15 Best Affordable Networking and Network Administration Degree Programs (Bachelor’s) 2020

Network administrators ensure that a company’s security functions, software programs, and computers run smoothly. Pursuing one of the most affordable bachelor’s degrees in networking and network administration can open up a number of doors in this field. An undergraduate program prepares students for entry-level positions in:

• private corporations
• nonprofit organizations
• government agencies
• schools

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, information technology (IT) specialists are in high demand with the large-scale digitization of commerce and data. Network and computer systems administrator positions are expected to grow six percent through 2026. Does helping companies support, install, and organize computer systems and networks sound interesting to you? Consider earning a bachelor’s degree in networking and network administration from one of the affordable schools listed below.

Methodology

The following list of the 15 most affordable bachelor’s degrees in networking and network administration was developed to help prospective students choose the program and school that best meets their academic and career goals. We consulted the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) as well as each school’s website to ensure we obtained the most up-to-date information. Using the NCES’s College Navigator Tool, we conducted a search for Bachelor’s in Networking and Network Administration and created a list of 50 schools that met this criterion. We then narrowed down these results into the top 15 programs based on the following ranking methodology in categories such as graduation rates, the average cost of tuition, and student-to-faculty ratios.

Average Cost of Attendance

When comparing schools, it is important to evaluate the cost of tuition in relation to the quality of the program. After all, you ultimately need to ensure you are getting your money’s worth, and you want to avoid getting excited about programs that might be out of your price range. Since tuition is such a highly considered factor, we provided both in-state and out-of-state tuition costs for each program below, but we used the average of these two figures to award points based on the following ranges.

Points:
Under $10,000: 3 points
$10,001 to $20,000: 2 points
$20,001 or more: 1 point

Graduation Rates

A high graduation rate is a great way to measure the quality of a college or university in relation to its:

• student learning outcomes
• faculty,
• quality of its academic programs

When comparing institutions, it is also important to consider graduation rates as they may paint a better picture of how satisfied students are with their experience in a program. For instance, low graduation rates may signify poor academic support, a costly program that might not be worth the price tag, and inexperienced or unhelpful faculty members. For this reason, we awarded the most points possible to the schools with the highest graduation rates as indicated below.

Points:
More than 50 percent: 3 points
Between 30 percent and 50 percent: 2 points
Less than 30 percent: 1 point

Student: Faculty Ratio

There are many reasons why one would consider pursuing a degree from a larger college such as:

• more extracurricular opportunities
• more majors to choose from
• the availability of more resources

However, smaller schools with lower student: faculty ratios also have several advantages such as:

• close student-faculty relationships
• opportunities for more personalized degrees
• opportunities for individualized studies based on students’ interests

Therefore, we awarded the most points to institutions that reported the lowest student: faculty ratios and fewer points to schools that reported larger class sizes.

Points:
10:1 or lower: 3 points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 points
Higher than 15:1: 1 point

Ranking 15 of the Most Affordable Bachelor’s Degrees in Networking and Network Administration

15. Rogers State University – BS in Business Information Technology

Claremore, Oklahoma

Points: 4
Program Website

The affordable BS in Business Information Technology at Rogers State University is designed to meet the country’s increasing demand for information technology specialists. Students may choose from options in:

• computer network administration
• software development and media
• game development

The computer network administration option includes the study of:

• emerging technologies
• the configuration of network components
• network security,
• network operating systems

Within the 124-credit-hour curriculum, students take eight courses in statistics, accounting, and marketing. They also take five network administration courses and 11 core information technology classes. Graduates of this low cost degree program are prepared for careers as:

• network specialists
• system specialists
• system network administrators.

Degree Options:
B.S. Business Information Technology
Average Program Cost: $11,040
In-State Tuition: $6,870
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,210
Graduation Rate: 17 percent
Student: Faculty Ratio: 18:1

14. Southern New Hampshire University – BS in Information Technologies

Manchester, New Hampshire

Points: 5
Program Website

Southern New Hampshire University offers an affordable online BS in Information Technologies degree. This online degree program begins with the fundamentals of information technology. Upper division offerings include advanced courses in system implementation and design. In addition to other areas of specialization, a concentration in network and telecommunications is offered. This pathway focuses on enterprise networks and provides courses in:

• network planning and maintenance
• an introduction to the Linux operating system
• information technology service management
• network security

All students must take general education classes as well as integration, exploration, and foundation courses. Students must complete 120 credits to earn the degree.

Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Information Technologies
Average Program Cost: $31,136
In-State Tuition: $31,136
Out-of-State Tuition: $31,136
Graduation Rate: 49 percent
Student: Faculty Ratio: 14:1

13. Southern Nazarene University – BS in Network Management

Bethany, Oklahoma

Points: 5

Southern Nazarene University offers the affordable BS in Network Management. The program helps students hone their skills and become skilled network managers ready to enter the workforce. Low cost online classes are offered either entirely online or one to two nights per week in Bethany.  Areas of study include:

• the infrastructure of modern communication
• Windows networking
• network security
• routers and switches
• personal and professional ethics and values
• Biblical perspectives in Western culture

Low cost online courses, taught by certified faculty members, are delivered in small-group settings. This provides students with in-depth, quick learning. Undergraduates work to develop their:

• analytical talent
• technical expertise
• problem-solving abilities.

Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Network Management
Average Program Cost: $25,178
In-State Tuition: $25,178
Out-of-State Tuition: $25,178
Graduation Rate: 45 percent
Student: Faculty Ratio: 14:1

12. Herzing University – BS in Computer Networking

Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin

Points: 5
Program Website

Herzing University-Kenosha offers a low cost BS in Computer Networking degree. It provides students with foundational skills to prepare them for broad positions in the field. It also provides specialized networking skills in:

• VoIP
• network security
• mail servers
• advanced wireless networking
• data storage
• systems analysis and design

Required courses investigate areas such as:

• network security
• computer networks
• network infrastructure administration
• information technology project management
• technical writing
• routers and switches
• computer architecture and troubleshooting

Inexpensive online courses are available,.Undergraduates are prepared for networking certifications from CompTIA, Microsoft, and Cisco. Students must complete 120 credits of study, and they may earn their degree in as few as 36 months. An information technology capstone project or internship is required.

Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Computer Networking
Average Program Cost: $14,200
In-State Tuition: $14,200
Out-of-State Tuition: $14,200
Graduation Rate: 35 percent
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1

11. Miles College – BS in Computer and Information Sciences

Birmingham, Alabama

Points: 5
Program Website

Miles College offers a low cost BS in Computer and Information Sciences degree. It helps prepare students to pass A+ and Microsoft certification examinations. The CIS program consists of a number of concentration areas, including network information technology. This specialization area focuses on training professionals to use network systems and other computer-based tools. The coursework prepares students to  configure, implement, and design complex networking solutions. Graduates of this affordable degree program have gone on to pursue careers in the areas of:

• computer training and education
• information systems design and maintenance
• software development
• hardware manufacturing

Other concentration options include:

• information security
• computer and information sciences
• computer science
• information technology management.

Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Sciences
Average Program Cost: $11,794
In-State Tuition: $11,794
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,794
Graduation Rate: 21 percent
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1

10. Utah Valley University – BS in Computer Science

Orem, Utah

Utah Valley University has an average program cost of $10,859.

Points: 5
Program Website

Utah Valley University offers an affordable BS in Computer Science with an emphasis on computer networking. It helps prepare students with strong Internet-related engineering or programming skills. The program include core courses in:

• computer networks
• software development
• database theory

Students take in-depth classes in Internet and network operations as well as network software and website development. Emphasis-area courses include:

• network programming
• software engineering
• Linux
• an undergraduate research project for the networking specialization.

This low cost degree program is 120 semester credits, including a minimum of 40 credits at the upper-division level.

Degree Options:
Computer Science – Computer Networking Emphasis, B.S.
Average Program Cost: $10,859
In-State Tuition: $5,652
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,066
Graduation Rate: 30 percent
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 25:1

9. Dakota State University – BS in Network and Security Administration

Madison, South Dakota

Points: 5
Program Website

The affordable BS in Network and Security Administration at Dakota State University teaches students the basics of the field, including:

• forensics
• virtualization
• cybersecurity
• business management
• networking

Class sizes typically consist of 25 students or fewer. There are a number of supporting services such as laboratories and equipment to help students develop their skills and gain hands-on experience. Low cost network and security information courses are available on campus or entirely online. They include topics such:

• as routing and switching
• the survey of network applications
• computer forensics fundamentals
• offensive network security,
• scripting for network administration

Graduates are prepared for careers as:

• penetration testers
• network systems engineers
• systems administrators.

Degree Options:
Network and Security Administration (B.S.)
Average Program Cost: $10,612
In-State Tuition: $9,147
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,077
Graduation Rate: 36 percent
Student: Faculty Ratio: 17:1

8. Weber State University Computer Science BA or BS

Ogden, Utah

Points: 5
Program Website

Weber State University offers the affordable Bachelor’s in Networking and Network Administration. Students can choose from either a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Both 120-credit programs include a 47- to 48-credit-hour emphasis in computer and network security. It’s comprised of 24 credit hours of required courses in:

• operating systems
• scripting languages
• security vulnerabilities and attack prevention
• computer architecture for security assurance

Students may further hone their specialization through electives in:

• writing secure code
• advanced Internet programming
• Windows/Unix/Linux infrastructure and administration
• web programming T

his low cost degree program culminates in the student’s choice of:

• a workshop
• cooperative work experience
• an individual project or research
• an advanced topics course in computer science.

Degree Options:
B.A. in Computer Science
B.S. in Computer Science
Average Program Cost: $10,486
In-State Tuition: $5,712
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,260
Graduation Rate: 33 percent
Student: Faculty Ratio: 21:1

7. Bellevue University – BS in Systems and Network Administration

Bellevue, Nebraska

Points: 5
Program Website

Bellevue University offers the 127-credit affordable BS in Systems and Network Administration. The program includes:

• 36 credits in general education
• 55 credits of electives
• 36 credits in the major

The emphasizes the application of information security principles to lessen risks. It also looks at the virtualization of computing resources. The program includes hands-on learning experiences and case studies to solve problems faced by network administrators. Through the curriculum, undergraduates learn and develop skills in:

• information security
• messaging systems
• web servers
• database management systems
• Cisco products
• network infrastructures
• the creation and administration of networks such as Linux and Microsoft.

Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Systems and Network Administration
Average Program Cost: $7,752
In-State Tuition: $7,752
Out-of-State Tuition: $7,752
Graduation Rate: 17 percent
Student: Faculty Ratio: 31:1

6. Regis University – BS in Information Technology

Denver, Colorado

Points: 6
Program Website

Regis University offers the affordable BS in Information Technology. Students develop the skills they need to effectively:

• manage enterprise security
• administer enterprise systems
• implement and protect networks
• develop a strong professional career in information technology

The 120-credit-hour program consists of 45 credit hours in general core studies. It also includes 30 credits in foundational major classes such as:

• cybersecurity
• networking infrastructure
• security management
• system analysis and design.

Upper-division courses cover areas such as:

• systems administration
• cyber forensics,
• database management
• a senior capstone

Students may further hone their degree through electives. Graduates who earn a B.S. in IT degree from Regis have successfully pursued careers in:

• security management
• network engineering
• systems administration
• network engineering.

Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
Average Program Cost: $35,610
In-State Tuition: $35,610
Out-of-State Tuition: $35,610
Graduation Rate: 71 percent
Student: Faculty Ratio: 13:1

5. Fort Hays State University – BA/BS Information Networking and Telecommunications

Hays, Kansas

Points: 6
Program Website

Fort Hays State University offers both an affordable BA and BS in Information Networking and Telecommunications. Both programs prepare students to sit for CompTIA Security+ certification and Cisco certifications. These are for entry networking technicians, network associates and network professionals. Students take INT core courses in:

• research methods
• information networking
• web development

There are also concentration courses in:

• internet working
• network architecture
• data communications

Both inexpensive degree programs require:

• 124 credit hours of study
• 39 credit hours in core/cross concentration courses
• 20 credit hours in emphasis classes and free electives

The B.A. requires 65 credits in general education, including an additional 10 hours in a foreign language.

Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Information Networking and Telecommunications
Bachelor of Science in Information Networking and Telecommunications
Average Program Cost: $9,921
In-State Tuition: $5,009
Out-of-State Tuition: $14,832
Graduation Rate: 44 percent
Student: Faculty Ratio: 17:1

4. Florida State College at Jacksonville – BAS in Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications

Jacksonville, Florida

Points: 6
Program Website

Florida State College at Jacksonville offers the affordable Bachelor of Applied Science in Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications. The program equips students with the management and technical skills they need to become network professionals. The inexpensive degree program is comprised of 120 credits. An accelerated option is available that allows students to earn their degree within 20 months. In addition to general education courses, students take classes in:

• hardware and software configuration
• routing and switching
• operating systems
• information security
• information security management
• enterprise network management
• information technology management
• a computer networking capstone.

A cooperative education internship is also required. Graduates are prepared for careers in:

• information security
• network flow optimization
• system design and analysis
• network configuring and troubleshooting,
• network management and control.

Degree Options:
Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) in Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications
Average Program Cost: $6,435
In-State Tuition: $2,878
Out-of-State Tuition: $9,992
Graduation Rate: 35 percent
Student: Faculty Ratio: 22:1

3. Alfred State College of Technology – BS in Computer Engineering Technology

Alfred, New York

Points: 7
Program Website

Alfred State College of Technology SUNY offers the affordable BS in Computer Engineering Technology program. It prepares students for careers as applied engineers. These engineers maintain, support, design, and install computer networks and systems. The technically oriented, active program focuses on:

• network infrastructure
• computer system hardware
• operating systems
• software development

Students are prepared to seek certification such as:

• Cisco Certified Network Associate
• Microsoft Certified System Engineer
• Microsoft Certified System Administrator
• CompTIA A+ and Network+

 A laptop computer is required for all students. Some courses may require specialized electronic components and/or tools.

Degree Options:
B.S. in Computer Engineering Technology
Average Program Cost: $9,862
In-State Tuition: $8,327
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,397
Graduation Rate: 52 percent
Student: Faculty Ratio: 18:1

2. Middle Georgia State University – BS in Information Technology

Macon, Georgia

Points: 7
Program Website

Middle Georgia State University’s affordable BS in Information Technology is available either on-campus or entirely online. It features seven concentrations, including network technology and administration. The core curriculum consists of 42 hours of study, including 18 hours in lower-division major requirements such as:

• web development
• network essentials
• application development
• computer programming,
• information technology

Through the 21-credit networking technology and administration concentration, students learn how to:

• analyze the needs of companies
• communicate those needs to the appropriate personnel
• design and build networks to meet those needs

Classes cover:

• network security
• virtual computing
• data communications
• Linux and Windows systems administration
• wireless technologies
• hardware and systems software
• web server and database administration.

Degree Options:
Online B.S. in Information Technology
Average Program Cost: $7,508
In-State Tuition: $3,924
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,092
Graduation Rate: 65 percent
Student: Faculty Ratio: 20:1

1. Western Governors University – BS in Network Operations and Security

Salt Lake City, Utah

Points: 7
Program Website

Western Governors University offers our most affordable online BS in Network Operations and Security. It’s for information technology professionals looking to grow their knowledge of the cloud. They will also learn to leverage their network experience to become IT security management and network administration experts. The inexpensive degree program includes 14 certifications at no extra time or cost. It provides students with the opportunity to develop skills in the latest:

• security management
• network operations,
• network design

Coursework covers crucial subjects including:

• security
• the business of information technology
• web development
• leadership and management
• interconnecting network devices
• operating systems and data management

Other areas of study include:

• scripting and programming
• spreadsheets
• networks and security,
• information technology fundamentals

WGU allows students to move through the program at their own pace.About 80 percent of graduates earn their degree within 12 to 48 months.

Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Network Operations and Security
Average Program Cost: $6,070
In-State Tuition: $6,070
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,070
Graduation Rate: 33 percent
Student: Faculty Ratio: 14:1

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Career Options for a Bachelor’s in Networking and Network Administration Degree?

With a Bachelor’s in Networking and Network Administration degree, professionals can occupy diverse and lucrative positions in the information technology field. Career opportunities include:

• cybersecurity
• web development
• systems architecture
• network administration

Because technology is important to all industries, information technology professionals may leverage their degree and skills in a variety of settings, including multinational corporations and educational organizations.

Graduates may also pursue careers as:

• multimedia artists
• graphic designers
• health services administrators
• hardware engineers

Information technology professionals must possess strong analytical and computer programming skills. They must also be able to communicate effectively, translating complex technical language and information for diverse audiences. Some of the most common degrees one can pursue with a bachelor’s degree in networking include:

• Information Security Analyst: Security professionals are responsible for safeguarding a company’s networks and computer systems. They prepare monthly reports, monitor user activity, and install protective software. Information security analysts also simulate cyber attacks to conduct penetration tests and optimize preventative measures.
• Software Developer: Software developers are programmers who develop and design software functions for general network control or individual tasks. They maintain software functionality, create product proposals, and analyze user need. Software developers may specialize in mobile technology with additional training or advance into roles like organizational managers or project directors.
• Database Administrator: Database administrators retrieve, organize, and store a company’s information such as shipping records and consumer data. They are also in charge of database security, preventing theft and data loss. They also ensure that users with clearance get access to the information they need. Some administrators work with a team to develop new databases, ensuring the company’s products matches the needs of its clients. In addition to a bachelor’s degree, some administrators often pursue vendor-neutral and vendor-specific certification.
• Systems Architect: Systems architects, also known as computer systems analysts, work to discern performance level by assessing the network operations of a company. They then develop programs and strategies based on this information to help systems run efficiently. Systems architects may also write user manuals, train employees, and prepare cost analyses.
• Network Administrator: Network administrators oversee a company’s daily operations in terms of its software programs and networks. They may perform routine maintenance, monitor computer functions, or diagnose problems. They improve the performance of systems through upgrades and optimization. Administrators may also track information transfers and assign user access to manage network security.

What is the Salary and Career Outlook For This Field?

As we’ve seen, network administrators ensure that a company’s security functions, software programs, and computer run smoothly. With a bachelor’s degree in networking and network administration, graduates can access entry-level positions in private corporations, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and schools. Due to the large-scale digitization of commerce and data, information technology specialists are in high demand. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), network and computer systems administrator jobs are expected to increase 6 percent through 2026. Job growth is particularly favorable among medium-sized businesses in the health services industry.  IT professionals are needed to help troubleshoot problems and maintain network health.

The BLS also indicates that the median annual wage for network and computer systems administrators was $81,000 in May 2017. The highest 10 percent of professionals earned more than $130,200, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $49,830. The top industries in which network and computer systems administrators worked were as follows:

• Information: $87,950
• Insurance and finance: $87,420
• Computer systems design and related services: $86,250
• Management of enterprises and companies: $84,870
• Private, local, and state educational services: $70,020

What Courses Will You Take in a Bachelor’s Degree in Networking and Network Administration?

Network administration degree programs begin with core computer and math topics. Coursework may include:

• web application programming
• networking
• data visualization

Students may choose electives or an area of specialization to further focus their degree on an area of interest. Five popular classes in this field include:

• Mobile Business Application Development
• Foundations of Cybersecurity
• Database Operations
• Project Management
• Programming for Network Administration

Some schools offer network and systems administration as a specialization within the bachelor’s degree in network administration. There are also standalone network administrator degrees. Likewise, they may come with concentrations to help students advance to professional certification and pursue individual careers. Some of the five most common concentrations include:

• Data Analytics
• IT Entrepreneurship
• Software Development
• Systems Analysis
• Information Security

How Do You Choose a Bachelor’s in Network Administration Program?

Students earning a Bachelor’s in Networking and Network Administration develop the foundation they need to succeed in the field through skill training and advanced coursework. Programs and requirements will vary from school to school. However, most degrees include the study of core topics such as:

• technical communication
• software analysis
• object-oriented programming
• database administration
• best business practices in information technology

Undergraduates participate in both group collaboration and classroom discussion. They develop skills through hands-on experiential learning such as internships and laboratory work. Most programs culminate in a capstone project where students are required to implement solutions to common, critical problems in the information technology field.

The traditional undergraduate program in networking takes four years to complete and consists of 120 credits of study. Course load and student status will affect this timeline. Students may choose to earn their degree on a part-time basis to accommodate family and work obligations. Or they may pursue a degree that involves hybrid learning methods and self-paced classes. In addition, some institutions offer accelerated degree plans in which students may earn a bachelor’s in two or three years.

While online learners generally adhere to a linear degree plan, traditional students typically enjoy more specialization and course options. Distance learners may benefit from financial aid opportunities, program discounts, and affordable tuition rates. However, they may not have access to work-study positions and fellowships. These awards generally require on-campus classes and participation. When picking a program, prospective students should consider their location as well as how their residency status will affect the cost of the degree. Students should also research the quality of life in the area, housing costs, and living expenses.

Is There Programmatic Accreditation for Undergraduate Network Administration Programs?

In order to award valid degrees, universities and colleges must earn regional, programmatic, and/or national accreditation. For students, accreditation leads to opportunities for:

• advancement
• career entry employer respect

Schools can earn national accreditation through an accrediting agency such as the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges or other organizations. There are also six organizations that provide regional accreditation, depending on the location of the school.

In addition, schools may earn programmatic accreditation in the field of networking and network administration from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). The ABET is the preeminent accrediting body for the field of information technology. Students pursuing a degree from an ABET-accredited school benefit from access to licensure/certification programs and scholarship eligibility. They also possess the skills and knowledge that align with verifiable global standards in the industry.

The field of information technology is rapidly growing as is the need for dedicated, skilled computer network professionals. Fortunately, there are a number of high-quality, accredited, and affordable bachelor’s degrees that are available online or on-campus to students considering this challenging yet exciting field. 

AS Staff

This concludes our ranking of the Top 15 of the Most Affordable Bachelor’s Degrees in Networking and Network Administration.

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