Master’s Degree Programs in Network Management Overview
Majors Overview July 18, 2015This article talks about master’s degree programs in network management and their education requirements, coursework, job and wage outlook, and continuing education choices.
Information on Network Management Programs
Students looking for an education in network management can enroll in master’s degree programs in information technology and computer information systems. Coursework is a combination of technology and business, and some programs have concentrations to focus on a particular area of network management. The programs are for professionals currently working in the field and are consequently flexible; schools offer part-time and online formats to suit these students. Admission criteria typically require incoming students to have prior work experience.
Master of Science (M.S.) Programs in Information Technology
To pursue a career in network management, a professional would need to have extensive knowledge of information technology concepts, including computer networks, software, and hardware. Students enrolled in information technology (IT) programs learn about the principles of information technology as pertaining to engineering and business. Enrollees are usually in current occupations as network managers or similar positions.
By completing the program, they can enhance their career prospects through further development of their knowledge and skills. The programs aimed at working professionals are frequently available in distance-learning and part-time formats.
Education Requirements
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a bachelor’s degree, most commonly in computer science and engineering. Additionally, students are also required to have prior work experience in an IT position.
Coursework
Coursework combines both technical and theoretical aspects of networks, computer systems, and their role in the workplace. Core coursework may commonly cover topic areas such as:
•Software Engineering
•Database management
•Network management
•Information systems
•Network architecture
•Telecommunications engineering
Career Choices
Program graduates can seek jobs in the network and technology departments of various types of businesses, involving development, repair, design, or security work. They can choose from possible job positions such as:
•IT specialist
•Network security manager
•Software Engineer
•Network Manager
•Network Consultant
Master of Science (M.S.) Programs in Computer Information Systems (CIS)
IT professionals seeking development of skills leading to career advancement would benefit by enrolling in these programs. Technical training in information systems is available through computer information systems (CIS) degree programs aimed at meeting organizational, business, and managerial needs. In many CIS master’s degree programs, students can choose specializations devoted to career-oriented areas in database technologies, computer security, and software development.
Education Requirements
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a bachelor’s degree, preferably in a related field, such as information technology or computer science. In most programs, enrollees are expected to have prior professional work experience in an IT field.
Coursework
Coursework covers a wide range of topics including programming and systems architecture, among others. Core coursework may cover topic areas such as:
•Database Administration
•Advanced programming
•Information systems administration
•Network management
•Computer operating systems
Job and Wage Outlook
Over the 2012 – 2022 decade, a job growth of 12% has been predicted for network and computer systems administrators (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In 2012, these professionals brought in an average annual wage of $72,560 (BLS).
Continuing Education Choices
Certifications are not mandatory for network managers and other IT specialists; however, many seek professional certification as a career advancement tool. Microsoft, Cisco, Symantec, and Oracle are among the technology companies that offer certifications.