by our College Data Analytics TeamComputer systems are essential in almost every company to allow information to be shared, and work to be completed. If you would like to play an integral role in the daily operations of many businesses, consider majoring in Computer Systems Networking.
The job of computer systems networking technicians is to configure the computer system of businesses and ensure that they are kept up to date and running smoothly. Students take classes in computer applications, computer network design, computer science, and mathematics to learn everything about networks, firewalls, and routers.
Computer Systems Networking was the 125th most popular major in the 2020-2021 school year. Colleges in the United States reported awarding 14,700 degrees in this year alone. This represents a small change of only -0.8% from the prior year's total of 14,814 networking degrees awarded.
This year's Best Computer Systems Networking Schools ranking compares 124 of them to identify the best overall programs in the country. Explore this or one of our many other custom networking rankings further below.
Those who are successful in Computer Systems Networking have a strong background in computers and operating systems. Students must also have strong problem solving and analytical skills so they can successful assess and fix network problems. Multitasking skills will allow professionals to work on multiple networks and operating systems at once.
Computer Systems Networking professionals are often employed full time in office environments. Since computer networks can go down at anytime, professionals may work overtime or on weekends to fix problems and ensure everything is running smoothly.
Internships and summer jobs are beneficial to students pursuing a career in Computer Systems Networking. These experiences will allow students to work hands-on with networks and operating systems while learning from professionals in the field.
computer systems networking degree applicants generally need have finished high school or their GED. Many schools may also have GPA and SAT/ACT score minimums that must be met. Once you obtain your degree, additional networking certifications required to pursue a career in this field.
There are many different networking degree levels. You can spend many years getting as high as a in computer systems networking to something that takes less time like a . The type of networking degree you choose will determine how long it takes to get your diploma.
| Degree | Credit Requirements | Typical Program Length |
|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 60-70 credits | 2 years |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 120 credits | 4 years |
| Master’s Degree | 50-70 credits | 1-3 years |
| Doctorate | Program required coursework including thesis or dissertation | At least 4 years |
A bachelor's degree is the most common level of education achieved by those in careers related to networking, with approximately 44.2% of workers getting one. See the the most common levels of education for networking workers below.
| Level of Education | Percentage of Workers |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | 45.3% |
| Master’s Degree | 16.6% |
| Associate’s Degree (or other 2-year degree) | 12.7% |
| Post-Baccalaureate Certificate | 9.9% |
| Some College Courses | 6.3% |
78.7% of networking workers have at least a bachelor's. The chart below shows what degree level those who work in computer systems networking have obtained.
The education level required is different depending on the networking career you are seeking.
Since computers are used in almost every business and organization, Computer Systems Networking graduates are employed at a variety of locations including hospitals, educational institutions, financial corporations, and government agencies. Since this major teaches students all aspect of computer networks, graduates are good candidates for any career dealing with computer systems.
Want a job when you graduate with your networking degree? Computer Systems Networking careers are expected to grow 10.3% between 2016 and 2026.
The following options are some of the most in-demand careers related to computer systems networking.
| Occupation Name | Projected Jobs | Expected Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Systems Analysts | 654,900 | 9.1% |
| Computer Network Support Specialists | 215,200 | 8.2% |
| Computer Network Architects | 173,200 | 6.5% |
| Information Security Analysts | 128,500 | 28.5% |
Computer Systems Networking graduates between 2017-2019 reported earning an average of $43,348 in the 2019-2020 timeframe. Earnings can range from as low as $17,174 to as high as $121,226. As you might expect, salaries for networking graduates vary depending on the level of education that was acquired.
Salaries for computer systems networking graduates can vary widely by the occupation you choose as well. The following table shows the top highest paying careers networking grads often go into.
| Occupation Name | Median Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Computer Network Architects | $111,130 |
| Information Security Analysts | $102,470 |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $93,610 |
| Computer Network Support Specialists | $68,050 |
With over 1,069 different networking degree programs to choose from, finding the best fit for you can be a challenge. Fortunately you have come to the right place. We have analyzed all of these schools to come up with hundreds of unbiased networking school rankings to help you with this.
One of 10 majors within the Computer & Information Sciences area of study, Computer Systems Networking has other similar majors worth exploring.
| Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications | 14,314 |
| Cloud Computing | 386 |
| Related Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| Computer Information Systems | 88,434 |
| Computer Science | 59,565 |
| Information Technology | 40,555 |
| Information Science | 18,325 |
| Computer Software & Applications | 14,336 |
Image Credit: By Ludovic.ferre under License More about our data sources and methodologies.
