An online bachelor’s degree in network administration may provide students with the skills and training needed to organize, install, and support a company’s computer systems. In these four-year programs, students may learn how to maintain network and computer system security programs, collect data to evaluate system performance, and train users on computer hardware and software applications. Coursework within these online programs may include several general education requirements alongside electives and major-specific courses, such as digital communications, interconnecting network devices, and information security.

Graduates may either seek entry-level employment or pursue additional education and enroll in a graduate-level degree program. Baccalaureate-level graduates may find employment opportunities in large and small business, government agencies, hospitals, banks, and educational services.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Four years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Master’s / Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 28% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum within an online bachelor’s degree program in network administration may combine several general education requirements alongside major-specific courses and information technology-based electives. Students enrolled in these four-year programs may analyze computer security and evaluate risk assessment techniques. Core online network administration programs may include the following:

• Web Development
• Leadership and Management
• Interconnecting Network Devices
• Database Systems
• Digital Communications
• Information Security
• Solving Electronic Problems

Career Options

Graduates of online baccalaureate-level programs in network administration may find careers at in variety of industries and businesses, including large corporations, government agencies, banks, educational services, and hospitals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for those pursuing careers as network and computer systems administrators are expected to increase by 28% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Network Service Administrator
• Help Desk Analyst
• Network Engineer
• IT Administrator
• PC Technician

Continuing Education

Graduates of online bachelor’s degree programs in network administration may pursue additional education and enroll in an online master’s degree in network administration. These graduate-level programs may provide students additional training on system management, network system design, and computer security.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook