ready.
- Quick entry into the workforce. Associate degrees can get you in and out the door in two years and assure graduates are job-ready.
- Pathway to higher education. A network engineering associate degree can be used to transfer to a bachelor’s program in a related field. Some schools will have special rates with partner or sister schools.
- Hands-on training. Associate degree programs give students access to labs and often focus on hands-on training. The best network engineering associate degrees will offer internship and employment opportunities to alumni and students.
It is important to get an Associate Degree in Network Engineering if you are starting out your career journey and you want to explore different classes and subjects through elective courses. Associate degrees also include general education classes to ensure students have a broad education.
What Types of Associate Degree Can You Get in Network Engineering?
You can get the following types of Associate Degrees in Network Engineering:
- Associate of Science
- Associate of Applied Science
These network engineering associate degree types offer very similar curricula, with the main difference being that some universities offer Associates of Applied Science, as well as community colleges and technical schools that offer Associates of Science.
Associate of Science degrees are more geared towards students who want to further their education with bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and eventually, PhD degrees. If you want a quick path into the workforce, you should choose an Associate of Applied Science.
Is It Better to Get an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree in Network Engineering?
It’s better to get an Associate Degree in Network Engineering because it offers more flexibility. Associate degrees give students the option of entering the workforce straight out of college or transferring to higher education, such as a bachelor’s degree. With a bachelor’s degree, students will be locked into the program for about four years before they can start work. However, a bachelor’s degree is more attractive to employees.
High school graduates may be wondering which is better: an Associate or Bachelor’s in Network Engineering. While it depends on your needs, an associate will allow students to explore different areas of interest at a lower cost and in a shorter period.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Network Engineering is better for getting you a job because it is a higher form of education that will offer a more focused and specialized job. Bachelor’s degrees allow students to become experts in their field. Furthermore, some jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree.
The difference between an associate degree and a bachelor’s degree in network engineering is cost, length of study, and curricula. Associate degrees are cheaper, quicker, and offer a more generalized area of study.
What Is the Difference Between a Network Engineering Associate Degree and a Network Engineering Certificate?
The main difference between an associate degree and a certificate in network engineering is that an associate degree is a longer, more generalized program that also includes general education classes and can be used to transfer to a bachelor’s program. Network engineering certifications usually take one year to complete and are more focused on particular subjects or a specific career.
An associate degree or certificate in networking engineering will teach students valuable network engineering foundational skills. If you want to pursue higher education, then you should get a network engineering associate degree. If you are currently employed in IT and are looking to upskill, a network engineering certificate program is the better choice.
Furthermore, you should get a network engineering associate degree instead of a certificate because you will have better job opportunities as well as further education options. Associate degrees are easy to gain admission to whereas a certificate program may require previous experience in the same industry.
The choice of a network engineering certificate vs associate degree may also depend on your financial situation. Certificate programs are not only shorter, but cheaper. However, associate degree tuition can often be offset with financial aid using FAFSA.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Associate Degree in Network Engineering?
A network engineering associate degree costs about $4,230 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). To obtain an Associate in Network Engineering at a private two-year institution costs between $15,736 and $18,631. The average cost of an Associate Degree in Network Engineering at a public school is about $3,812.
Network Engineering Associate Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Network Engineering Degree
You can pay for your associate degree upfront if you have the bulk cash. However, financial aid for an Associate in Network Engineering is the most popular way to help with tuition and fees. Prospective students can fill out a FAFSA if they wish to apply for partial aid or full financial aid for an Associate in Network Engineering.
Federal direct loans and Pell grants are other popular tuition financing options for associate degrees. Each method comes with terms and conditions, so make sure you find out these terms before applying. If a federal loan is not an option, and you are wondering how to pay for an Associate in Network Engineering, you can always reach out to the admissions team and ask about scholarships.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Network Engineering Associate Degree?
It takes two years to get an Associate Degree in Network Engineering. If students opt to take additional courses or more than the minimum requirements when it comes to elective courses, it may take another year or two before they earn an associate degree.
An Associate in Network Engineering typically requires students to complete between 60 and 72 credit hours of work per semester. Because tuition is often calculated by credit hours, students will only take the required classes and should complete the program in two years.
How Hard Is It to Get an Associate Degree in Network Engineering?
An Associate Degree in Network Engineering is hard to get because the skills required are technical and can be time-consuming to learn. Completing a network engineering associate degree is so hard for students who have no technical background or computer skills.
Associate programs will go into great detail and cover advanced network concepts. Most schools require students to maintain a high GPA throughout their studies, so getting a network engineering associate degree is hard. Students may also be required to partake in and complete an internship program or collaborative projects.
Why Should You Get a Network Engineering Associate Degree?
The benefits of getting an Associate Degree in Network Engineering are:
- Flexibility. A network engineer associate degree gives students the freedom to continue their education with a bachelor’s program or to start looking for entry-level jobs.
- Low tuition. Community colleges offer cheaper tuition than four-year institutions. Even if you plan to obtain a bachelor’s degree, starting your educational path with an associate degree will save you money.
- Simple admissions. Technical schools and community colleges that offer Associate Degrees in Network Engineering have a straightforward admissions process. Students usually only need to fill out an online application form and supply any required documents such as high school transcripts.
- General education courses. General education courses will ensure students maintain a good level of English, math, and social sciences. This broad education will open up more job opportunities and improve your resume.
The main benefit of getting a second Associate Degree in Network Engineering is to learn up-to-date technologies. This is essential for any professional network engineers who have been in the industry for some time. Technology advances fast, and a second associate degree will help current employees to improve and update their tech knowledge.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Associate Degree Program in Network Engineering?
The required courses for network engineering associate degrees are general education courses and elective courses. Elective associates in network engineering courses will allow students to focus on their areas of interest. Some schools will offer specialization tracks or courses in an Associate in Network Engineering program.
It is important to check the school’s website for a catalog or course description to find a current Associate in Network Engineering course list. This will help students plan their education path and read detailed class descriptions of elective classes.
If you are looking to get a computer science degree, you should ensure to take any computer programming and computer science fundamental classes during your network engineering associate degree program. A network engineering degree will require students to take a wide range of classes such as routing, cyber security, data science, programming, and computer architecture.
Computer Security
Computer security courses in Associate Degrees in Network Engineering cover fundamental principles of security and assurance. Students will learn the basics of cryptography, risk management, and secure design principles.
Project Management for IT
Network engineering courses for an associate degree may include project management classes that focus on IT. Project management fundamentals include project planning, communication, leadership skills, and risk management. This class would suit students who want to apply for management-level roles within the network engineering industry.
Server Administration
Server administration is one of the more advanced courses required for network engineering associate degrees. Students will use hands-on training to learn advanced server administration skills to develop, maintain, analyze, and repair network systems. These classes may focus on Linux or Windows networks.
Operating Systems
Operating systems courses for network engineering associate degrees provide students with a basic overview of the different operating systems. Students may learn about the history of operating systems but typically this class will focus on problem-solving networks and servers used across different operating systems.
Networking Security
An Associate in Network Engineering course list will typically include networking security. Aspiring network engineers must understand and learn the tools used by network engineers as well as hackers such as intrusion detection systems. This class may also cover some of the basics of ethical hacking.
Continuing Education Paths for Network Engineering Associate Degree Graduates
The best path to take with a network engineering associate degree is either entry-level network engineering jobs or a bachelor’s degree. Graduates who are on a budget or who are eager to start their careers should opt for a career-focused path after an Associate Degree in Network Engineering.
Graduates who want to specialize in a certain field or learn advanced practices should advance their training with a bachelor’s degree program after obtaining a network engineering associate degree.
Related Network Engineering Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Network Engineering Associate Degree Programs
The best network engineering associate degree programs have a curriculum that covers a wide range of subjects relevant to network engineering and network security. You can expect to learn about ethical hacking, Linux and Windows OS, application security, and intrusion prevention.
If you are wondering how to choose a network engineering associate program or what to look for in a college for an Associate Degree in Network Engineering, then continue reading as we examine five key factors to consider.
Cost
Associate degree programs are cheaper than bachelor’s degree programs. However, the tuition can still be a lot for some people and if you are worried about accumulating too much debt it is important you stick within your budget. If possible, pick a college in the state where you live as in-state tuition and fees will be cheaper. You can use FAFSA or talk to the school’s admissions team to find out about financial aid.
Career Services
If you don’t plan on transferring to a bachelor’s degree program, career services will be very important to you. Top network engineering associate degree programs will have career partners that can help graduates find internships and entry-level jobs with an associate degree. Career services can also help with portfolio and resume building, among other things.
Accreditation
Students should make sure that the community colleges and technical schools they are interested in are accredited. Accreditation ensures the school is legit and approved by the board of education. Programs that are not accredited might have an out-of-date curriculum or lesser trained faculty.
Continuing Education
If your educational plan is to obtain a bachelor’s degree or a higher degree, the associate degree program must allow you to transfer to a bachelor’s program. Most colleges will allow you to transfer your credits towards a bachelor’s requirements, but you may be required to take additional classes to do so. The best network engineering associate programs will have affiliate schools that students can transfer to.
Format
Students who are looking for flexible learning options should consider schools that offer online or hybrid programs. Most online programs will run via live virtual classrooms, so students will still need to log on regularly. Some programs may offer part-time or self-learning schedules, but this is quite rare for associate degree programs.
What Is the Most Affordable Network Engineering Associate Degree?
The most affordable Associate Degrees in Network Engineering for in-person learning are:
- Associate of Applied Science Computer Information Systems at Bay Mills Community College has an average cost of $3,320 for tuition and fees per academic year.
- Associate in Applied Science in Computer Information Systems at Arkansas State University Three Rivers has an average cost of $3,458 for tuition and fees per academic year.
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Security and Assurance at Sheridan College has an average cost of $4,590 for tuition and fees per academic year.
The most affordable network engineering associate programs for online learning are:
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science, Network Systems Administration Specialization at Central Texas College has an average cost of $3,570 for tuition and fees per academic year.
- Associate of Applied Science in Information System Technology, Networking Specialization at Germanna Community College has an average cost of $4,913 for tuition and fees per academic year.
- Associate of Applied Science: Networking Specialist at Georgia Piedmont Technical College has an average cost of $3,178 for tuition and fees per academic year.
Salary and Job Outlook for Network Engineering Associate Degree Graduates
Network engineering associate degree jobs are currently in-demand. This means that an Associate in Network Engineering salary is high, even for entry-level jobs. Furthermore, Associate Degrees in Network Engineering jobs cover a wide spectrum and graduates can find work in areas like cyber security, network security, and network administration.
Network engineering jobs often require certification, such as Cisco or Microsoft certification. An associate degree program in network engineering will give students the knowledge and training to obtain these vendor certifications which will ensure a higher network engineering associate degree salary.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Network Engineering Associate Degree?
It is easy to get a job with a network engineering associate degree because jobs associated with networking engineering are in-demand. For example, information security analysts have a job outlook rate of 33 percent, according to BLS. This is much faster than average.
Network engineering associate degree holders will learn up-to-date technologies and use hands-on learning to train them for entry-level jobs right after graduation. Furthermore, associate degree programs in network engineering will help students build a strong technical portfolio and resume to make it easier to get a job in tech.
Even with just an Associate Degree in Network Engineering, graduates will easily be able to break into the IT industry. This qualification will open up plenty of opportunities across a wide range of specializations such as cyber security, cryptography, and software engineering.
What’s the Average Network Engineering Associate Degree Salary?
The average salary for an Associate Degree in Network Engineering is $71,000 per year, according to PayScale. This average salary for associates in network engineering graduates will increase as they gain experience. Furthermore, a network engineering associate average salary can be increased by completing network certifications. These can be gender-specific certifications or vendor-neutral certifications.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Network Engineering Associate Degree?
The jobs you can get with a network engineering associate degree are typically engineering or security-focused tech jobs. The highest paying network engineering jobs for associate degree holders are based in the cyber security and network security fields.
Good-paying jobs with networking engineering associate degrees are easy to find, as entry-level jobs in the security field have an average salary of about $80,000. Furthermore, a network engineering associate degree will help you get a job across various fields in tech, as associate programs often cover the fundamentals of computer science and programming.
Students who are interested in date will be able to use an Associate in Network Engineering to break into this field. Network engineering principles, such as ethical hacking and network security are important when it comes to data protection or data analysis. Jobs in this area extend past the tech industry, as most businesses and industries use data in some form or another.
Network Engineering Degree Jobs
- Network engineer
- Network specialist
- Network solutions architect
- Cyber security analyst
- Information and assurance engineer
Potential Careers With a Network Engineering Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Network Engineering?
You can make between $29,000 and $138,000 with an Associate in Network Engineering. You earn less money without an Associate Degree in Network Engineering as you will have to start out at the very bottom of the ladder or in internship roles that pay less.
You can make very good money with a network engineering associate degree. Some entry-level jobs have high starting salaries, and by working hard, learning new skills, and getting network certifications you will be able to earn promotions and earn six-figure salaries as a network engineering associate degree graduate.
Highest-Paying Network Engineering Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Network Engineering Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level Network Security Engineer | $82,666 |
| Entry-Level Cyber Security Analyst | $82,565 |
| Entry-Level Penetration Tester | $76,237 |
| Information Security Associate | $74,668 |
| Entry-Level Network Support Engineer | $65,450 |
| Entry-Level Information and Assurance Engineer | $55,093 |
| Entry-Level Cryptographer | $53,428 |
| Entry-Level Cryptanalyst | $51,826 |
| Computer User Support Specialist | $44,918 |
| Entry-Level Security Systems Administrator | $39,345 |
Best Jobs for Network Engineering Associate Degree Grads
Read below to learn about the best jobs for people with a network engineering associate degree. Keep in mind that you might need some work experience to land some of the jobs below since an associate degree is an entry-level diploma.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Network Engineering Bootcamp vs Network Engineering Associate Degree: Which Is Better?
An Associate Degree in Network Engineering is better compared to a network engineering degree if you want to pursue a university degree but don’t have the resources yet. It gives students foundational knowledge of network security, which they can use to secure entry-level positions. If you have an Associate Degree in Network Engineering, you can complete a bachelor’s, which is usually a four-year degree, in just two years.
Bootcamps are alternatives to traditional degrees and provide accelerated training that students can complete in a few months. Bootcamps don’t have general education requirements, so all your learning will pertain directly to network engineering and network security. The best network security bootcamps include Springboard and Code Fellows.
Benefits of a Network Engineering Associate Degree
- Opportunities for advancement. An Associate Degree in Network Engineering is the most flexible undergraduate degree you can get. As an associate degree holder, you can enter the job market right away or advance to a bachelor’s degree.
- Affordable tuition. For less than $10,000, you can get an Associate Degree in Network Engineering. Some community colleges also offer free education or scholarship opportunities for local students.
- Easy enrollment. Most community colleges offer open enrollment to anyone who has a high school diploma or an equivalent certificate. Schools that don’t offer open enrollment typically set low requirements for admission.
- Broad vocational education. If you want to become an independent contractor or freelance network security analyst, you will benefit from general education courses that enhance life skills and make you a more well-rounded job candidate.
Benefits of a Network Engineering Bootcamp
- Flexible learning. If you intend to hold on to your job while you learn network security, a bootcamp that offers self-paced or part-time studies might be just what you need.
- High job placement rates. The best bootcamps help between 85 and 95 percent of their graduates get at least entry-level jobs within the first few months of graduation. These high employment rates are achieved because most bootcamps have hiring partners in the tech industry who get first pick at their graduates.
- Job-specific training. If you want to chase a career in network security, you should be able to do that without worrying about unrelated general education topics. A bootcamp’s focused curriculum and emphasis on hands-on training make this possible.
- Possibility of employer reimbursement. Did you know that you can get your current employer to pay for your bootcamp education? While this doesn’t work in every company, many bootcamps make employer reimbursement an option.
Is an Associate Degree in Network Engineering Worth It?
Yes, an Associate in Network Engineering is worth it if you want to gain foundational knowledge about the field. Even if it is just the basics, you can start reaching your career goals and working your way up to a higher degree. With this qualification and some job experience, upgrading your credentials later will be easy, making an Associate in Network Engineering worth it.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, information security professionals are currently in high demand. It is expected that there will be a 33 percent increase in job openings between 2020 and 2030. It is also an incredibly versatile degree, which means you can switch to other careers in networking fields, such as a network architect.
Additional Reading About Network Engineering
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Network Engineering Associate Degree FAQ
You can get any number of tech jobs or transfer to a bachelor’s degree program with an associate degree in networking. Some jobs you can get include network security specialist, cyber security analyst, network engineer, network administrator, network architect, IT support technician, cryptographer, or cryptanalyst.
Yes, you can get a job in tech with an associate degree because tech companies are more concerned with hands-on experience and industry certifications than degrees. Note that you will have to start with entry-level employment opportunities and work your way toward achieving your career goals.
A degree in network security, information technology, cyber security, network administration, or any related field will do. You can start with an associate degree and get a bachelor’s degree later as you develop more experience.
Yes, there is a high demand for network security experts in the United States and beyond. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 33 percent rise in network security jobs between 2020 and 2030.
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