Easiest Network Administration Degree Programs for 2025
Associate degrees are considered the easiest network administration degrees, but things like online classes can change the ease of bachelor's and graduate programs.
The technology field is blossoming and evolving at an astonishing rate, and that means more and more people are having to learn how to use and maintain important digital networks. That's where today's network administration degrees come in � they teach the important skills that people need to work in and on networks.
If you're interested in learning these skills, you may be happy to know that associate programs offer the easiest network administration degrees while bachelor's programs offer the best job opportunities. Learn more about what makes some degrees easier than others, as well as how online classes can change the ease of your program, below.
The Easiest Degrees to Help You in Your Network Administration Career
Making the most of your network administration degree means more than just going for the easiest one you can find � it also means finding ways to make any program you're in easier while also meeting your education and employment preparation needs.
Let's go over what can make a network administration degree easier and some of the most frequently asked questions about network administration programs.
Network Administration Degree Levels
You'll encounter associate, bachelor's, and master's program levels while looking for network administration degrees.
While associate degrees in network administration are considered the easiest, you often need to have certifications alongside them to qualify for positions. Bachelor's and master's programs, while more difficult and time-consuming to complete, allow graduates to choose from a wide range of jobs in network administration and technology.
You can learn more about what makes each degree's difficulty change below.
Which Program Level is the Easiest?
An associate is considered the easiest program level because of:
- Low admissions requirements
- More basic classes
- Smaller time commitment of two years
For network administration degrees, however, certifications are often needed after completing your degree, making it a bit harder than the average associate program.
By comparison, bachelor's programs often have:
- Slightly higher admissions requirements
- More advanced classes
- Take four years to complete even when taking classes full-time
Lastly, a master's degree requires a completed undergraduate degree for admission and has the most advanced classes and projects, though it only takes one and a half to two years to complete.
Additional Certifications for Network Administrators
In addition to offering a network administration program online for interested students, Western Governors University (WGU) offers some of the most important network administrator certifications for students pursuing a tech career after graduation.
While some of these certifications are part of WGU's degree program, others are offered by third parties, and none of them are technically required to complete a degree in network administration and start a career in the field. They will, however, give you proof of experience and skill that will give you a leg up in the hiring process.
With that in mind, it's a good idea to consider completing one or more of these certifications during your network administration program:
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
- LPI Linux Essentials
- Amazon certifications
- Any CompTIA certifications
- Google certifications
- Microsoft certifications
Are Online Programs Easier Than In-Person Degrees?
Many people who work in the technology field find that they are more used to and better able to understand online classes when completing their degree. Online network administration degree programs have the unique benefit of exposing students to the technology they'll be using in their day-to-day careers by offering online classes.
Graduates from technology programs are working remotely more than ever as well, so completing your degree online will help you better prepare for the workplace.
With all this in mind, online programs could be considered easier for people pursuing a network administration degree, but that doesn't mean that some don't still prefer and do better in classes they take in person.
Always consider the drawbacks and benefits of each format before you choose which is best for you when applying to your program of choice.
Schools Offering Network Administration Degree Programs
According to the U.S. News and World Report, many schools offer computer networking and administration degrees.
Here are some that, based on the information above, would have the easiest network administration degrees available online or in person:
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro: In person, master's
- Keiser University: Online and in-person, associate
- The University of Akron: In person, associate and bachelor's
- The Pennsylvania College of Technology: In person, bachelor's
- Weber State University: In person, associate and bachelor's
Network Administration Degree FAQs
Here are some of the most pressing questions incoming students have about their network administration degrees, with concise answers compiled just for you.
What Skills Do You Need to Work as a Network Administrator?
Network administrations need a solid combination of hard and soft skills to be successful.
Some soft skills that students can cultivate through their degree program include:
- Written and verbal communication
- Teamwork
- Problem-solving
- Multitasking
Most of the hard skills students need to learn will be covered in their degree and certification programs. Some of the hard skills you can learn during your program include:
- Hardware and software installation
- Coding
- Using digital directories
- Creating and maintaining VPNs
What Other Degrees Relate to Network Administration?
Most computer science programs can take the place of a network administration degree if certifications are also completed. From computer science to information technology, you can rely on nearly any technology program to provide you with the basics you need for a network administration position.
What Do I Need to Look For in a Network Administration Program?
When choosing your network administration program, there's more to think about than just what degree would be the easiest for you to complete. You also need to ensure the school offering the program is accredited, the classes they offer are in the format you need, and you will have access to necessary resources in the area, like tutoring or internship opportunities.
Make Completing a Network Administration Degree Easy For You Today
Whether you want to pursue the easiest network administration degrees you can find or are eager to make the most of your technology education in a single program, Learn.org is here to help. Check out the schools above to start your educational journey today.