2026 Best Online Network Administration Degrees
Discover the best network administration online degree programs based on authentic student feedback.
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- 90,000+ Verified Student Reviews
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A network administration online bachelor's degree builds the technical skills needed to manage, secure, and troubleshoot computer networks. Verified student reviews show how well each program supports and prepares them for the field.
Key Takeaways:
- The University of Arizona leads in both overall rating and recommendations. However, its $15,750 annual tuition is the second highest among the ranked schools.
- Columbia Southern University offers the strongest combination of affordability and student satisfaction.
- Career-outcome comparisons are very limited when looking at networking administration degrees online. Median salary data in this field is unavailable for 11 of the 13 programs at these schools. As a result, the ranking offers a much clearer comparison of tuition and student sentiment.
How We Rank "Best" Schools
The OnlineU research team verifies that only institutionally accredited schools offering at least one fully online bachelor's in network administration degree make the cut. On top of that, schools must also have at least five verified student reviews and an aggregate rating of 2.5+ on a five-point scale. While some of our rankings include partner schools, every school is evaluated using the exact same criteria.
We prioritize the most relevant student feedback by starting with reviews tied to the exact program and degree level. If too few bachelor's in network administration qualify, we gradually expand the review pool to include related programs or other degree levels, while preserving the most program-specific results at the top of the list. This process continues until all eligible review data has been considered.
We also manually research all tuition rates and include median earnings for network administration majors five years after graduation when that data is available. By presenting the most complete data available, we aim to give you an honest, well-rounded picture of each program.
2026 Best Online Network Administration Degrees
| Rank | School | Review Rating | Recommendation | 96% | $15,750 | N/A |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia Southern University | 3.97 / 5 | 80% | $8,340 | N/A | ||
| Arizona State University, Online | 3.93 / 5 | 80% | $17,400 | N/A | ||
| Abilene Christian University | 3.76 / 5 | 95% | $11,850 | N/A | ||
| Purdue Global | 3.74 / 5 | 86% | $11,130 | N/A | ||
| Bellevue University | 3.38 / 5 | 71% | $13,770 | $76,797 | ||
| Colorado Christian University | 3.24 / 5 | 67% | $14,820 | N/A | ||
| Western Governors University | 2.99 / 5 | 54% | 55% | $9,900 | $102,809 | |
| Liberty University | 2.92 / 5 | 50% | $11,700 | N/A | ||
| Colorado State University Global | 2.81 / 5 | 60% | $11,250 | N/A | ||
| National American University Online | 2.67 / 5 | 42% | $9,690 | N/A | ||
| DeVry University | 2.64 / 5 | 45% | $15,420 | N/A |
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- UA hosts the #1 best-reviewed bachelor's program in this field currently, according to the students who've been there.
- The STEM-designated BAS covers both offensive and defensive cyber operations.
- The program holds NSA designation as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations, a distinction held by only 24 programs nationwide.
- A cloud-based virtual learning environment provides preconfigured cyber tools without requiring high-performance hardware.
Student Review Summary: Reviews describe University of Arizona as a large, opportunity-rich campus where satisfaction often depends on how well students navigate its size. Many praise accessible professors, strong research and internship options, career preparation, and especially supportive faculty in science, business, health, and education-related areas. Students frequently mention a beautiful campus, intense school spirit, and an active social scene that helps build community. Less favorable feedback centers on inconsistent advising, disorganized registration or financial aid, rising tuition, and uneven teaching quality across departments. Several note large introductory classes, party culture, limited support in some nontechnical fields, and Tucson feeling either vibrant or too quiet, depending on expectations.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 8,959 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $15,750
- Out-of-State Tuition: $15,750
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 68%
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- This online bachelor's program combines network administration with broader information technology and business systems.
- Students develop skills in maintaining, securing, and troubleshooting organizational technology infrastructure. The curriculum covers the hardware, software, operating systems, and databases that support computer networks. Network security is integrated with systems administration and technology management.
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray a largely favorable online experience centered on flexibility, affordability, and strong support for working adults, parents, and military members. Students frequently praise responsive advisors, included textbooks, generous transfer-credit evaluations, and career gains such as promotions, salary growth, and job access. Many stress that coursework is not easy; it is heavily writing-based, research intensive, and requires self-discipline, APA proficiency, and time management. Negative reviews focus on slow refunds or disbursements, inconsistent advising, weak or generic instructor feedback, technical and proctoring frustrations, and recurring concerns that national accreditation limited transferability, graduate-school options, or employer recognition for some fields.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 12,213 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $8,340
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,340
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 33%
- Retention Rate: 71%
- Institution Type: For-Profit
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- This ABET-accredited program pairs an information technology degree with a networking concentration.
- Networking is taught within a broader systems-focused IT curriculum.
- Online students have access to university research opportunities and students can pursue internships through ASU’s online ecosystem.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Arizona State University Online are broadly positive, with many describing flexible scheduling, a user-friendly portal, and responsive professors, advisors, and support staff that made finishing school possible while working full time, raising children, serving in the military, or relocating often. Students especially value clear course organization, equal online and on-campus curriculum, and abundant resources such as tutoring, tech help, and career support. Criticism centers on high tuition and extra fees, uneven instructor quality, delayed grading or email responses, advising mistakes that extended time to completion, and some programs feeling overly compressed, lecture-heavy, or insufficiently connected to direct job outcomes.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 57,610 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $17,400
- Out-of-State Tuition: $17,400
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 68%
- Retention Rate: 93%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- ACU aligns coursework with CompTIA, Cisco, EC-Council, and PMP certifications.
- Online students choose General, Application Development, or Information Assurance concentrations.
- Degree requirements include nine to 15 credit hours of Bible coursework.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Abilene Christian University are largely positive, driven by strong ratings and near-universal recommendations. Many describe unusually personal faculty relationships, with professors offering mentorship, career references, meals at home, research access, prayer, and support that continues after graduation. Small classes, a faith-centered atmosphere, and flexible online formats are recurring strengths, along with advising, career preparation, and practical experiences such as internships and conference opportunities. Criticism centers on high cost, uneven financial aid, limited campus social options, inconsistent professor engagement, registration and internship-placement frustrations, restrictive religious requirements, and concerns that some courses or policies feel outdated or transfer poorly.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 34 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $11,850
- Out-of-State Tuition: $11,850
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 59%
- Retention Rate: 81%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- This online analytics degree offers a concentration specifically in network administration.
- The curriculum covers Hadoop, Hive, Pig, Spark, MongoDB, NoSQL, and MapReduce.
- Prior IT certifications may qualify for college credit.
2 Student Reviews for Bachelor's in Network Administration Degrees
I enjoyed going to this university online which taught me so much experience and information that I needed; therefore, the education experience that was taught gave me inspiration to learn much as I can. My education advisor were helpful and understanding... Read More
I got 8 more classes to go and will be done by OCT 2020, but if I want to push it, I'll graduate by AUG 2020. Reading some of the reviews here, I've read issues with tuition/expenses, enrollment, transfer credits, etc, etc. I can tell you that you can... Read More
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Purdue Global are sharply divided, with ratings skewing negative because administrative failures overshadow otherwise solid academic experiences. Positive reviewers consistently praise flexible scheduling for working adults, supportive advisers, responsive professors, rigorous writing-heavy coursework, and useful tools such as tutoring, seminars, career resources, and prior-learning credit options that accelerate completion. Negative reviewers overwhelmingly cite financial aid confusion, shifting loan or billing information, delayed disbursements, poor transcript handling, surprise fees, and inconsistent guidance from staff. Several also describe weak advising, uneven instructor quality, limited career outcomes, and difficulty with clinical or placement support. The strongest takeaway is a school experience that often depends on back-end administration, not classroom quality.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 31,065 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $11,130
- Out-of-State Tuition: $11,130
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 50%
- Retention Rate: 57%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Bellevue University are broadly positive, but sharply divided. Many describe flexible online learning, relevant coursework, and rigorous assignments that fit full-time work, military service, and family life. Positive reviewers often highlight responsive professors, practical simulations, career-aligned projects, strong peer interaction, and increased confidence, writing, and advancement after graduation. The most serious complaints focus on advising and administrative breakdowns: frequent advisor turnover, financial aid errors, transcript and transfer-credit problems, wrong enrollments, billing issues, and poor follow-through. Several also criticize discussion-board-heavy courses, expensive tuition or books, and required general courses seen as irrelevant, burdensome, or politically biased.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.1 Student Review for Bachelor's in Network Administration Degrees
The college was a pleasure to attend. The teachers and staff were there to make sure you succeeded. The course material was current and relevant to my career path.
- Online Enrollment: 10,519 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $13,770
- Out-of-State Tuition: $13,770
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $76,797
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 33%
- Retention Rate: 58%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews describe a school that many appreciate for its overt Christian framework, flexible online and hybrid formats, small classes, and professors who are often responsive, rigorous, and personally invested. Students frequently mention accelerated courses, heavy reading, weekly papers, discussion boards, and strong preparation for work or further study. The most persistent complaints center on cost, limited transferability of some credits, and administrative inconsistency, especially around financial aid, billing, withdrawals, and communication. Several negative reviews also cite feeling pressured during enrollment, unsupported during personal crises, dissatisfied with online instruction, or uncomfortable with the school’s culture and required faith-based expectations.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 4,593 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $14,820
- Out-of-State Tuition: $14,820
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 64%
- Retention Rate: 84%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray a sharply divided but overall favorable experience shaped by fit. Many praise the flexible, self-paced format for working adults, saying they finished quickly, balanced jobs and family, and saved substantial money because tuition is flat-rate and materials are included. Positive reviewers also credit mentors, webinars, and competency-based progression with helping them advance careers, gain raises, or move into new roles. Criticism centers on mandatory mentor calls, limited direct teaching, and a self-teaching model that can feel isolating. The strongest complaints target inconsistent third-party grading, unclear rubrics, transfer and GPA limitations, technical/proctoring issues, and abrupt policy or fieldwork requirements.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.2 Student Reviews for Bachelor's in Network Administration Degrees
The college is exceptional for those who want to go at their own pace in a fully-online setting. One can complete the entire degree in one term if they desire. The largest downside to the college is their mentor system. Each student has a mentor, but... Read More
I started at WGU on April 1, 2017. Competancy based education is not for everyone, but in my case it works very well. For people that have active lifestyles and endeavors that must be completed during prime time, being able to work at your own pace during... Read More
- Online Enrollment: 155,088 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: N/A
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,658
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 46%
- Retention Rate: 65%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews describe a highly flexible online experience that works best for self-directed, working, and military-affiliated learners who can manage accelerated terms, constant reading, frequent discussion posts, and heavy APA-style writing. Many say the education can be rigorous, practical, and career-relevant, with some standout professors, useful digital resources, and smooth credit transfer. The strongest complaints focus on administration rather than coursework: repeated financial aid errors, confusing advising, delayed transcript and transfer evaluations, billing disputes, and inconsistent communication. Academically, students often criticize uneven instructor quality, self-teaching, outdated or shallow materials, weak hands-on training, and frustrating group projects that can unfairly affect grades.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 46,379 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $9,900
- Out-of-State Tuition: $9,900
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $102,809
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 33%
- Retention Rate: 55%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Liberty University are broadly positive but sharply divided by experience. Many reviewers praise the flexible online format, accelerated terms, affordable tuition, transfer options, and strong support for military families, veterans, and working adults. They often describe instructors as responsive, encouraging, and academically solid, with coursework that is rigorous, writing-intensive, and useful for career advancement. Negative reviews focus on inconsistent advising, long response times, confusing billing, financial aid delays, and perceived aggressive recruiting. A recurring complaint is minimal teaching in some courses, forcing self-instruction. Many also say the Christian worldview is deeply embedded in nearly every assignment, sometimes beyond expectations.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 39,156 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $11,700
- Out-of-State Tuition: $11,700
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 65%
- Retention Rate: 80%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Colorado State University Global are sharply divided, though the overall picture leans positive because many reviewers gave high ratings for flexibility, affordability, and convenience for working adults. Supporters say the online format is organized, transfer credit policies are generous, and advisers, tutoring, and some instructors are responsive. They also report career benefits such as promotions, raises, and stronger writing skills. Critics focus on inconsistent instruction, saying many courses feel self-taught, discussion boards and weekly papers dominate learning, and feedback can be vague or copied. Repeated complaints also cite financial aid problems, outdated materials, weak tech reliability, and poor administrative communication.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 7,157 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $11,250
- Out-of-State Tuition: $11,250
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 74%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews of National American University Online are sharply divided, but the overall picture leans negative because low-rated accounts repeatedly cite costly financial aid problems, weak communication, and administrative disorder. Many reviewers describe unexpected balances, delayed refunds, withheld diplomas or transcripts, transfer-credit issues, and pressure to stay enrolled, leaving them with heavy debt and limited trust in the institution. Several also say online learning required too much self-teaching, with slow instructor responses, broken links, and inconsistent academic rigor. Positive reviews focus on flexibility for working adults, helpful advisors or professors, small classes, convenient scheduling, and support that made balancing work, family, and school possible.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.1 Student Review for Bachelor's in Network Administration Degrees
NAU prepare me for my entry into the civilian job market after retiring from the Air Force. As a matter of fact I completed two Bachelor of Science programs there (Applied Management). The instructors were very helpful as many were also employed in their... Read More
- Online Enrollment: 767 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $9,690
- Out-of-State Tuition: $9,690
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 33%
- Institution Type: For-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews of DeVry University are sharply divided, but the overall picture leans negative because low ratings repeatedly cite cost, weak instruction, and administrative confusion. Positive reviewers value the accelerated online format, flexible scheduling for working adults and parents, supportive advisers, and professors who connect coursework to real jobs. Several also report promotions, salary gains, and smoother career transitions. Negative reviewers more often describe self-teaching, outdated materials, inconsistent professor quality, poor responsiveness, nontransferable credits, transcript holds, and especially troubling financial aid and billing issues. A notable takeaway is that satisfaction often rises when expectations are practical, finances are secure, or employers subsidize tuition.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.2 Student Reviews for Bachelor's in Network Administration Degrees
The teachers were very good but the course material was ok. I tested out of ridiculous simple courses like building PC's. My problem is the reputation of the school, it's barely better than ITT. I can't count how many times I've been told that my Cisco... Read More
Also I mysteriously ended up with a "private" loan (I'm not sure if this was for some sort of kickback or not so be careful of trusting their financial aide department) in one semester that couldn't be consolidated with the rest of my loans. So when I consolidated my student loans, this one wasn't included and nobody told me.
Since I didn't know about it, I ended up with one "defaulted" loan that was instantly a extra $10k that I still had to pay off, because while it doesn't have the same rules as other student loans, it still gets the same protections. (Thank you Devry and Wachovia) I graduated 20 years ago, but I still owe about $15k paying the monthly payments.
The Campus I attended closed in 2015
I have a Bachelors degree in Network and Communications. My first job out of school (with no experience) paid $52,000. A year later I changed companies and was making $60,000 and now just 3 years after graduation I am making $72,000. I have attend a State... Read More
- Online Enrollment: 29,861 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $15,420
- Out-of-State Tuition: $15,420
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 37%
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Institution Type: For-Profit
Stories Behind the Best Network Administration Online Degrees: An Editorial Analysis
Earn Career Milestones Along the Way
DeVry University
At DeVry, online students progressing through the bachelor’s in Information Technology and Networking can also earn an Undergraduate Certificate in Networking Essentials and an Associate in Information Technology and Networking, creating three credentials within one academic path. These interim milestones may be useful to students seeking to demonstrate new skills before completing the full bachelor’s degree. Its ABET accreditation adds another layer of distinction, but the embedded certificate-and-associate structure is what most clearly separates DeVry.
Built Around Major Cloud and Networking Vendors
Western Governors University
WGU gives students a level of vendor-specific choice that no other program in this ranking matches. Its Cloud and Network Engineering degree offers four pathways centered on AWS, Microsoft Azure, Cisco, or a broader vendor-neutral curriculum. Each track combines networking fundamentals with cloud infrastructure, security, automation, and hybrid systems while incorporating certifications relevant to the selected ecosystem. Depending on the pathway, students may prepare for credentials such as the CCNA, Cisco CyberOps, Cisco DevNet, AWS certifications, Microsoft Azure certifications, and CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, and Cloud+. Certification exam vouchers are included in tuition.
When Certification Exams Replace Final Exams
University of Maryland Global Campus
UMGC integrates professional certifications into its online courses. Students who pass certain approved certification exams while enrolled in the corresponding course may be permitted to use the certification in place of the course’s final exam. The program maps coursework to credentials from CompTIA, Cisco, AWS, Microsoft, EC-Council, CERT, ISFCE, and (ISC)², including the CCNA, CEH, CySA+, PenTest+, and several cloud and Microsoft administration certifications. This structure allows one assessment to demonstrate both academic competency and industry knowledge. It creates a tighter connection between degree requirements and external professional validation.
Expert Advice on Pursuing an Online Network Administration Bachelor's Degree
Digital Transformation Director and Enterprise IT Strategist
How can an online degree in this field help students gain the skills needed in network administration?
Popelier: "Network Administration, like most pathways in IT require multiple different skills. Theoretical knowledge, hands-on practice or soft skills just to name a few. Before students can analyze, create or troubleshoot complex systems, they need to understand the principles. Transferring theoretical knowledge has never been a problem, providing students with the hands-on experiences has been where institutions have struggled.
Major (network) companies have noticed the shift to online learning and start offering now virtual labs and simulation software to bridge the gap. If that is not enough, institutions can also opt to offer remote access to physical hardware and allow students to experience working with the same enterprise-grade equipment they will encounter in the workplace."
Karmaou: "An online degree shows proof of the required education. The skills needed can also be acquired through an online degree but can just as easily gain for free online (if they have the right curriculum path to take/search for). Then gaining certification shows the required skillset. Though, many companies still require a degree."
Many network administration roles require certifications. How should students balance earning a degree with pursuing industry certifications?
Popelier: "Institutions are making a shift to inject industry certifications within their curriculum. Doing so, not only prepares it the student to earn those certificates, but it also has the ability to offer more. Let me explain. Companies use certification exams to test if an individual can analyze a scenario and determine the correct answer or course of action. While there is a time limit, most questions are not related to each other as they try to test as much knowledge as possible.
During conversations with industry leaders we heard that knowing the answer is not always enough. For example, analyzing the implications of the solution on the working of the company is as important. Most of this is learned on the job, but because most degree seeking institutions are offering many IT courses, they have the opportunity to emulate companies and have students from different areas work together, have them realize that their actions will impact others and require them to formulate a plan of actions to reduce that impact as much as possible."
Karmaou: "The best option of time and funds available. Pursue the degree, and in spare time, study for certification."
What types of entry-level IT or networking positions are most common for graduates?
Popelier: "Most students are ending up in some sort of administration job. Network admin or System admin are the most common."
Karmaou: "Server administrator, IT Helpdesk, Support Engineering."
What skills give candidates in this field a competitive edge?
Popelier: "Outside of the technical skills, it is important for candidates to be able to trouble shoot a problem, analyze the impact of the solution, communicate well and does all this in a timely manner. Skills we are able to integrate repeatedly during their degree."
Karmaou: "Knowledge of how to leverage AI, Machine Learning, Enterprise Architecture and Enterprise Integration."
Technology evolves quickly. Which current or emerging tools and practices should students make sure to learn during their studies?
Popelier: "Back in the day we said: “Google is your best friend”. Today we are pivoting to generative AI tools like ChatGPT and/or Gemini. Students need to learn that, just like Google search was for us, those applications are a tool, but not the answer. Secondly, especially in networking, we need to realize that everyone has access to those tools and not everyone is using them for good. More than ever, cyber security is and will stay super important because as previous mentioned AI technologies evolve and so are the opportunities for people to use it in nefarious ways."
Karmaou: "Generative AI, LLM's (large language models), machine learning, automation."
Do you have advice for those aiming to pursue a degree in network administration or IT management?
Popelier: "Sound cliché but working in IT is a mindset. Technology evolves and so will you. Depending on the path you take, you will be learning for the rest of your life. That said, if you are technology driven and you feel rewarded when you solve (complex) problems, IT is the right place for you."
Karmaou: "Yes, study foundational technology. How are things built from the ground up as it will give a better understanding of technology niches.
Remember. IT is a business enabler. IT is NOT the business. IT is there to make business faster, more visible, broader reach. Data Science is HUGE. Having the correct information to the correct people at the correct time is the biggest business driver and differentiator. "
FAQs About Choosing the Best Online Network Administration Degree
What Should You Know About Network Administration Before Choosing a Degree?
Network administration is a field within computer science that focuses on managing information technology (IT) networks within and between organizations. This can involve designing local area networks, wide area networks, and email servers, as well as ensuring these systems remain secure and run smoothly.
Network administrators can find employment in a wide range of industries such as communication, computing, education, financial services, healthcare, manufacturing, and transportation. Additionally, given that businesses and governments have come to rely on digital communication networks, their skills and knowledge are likely to remain in demand in the future. If you're interested in using computer science to connect people — as well as expand your future employment opportunities — a bachelor's in network administration may set you up for a rewarding career.
How Do Online Network Administration Bachelor’s Programs Work?
Yes, many schools offer network administration degrees that are fully online. These online programs have the same curriculum and learning outcomes as in-person ones but allow students to meet degree requirements at their own pace.
A network administration online degree equips students with the skills to design, build, and manage computer networks. The curriculum typically covers data systems, database management, and includes core IT and analytics courses. This degree prepares graduates for roles in the fast-growing tech industry. Most colleges and universities offer Network Administration or Systems Administration as concentration options, and we also include some IT degrees focused on network administration in the coursework.
Online bachelor's degrees in network administration train graduates for the daily operation of local and wireless area networks in businesses and other organizations. Bachelor's degree programs require 120-130 credits and can generally be completed in four years of full-time study. Such programs allow students to build a solid foundation in computer information systems and technologies. Students may also be required to complete a capstone project in network administration.
Online network administration degree programs allow students to fit classes around their own schedules. They may have scheduled meetings with advisors or professors but mostly take classes asynchronously, accessing materials, such as lectures, notes, and assignments online.
How Should You Compare Online Network Administration Degree Programs?
With so many options available, it's important to select a network administration bachelor's program that allows you to meet your professional aspirations while also aligning with your personal circumstances. Some factors to consider before choosing a program include:
Accreditation: Accreditation ensures that a college or university meets nationally-recognized standards for academic quality. Enrolling in an accredited program is also necessary if you aspire to work in the computer science field. When choosing a program, be sure to check that it has been accredited by the , a third party that assesses educational programs in STEM disciplines.
Affordability: While a network administration bachelor's can set you up for a lucrative career, you should aim to select a program that's affordable given your financial circumstances. Determine how much you can contribute to the cost of your education and consider applying for financial aid to avoid taking out expensive student loans that can affect your future return on investment.
Labs: Some network administration programs may expect students to complete labs as part of their degree requirements. These practical settings can help you develop real-world skills in problem-solving and analytical thinking — making you more employable as a result — so try and choose a program that offers hands-on experience.
Learning Formats: Earning a degree can be difficult, especially if you have to relocate or if you work part-time. Many programs can be completed fully online, via hybrid learning, or fully in-person, allowing you to complete classes based on your schedule. Choosing one that suits your needs is crucial to meeting your academic goals.
What Courses Can You Expect in an Online Network Administration Program?
A bachelor's in network administration introduces students to basic IT principles, including classes in network installation and maintenance competencies, as well as coursework in systems administration, programming, and management topics. Though classes vary from program to program, below is a list of courses that are common in a network administration bachelor's program.
- Applied Algebra: This class covers various algebra functions and teaches students how to apply them in solving real-world computing problems. Topics include linear, polynomial, exponential, and logistic concepts, with students exploring the theory and properties of these various mathematical functions.
- Introduction to Programming in Python: This core course covers how to program with the computing language python. Students start with the basics and typically learn to write their own code as the class progresses. They also strive to understand the reasoning behind using python in certain real-world settings.
- Ethics in Technology: Ethics in technology explores the moral dilemmas that can accompany technological development. Students cover the laws and regulations that govern access to personal information, as well as how to handle ethically sensitive or protected data. Often, they also learn how to incorporate ethical considerations in network design.
What Careers Can You Pursue With an Online Network Administration Bachelor’s Degree?
A bachelor's in network administration can prepare you for most entry-level positions in IT. Network administration jobs are available in nearly every economic sector, so a degree in this field can open the door to a wide variety of employment opportunities. Below is a list of common careers for graduates.
build commonly used communications technology such as local area networks and wide area networks. They are typically responsible for ensuring these networks run correctly while keeping important data secure. Their day-to-day tasks may involve supporting users, running diagnostic tests, and conducting routine maintenance.
- Median salary: $130,390 per year
- Job growth: 12% (much faster than average)
- Bachelor's commonly required
work to ensure that communication systems are secure from potential data breaches, malware, and a multitude of online threats. Some of these professionals may design and build antivirus software, while others research emerging trends and suggest ways to shore up an organization's security vulnerabilities.
- Median salary: $124,910 per year
- Job growth: 29% (much faster than average)
- Bachelor's commonly required
oversee all or part of an organization's IT systems. They are crucial to ensuring that an organization can communicate safely, securely, and effectively with its customers, employers, and other stakeholders. Their job typically involves optimizing networks for connectivity, upgrading systems with the latest technology, and adding new users when need be.
- Median salary: $96,800 per year
- Job growth: -4% (decline)
- Bachelor's commonly required
What Steps Can You Take to Become a Network Administrator?
Network administrators study math and science subjects as part of their education. If you're interested in this occupation, try and take relevant courses in high school to make it easier to gain admission to a bachelor's program. After graduating, you may also want to consider getting certified through an organization like CompTIA to show employers you're qualified in this area.
A bachelor's degree is most likely going to be the minimum requirement to secure an entry-level position as a network administrator. That's why graduate credentials is a helpful way to open the door to career advancement as well as opportunities in research and education. In some cases, you may also need to become certified to progress as a network administrator.
Is an Online Network Administration Degree Worth It?
Aside from being well compensated, computer science professionals can often find employment in a wide range of sectors. Computer science jobs offer a median annual wage of and a job outlook that has around 317,700 projected openings in the field per year through the next decade or so. This makes a network administration degree a good way to break into this otherwise competitive and growing field.
Student Reviews of Online Network Administration Programs
I enjoyed going to this university online which taught me so much experience and information that I needed; therefore, the education experience that was taught gave me inspiration to learn much as I can. My education advisor were helpful and understanding when it came to personal things that got in the way of school.
Review Date: 12/23/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I got 8 more classes to go and will be done by OCT 2020, but if I want to push it, I'll graduate by AUG 2020. Reading some of the reviews here, I've read issues with tuition/expenses, enrollment, transfer credits, etc, etc. I can tell you that you can PREVENT MOST of these complaints if you researched more about the school, read policies and requirements and consulted with an educational adviser (outside of PUG). Ask questions like is the school regional or nationally accredited, is the school's... Read More
Review Date: 11/24/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I started at WGU on April 1, 2017. Competancy based education is not for everyone, but in my case it works very well. For people that have active lifestyles and endeavors that must be completed during prime time, being able to work at your own pace during times most people are asleep is a worthy reason to consider WGU. I haven't found many setbacks with this school, and most of the courses are prepared well and offer an easy interactive solution. For those who think that WGU may be a diploma mill,... Read More
Review Date: 7/16/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The college is exceptional for those who want to go at their own pace in a fully-online setting. One can complete the entire degree in one term if they desire. The largest downside to the college is their mentor system. Each student has a mentor, but the mentor has many students assigned to them. This makes the mentor have inconsistent response times, and they are too overloaded to have a full understanding of you as a person. You don't have to interact with the mentor much at all if that is what... Read More
Review Date: 12/5/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The college is exceptional for those who want to go at their own pace in a fully-online setting. One can complete the entire degree in one term if they desire. The largest downside to the college is their mentor system. Each student has a mentor, but the mentor has many students assigned to them. This makes the mentor have inconsistent response times, and they are too overloaded to have a full understanding of you as a person. You don't have to interact with the mentor much at all if that is what... Read More
Review Date: 12/5/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The degree courses give you zero benefit unless you already have the skills and need the diploma to advance. You get zero benefit using any of the student assistance offered because you are an online student and you jaycwas well be invisible to the staff.
Review Date: 8/17/2018
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I have audited many, many other online schools. As a matter of fact, I have done so at just about every other school that advertises on TV such as but not limited to Phoenix, Capella, Kaplan, DeVry, ECPI, Ashford, and Strayer. I also attended a local university in the traditional sense and SNHU has been the superior to all of them. I have found the staff including advising and Financial Aid to be extremely helpful. The tution is what my local public college charges and not extortion level pricing... Read More
Review Date: 1/7/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am graduating with my BS in Information Networking and Telecommunications from FHSU this month. I have worked with five other online schools in my academic career before finding FHSU.
The Faculty and Staff were very helpful and even went out of there way to ensure that I graduated on schedule when there was an issue with a class I needed. As with any school you get what you put in and it depends on the professor.
I would recommend this school to anyone who is looking for a degree program online... Read More
Review Date: 5/12/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The instructors were the best part by far, very knowledgeable and helpful. Any of the administration, not as helpful unfortunately. I spent 3 quarters here using 6 months of my GI Bill Benefits that I won't get back. Each of those 3 quarters they found a way to further screw up my livelihood. As a veteran student on VA benefits, my rent, car payment, other major bills of life were paid to me by the VA based on my enrollment in school. I saw this as an opportunity to focus on school versus working,... Read More
Review Date: 11/2/2017
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I have a Bachelors degree in Network and Communications. My first job out of school (with no experience) paid $52,000. A year later I changed companies and was making $60,000 and now just 3 years after graduation I am making $72,000. I have attend a State University and both schools are accredited by the same institution; I feel I received better instruction at DeVry. I am sure each case is different, but I am very happy with my DeVry experience. I applied myself and put the responsibility on my... Read More
Review Date: 2/1/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The college was a pleasure to attend. The teachers and staff were there to make sure you succeeded. The course material was current and relevant to my career path.
Review Date: 8/19/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The degrees are useless without certifications, example: A+, Network +, Security +, CCNA, MCSE, Cloud, just to name a few. They need to offer certifications included with your degree. It’s hard for me to say that I recommend ITT, when I need to take the extra time and money on top of the school loans just to get a certification. But other than that, the school in NOT bad at all.
Review Date: 4/30/2015
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
This school was very expensive but offered it all and then some..... No regrets.... yet.
Review Date: 2/18/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The teachers were very good but the course material was ok. I tested out of ridiculous simple courses like building PC's. My problem is the reputation of the school, it's barely better than ITT. I can't count how many times I've been told that my Cisco certifications were more valuable than my Bachelors of Science degree from Devry. My certs were the cost of a book plus $150 for a test and my Bachelors left me with $75k in student debt even though I had to pay monthly while in school.
Also I mysteriously... Read More
Since I didn't know about it, I ended up with one "defaulted" loan that was instantly a extra $10k that I still had to pay off, because while it doesn't have the same rules as other student loans, it still gets the same protections. (Thank you Devry and Wachovia) I graduated 20 years ago, but I still owe about $15k paying the monthly payments.
The Campus I attended closed in 2015
Review Date: 5/9/2024
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: Yes
NAU prepare me for my entry into the civilian job market after retiring from the Air Force. As a matter of fact I completed two Bachelor of Science programs there (Applied Management). The instructors were very helpful as many were also employed in their respective fields of expertise. As a matter of fact because of my excellent experience with NAU, I decided to pursue a Masters of Science (MS) degree in Information Technology not at NAU but at another university to prove to myself I had been well... Read More
Review Date: 3/30/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes