Whether it’s a career in systems management, network engineering, or network design, an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration will help you get started. Networking professionals with the best Associate Degrees in Systems and Network Administration work across various industries, including information technology and business.
This article will help you find the best systems and network administration associate degree programs and the best jobs these degrees can get you. The lists include both online and in-person programs and the different financing options available. Read below to learn more about the best systems and network administration associate degrees.
What Is Systems & Network Administration?
Systems and network administration is an information technology (IT) field that deals with software and hardware maintenance, troubleshooting, and support. Professionals in this field work with data communication systems, computer systems, network segments, and operating systems.
Depending on the company you work for, your administration duties can include tech support, cyber security, database administration, and business system management.
Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Systems & Network Administration?
The best colleges where you can get an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration include Houston Community College, Capital Community College, and Liberty University. You can get a systems and network administration associate degree online or in an in-person program.
If you’re wondering where to get an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration, check local community colleges near you. A degree in systems and network administration is a great choice if you want to become a network administrator.
What Schools Offer the Best Systems & Network Administration Associate Degrees?
- ASA College
- Brookdale Community College
- Capital Community College
- Chandler-Gilbert Community College
- Community College of Philadelphia
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Systems & Network Administration?
The admission requirements for an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration are a high school diploma or GED, standardized test scores, and an official transcript. However, Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration requirements will vary depending on the school.
Systems and network administration associate degree requirements can also include a cover letter or letters of recommendation. The required languages for systems and network administration are Perl, Python, and Node.js, though this also varies depending on the school and its requirements for an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration.
Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalency
- Official transcripts
- SAT scores
- Other test requirements
- Minimum GPA (varies by school)
- Personal essay
- Letter of recommendation
- Programming language knowledge
How to Get an Associate Degree in Systems & Network Administration
You can get a systems and network administration associate degree by applying for your top schools. If you want to get an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration, you should narrow down the programs you’re interested in and start applying. Going to college for a systems and network administration associate degree is a great choice.
The best way to get a systems and network administration associate degree is in-person, but online programs are also helpful. Something you should know before starting a systems and network administration associate degree is that you need basic networking and programming knowledge.
How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Systems & Network Administration?
You need around 60 credits for an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration. The location and length of your program affect how many credits are required for an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration. If you choose an online degree, it might take less time than an in-person program.
Systems & Network Administration Degree Requirements
- Cyber Security
- Programming
- Network Administration
- Database Administration
- Information Systems
Best Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| ASA College | Associate of Applied Science in Network Administration and Security | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Brookdale Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Network Information Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Capital Community College | Associate of Science in Computer Networking | The New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Chandler-Gilbert Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Network and Systems Administration | Higher Learning Commission |
| Community College of Philadelphia | Associate of Applied Science in Network Administration | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Dakota State University | Associate of Science in Network and Security Administration | Higher Learning Commission |
| Houston Community College | Associate of Science in Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Mesa Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Network and Systems Administration | Higher Learning Commission |
| Oakland Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems, Information Technology Support | Higher Learning Commission |
| Saint Paul College | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Networking Engineering | Higher Learning Commission |
Best Schools for Systems & Network Administration: Top Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree Programs
The best schools with the top systems and network administration associate degree programs are listed below. The best associate degree programs for systems and network administration can help you start a career in information systems and similar tech fields. If you’re looking for the best schools for an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration, refer to this list.
Below are the best systems and network administration associate degree programs. You can find the best schools for a systems and network administration associate degree as well as the best associate degree programs for systems and network administration. These will help you enter the field and learn more about information technology.
Best Online Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Central Texas College | Associate of Applied Science, Network Systems Administrator | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Daytona State College | Associate of Science in Computer Information Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| DeVry University | Associate Degree in Network Systems Administration | Higher Learning Commission |
| Liberty University | Associate of Arts in Information Systems | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Purdue University Global | Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Rasmussen University | Associate Degree in Network Systems Administration | Higher Learning Commission |
| Regent University | Associate of Science in Information Systems | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| South College | Associate of Science in Network Administration and Security | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Association of Science in Information Technologies | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| York County Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology | New England Commission of Higher Education |
Best Colleges for Systems & Network Administration: Top Online Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree Programs
Online systems and network administration programs are a great option for individuals with busy schedules or those who are unable to attend in-person courses. Below are the best colleges that provide online systems and network administration associate degree programs.
What Is a Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree?
An Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration is an educational program that can teach you subjects such as network engineering and computer hardware. A systems and network administration associate degree is a two-year degree that many people use as a stepping stone to start a career in tech.
How Important Is an Associate Degree in Systems & Network Administration?
An Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration is important because it can teach you the foundational skills you need to begin your career. Other reasons why a network administration associate degree is important include meeting other people in your field and gaining relevant industry experience.
Certifications are important for a systems and network administration associate degree because they can help you get a job when you graduate. Cisco Certified Network Associate, Microsoft Certified Administrator, and CompTIA Network+ are just a few examples of network administration certifications.
What Types of Associate Degrees Can You Get in Systems & Network Administration?
You can get the following types of degrees in systems and network administration:
- Associate of Science in Information Systems
- Associate of Arts in Information Systems
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Networking
- Associate of Applied Science in Network Security
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology
- Associate Degree in Network Systems Administration
The type of Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration that you should get depends on your career goals. For example, if you want to work in cyber security, you should get an Associate Degree in Network Security. There are many systems and network administration associate degree types, so choose one that fits your goals.
Is It Better to Get an Associate of Science or Associate of Applied Science in Systems & Network Administration?
In general, it is better to get an Associate of Applied Science in Systems and Network Administration. This is because the curriculum is more hands-on than with an Associate of Science. However, an Associate of Science in Systems and Network Administration is much better than no degree. Each one will help you get a job.
What Is the Difference Between a Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree and a Systems & Network Administration Certificate?
The main difference between a systems and network administration associate degree and a systems and network administration certificate is that a degree is a better stepping stone towards higher education. If you want to make a choice between an associate degree or certificate in systems and network administration, try to figure out your future path.
If you want to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Systems and Network Administration one day, you should opt for an associate degree first. However, a certificate might be enough to land you an entry-level job. Even if you have a certificate, though, you might need a degree in systems and network administration to get a high-paying job.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Associate Degree in Systems & Network Administration?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, earning an associate degree costs $16,445 per year. The systems and network administration associate degree cost varies depending on where you live and how many courses you’re taking. The average cost of an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration is $32,890, double the number above.
Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Systems & Network Administration Degree
The financial aid for an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration can include scholarships, grants, loans, and FAFSA funding. Many schools offer full financial aid for an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration if you have a high GPA.
If you’re wondering how to pay for an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration, check to see what options are available at your preferred school.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree?
It takes two years to get an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration. The Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration length depends on how many courses you take. If you’re wondering how long it takes to get an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration, check how many credits you need and how many you will take at once.
How Hard Is It to Get an Associate Degree in Systems & Network Administration?
An Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration is easy to get if you already have some tech knowledge. However, getting a systems administration associate degree is hard if you’re completely new to the industry. It’s hard because there are many technical topics that you’ll need to learn hands-on.
Why Should You Get a Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree?
The benefits of getting an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration are that you learn hands-on skills and meet like-minded people in the same field as you. One of the top benefits of an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration is that you will start your education and get ready for a job.
The reasons for getting a second Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration are that you can choose a different specialization and earn different skills. However, it might be more beneficial to pursue a bachelor’s degree instead.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Associate Degree Program in Systems & Network Administration?
The required courses for a systems and network administration associate degree include ethical hacking, programming, and computer hardware. Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration courses will vary by program.
Required courses for an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration usually include computer hardware courses, network engineering courses, and a couple of electives of your choice. Read below to see an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration course list.
Introduction to Programming
This is one of the first courses that students might encounter in their classes required for a systems and network administration major for an associate degree. You will learn basic programming languages like JavaScript and Python to prepare you for higher-level cyber security best practices.
Database Fundamentals
Database classes are some of the main courses you might need to take in a computer science degree. Students will learn about database administration skills like data modeling and database design.
Computer Hardware
Systems and network administration courses for an associate degree will usually include courses about computer hardware. A good understanding of how computers work is valuable for network engineering. In this course, you will learn about IT hardware skills and how to apply them.
Network Infrastructure
Learning network infrastructure is a vital part of a systems and network administration associate degree curriculum. In this course, you will learn about network servers and their design. You will also learn how to budget and plan network infrastructure for a service.
Ethical Hacking
If you want to get a job in ethical hacking after earning your Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration, this is an important course to take. You will learn cyber security skills like penetration testing and cryptography.
Continuing Education Paths for Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree Graduates
The best path to take with a systems and network administration associate degree is to get a bachelor’s degree later on. This is because most network administration jobs will require a higher degree. The best path after an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration is to continue your education.
Related Systems & Network Administration Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree Programs
The best systems and network administration associate degree programs have a strong curriculum, high-quality faculty, and a flexible schedule. Learning how to choose a systems and network administration associate degree can be difficult.
What should you expect from systems and network administration associate degree? You can expect a healthy level of challenge, but this depends on the school you choose. If you want to know what to look for in a college for an Associate Degree in Network Administration, read the list below.
Faculty Credentials
If you want to become an expert in network administration, you will need to learn from the best. Before you apply for your preferred program, you should look up who your teachers and professors will be. Check to see if they have industry experience that they can teach you.
Accelerated Degree Options
An accelerated associate degree can help you save time in your education pathway, though they are hard to find. You should look at accelerated options at the schools you are considering. It could help you save a few months and learn systems and network administration more quickly.
Flexibility and Format
When deciding which Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration to pursue, you should consider whether you want an online option. Many schools offer hybrid or online degrees, which is a good choice if you prefer studying from home. If you work full-time or part-time, a flexible online program is a great option.
Student to Faculty Ratio
Having a low student to faculty ratio is important with hands-on degrees. This is because some students might need more attention than others, and the faculty should have the time to attend to them. You can check the National Center of Education Statistics to learn about the student-to-faculty ratio for your school.
Cost
When choosing which systems and network administration degree to take, you should consider the cost. This is one of the most important factors because you could end up in debt if you don’t choose a program that suits your financial situation. Find a school with a low cost per credit, and see if it has financial aid options as well.
What Is the Most Affordable Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree?
The most affordable Associate Degrees in Systems and Network Administration are from Daytona State College, Oakland Community College, and Mesa Community College. You should check colleges in your area to find more affordable systems and network administration associate degree programs.
Salary and Job Outlook for Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree Graduates
The best systems and network administration associate degree jobs include many entry-level positions where you can start your career. Read below to learn more about your potential Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration salary and available jobs.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree?
It is hard to get a job with a systems and network administration associate degree because most job openings ask for at least a bachelor’s degree. Instead of looking for a job right away, try seeking internships or apprenticeships.
Unless you already have experience in the field, it is quite hard to get a job with an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration. It’s best to use your associate degree credits to pursue a bachelor’s degree or even master’s degree instead.
What’s the Average Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree Salary?
The average salary for an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration is about $52,000 per year, according to PayScale. If you get a higher degree, you will most likely learn more than this. The average salary for associate in systems and network administration depends on your job description, location, and level of education.
The typical annual salary for someone who holds an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration will also depend on your level of education. Any additional courses or certifications will help you earn a higher median annual salary.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree?
The jobs you can get with a systems and network administration associate degree are database administration jobs, computer hardware jobs, and systems administration jobs. If you have programming experience or other tech skills, you can expand your job search.
The highest-paying systems and network administration jobs for associate degree holders will usually be management positions, but this depends on the company and your experience. You can find lots of employment options and jobs with a systems and network administration associate degree.
Systems & Network Administration Degree Jobs
- Network Technician
- Computer Programmer
- Network Engineer
- IT Field Service Technician
- Database Administrator
Potential Careers With a Systems & Network Administration Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Systems & Network Administration?
You can make between $60,000 and $100,000 per year with an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration. As you move up the career ladder, your compensation rate will increase, and higher-paying jobs will ask for more education and experience.
The average money that systems and network administration majors make out of college will be on the lower side. This is because the available jobs are usually hourly positions or entry-level jobs, which pay less than higher-level jobs. If you want to make more money with an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration, you should level up your education.
Highest-Paying Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Database Administrator | $98,860 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $93,730 |
| Computer Programmer | $89,190 |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrator | $84,810 |
| Computer Network Support Specialist | $61,755 |
Best Jobs for Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree Grads
The best jobs for systems and network administration associate degree grads are listed below. Some of them may require you to pursue extra education, but an associate degree may be enough if you already have some experience in the field. Read below to learn more about the best jobs for an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Systems & Network Administration Bootcamp vs Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree: Which Is Better?
An Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration is better compared to a network administration bootcamp because it is longer and therefore has the space to teach you new skills. When comparing a systems and network administration degree vs bootcamp, you should look at the price, length, and curriculum.
Both coding bootcamps and associate degrees prepare you for an entry-level career in systems and network administration. A coding bootcamp is a short tech training program that teaches you in-demand job market skills and gets you job-ready in a few months. Read below to learn more about the difference between an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration vs bootcamp.
Benefits of a Systems and Network Administration Associate Degree
- Transferrable credits. An associate degree allows you to transfer your credits into a bachelor’s program and complete a four-year undergraduate education.
- Diverse curriculum. You can enter the systems and networking field with a degree that allows you to learn various tech subjects. You can learn database management, cyber security, network troubleshooting, and tech support.
- Prepare for industry certifications. Most associate programs prepare you for major industry certification exams, including Cisco, Microsoft, Linux, and VMware.
- Meets the standard requirements. This education path is widely accepted by employers for entry-level positions.
- General education. You will gain education in several non-tech fields including humanities, math, and business.
Benefits of a Systems and Network Administration Bootcamp
- Affordable education. Bootcamps are cheaper alternatives to a traditional college degree that train you for the same entry-level positions.
- Shorter commitment. Most bootcamp courses last a few weeks to a few months and provide career-specific training.
- Industry-relevant training. A systems and network administration bootcamp will provide hands-on training in industry-relevant skills including network troubleshooting, network security, and software upgrades.
- Job placement services. Bootcamps also offer extensive job placement services including networking opportunities, interview prep, and resume critiques. Some bootcamps also offer a job guarantee, where you get a tuition refund if you fail to get a job within 60 days of graduation.
- Widely accepted. The tech market is now accepting bootcamp graduates. Today bootcamp graduates work at lucrative companies including Microsoft, Google, and Amazon.
Is an Associate Degree in Systems & Network Administration Worth It?
Yes, an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration is worth it if you want to start a career in network or database administration. If you’re wondering “Is a systems and network administration worth it?” the answer is yes.
You should get an Associate Degree in Systems and Network Administration if you want to become a systems administrator or a network administrator. This degree program is also a good option for those looking to pursue tech support, cyber security, and data industries. If you’re interested in starting a tech career, a systems and network administration degree is worth it.
Additional Reading About Systems & Network Administration
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Systems & Network Administration Associate Degree FAQ
You can get several entry-level tech jobs with an associate degree in systems and network administration. These roles include IT support specialists, network administrators, system analysts, and database administrators.
Yes, getting an associate degree in systems and network administration is worth it. The program provides you with several in-demand skills used across many jobs. You can pursue a career in cyber security, network management, and database management, depending on your career interests.
A systems and network administration associate degree offers courses in network troubleshooting, software implementation, computer system security, and Cisco systems.
You can transfer to a cyber security, data analytics, software development, network administration, or cloud computing bachelor’s program with the credits you earn in an associate degree program.
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