Computer Networking Degree Programs

Computer Networking Degree Programs Information

Telecommunications have changed the way business is done, resulting in the growth of opportunities for computer networking specialists. It’s an interesting career, one that the Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts to grow rapidly in the coming decade, and computer networking degree programs prepare students to take advantage of these opportunities.

Featured Schools with Computer Networking Degrees

• California College of San Diego: San Diego

  

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  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with Information Systems Security Emphasis
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with Information Systems Security Emphasis (Online)
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with Networking Emphasis
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with Networking Emphasis (Online)
• Colorado Technical Institute: Colorado Springs

  

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  • Doctorate - Computer Science
  • Doctorate - Computer Science: Digital Systems Security
  • Doctorate - Computer Science: Emerging Media
  • Doctorate - Computer Science: Enterprise Information Systems
• Colorado Technical University: Denver

  

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  • Bachelors - Computer Science
  • Doctorate - Computer Science
  • Doctorate - Computer Science: Emerging Media
  • Doctorate - Computer Science: Enterprise Information Systems
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Computer networking specialists make it easier for individuals and businesses to connect with each other, thanks to their skills in networking hardware and software.

Computer networking degrees prepare future network specialists to set up intranets and internal communications infrastructures that help power corporate file-sharing, email, video, and other internal or external communications networks.

The networks can cover an office building or can reach around the world. Networking specialists must be knowledgeable about local access networks (LAN), wireless networks (WLAN), software protocols and programs, and the hardware that enables them.

Computer network specialists work in a variety of settings. Nearly all organizations utilize telecommunications to some degree, so professionals in the field can work for governments, public and private corporations, non-profit organizations, and schools and universities.

Wherever they work, these network professionals make it possible for workers to communicate and do business with colleagues, clients, and customers around the block or around the world.

Types of Computer Networking Degrees Available

Computer networking degree programs are often concentrations within computer science, computer engineering or information technology degree programs, and the depth of instruction will depend heavily on the level of education pursued: certificate, associate, bachelor, master, or doctoral degree programs.

One- or two-year certificate and associate programs will teach students the basics required for competency in the field. Bachelor’s degrees give this same core knowledge, along with a deeper instruction in the fundamentals of computer software and hardware, and more specific training in networking techniques and methodology.

Graduate degrees allow students to pursue new areas of research within computer science and networking, and become experts within the field.

However, while the job market for this field is growing rapidly, competition for these jobs is keen. Therefore, it is advisable for those seeking to enter the field to attain at least a bachelor’s degree, and those seeking to advance within the field would do well to pursue graduate study.

Therefore, it is advisable for those seeking to enter the field to attain at least a bachelor’s degree, and those seeking to advance within the field would do well to pursue graduate study.

Computer Networking Career Average Salary

• The average salary for network and computer systems administrators is $66,310
• The middle 50 percent earned between $51,690 and $84,110

What a Computer Networking Degree Teaches You

Computer networking degrees teach students about the hardware and software that power computer telecommunications technologies.

On the software side of things, students learn about programming and logic, operating systems, database programming, and other pertinent software implementations. On the hardware side, students are taught about local area networks, wireless technologies, and systems engineering.

The depth with which students will delve into these subjects will vary depending on the level of degree sought. However, all students successfully completing computer networking degrees will leave with solid analytical and troubleshooting skills, and data management and technical capabilities.

Featured Careers

Network Administrator
Network Security Specialist
Information Technology

Questions to Ask About Computer Networking Degree Programs

1. Am I interested in the expansion of telecommunications technologies, and their applications within the business world?

2. Can I follow precise directions, and learn the ins and outs of complex systems?

3. Can I apply technical knowledge to real-world situations, and derive creative solutions to networking problems based on what I learn in the classroom?

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, Psychologists, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos305.htm (visited August 10, 2011).