Systems Administration Associate's and Bachelor's: Degrees at a Glance
Systems administrators ensure that a company or organization's computer and networking systems are working properly. They may install network hardware and software programs, solve problems that arise in the system and maintain computer and network security. A degree in the field can lead to a career as a systems administrator. Most systems administrators have a bachelor's degree, but some positions in the field are available to associate's degree program graduates.
| Associate's Degree | Bachelor's Degree | |
|---|---|---|
| Who Is This Degree For? | - Individuals interested in working as systems administrators | - Individuals interested in working as systems administrators |
| Common Career Path (with approximate mean annual salary) | - Systems administrator ($74,000)* | - Systems administrator ($74,000)* |
| Time to Completion | - About two years, full-time | - About four years, full-time |
| Common Graduation Requirements | - Coursework - Internship - Final project | - Coursework |
| Prerequisites | - High school diploma or equivalent | - High school diploma or equivalent |
| Online Availability | - Not available at this time | - Not available at this time |
Sources: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Associate's Degree in Systems Administration
Associate's degree programs in systems administration can be offered as Associate of Applied Science in Computer Networking and Systems Administration or Associate in Applied Science in IT-Computer Systems Administration Specialist programs. These programs require approximately 70 credit hours of study in both general education and systems administration courses. Some programs may prepare students to earn industry certifications, such as the CompTIA A+ and Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist, after graduation.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicted faster-than-average growth in job opportunities for systems administrators (28%) from 2010-2020
- Require a relatively short time to completion (two years)
- Some programs prepare you to earn industry certification, which may make you more marketable when searching for a job
Cons
- The majority of administrators have bachelor's degrees; graduating from this program may not qualify you for all jobs in the field
- May be competing against bachelor's degree holders for jobs
- Programs are not available online
Courses and Requirements
Classes in these programs cover topics such as IT service concepts, Windows network infrastructure, emerging trends in technology, technical reporting and writing, network troubleshooting and personal computer hardware. Some programs may offer students the opportunity to complete an internship or require that students complete a final project prior to graduation.
Online Degree Options
As of October 2012, associate's degree programs in systems administration were not available online. Attending an on-campus program allows you interact with students and professors during your studies.
Stand Out with This Degree
To stand out with your degree, consider completing an internship. Internships allow students to acquire hands-on experience working in the field of systems administration. This experience may impress potential employers.
Bachelor's Degree in Systems Administration
Bachelor's degrees in systems administration may be offered as Bachelor of Science in Systems and Network Administration or as Bachelor of Business Administration in Information Systems programs. These programs typically require completion of about 120 credit-hours of study.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Degree leads to a career in a growing field (BLS predicted 28% growth in employment opportunities between 2010 and 2020)
- Most programs include general education requirements, allowing you to obtain a well-rounded education in addition to learning about systems administration
- Program can prepare you to attend graduate school; some employers may prefer to hire or advance workers with graduate degrees
Cons
- Not all positions require a bachelor's degree, so you may compete against associate's degree holders for some jobs
- Online programs in the field are unavailable
- Require a relatively long period of study (four years)
Courses and Requirements
Classes in these 4-year programs include information security, structured system analysis and design, Cisco networking, business telecommunications and the management and design of database systems. Other courses included in the curriculum may focus on business information systems fluency, the essentials of technology management, application development and project management. Courses may be delivered in both lab and lecture formats.
Online Degree Options
Online bachelor's degree programs in systems administration were unavailable as of October 2012. An on-campus program allows you to complete lab courses during your studies, which gives you hands-on experience performing the tasks an administrator might be called on to complete.
Bachelor's degree programs in engineering or computer engineering technology with a concentration in systems administration are available online. Classes in these programs cover topics such as server and network administration, operating systems technology, computer security and professional administration.
Stand Out with This Degree
To stand out with your degree, consider completing as many lab classes as possible during your studies. Completing projects and gaining hands-on experience in lab classes may impress potential employers.
