25 Most Affordable Network Administration Programs

Are you considering earning a degree in network administration? This career field tends to be a good fit for individuals who are interested in and skilled with computers. As technology becomes more prominent in the workplace, companies and organizations in every industry depend heavily upon professionals in this field. Ideal candidates often possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to communicate and multitask efficiently. If you feel this describes your abilities and you enjoy the prospect of overseeing network operations, it’s time to find an affordable and accredited network administration degree program.

Degrees in network administration can lead to a wide variety of career opportunities. Students are instructed in numerous areas such as information technology project management, database management, operating systems, and web authoring. Those enrolled should also expect to explore other technology-related topics, including Windows server administration and Linux system administration. Graduates should possess the knowledge and skills necessary to install, manage, and optimize computer networks.

This degree frequently leads to a career as a network administrator. These professionals are generally responsible for the day-to-day operation of computer networks for the companies or organizations they work for. Responsibilities include organizing, installing, and supporting a wide variety of systems, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), network segments, intranets, and other data communication methods.

It’s important to note that the field is highly technical, which means that some level of formal education is necessary to qualify for professional employment. At a minimum, you will need an associate degree, although a bachelor’s degree will likely lead to more promising career opportunities. In either case, enrolling at a college or university can be expensive. While finances should never be the sole driving factor, it’s important to keep affordability in mind as you establish your academic and career goals.

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Top 25 Best Affordable Network Administration Colleges and Universities

1

Purdue University

Score: 90.52

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,992
- Out-of-State:$28,794
Net Price: $12,576
Acceptance Rate: 53%
Retention Rate: 90%

Graduation Rate: 83%
Total Enrollment: 51,528
Undergrad Students: 38,593
Graduate Students: 12,935
Grads Salary: $83,000
Student-to-faculty: 14:1

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2

Stony Brook University

Score: 87.84

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,560
- Out-of-State:$30,350
Net Price: $17,213
Acceptance Rate: 49%
Retention Rate: 88%

Graduation Rate: 78%
Total Enrollment: 25,710
Undergrad Students: 17,509
Graduate Students: 8,201
Grads Salary: $86,000
Student-to-faculty: 19:1

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3

Michigan Technological University

Score: 80.21

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $18,392
- Out-of-State:$41,340
Net Price: $18,235
Acceptance Rate: 94%
Retention Rate: 85%

Graduation Rate: 68%
Total Enrollment: 7,063
Undergrad Students: 5,699
Graduate Students: 1,364
Grads Salary: $82,000
Student-to-faculty: 13:1

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4

Tuskegee University

Score: 79

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $23,440
- Out-of-State:$23,440
Net Price: $35,596
Acceptance Rate: 30%
Retention Rate: 76%

Graduation Rate: 67%
Total Enrollment: 2,570
Undergrad Students: 2,100
Graduate Students: 470
Grads Salary: $86,000
Student-to-faculty: 7:1

5

Montana Technological University

Score: 76.81

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,050
- Out-of-State:$24,730
Net Price: $16,045
Acceptance Rate: 89%
Retention Rate: 72%

Graduation Rate: 57%
Total Enrollment: 1,625
Undergrad Students: 1,437
Graduate Students: 188
Grads Salary: $82,000
Student-to-faculty: 13:1

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6

University of Cincinnati

Score: 76.79

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,570
- Out-of-State:$30,582
Net Price: $20,149
Acceptance Rate: 86%
Retention Rate: 86%

Graduation Rate: 72%
Total Enrollment: 41,155
Undergrad Students: 29,663
Graduate Students: 11,492
Grads Salary: $74,000
Student-to-faculty: 18:1

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7

Rochester Institute of Technology

Score: 75.98

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $57,016
- Out-of-State:$57,016
Net Price: $39,600
Acceptance Rate: 67%
Retention Rate: 85%

Graduation Rate: 72%
Total Enrollment: 16,615
Undergrad Students: 13,940
Graduate Students: 2,675
Grads Salary: $85,000
Student-to-faculty: 13:1

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8

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan

Score: 75.73

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $35,822
- Out-of-State:$35,822
Net Price: $16,030
Acceptance Rate: 84%
Retention Rate: 76%

Graduation Rate: 51%
Total Enrollment: 7,285
Undergrad Students: 5,380
Graduate Students: 1,905
Grads Salary: $82,000
Student-to-faculty: 13:1

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9

North Dakota State University

Score: 74.62

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,857
- Out-of-State:$15,511
Net Price: $15,962
Acceptance Rate: 96%
Retention Rate: 75%

Graduation Rate: 63%
Total Enrollment: 12,242
Undergrad Students: 10,096
Graduate Students: 2,146
Grads Salary: $75,000
Student-to-faculty: 17:1

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10

University of Scranton

Score: 73.95

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $52,309
- Out-of-State:$52,309
Net Price: $35,526
Acceptance Rate: 84%
Retention Rate: 85%

Graduation Rate: 80%
Total Enrollment: 4,731
Undergrad Students: 3,593
Graduate Students: 1,138
Grads Salary: $74,000
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

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11

Central Washington University

Score: 72.23

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,192
- Out-of-State:$26,771
Net Price: $15,864
Acceptance Rate: 93%
Retention Rate: 68%

Graduation Rate: 52%
Total Enrollment: 9,257
Undergrad Students: 8,743
Graduate Students: 514
Grads Salary: $77,000
Student-to-faculty: 14:1

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12

Saint Ambrose University

Score: 72.23

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $35,598
- Out-of-State:$35,598
Net Price: $23,359
Acceptance Rate: 74%
Retention Rate: 79%

Graduation Rate: 64%
Total Enrollment: 2,747
Undergrad Students: 2,118
Graduate Students: 629
Grads Salary: $70,000
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

13

University of Northern Iowa

Score: 71.68

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,728
- Out-of-State:$21,272
Net Price: $15,782
Acceptance Rate: 95%
Retention Rate: 83%

Graduation Rate: 64%
Total Enrollment: 8,945
Undergrad Students: 7,735
Graduate Students: 1,210
Grads Salary: $66,000
Student-to-faculty: 17:1

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14

Southern Utah University

Score: 70.81

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,770
- Out-of-State:$20,586
Net Price: $12,681
Acceptance Rate: 84%
Retention Rate: 71%

Graduation Rate: 58%
Total Enrollment: 14,330
Undergrad Students: 12,649
Graduate Students: 1,681
Grads Salary: $68,000
Student-to-faculty: 22:1

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15

Dakota State University

Score: 70.46

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,633
- Out-of-State:$12,735
Net Price: $17,977
Acceptance Rate: 79%
Retention Rate: 74%

Graduation Rate: 49%
Total Enrollment: 3,241
Undergrad Students: 2,757
Graduate Students: 484
Grads Salary: $75,000
Student-to-faculty: 18:1

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16

Lindenwood University

Score: 69.62

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $21,100
- Out-of-State:$21,100
Net Price: $18,016
Acceptance Rate: 74%
Retention Rate: 77%

Graduation Rate: 54%
Total Enrollment: 7,000
Undergrad Students: 4,808
Graduate Students: 2,192
Grads Salary: $67,000
Student-to-faculty: 13:1

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17

SUNY College of Technology at Alfred

Score: 69.47

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,862
- Out-of-State:$16,367
Net Price: $17,262
Acceptance Rate: 82%
Retention Rate: 73%

Graduation Rate: 54%
Total Enrollment: 3,348
Undergrad Students: 3,348
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $69,000
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

18

California Baptist University

Score: 69.36

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $39,720
- Out-of-State:$39,720
Net Price: $27,304
Acceptance Rate: 80%
Retention Rate: 73%

Graduation Rate: 63%
Total Enrollment: 11,495
Undergrad Students: 8,334
Graduate Students: 3,161
Grads Salary: $72,000
Student-to-faculty: 18:1

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19

Fort Hays State University

Score: 68.35

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,633
- Out-of-State:$16,811
Net Price: $13,322
Acceptance Rate: 88%
Retention Rate: 76%

Graduation Rate: 51%
Total Enrollment: 12,949
Undergrad Students: 10,427
Graduate Students: 2,522
Grads Salary: $65,000
Student-to-faculty: 15:1

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20

Davenport University

Score: 65.88

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $23,324
- Out-of-State:$23,324
Net Price: $18,350
Acceptance Rate: 99%
Retention Rate: 74%

Graduation Rate: 50%
Total Enrollment: 5,073
Undergrad Students: 4,069
Graduate Students: 1,004
Grads Salary: $67,000
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

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21

Pennsylvania College of Technology

Score: 65.16

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $17,940
- Out-of-State:$25,680
Net Price: $23,030
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 77%

Graduation Rate: 49%
Total Enrollment: 4,241
Undergrad Students: 4,234
Graduate Students: 7
Grads Salary: $69,000
Student-to-faculty: 14:1

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22

Utah Valley University

Score: 64.63

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,270
- Out-of-State:$17,830
Net Price: $9,346
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 68%

Graduation Rate: 39%
Total Enrollment: 43,099
Undergrad Students: 42,296
Graduate Students: 803
Grads Salary: $68,000
Student-to-faculty: 25:1

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23

PennWest Edinboro

Score: 63.9

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $11,388
- Out-of-State:$16,006
Net Price: $18,527
Acceptance Rate: 94%
Retention Rate: 70%

Graduation Rate: 48%
Total Enrollment: 12,778
Undergrad Students: 9,404
Graduate Students: 3,374
Grads Salary: $65,000
Student-to-faculty: 18:1

24

Bellevue University

Score: 63.79

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,886
- Out-of-State:$8,886
Net Price: $24,767
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 51%

Graduation Rate: 41%
Total Enrollment: 13,841
Undergrad Students: 10,808
Graduate Students: 3,033
Grads Salary: $78,000
Student-to-faculty: 13:1

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25

Tiffin University

Score: 63.27

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $32,400
- Out-of-State:$32,400
Net Price: $25,636
Acceptance Rate: 83%
Retention Rate: 60%

Graduation Rate: 45%
Total Enrollment: 3,044
Undergrad Students: 2,339
Graduate Students: 705
Grads Salary: $72,000
Student-to-faculty: 17:1

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Why a Degree from an Affordable Network Administration Program?

Many students choose to pursue network administration degrees because they are interested in and proficient with computers. Information technology professionals are highly valued in today’s technology-dependent world. Overall, this career path is dynamic and rewarding, offering opportunities to work in a variety of industries.

Depending on the level of education attained, graduates often enjoy employment opportunities in the following positions:

Network Administrator
Computer Systems Analyst
Systems Operator
Information Systems Manager
Information Technology Analyst
Software Developer
Web Researcher
Network Architect

Other benefits of pursuing a degree in network administration include earning an above-average salary and enjoying relatively consistent job security. Additionally, graduates gain fundamental tools in computer diagnostics, repair, and upgrade, which can be useful in almost any industry.

Deciding to earn a degree of any kind can be daunting, especially due to the accompanying expenses. Prospective students who lack the financial resources necessary to afford tuition may find it difficult to enroll and/or remain in college. As a result, finding an affordable academic program should be a top priority.

Fortunately, there are many forms of financial aid available to most students. Scholarships and grants are ideal, as the funds awarded do not need to be paid pack after graduation. This type of aid ranges in amount and can relate to general studies or specific majors. Unfortunately, few scholarship and grants cover all the expenses related to earning a degree. Prospective students can rely on loans for additional assistance, but these funds must be paid back and interest rates can inflate debt quickly.

Find Online Network Administration Schools

While financial aid often supplements higher education expenses, the best solution is to find an affordable network administration program. This is particularly important for students who demonstrate significant financial need. Regardless of your academic goals, opting for a less expensive program can be extremely beneficial.

Choosing an Affordable College

There are several factors you should consider when looking for an affordable network administration program. No two institutions are exactly alike, so it is essential that you take time to compare and contrast the ones of greatest interest. Some of the most important features to assess include cost, location, accreditation, program structure, and graduation requirements. Reviewing these details prior to enrollment can help you identify the college or university that fits your unique needs best.

Cost
While the cost of earning a network administration degree should never completely dictate your selection, it’s important to keep your financial situation in mind. Some institutions are more expensive to attend than others. These price differences often stem from school type, location, and reputation. Public schools, for example, tend to have lower tuition rates than private ones, and highly reputable schools frequently charge more than lesser-known institutions.
Location
Where you choose to enroll can have a huge impact on your future and your budget. The location of your college or university often has an impact on tuition and fee rates. Areas with high cost of living may be particularly expensive, especially for students from out-of-state. Public institutions regularly charge non-residents more, and room charges can be prohibitive. Additionally, it’s generally recommended for students to attend schools near to where they plan to work. Local institutions usually maintain programs that cover topics most important to employers in the area.
Accreditation

It’s also important to consider the accreditation status of the college or university where your program is offered. While academic institutions are not required to pursue specific accreditation, it demonstrates that the degrees offered meet certain educational standards as set by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council of Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

CHEA recognizes the following regional accrediting agencies:
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
- North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCACS)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS COC)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Schools (WASC ACS
Program Structure
Network administration programs differ in structure and curriculum. Reading through the details provided on college websites can help you determine whether or not your goals align well with what is offered. Pay particular attention to average class sizes and course requirements, as well as the instructional methods commonly utilized by professors. If additional information is necessary, consider contacting program directors with questions and/or concerns.
Graduation Requirements
Graduation requirements tend to be relatively standard among colleges and universities, but each institution sets their own guidelines. As a result, you should review expectations prior to enrolling. In most cases, students must complete a specified number of courses, pass certain keystone classes, adhere to various conduct regulations, and maintain a minimum grade point average in order to graduate.

Online Options

Deciding to pursue an online degree in network administration can lead to a very rewarding career in the field. Programs tend to be extremely flexible, allowing first-time and returning students the ability to complete coursework from literally anywhere in the world where internet is available. This is especially helpful for prospective students who are unable to attend classes in person. Remote instruction can often accommodate the needs of current professionals juggling work responsibilities, as well as people with personal obligations that make on-campus learning difficult.

It is also common for colleges and universities to offer accelerated online programs. These often condense the content delivered down into shorter periods. While instruction is often more intense and demanding, courses can be completed in less time. Some accelerated bachelor’s degrees, for example, can be completed in two to three years instead of four.

Prospective online learners should also be aware of the potential drawbacks often associated with online degrees. Programs typically require students to be highly self-motivated, and some resources normally available on campuses may not be accessible. Online degrees also offer significantly fewer opportunities to network with peers and professionals in the field. Hybrid programs attempt to bridge these gaps by requiring short residencies on campus between extended periods of online learning. Online student and career development services can also be confirmed ahead of time.

Are These Programs in High Demand?

Many colleges and universities offer network administration as a specialization within another degree, such as computer science or information technology. There are, however, some more focused options available.

Overall, the outlook for professionals in this field working in the United States is average. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for network and computer systems administrators is projected to grow by 4% from 2019 to 2029. This is about as fast as the national average for all occupations, making this profession a viable solution for individuals seeking stable employment. An increase of this size is expected to add about 16,00 new jobs to the market.

Demand for qualified information technology professionals is still high and is expected to continue rising as more and more businesses invest in newer, faster technology and mobile networks. Cloud computing, on the other hand, is likely the greatest factor slowing employment growth in this sector. Regardless, job opportunities should be favorable. Job candidates with a bachelor’s degree who are up to date on the latest technology will have the best prospects.

What Can You Do with a Degree in Network Administration?

There are a few different career paths available after earning a degree in network administration. However, the prospects available to you will depend greatly upon the level of education achieved. As previously mentioned, the most prominent positions require, at minimum, a bachelor’s degree. Identifying your employment goals now can help you determine which degree type is ultimately necessary. Some common career paths include network security, database management, and information technology.

Network Administrators
Network administrators ensure networks are running efficiently for the businesses and organizations they work for. These professionals handle all day-to-day operations and address issues as they arise.
Software Developers
Software developers are programmers who design and develop software functions. They utilize user feedback to create product proposals. These professionals also maintain overall software functionality.
System Architects
System architects determine the performance level of a company or organization by assessing network operations. They use the information gathered to develop strategies and programs to help systems run more efficiently.
Information Security Analysts
Information security analysts are responsible for helping to keep systems storing sensitive information safe. These professionals work to prevent cyber-attacks and provide additional security after data breaches.
Database Administrators

Database administrators organize and maintain efficient information storage databases. They are responsible for keeping data secure, as well as easily accessible to people who need it.

Network administration graduates often work for computer systems businesses, educational entities, finance and insurance companies, and management enterprises. In 2019, the largest employer for network and computer systems administrators was computer systems design and services companies.

Graduates Earn More After College

The earning potential for network and computer systems administrators trends well above average. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for this was $84,800 in 2020, which is well above the median annual wage of $41,950 as reported for all occupations. While professionals in the lowest 10% made a median salary of less than $52,830 in 2020, those in the highest 10% earned more than $134,970.

Education level often has a significant impact on pay. More education generally translates to more money. According to PayScale, those with associate of science (AS) degrees in network administration earn an average salary of $58,000, whereas those with bachelor’s degrees in network administration earn an average salary of $73,000.

FAQs

What are the admission requirements for network administration students?

Admission requirements vary from institution to institution, with some colleges and universities maintaining very strict standards. To improve your chances of acceptance, research each school thoroughly before submitting applications.

Some of the most common expectations for incoming freshmen include:
- Official High School Transcripts or College Transcripts
- Minimum Grade Point Average (GPA)
- Application and Fees
- Letters of Recommendation
- Personal Statement or Supplemental Essay
- Academic Work Samples
- Scores from College Entrance Exams (SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT etc.)
Few community colleges require SAT and/or ACT test scores for students applying to associate-level degree programs. These standardized exams are utilized most by schools offering bachelor’s degree. Those seeking masters’ degrees or doctorates may need to provide GRE scores.
How long will it take to complete a network administration degree?

The length of time necessary to complete a network administration degree program will depend most on the type of degree sought. An associate degree, for example, consists of about 60 credit hours and will take full-time students approximately two years to complete. Bachelor’s degree programs are made up of 120 credit hours and require about four years to complete. Choosing to attend school part-time, however, can increase graduation timeframes by one to three years.

As previously mentioned, some colleges and universities do offer accelerated programs that can be completed faster. Additionally, in some cases, prior work experience may be converted into course hours that can count towards graduation requirements. Credit hours from advanced placement classes or previous degrees can also be applied.