2025 Best Network Administration Online Degrees
Our list of the best network administration online degree programs highlights accredited schools enrolling the largest number of online learners.
Key Takeaways:
- At #1, Western Governors University leads with 135,822 online students at the school. WGU hosts an online B.S. in Network Engineering and Security.
- The University of Maryland Global Campus graduates IT students who make a median of $102,809 around four years later.
For details, please read our methodology page. We also spoke with Mircea Dima, a software engineer, who shared expert insights on how students can balance a network administration degree with certifications and what entry-level career paths to expect.
List Of Accredited Online Network Administration Schools
| School | Online Enrollment | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Western Governors University | $8,300 | |
| Arizona State University, Online | 52,896 | $24,780 |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | 44,794 | $14,970 |
| Liberty University | 39,168 | $11,700 |
| Purdue Global | 31,661 | $11,130 |
| DeVry University | 27,814 | $15,420 |
| Bellevue University | 10,478 | $13,470 |
| Colorado State University Global | 6,568 | $11,250 |
| Colorado Christian University | 4,264 | $14,820 |
| Point University | 1,256 | $12,750 |
| University of Missouri | 1,264 | $34,338 |
| National American University Online | 836 | $11,400 |
| American National University | 730 | $11,110 |
| California Intercontinental University | 141 | $13,140 |
| Abilene Christian University | 18 | $11,850 |
| Columbia Southern University | 13,111 | $8,100 |
2025 Best Network Administration Online Degrees
- Online Enrollment: 135,822 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $8,300
- Location: Salt Lake City (UT)
Why we like them: Ranked #1 for popularity, WGU serves 135,822 online learners, placing it at the very top nationally (100th percentile). This networking engineering bachelor's program has a vendor-aligned structure with four distinct tracks — General, AWS, Azure, and Cisco. Each of these has third-party certification vouchers included in the tuition.
- Online Enrollment: 52,896 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $24,780
- Locations: Tempe (AZ) (and 4 others)
Why we like them: Ranked #2, ASU earns its spot on the strength of its online enrollment of 52,896. Here, you gain an edge with ABET accreditation for the IT-Networking bachelor’s, which is a strong quality signal to employers.
- Online Enrollment: 44,794 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $14,970
- Location: Adelphi (MD)
Why we like them: As part of UMGC's computer science program, we value the applied deliverables built into courses — benchmarking Java sorting algorithms, producing formal ERDs with documentation, and analyzing RISC and memory architectures. This way, you can graduate with actual portfolio artifacts.
- Online Enrollment: 39,168 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $11,700
- Location: Lynchburg (VA)
Why we like them: Liberty's IT program in Data Networking and Security has NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education designation. You prepare for industry credentials in the curriculum itself, including CompTIA A+ readiness and a Cyber-Security course mapped to the (ISC)² SSCP Body of Knowledge’s seven domains.
- Online Enrollment: 31,661 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $11,130
- Location: Indianapolis (IN)
Why we like them: PG's online analytics degree in network administration has a unique ExcelTrack, which is a competency-based pathway that lets you accelerate the BS in Analytics and reduce total cost by demonstrating mastery at your pace. We also like the ability to earn academic credit for prior IT certifications and work experience.
The Best Online Network Administration Degrees: Where Students Are Enrolling and Why It Matters
Our ranking is built on the number of graduates in each program, which reflects popularity as well as the maturity of the online infrastructure that supports students.
The median online enrollment among the schools on our list hosting networking administration programs is over 6,500 students. In fact, half of the schools enroll more than 10,000 students online, placing them within the top tier nationally for distance learning. Scale often correlates with the following strengths:
-
More course availability
-
Richer peer networks
-
Well-established online student services
Network administration is a field where collaboration and real-world troubleshooting are core job functions. A larger online program — like those at Western Governors University (135,822 online students) or ASU Online (52,896) — means more active discussion threads as well as greater peer collaboration, and alumni communities that can ultimately help with career connections in the field.
We do include some smaller online schools too, like Abilene Christian (with only 18 fully online students), because they offer the opposite benefit: tighter faculty attention. Both approaches have value, but prospective students should consider whether they thrive in a larger, well-established virtual ecosystem with abundant resources or a more intimate cohort.
Below, we dig further into all the data available in order to provide a fuller picture of where network administration programs excel — and where they differ.
What Does “Network Administration” Mean at the Bachelor’s Level?
Network administration at the bachelor's level involves actually building, maintaining, and securing the infrastructure that keeps organizations connected. Bachelor’s degrees in this field teach you to configure routers and switches, design local and wide-area networks, manage cloud-based services, and monitor security and performance.
However, we want to point out that the titles of these degrees can vary substantially. Since these differences signal how each school frames the work of a network administrator, we want to lay out some common differences you'll see. Below, we include examples of bachelor's in networking administration from our list above.
Straightforward titles like B.S. in Network Administration (American National University) or B.S. in Network Engineering and Security (WGU) emphasize a traditional focus (e.g., cisco routers, firewall policies, and enterprise connectivity).
Broader IT degrees with a Networking concentration are included in our list too, like Information Technology - Data Networking and Security (Liberty University) or B.S. in Information Technology (Columbia Southern University). This kind of degree title conveys that it covers programming, databases, and business processes alongside networking.
Computer science-rooted programs (ѳҰ’s B.S. in Computer Science) approach networking from a systems/theory perspective, where you’ll likely take on compiler theory or algorithms along with networking essentials.
Engineering-leaning titles like Bachelor of Engineering in Information Technology in Networking and Systems Security (California Intercontinental) or a B.S. in Information Technology from Mizzou’s College of Engineering tilt toward design and systems architecture. These often emphasize scalability, VR/AR, and systems integration.
Analytics-oriented degrees like Purdue Global’s BS in Analytics - Network Administration fuse data platforms (Hadoop, Spark, blockchain) with infrastructure. The aim with this one is to prepare graduates for roles that cater to IT operations as well as data engineering.
For prospective students, it’s important to look past the bachelor's degree title and ask: Do I want a narrowly technical foundation, or do I want networking skills in the context of a broader IT, analytics, or engineering-based education?
Outcomes: Graduation, Retention, and Earnings Among Network Admin Alums
Persistence and payoff are worthwhile considerations when it comes to choosing the best network administration degree online.
ASU Online posts an 85% retention rate and 68% graduation rate, which is on the higher end and should give students the confidence that they're entering a well-structured educational path. The University of Missouri is another online school that does well with these metrics. It boasts a 91% retention rate and 76% graduation rate, plus a 98% recommendation rate from students, which is among the very highest nationally.
UMGC stands out with reported median graduate earnings of $102,809...
On the financial side, UMGC stands out with reported median graduate earnings of $102,809, placing its online computer science degree with a Networking focus near the top of the market. Another high-performing networking administration program is Bellevue's, which also shows strength with a reported $76,797 salary among alums. This is a useful example that highlights how larger-scale online providers can still deliver strong ROI.
For the networking administration programs we listed, few report program-specific earnings, but when they do, it can be a really useful indicator of career readiness.
Student Sentiment
Our student reviews of online schools add an important dimension to the data.
At Missouri, 98% of surveyed students said they’d recommend their program, pointing to a consistently positive student experience. ASU and Liberty also scored well, with 93% and 75% recommendation rates, respectively.
By contrast, some smaller or less mature programs scored lower — National American University’s 42% recommendation rate and American National University’s 22% suggest prospective students should dig deeper into support structures before committing.
These reviews, pulled from a survey pool of more than 90,000 students, aren’t just numbers, reflect lived experiences with faculty responsiveness, course design, and the day-to-day realities of online learning.
Mircea Dima on Preparing for Real-World Careers in Networking
Software Engineer
What are the benefits of a network administration online degree?
"A network administration degree online offers great theoretical knowledge to the student. They are taught the basics of networking, security, and systems management through organized courses.
But what counts is the experience. Proper program structure will provide a chance to have practice with real-life situation changes, simulations, and laboratories, which is essential to master practical skills in establishing a network and troubleshooting."
What kinds of IT/networking job openings do graduates take?
"The majority of graduates begin with positions such as network support specialist, IT technician or help desk technician. These jobs are predominantly troubleshooting, network installation, and user service. They are the ideal starting points to achieve practical opportunities with network templates, hardware control, and security measures. Graduates could also transition to a higher level of job over time, becoming a network administrator or systems engineer as they gain some more experience and certifications."
What is the best way to balance earning a degree and getting industry certification related to a specific job?
"Professional qualifications such as CompTIA and Cisco are essential in exhibiting professional expertise to prospective employers. It is possible to find a balance between them. I would recommend that you begin with your degree and continue to build on it with certifications. E.g., when you finish the fundamentals in your degree program you can start working on your certifications, which are relevant to what you are learning. In so doing, both endeavors support one another and this will prepare you to succeed either in academics or in the field."
EXPERT TIP
"Being a software engineer and founder, I realise how critical lifelong learning and skill acquisition can be. Network administration degree and appropriate certifications make a wonderful blend that can open up a lot of career options in the field of IT."
FAQs About A Network Administration Online Degree
What Is Network Administration?
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.
Can I Learn Network Administration Online?
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.
What Classes Do You Take In A Bachelor’s In 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 Can You Do With a 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.
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.
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.
What Should You Look For In A Bachelor’s In Network Administration Program?
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 Degree Do I Need to Become a Network Administrator?
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 a 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.
How Do I 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 through an organization like CompTIA to show employers you're qualified in this area.
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 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