Network Administration Degree Curriculum: What You'll Learn

Network administration degree programs typically require 120 credit hours, with 60-70 credits dedicated to core technical coursework. The curriculum follows a progressive structure, starting with foundational IT concepts and advancing to complex network design and management.

Foundational Courses (Freshman Year):

• Introduction to Information Technology - Overview of hardware, software, and networking basics
• Computer Hardware and Software - System components, installation, and maintenance procedures
• Operating Systems Fundamentals - Windows, Linux, and Mac OS administration basics
• Database Concepts - Introduction to data management and SQL basics

Intermediate Networking (Sophomore Year):

• Network Fundamentals - TCP/IP, OSI model, protocols, and network topologies
• Routing and Switching - Cisco router and switch configuration, VLANs, and spanning tree protocol
• Network Security Basics - Firewalls, VPNs, access control, and threat identification
• Wireless Networking - Wi-Fi standards, security protocols, and enterprise wireless design

These core courses align with industry certifications like CompTIA Network+ and Cisco CCNA, preparing students for immediate workforce entry or advanced specialization tracks.

Network administration programs emphasize practical, hands-on skill development through structured lab work and real-world simulations. Students develop proficiency in enterprise-grade tools and technologies used by network professionals.

Advanced Technical Coursework (Junior-Senior Year):

• Advanced Routing Protocols - OSPF, EIGRP, BGP configuration and troubleshooting
• Network Design and Architecture - Enterprise network planning, capacity planning, and scalability
• Server Administration - Windows Server, Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, and file services
• Linux System Administration - Command line proficiency, shell scripting, and server management
• Network Monitoring and Management - SNMP, network analysis tools, and performance optimization
• Cloud Infrastructure - AWS, Azure basics, hybrid cloud networking, and virtualization

Students gain experience with industry-standard tools including Wireshark for packet analysis, SolarWinds for network monitoring, VMware for virtualization, and Cisco Packet Tracer for network simulation. This hands-on experience directly translates to skills needed for network administration careers in enterprise environments.

Programming and Automation Skills:

• Python scripting for network automation and configuration management
• PowerShell for Windows server administration and task automation
• SQL for database management and network inventory systems
• Bash scripting for Linux system administration tasks

Network administration programs require extensive laboratory work to ensure students gain practical experience with enterprise networking equipment. Most programs maintain dedicated networking labs equipped with Cisco routers and switches, servers, and security appliances.

Lab Infrastructure and Equipment:

• Cisco Catalyst switches (2960, 3560, 3850 series) for switching and VLAN configuration
• Cisco ISR routers (1900, 2900, 4000 series) for routing protocol implementation
• Palo Alto or Cisco ASA firewalls for security policy configuration
• Windows Server 2019/2022 systems for Active Directory and domain services
• Linux servers (CentOS, Ubuntu) for open-source network services
• VMware vSphere infrastructure for virtualization and cloud concepts

Required Lab Experiences:

• Building and configuring enterprise network topologies from scratch
• Implementing network security policies and access control lists
• Troubleshooting network connectivity issues using systematic methodologies
• Configuring redundancy and high availability solutions
• Performing network performance analysis and optimization
• Setting up monitoring systems and automated alerting

Many programs also incorporate virtual lab environments using tools like GNS3 and EVE-NG, allowing students to practice with expensive enterprise equipment through simulation. This combination of physical and virtual labs provides comprehensive hands-on experience essential for cybersecurity careers and network engineering roles.

Network administration degree programs are specifically designed to prepare students for industry-recognized certifications that employers value. The curriculum aligns with certification objectives and includes dedicated exam preparation components.

CompTIA Certification Track:

• CompTIA A+ - Hardware and software fundamentals (typically completed freshman year)
• CompTIA Network+ - Networking concepts and troubleshooting (sophomore year)
• CompTIA Security+ - Cybersecurity fundamentals (junior year)
• CompTIA Cloud+ - Cloud infrastructure and services (senior year)

Cisco Certification Pathway:

• Cisco CCNA - Routing and switching fundamentals, network security basics
• Cisco CCNP Enterprise - Advanced routing, switching, and troubleshooting (post-graduation target)
• Cisco CCNA Security - Network security implementation and monitoring
• Cisco CCNA Wireless - Wireless networking design and troubleshooting

Microsoft and Linux Certifications:

• Microsoft Server+ or Azure Fundamentals for cloud and server administration
• Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) for Linux proficiency
• VMware Certified Professional (VCP) for virtualization expertise

Programs typically include vouchers for at least 2-3 certification exams, and many students graduate with multiple industry certifications. This certification preparation gives graduates a competitive advantage in the job market, as 89% of employers prefer candidates with relevant IT certifications according to CompTIA research.

Most network administration programs require a capstone project and internship experience to ensure students can apply their technical knowledge in real-world scenarios. These requirements provide practical experience and professional networking opportunities.

Capstone Project Requirements:

• Design and implement a complete network infrastructure for a simulated organization
• Develop network security policies and incident response procedures
• Create network documentation, disaster recovery plans, and maintenance schedules
• Present solutions to faculty and industry professionals for evaluation
• Demonstrate proficiency in project management and technical communication

Internship Program Structure:

• Minimum 240 hours (typically one semester) of supervised work experience
• Placement with local businesses, government agencies, or IT service providers
• Regular evaluation by both employer supervisors and academic advisors
• Integration of classroom learning with practical workplace challenges
• Development of professional references and potential job opportunities

Students often secure internships with local businesses, government agencies, school districts, or managed service providers. These experiences frequently lead to full-time job offers upon graduation, with 67% of internships resulting in job offers according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers.

Network administration programs typically offer 15-18 credit hours of electives, allowing students to specialize in high-demand areas or explore emerging technologies. These specialization tracks help students differentiate themselves in competitive job markets.

Cybersecurity Specialization:

• Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing - Vulnerability assessment and exploit techniques
• Digital Forensics - Evidence collection, analysis, and legal considerations
• Security Architecture - Enterprise security design and risk management
• Incident Response - Breach detection, containment, and recovery procedures

Students pursuing cybersecurity specialization often complement their network administration degree with cybersecurity certifications like CEH or CISSP preparation courses.

Cloud and Virtualization Track:

• AWS or Azure Cloud Architecture - Public cloud design and implementation
• VMware vSphere Administration - Enterprise virtualization management
• Container Technologies - Docker, Kubernetes, and microservices architecture
• Hybrid Cloud Integration - Connecting on-premises and cloud infrastructure

Enterprise Systems Management:

• Advanced Windows Server Administration - Group Policy, clustering, and enterprise services
• Network Automation and Scripting - Python and Ansible for infrastructure management
• IT Service Management - ITIL framework and help desk operations
• Business Continuity Planning - Disaster recovery and backup strategies

These specialization tracks align with growing demand in areas like cloud computing and cybersecurity, where job growth rates exceed 20% annually according to Bureau of Labor Statistics projections.