Network and System Administration: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries

Salaries for Network and System Administration graduates vary by role and location. Computer and Information Systems Managers earn a median of $171,200 annually, while Computer Network Architects earn around $130,390. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in Washington average $140,694 compared to $80,920 in Montana. Approximately 1,467,430 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.

Currently 206 accredited institutions offer Network and System Administration degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Valencia College (396 graduates), ECPI University (ECPI) (384 graduates), and Chattahoochee Technical College (240 graduates).

Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.

Graduate numbers have increased over the past decade, rising from 3,272 in 2010 to a peak of 5,477 in 2020, before declining slightly to 4,755 in 2023-24. This represents a 45% increase overall from 2010.

The field remains specialized with steady interest, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.

This degree prepares you for roles such as Computer and Information Systems Managers, Computer Network Architects, and Information Security Analysts. Related occupations employ approximately 1,467,430 professionals nationwide.

Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.