Degree Overview: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Information Technology Concentrating on Network Administration
Majors Overview February 19, 2015Get information about a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree program in Information Technology concentrating on network administration and its education requirements, coursework, career choices, job and wage outlook, and continuing education choices.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in Information Technology Concentrating on Network Administration
Few schools in the United States offer Bachelor of Information Technology (B.I.T.) degree programs. Those seeking formal education in network administration in the form of a bachelor’s degree program would benefit by earning a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Information Technology (IT) degree with a concentration in network administration.
Students enrolled in such programs can gain a sound grasp of IT concepts while being allowed to choose a specialized core course that demonstrates how to implement and maintain computer networks. A core of general education courses typically begins the program, and introductory classes in general computer architecture, databases, networks, and programming follow afterwards.
Students that have chosen a concentration of network administration then learn about advanced topic areas in networking devised to develop problem solving skills and the establishment of secure networks that function efficiently. Through the whole duration of the program, students can take certification examinations and thereby enhance their job prospects after graduation.
Education Requirements
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or a high school diploma, in addition to meeting all admission standards. High school courses in science, algebra, and English are recommended as preparation for this program. Students enrolled in some programs are expected to possess a notebook computer or laptop before more advanced courses are taken.
Coursework
Coursework is devised to introduce IT principles and give students hands-on experience in the development of software. Coursework features a combination of computer lab experiences and internship programs aimed at preparing graduates for immediate entry into the workforce. Core coursework may include these subject areas:
•Computer architecture
•Programming basics
•Network installation
•Internet-working
•Web development
•Information security fundamentals
•Network fundamentals
•Data administration
•Network management and design
•Operating systems
Career Choices
After they complete the program, students may either choose to continue their education or opt to enter the workforce in job positions such as:
•Web engineer
•Network analyst
•Software developer
•Computer network administrator
•Network engineer
•Network architect
Job and Wage Outlook
A faster-than-average job growth rate of 28% has been predicted for network and computer systems administrators over the 2012 – 2022 decade (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Over the same time, computer network architects (categorized with information security analysts and web developers) are expected to enjoy job growth of 22%. In May 2012, network and computer systems administrators took home an average annual salary of $76,320, while network architects banked $91,000.
Continuing Education Choices
Graduates from the bachelor’s program can seek continuing education by earning a master’s or doctoral degree. Research and independent projects are heavily emphasized in these programs, whereby students can prepare for careers in teaching or administration. Students may choose network administration as a concentration area for study.
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