Degree Overview: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Network Engineering
Majors Overview September 6, 2014Students in Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree programs in Network Engineering will be taught about network architecture, theories behind data transfer, and different server types. It usually takes four years to complete these programs; however, it is not uncommon to finish them in three years. Programs that offer several concentrations to students may take up to five years to complete.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in Network Engineering
Students enrolled in Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Network Engineering programs are taught about data transfer theories, network architecture, and different types of servers, in addition to managing wide and local area networks. They also delve into the rudiments of information security and server configuration. Given the close relation between the fields of network engineering and computer hardware engineering, coursework in these programs also includes the study of computer hardware.
Advanced networking knowledge is expected to be demonstrated through experience or completion of a capstone project by students enrolled in a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) program in Network Engineering. Graduates can seek job positions of security specialists, information technology (IT) analysts, and network administrators, all of which design, plan, and/or troubleshoot the infrastructure of computer networks.
Graduates typically take four years to complete these programs; however, some programs take only three years to complete while others with multiple concentration options offered to students could take as long as five years.
Coursework
Coursework within Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Network Engineering programs includes the rudiments of network configuration, e-mail, hypertext markup language (HTML), and file transfer protocol (FTP). Also, provided in the coursework is an outline of troubleshooting, design, and modeling of networks.
Additionally, coursework in most network engineering programs are comprised of both a general education and technology core, and electives are not required in every program. Courses in C++ or Java may be taken by individuals seeking a second major or concentration in programming. Core coursework may include topic areas such as:
•Internet protocol (IP) technologies
•Communications data
•Network administration
•Advanced networking
•IT security
•Server configuration
•Firewalls
Job and Wage Outlook
An average job growth of 12% has been predicted for network and computer systems administrators, over the 2010 – 2020 decade (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In May 2012, these professionals took home an average annual wage of $72,560.
Over the same decade, computer network architects, information security analysts, and Web developers are expected to see a much faster than average 22% growth rate. In 2012, these professionals took home an average annual wage of $91,000.
Continuing Education Choices
CompTIA and Microsoft security certifications may be earned by network engineering graduates. While not mandatory for employment, volunteering for these certifications can enhance the career opportunities enjoyed by network engineers. Graduates may also opt to earn a Master of Science (M.S.) in Networking and Systems Administration degree. Network engineering management positions are available to master’s degree graduates. The Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) program focused on information technology can help in obtaining many supervisory positions.
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