Network Engineering Bachelor’s Degrees: Best Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

Network engineering is a field that continues to grow as our reliance on electronic and digital devices increases. If you’re thinking of

becoming a network engineer

, securing a bachelor’s degree is one of the best ways to reach your career goals. This article covers the Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Network Engineering and the best jobs for network engineering majors.

What Is Network Engineering?

Network engineering is a broad interdisciplinary field that deals with the design, development, and maintenance of telecommunications and digital network systems. It involves optimizing and securing the entire information technology infrastructure of an organization.

People who master network engineering are called network engineers. However, there are many other computer-related fields that someone with knowledge of network engineering can explore, such as network administrators and systems analysts.

What Is a Network Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?

A network engineering bachelor’s degree is a four-year undergraduate degree that can be completed at a university or college. Depending on your career goals, you can either opt for a bachelor of science, a bachelor of arts, or a bachelor of engineering. These programs usually require between 160 to 180 credits to complete.

You can get your Bachelor’s Degree in Network Engineering online or in person as long as the curriculum covers everything you need to know to secure an entry-level position. Some of the core courses include computer science, operating systems, database administration, network routing, networking technologies, hardware installation, and ethical hacking.

Network Engineering Bachelor Degree Requirements

The most important admissions requirement for being admitted to a degree program is a high school diploma or an equivalent certificate. You can also apply if you have an associate degree, which allows you to complete your bachelor’s program in two years. You will need to submit your school transcripts as proof of your previous education.

You must have a foundational knowledge of STEM subjects like advanced mathematics and technology. The best schools also require you to have an above-average GPA. Otherwise, you may need to take a few post-secondary courses before you can apply for admission.

How Much Does a Network Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Cost?

The National Center for Education Statistics states that the average cost for tuition and fees at a four-year institution is

$19,081 per year

. Private schools can cost up to $53,217 yearly and public schools cost almost half that amount at $25,487. Note that this does not include the cost of board, books, transportation, accommodation, food, and other expenses.

Network Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Network Engineering Degree

There are several financing options to help students pay for a college degree, including FAFSA federal aid, scholarships, grants, and private loans. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages so research thoroughly before you pick the one that works best for you.

Best Network Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

Best Colleges for Network Engineering: Top Network Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs

There are hundreds of schools in the United States but not all of them offer network engineering. Even among the schools that offer it, you still need to look out for the best curriculum. The list below contains more details about the best bachelor’s degrees in network engineering.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon has a global reputation as one of the best universities for STEM education. The school has a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science that is ideal for aspiring network engineers. Carnegie Mellon encourages undergraduate students to participate in top-level research during their undergraduate careers.

Bachelor of Science in Network and Security Administration | Dakota State University

Dakota State University’s Beacom College of Computer and Cyber Sciences. This faculty offers a wide variety of associate, bachelor’s, and graduate programs, including network security and administration. Students learn about operating systems and networking theory. Students learn technical skills for cyber security like penetration testing and engaging web applications.

Bachelor of Science in Network Engineering and Security | DePaul University

The network engineering bachelor’s degree offered at DePaul University covers everything you need to know about network security technologies, security best practices, security management, network modeling, and security protocols.

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Bachelor of Science in Computing and Information Technologies | Rochester Institute of Technology

This New York-based private school is a four-year institution that offers an impressive curriculum for information technology. Some of the core courses include web development, mobile development, computer system concepts, information assurance, and security. Graduates can find careers as network administrators and network analysts.

Bachelor of Science in Network Engineering | University of Advancing Technology

This university has created programs for people who want to launch tech careers. The 120 college credit degree teaches students how to implement data-driven solutions. It is followed by a mandatory internship in a reputable company.

Bachelor of Arts or Science in Computer Science | University of California, Berkeley

UC Berkeley gives undergraduate students the chance to choose between a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science In Computer Science. For the bachelor of science, students are admitted into the college of electrical engineering and computer science. Courses include operating systems, data structures, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and database systems.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | University of California, Los Angeles

UCLA has a great computer engineering program that allows students to choose the topics that interest them. Their network embedded systems track is ideal for aspiring network engineers. Courses cover topics like the Internet of Things (IoT), machine learning, and network architectures.

Bachelor of Science in Information Systems | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

This four-year public institution was founded in 1867 and offers a bachelor’s degree that is ideal for people who want to apply IT in business. Courses include project management, IT for networked organizations, database design, database management, business analytics, and information systems analysis and design.

Bachelor of Science in Information | University of Michigan

Students at the University of Michigan can choose between the user experience design and information analysis tracks. Both tracks teach technical skills and leadership skills. The school claims that 94 percent of the graduates in the information program

earn above $78,000

after graduating.

Bachelor of Arts or Science in Computer Engineering | University of Minnesota

At the University of Minnesota, students can choose between a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. The Bachelor of Science degree focuses on teaching essential skills in computer science to equip students with the ability to keep up-to-date with an ever-changing industry.

Best Online Network Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

Best Colleges for Network Engineering: Top Online Network Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Online bachelor’s degrees in network engineering are equally helpful if you want to pursue a career in this field but allow more flexibility. You can opt for these degrees if you prefer to learn from the comfort of your home.

Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Systems | Champlain College

Champlain College has gained a solid reputation in the distance learning industry over the years. The computer and information systems program covers networking fundamentals, introduction to Python, enterprise database systems, information systems design, network design, and operating systems.

Bachelor of Science in Information Systems | Concordia University, St Paul

During the 120 college credit program, students learn network defense, cyber security, applied design, artificial intelligence, computer science, business analytics, and product management. Note that this is a Christian university.

Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems | Indiana State University

This public school has been around since 1865 and it currently offers more than 100 undergraduate programs. The Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems is a business degree that includes courses on network administration, project management, data management, business application programming, and network security.

Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems | Maryville University

Maryland University is a Missouri-based school that was founded in 1872. The management information systems degree offers students advanced knowledge of programming, network security, and project management. It also helps students develop soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Middle Georgia State University

Middle Georgia State University is one of the public schools with the most extensive information technology curriculums in the industry. The online courses cover network technologies, digital forensics, cyber security, web application development, critical infrastructure management, and software development.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Point University

This IT undergraduate degree offers a concentration in network administration. Some of the core courses include network management, server administration, website development, programming, and network security applications.

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration | Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University was founded in 1930 in Virginia. Their information technology program has courses that cover network engineering, software development, database management, e-business, and systems analysis and design.

Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity | Southern Nazarene University

Southern Nazarene University offers this cyber security degree, which is ideal for those who want to dive into the network security industry. It is also an accelerated degree that can be obtained in just 18 months of full-time study. Courses include networking for security, network administration, network assurance, penetration testing, and advanced intrusion detection.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Tiffin University

Tiffin University is a private university that was launched in 1888. The bachelor’s in computer science offers a specialization in systems and network administration. Courses include network infrastructure, cloud administration, server administration, and project management.

Bachelor of Science in Information Systems | University of Alabama at Birmingham

Deep in the heart of Alabama, this university now has a global reach because of its fully functional online platform. The Bachelor of Science in Information Systems is just one of the many network and computer-based fields offered by the school. You will learn everything there is to know about networks, data management, and network security measures.

What’s the Average Network Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Salary?

The average annual wage for

network system administrators is $73,193

. ZipRecruiter reports that the annual salary could range from $44,500 to $121,500 for bachelor degree holders. However, the job description, technology fields, and location are some of the factors that can influence your annual wage.

Top Network Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview

Best Network Engineering Bachelor Degree Jobs Explained

Cloud Architect

Cloud architects are IT experts who specialize in designing, developing, and maintaining cloud computing technologies. They install cloud technology and oversee database migration when companies want to move to the cloud.

Cyber Security Manager

Cyber security managers are responsible for overseeing an entire cyber security team within an organization. They ensure that the right security measures are in place to protect the digital and information security infrastructure of an organization. Since it is a leadership role, they may be required to have several years of industry experience.

SQL Database Administrator

SQL database administrators are charged with installing, monitoring, securing, and ensuring the smooth flow of data within the SQL database management system. Most SQL database administrators have advanced knowledge of other programming languages.

Senior System Administrator

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $100,957
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  5%****
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  350,300****
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Maryland, California, New Jersey****

Senior system administrators are in charge of an organization’s IT department. They oversee a team of systems administrators, ensuring that everyone fulfills their day-to-day duties. They often report to the chief technology officers within an organization.

Wireless Network Engineer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $100,489
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  5% from 2020 to 2030
  
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  165,200
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  New Jersey, Maryland, and California

Wireless engineers or wireless network engineers build wireless computer systems that are strong enough to match a company’s information needs. They install the wireless wide area networks and any other wireless technologies required by a company.

Cyber Security Analyst

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $91,661
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  33%**
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  141,200
  
  **
  
• 
  Highest-Paying States
  
  : California, New York, New Jersey**

Cyber security analysts are IT security experts who protect the cyber infrastructure of companies. They install network firewalls, run penetration tests, and monitor IT infrastructures to prevent security breaches.

Network Programmer

Network or computer programmers develop code and software applications using popular programming languages. While the demand for computer programmers, in general, is on the decline, there is still a high demand for people who specialize in individual programming languages.

Network and Computer Systems Administrator

Network and systems administrators oversee the daily operations of an organization’s computer system. They work on computer hardware and software to make sure that the system scales efficiently irrespective of the data volume.

Database Administrator

• 
  Average Salary
  
  : $86,833
• 
  Job Outlook
  
  :
  
  8% from 2020 to 2030
  
• 
  Number of Jobs
  
  : 168,000
• 
  Highest-Paying States
  
  : California, North Dakota, Massachusetts, Virginia

Database administrators focus specifically on the management of a company’s database systems. While database administrators may not build database management systems, they maintain them to promote the perfect database environment for the organization.

Network Associate

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $51,911
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  5%****
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  350,300****
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Maryland, California, New Jersey****

A network associate is an IT professional who configures, installs, and updates the networking hardware and software of an organization. They use their IT and business knowledge to ensure that the IT infrastructure of a company remains intact.

*Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for Computer Network Architects

**Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for Information Security Analysts

***Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for Database Administrators and Architects

****Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for Computer Network Architects

Network Engineering Bootcamp vs Network Engineering Bachelor’s Degree: Which Is Better?

Both bachelor’s degrees and bootcamps come with advantages and drawbacks. Which one is better will depend on your educational requirements and available time and budget.

Benefits of a Network Engineering Bachelor’s Degree

• 
  Diversification
  
  . A bachelor’s degree comes with well-rounded education so graduates can explore different career pathways. For example, the degree can be used to secure a job as an IT security analyst, network security administrator, system administrator, cyber security analyst, and database administrator.
• 
  High demand
  
  . Network engineering and related careers are currently in high demand and a bachelor’s degree is the preferred option among employers. Employers are more likely to consider a bachelor’s degree holder for a job role before they consider someone who is self-taught.
• 
  Networking opportunities.
  
  College gives you an opportunity to build meaningful professional and social relationships. In the traditional college setting, you will meet people from different walks of life. Some of these people might stay in your life years after college.
• 
  Option for advancing your career.
  
  If you are hoping to pursue a graduate degree and increase your earning potential, you need to complete a bachelor’s degree. A bachelor’s degree can also prepare you for professional certification exams, like the Cisco Certified Network Associate certification.

Benefits of a Network Engineering Bootcamp

• 
  Accelerated learning
  
  . If you already have a career and you’re thinking of adding network engineering to your skillset, a bootcamp is a fast-paced institute that allows you to do this in just three to six months. Even an accelerated bachelor’s degree takes up to two years to complete.
• 
  Experiential learning
  
  . Since bootcamps are only concerned with offering students job-specific skills, most of them rely significantly on hands-on experience. Students get to work on real-world datasets. Some bootcamps also provide internship programs.
• 
  Flexible learning
  
  . Apart from the traditional full-time and part-time learning options, many bootcamps offer flexible schedules. This means students can decide when to learn and create a timetable based on their already existing schedules.
• 
  Wide range of financing options
  
  .
  
  Networking bootcamps
  
  offer flexible payment options and tend to cost a lot less than universities. The terms are usually more agreeable, too. For example, some bootcamps allow deferred tuition which allows students to learn first and pay when they start working.

Should You Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Network Engineering?

Yes, you should get a network engineering degree if you are open to continuous learning and want to build a career in this field. Network engineers need to be willing to adapt to new technologies as they are created.

When it comes to salary potential and diversification, a network engineering degree is promising. Getting a bachelor’s degree also presents you with the perfect opportunity to get a graduate degree whenever you want. This paves the way for better career advancement opportunities.

Network Engineering Bachelor’s Degree FAQ