Top 3 Network Administration Programs in Illinois
DeVry University
Strong industry partnerships with Cisco and Microsoft certification tracks
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Comprehensive hands-on lab experience with enterprise networking equipment
Illinois Institute of Technology
Research-focused program with cybersecurity integration
- 1.Network administrators in Illinois earn a median salary of $89,760, above the national average of $84,810 (BLS, 2025)
- 2.Illinois offers 25+ network administration programs with graduation rates ranging from 35% to 75%
- 3.Chicago metro area accounts for 65% of network administration job opportunities in Illinois
- 4.Top programs emphasize Cisco, Microsoft, and cloud platform certifications alongside degree requirements
- 5.In-state students save an average of $15,000 annually compared to out-of-state tuition rates
Illinois Network Administration Job Market Overview
Illinois ranks among the top 10 states for network administration employment, with over 8,500 network administrators currently employed across the state. The Chicago metropolitan area drives much of this demand, hosting major corporations like Abbott, Boeing, and McDonald's that require extensive network infrastructure management.
Network administrators in Illinois earn a median annual wage of $89,760, which is 6% higher than the national median of $84,810 (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Entry-level positions typically start around $65,400, while experienced professionals can earn upwards of $120,000 annually.
The Illinois Department of Employment Security projects 5% job growth for network administrators through 2032, aligning with national trends. Key growth drivers include cloud migration projects, cybersecurity initiatives, and the expansion of remote work infrastructure. Major employers actively recruiting network administrators include major tech companies and financial institutions in Chicago, healthcare systems throughout the state, and educational institutions.
Illinois network administration graduates benefit from proximity to major data centers and cloud infrastructure hubs. Amazon Web Services, Microsoft, and Google all maintain significant presences in the Chicago area, creating opportunities for specialization in cloud computing and DevOps practices.
Based on 25 programs from College Scorecard, IPEDS, employer surveys
Percentage of students who complete their program within 6 years
Median earnings of graduates 2 years after completion
Curriculum comprehensiveness, faculty credentials, industry partnerships
Job placement rates and career advancement metrics
Cost-to-benefit ratio including tuition and living expenses
Best Network Administration Programs in Illinois 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DeVry University | Chicago | $17,492 | 4200% | $72,000 | 92 |
| 2 | Southern Illinois University Carbondale | Carbondale | $14,638 | 5600% | $68,500 | 88 |
| 3 | Illinois Institute of Technology | Chicago | $49,774 | 7200% | $85,000 | 85 |
| 4 | University of Illinois Springfield | Springfield | $12,956 | 5800% | $65,000 | 82 |
| 5 | Northern Illinois University | DeKalb | $14,686 | 5200% | $63,500 | 79 |
| 6 | Illinois Central College | Peoria | $4,320 | 3500% | $58,000 | 76 |
| 7 | Moraine Valley Community College | Palos Hills | $4,368 | 3800% | $56,500 | 73 |
| 8 | College of DuPage | Glen Ellyn | $4,050 | 4100% | $59,000 | 71 |
DeVry University
Chicago, Illinois • University
Program Highlights
- • 95% job placement rate within 6 months of graduation
- • Average starting salary of $72,000 for graduates
- • Evening and weekend classes available for working professionals
- • Online and hybrid learning options with virtual lab access
Program Strengths
- Cisco Networking Academy partnership providing direct certification pathways
- Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) and Microsoft Certified Professional tracks
- 24/7 access to fully equipped networking labs with enterprise-grade equipment
- Industry mentorship program connecting students with working professionals
- Accelerated degree options allowing completion in as little as 2.5 years
Why Ranked #1
DeVry University earns the top ranking for its comprehensive industry partnerships, practical curriculum design, and strong post-graduation employment rates. The program's emphasis on industry-standard certifications and hands-on laboratory experience prepares students for immediate workforce entry.
Student Reviews
"The hands-on lab work was invaluable. I was configuring routers and switches from day one, which gave me confidence going into job interviews."
— Network Administration Graduate, 2024
"The instructors brought real-world experience into every class. They helped me understand not just how to configure networks, but how to troubleshoot when things go wrong."
— Current Student, Senior Year
Network Administration Program Admission Requirements in Illinois
Admission requirements for network administration programs in Illinois vary by institution type and degree level. Most bachelor's degree programs require a high school diploma or equivalent with a minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0. Community college programs typically have open admission policies but may require placement testing for mathematics and English proficiency.
For competitive programs like Illinois Institute of Technology, applicants should have strong backgrounds in mathematics and science. Recommended high school coursework includes algebra II, trigonometry, physics, and any available computer science courses. SAT scores of 1200+ or ACT scores of 25+ strengthen applications to four-year institutions.
- High school diploma or GED certificate
- Official transcripts from all previous institutions
- Minimum GPA requirements (typically 2.5-3.0 for bachelor's programs)
- Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) for university programs
- Personal statement or essay (required by some institutions)
- Letters of recommendation (1-2 for competitive programs)
Transfer students should note that Illinois has strong articulation agreements between community colleges and state universities. Students completing an Associate of Applied Science in Network Administration at institutions like College of DuPage can transfer up to 60 credits toward a bachelor's degree at participating universities. This pathway allows students to save significantly on tuition costs while maintaining academic progression.
International students must additionally provide TOEFL or IELTS scores demonstrating English proficiency. Most programs require TOEFL scores of 80+ (internet-based) or IELTS scores of 6.5+. Some institutions offer conditional admission with English as a Second Language (ESL) coursework.
Career Paths
Network Administrator
SOC 15-1244Manage and maintain computer networks, troubleshoot connectivity issues, and implement security protocols.
Network Security Specialist
SOC 15-1212Focus on protecting network infrastructure from cyber threats and implementing security measures.
Cloud Infrastructure Engineer
SOC 15-1241Design and manage cloud-based network solutions using AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud platforms.
Systems Administrator
SOC 15-1244Manage servers, operating systems, and network services to ensure optimal system performance.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1252Bridge development and operations teams by automating network infrastructure and deployment processes.
Network Architect
SOC 15-1241Design comprehensive network solutions for organizations, planning for scalability and security.
Financial Aid and Program Costs in Illinois
Network administration programs in Illinois offer diverse cost structures ranging from $4,000 annually at community colleges to $50,000 at private institutions. In-state students at public universities like University of Illinois Springfield pay approximately $13,000 per year in tuition, while out-of-state students face costs of $25,000 or more.
Illinois residents benefit from several state-specific financial aid programs. The Monetary Award Program (MAP) provides need-based grants of up to $5,000 annually for eligible students attending Illinois institutions. The Illinois Student Assistance Commission also offers merit-based scholarships specifically for STEM programs, including network administration and information technology degrees.
Federal financial aid through the FAFSA program remains the primary funding source for most students. The average Pell Grant award in Illinois is $4,800, and network administration students often qualify for additional federal work-study opportunities in campus IT departments. These positions provide practical experience while helping offset educational costs.
- Illinois MAP Grant: Up to $5,000 annually for state residents
- Federal Pell Grant: Average $4,800 for eligible students
- Institutional scholarships: Merit and need-based awards
- Employer tuition reimbursement: Many IT employers offer educational assistance
- Military benefits: Veterans' education benefits accepted at all ranked institutions
- Work-study programs: Campus IT positions provide relevant experience
Students should also consider employer tuition reimbursement programs, as many Illinois technology companies offer educational assistance. Major employers like Motorola Solutions, Caterpillar, and State Farm frequently provide tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing network administration or related technology degrees.
Source: Illinois network administration graduates, College Scorecard 2025
What Students Say About Illinois Network Administration Programs
"The Cisco certification track integrated into our curriculum was a game-changer. I graduated with both my degree and industry certifications."
— DeVry University Graduate
"Small class sizes meant I got personal attention from professors who worked in the field. They shared real troubleshooting scenarios we'd encounter on the job."
— SIU Carbondale Student
"The internship program connected me directly with Chicago-area employers. I had a job offer before graduation."
— Illinois Institute of Technology Graduate
Key Themes from Reviews
Hands-on Learning
Students praise extensive lab work and real-world equipment access
Industry Connections
Strong employer partnerships lead to internships and job opportunities
Faculty Experience
Instructors bring current industry experience into the classroom
Career Support
Career services help with job placement and interview preparation
Which Should You Choose?
- You want the most affordable option with flexible scheduling
- You're changing careers and need practical skills quickly
- You plan to transfer to a four-year program later
- You prefer smaller class sizes and individualized attention
- You want a comprehensive degree with broader IT education
- You're interested in research opportunities or graduate school
- You qualify for in-state tuition rates
- You want traditional campus experience with student organizations
- You prioritize small class sizes and faculty accessibility
- You want accelerated degree completion options
- You have access to employer tuition reimbursement
- You value extensive industry partnerships and networking opportunities
- You're working full-time while studying
- You live in rural areas without nearby campus access
- You have family obligations requiring schedule flexibility
- You're comfortable with virtual lab environments and remote learning
Frequently Asked Questions
Next Steps to Start Your Network Administration Career
Research and Compare Programs
Use our rankings and methodology to identify programs that match your budget, schedule, and career goals. Request information from your top 3-5 choices.
Complete Prerequisites
Ensure you meet admission requirements including mathematics proficiency. Consider taking introductory computer science courses if available.
Apply for Financial Aid
Submit your FAFSA application early to maximize federal and state grant opportunities. Research Illinois-specific scholarships and employer tuition assistance programs.
Connect with Industry
Join local technology groups and attend networking events in Chicago or other Illinois tech hubs. Consider informational interviews with working network administrators.
Start Building Skills
Begin learning networking fundamentals through free resources like Cisco Networking Academy or CompTIA study materials. Hands-on experience with home networking equipment can provide valuable foundation knowledge.
Related Network Administration Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Employment projections and salary data for network administrators
Program costs, graduation rates, and post-graduation earnings
Institutional characteristics and program enrollment data
State-specific financial aid programs and eligibility requirements
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.