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What is System Networking?
System Networking is a field of study focused on system connectivity, technology design, designing network systems, and building networks. Network administrators are trained to design, install, and support an organizations network systems (LAN, Internet, WAN, or system segment). System networking includes the availability for authorized system users, network performance, security monitoring, and managing network specialists.
System Networking Degrees
Degree programs in networking include a wide array of graduate and undergraduate programs. These computer-based degrees are available from a number of accredited colleges, universities, community colleges, and technical schools around the country.
To help you find the best degree for you, we have provided a summary of the most popular programs below. Simply connect with the schools that fit you best and they will be in touch straight-away with additional curricular and admissions information.
System Networking Certificate Programs
Certificate programs in networking can be found from top colleges for undergraduates and graduates. An undergraduate certificate program is designed for students with some knowledge to an intermediate level of knowledge as a means to add specific skills to their tool box. On the other hand, graduate certificates, are programs containing a series of focused upper-level classes for individuals with advanced knowledge.
Certificate programs are used by students and working professionals to remain relevant, upskill, increase compensation, and make career transitions. A certificate can be earned in as few as six months up to two-years depending on the design of the program.
System Networking Associate's Degrees
Associate degrees in system design and networks can be earned from a number of schools in different formats. For example, online degrees in system networking can be earned remotely or you can register for a traditional classroom-based learning experience. An associate degree will typically be conferred as an Associate of Science (AS) given the technical nature of this degree program. Students should expect to take a number of general education courses such as history, accounting, statistics, economics, psychology, and English composition as part of this degree track.
Core classes will differ by institution but will generally help provide knowledge and skills in defined areas. Learning objectives of the core classes in networking will typically be:
- To teach students WAN and LAN technical systems
- Design, install, and repair computer equipment
- Understanding networking hardware
- Diagnose, test, and verify operable networks
- Recognize when systems and networks need upgrading
- Troubleshooting connectivity, speed, latency, and performance issues
- Managing system software applications
- Maintaining system speed and efficiency
System Networking Bachelor's Degrees
Bachelor degrees in networking will be conferred as Bachelor of Science (BS) by most higher education institutions. Programs will typically take full-time students four-years to complete while part-time students will take longer to earn a BS degree in this field. Similar to an associate’s degree, a bachelor degree will meld liberal arts classes with technology-based classes.
The intent of blending the two is to help build an advanced set of integrative thinking skills and a well-rounded education for students. Courses in networking help students logically thing through issues, problems, and solutions of various networks.
Topics in this learning domain include: system diagnosis, system maintenance, technical mathematics, advanced technology solutions, routing & switching, Linux configuration & installation, computer repair, network scaling, and connecting networks.
System Networking Education Requirements
System network students will be involved in projects and academic programs centered around computers, technical analysis, and problem solving. As such, you will find a common set of courses in a system networking degree program. Examples of typical classes include
- Computational Mathematics
- Statistical Analysis
- Business Management
- Network Engineering
- Computer Programming
- Computer Systems
- Information Technology
- Computer Support
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Computer Networking
Employment & System Network Specializations
System network graduates will have a core set of problem solving and computational skills. These unique technical skills will serve students well when searching for networking jobs. Additionally, students may elect to source work outside this specific domain. In doing so, the core skills learned in a system networking degree can be parlayed into various career tracks.
Examples of careers of interest can include: information research scientist, computer programming consultant, computer network architect, computer network architect, computer support specialist, networking manager, database administrator, data security analyst, software development, cyberterrorism agent, and network administrator.
System Networking Careers
Students graduating with a degree in networking will have a variety of career options to consider in various sectors of the economy. From technology companies and financial services to education and non-profit organizations, the need for networking specialists exist. Examples of careers can include any of the following:
| Software Development | Virtualization Technologist |
| Cybersecurity Analyst | Database Program Director |
| Software Developer | Web Development Manager |
| Web Designer | Information Technologist |
| Desktop Developer | Security Administrator |
| Web Application Developer | Cloud Computing Manager |
| Mobile Application Developer | Network Security Analyst |
| Computer System Technician | PC Support Analyst |
| Help Desk Analyst | Cloud Administrator |
| Network Specialist | Cyber Security Manager |
| Database Design | Database Programmer |
| Information Assurance | Network Engineer |
| Cloud Computing | Computer Forensic Specialist |
| Data Storage Specialist | Field Service Engineer |
System Network Manager Careers
The career outlook for system network managers is nothing short of remarkable. The average growth rate of all jobs in the United States is estimated at six percent. System networking and systems analysts is forecast to jump 21% during the same period of time. Meanwhile jobs in database administration and systems administration is poised to rise 11% or more.
System network managers salary is currently averaging $81,110 a year. Similarly, the mean annual income of a computer systems analyst is $92,740 based on recent publications by the BLS and DOL. The combination of in-demand jobs with growing industries will result in above-average growth in wages for qualified candidates.
Additional Resources for System Networking Students
- Network and Systems Professionals Association (NSPA)
- Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)
- Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP)
- Association of Shareware Professionals (ASP)
- Association for Women in Computing (AWC)
- Computer Professionals for Social Responsibility (CPSR)
- Independent Computer Consultants Association (ICCA)
- Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
- Network Professional Association (NPA)
- Society for Technical Communication (STC)
- Software Development Forum (SDF)
- Washington Alliance of Technology Workers (WaTech)
- Women in Technology (WIT)