In our day and age, a degree in computer systems and network administration can be your ticket to a stable career and great advancement opportunities.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for network and computer systems administrators is projected to grow 5 percent in the next decade.
More companies invest in newer technologies and mobile networks and need qualified network administrators to maintain them.
As a network and computer systems administrator, you will operate, maintain and repair servers, workstations, storage networks, and email systems.
If you’re passionate about computers and technology, a Bachelor’s in Computer Systems and Network Administration can help you start a career in network security, systems analysis, or operations management.
These programs typically include classes such as software engineering, mathematics, business administration, project management, as well as networking specific coursework.
If you also have professional or family obligations, there are several schools that offer online Bachelor’s Degree programs in Computer Systems and Network Administration.
We invite you to read our list and choose the one that best meets your professional aspirations.
Western Governors University
Western Governors University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a Network Administration and Security concentration.
This degree program covers 12 areas of study, including project management, leadership, and network security.
Students enrolled in this program take classes in a variety of fields, including IT Fundamentals, General Science Content, Network and Security, Business of IT, Networking, Web and Cloud Security, just to name a few.
Most students graduate from this program within 36 months.
Tuition is $3,225 per six-month term.
Western Governors University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Official WebsiteBellevue University
Bellevue University features an online Bachelor of Science in Systems and Network Administration degree program or Systems and Network Administration Degree.
The program is designed for students who already have a career in information technology and for those who have completed an associate’s degree and want to pursue career advancement.
Students enrolled in this program learn how to design, install, manage, and modify computer and network systems.
The program requires at least 36 credit hours of major coursework in Administration of Microsoft and Unix networks, Administration of SQL Database, and Advanced UNIX Administration.
Students enrolled in this program have access to 24/7 support through services such as the Bruin Students Portal, an internal support system, and career services.
Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Official WebsiteDakota State University
The online Bachelor of Science in Network and Security Administration provided by Dakota State University- School of Business and Information Systems aims to graduate students who are skilled in networking, business management, digital forensics, and cybersecurity.
The completely online degree includes eight technology-related majors and is offered through computer-based learning systems and courses.
The 120-credit hour curriculum includes at least 21 technology courses such as Offensive Network Security, Scripting for Network Administration, Computer Forensics Fundamentals, Survey of Network Applications, and Routing and Switching.
Students may complete an internship or a student research course during their seventh semester.
Dakota State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Official WebsiteAmerican National University
The online Bachelor of Science in Network Administration offered by the American National University aims to train IT professionals who want to find employment as network analysts, network administrators, or network engineers.
The curriculum focuses on Microsoft Windows Server 2012 and on skills and knowledge needed for Microsoft, Cisco, and CompTIA certification exams.
Students learn how to apply best practices in network operations and administration, how to configure network components, troubleshoot and fix network problems, design and implement a WAN and LAN, and much more.
The program offers small classes of 25 students.
American National University is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission.
Official WebsiteRogers State University
The Bachelor of Science in Business Information Technology-Computer Network Administration offered by Rogers State University aims to prepare students for careers in network systems.
The 124-credit hour program includes 11 core IT courses and five network administration classes, such as Emerging Technologies, Network Routing, and Advanced TCP/IP administration.
The curriculum covers topics on network security, network operating systems, the configuration of network components and emerging technologies.
Students enrolled in this program also learn about statistics, accounting, marketing, and other business topics.
Online students pay $329 per credit hour.
Rogers State University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
Official WebsiteExcelsior College
The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology offered by Excelsior College features a concentration in Network Operations.
Students learn about wireless networking technology, project management, and network system design.
The 120-credit hour curriculum includes a three-credit technology assessment capstone course.
Students enrolled in this program take a variety of IT-related courses, such as Introduction to Programming, Intermediate Programming, Data Communications and Networking, Operating Systems and Computer Systems Architecture, Web Design and Development, Project Management, System Administration, and more.
Excelsior College is accredited by the Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.
Official WebsiteFort Hays State University
The Online Bachelor of Science in Information Networking and Telecommunications offered by Fort Hays State University includes a concentration in Computer Networking and Telecommunications.
The program is designed especially for students who want to pursue a career in telecommunications or computer and networking.
The 124-credit program focuses on network architecture, technology, innovation, data communications and web development, and law in cyberspace.
Students enrolled in this program can choose between several specializations such as informatics, network security, geographic information systems or focus on Cisco certification skills.
Fort Hays State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Official WebsiteFlorida State College at Jacksonville
The online Bachelor of Applied Science in Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications offered by Florida State College at Jacksonville is ideal for students who want to start a career in networking and telecommunications.
The curriculum includes courses in fields like information security, network management, system design and analysis, network and telecommunication troubleshooting, and more.
The program also provides 36 hours of general education courses and foreign languages.
This degree program can be completed in 20 months.
Florida State College at Jacksonville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Official WebsiteChamplain College
Champlain Colleges features an online Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Systems that covers topics in server administration, telecommunications, network design, and wireless networking.
The curriculum also includes topics in modern computing practices and helps students perfect the interpersonal skills that help them succeed in the field of business and technology.
Online undergraduate tuition is $318 per credit.
Champlain College is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
Official WebsiteMiddle Georgia State University
The online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology provided by the Middle Georgia State University includes a concentration in Network Technology and Administration.
The curriculum combines core information technology coursework and system administration and network security subjects.
The 120-credit hour program also includes classes in database and server administration, network security, virtual computations, project management, the fundamentals of information assurance, and more.
Online students are also required to take a capstone course that teaches students how to design, implement, and evaluate an information system.
Students enrolled in online classes pay $130 per credit hour.
The Middle Georgia State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Official WebsiteFrequently Asked Questions
Q. Will an online Bachelor’s Degree in Computer System and Network Administration help me gain the skills for career advancement?
Students enrolled in an online program in Computer System and Network Administration learn how to install networks, perform maintenance on existing network systems, and troubleshoot a variety of related problems.
Online programs also give students the opportunity of earning a certification that will help them prove their skills to potential employers.
Many programs are designed for IT professionals who target career advancement as Network Analysts, Network Systems Engineers, and other leadership roles.
Q. How long does it take to graduate from an online Bachelor’s Degree program in Computer Systems and Network Administration?
It typically takes students four to five years to earn a Bachelor’s in Computer Systems and Network Administration.
However, accelerated online programs are available at several schools and can be completed in 20 to 48 months.
The exact program duration depends on the specific program and the college/university you choose.
Q. What professions can I pursue with a Bachelor’s in Computer Systems and Network Administration?
These programs are designed especially for students who want to pursue careers as computer systems and network administrators.
Students learn how to analyze network traffic, perform software and hardware upgrades, assess a network’s performance, and protect computers and users from malware and other threats.
With a degree in Computer Systems and Network Administration, you can also pursue other professions, including computer and network administrator, network architect, information security analyst, and computer programmer.
These careers are typically well-remunerated and network and computer administrators are expected to continue to be in demand in the future.
Final Thoughts
If you’re passionate about computer networks and technology, a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Systems and Network Administration can help you start a career in a field that is both financially and professionally rewarding.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for network and computer systems administrators was $82,050 as of May 2018.
The programs included in our list are designed mostly for students who already have a full-time job and are looking for career change or advancement.
If you have read our compilation, we encourage you to continue your research and apply to the program that best meets your needs.