What Are the Different Types of Network Administrator Degrees?

Network administrator degrees can be a very useful tool in the advancement of professionals in various fields. With the need and use of technology constantly broadening, the possibilities for people working in this field have never been more promising. While network administrator degrees may be hard to find, there are usually many programs related to technology, networks, and computers that provide a related education. These degrees usually exist in variations of program name, duration, frequency of classes, and setting.

Program names may significantly vary within the field of network administration. Most employers only really care if their employees are well versed in network administration and capable of performing their duties. This means that an education not entirely focused on network administration should suffice. Although your degree may not necessarily be among network administrator degrees, it should at least encompass numerous classes and field work on this aspect of communication and technology. Basically, there are many different degrees that can lead to an education in network administration.

Other than the name of the degree, network administrator degrees can be different in many other ways. One such example is the duration of the degree. Certificate, associate's, and bachelor's degrees are all possibilities. A certificate program is relatively short and the least demanding of the three.

Associate's degrees typically take two years for a full-time student and require more time and work. A bachelor's degree is the typical four-year degree, which can be very difficult to achieve. Doctoral degrees are also available for those who wish to pursue further into the field of network administration through research and instruction.

The frequency of classes is related to duration. Most commonly, the way in which frequency varies is dependent upon full-time and part-time schedules — part time can mean half time or even as little as one class a semester. This type of pace is ideal for the working graduate student or an individual with lots of responsibilities. Some people prefer to barrel through their degrees in as little time as possible by being full-time students. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages; it's just a matter of which one is right for each person.

Another manner in which network administrator degrees can be different is in their settings. While some programs exist at colleges and universities, others may take place in online settings. Like most variations, there are pluses and minuses for each option.