Master of Science in Computer Networking

Maybe you’re an IT professional looking to enhance your resume. Or maybe you’re just starting out and want to acquire additional skills in the field. Either way, an online Masters in Computer Networking may be a viable option for you. 

Why an online computer networking master’s program? Because pursuing online degrees may provide graduate students the convenience of a flexible schedule. Students who pursue online degrees might have an easier time staying on top of their current personal responsibilities—like family or a full-time job—while they are taking online classes that may be helpful to advancing in their desired field.

What Career Paths Could You Pursue after Earning an Online Masters in Computer Networking?

There are a number of potential career paths for those who have earned a networking master’s degree. One possibility is Network and Computer Systems Administrator, a job with a wide range of network installation and maintenance responsibilities [i].  Another career possibility is Software Developer. This is a challenging job involving the entire development process for an application or program. [ii]  

For some positions, like Computer Systems Administrator, a company may require that a candidate have a master’s degree.  In other cases it may simply be a way to make you a more eligible candidate to employers.[iii]

OK, So What Might Be the Salary Potential?

Of course, the potential income will vary by the position itself, your area of expertise, geographic considerations, as well as other factors. But the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provides the annual median wages and job outlook for positions in the field. Here are just two examples:

  • Network and Computer Systems Administrator 
  1. Median pay $77,810 in 2015 [iv]
  2. 8 percent growth through 2024 [v]
  • Software Developer
  1. Median pay $105,570 in 2015 [vi] 
  2. 17 percent growth through 2024 [vii]

Required Skills for a Masters in Computer Networking

To pursue an online Masters in Computer Networking, it’s likely that you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in a similar field. You’ll need a solid understanding of computer hardware and software, as well as other kinds of electronic equipment. Working with computer networks also means that you’ve got to be able to multitask, as well as possess a combination of analytical and problem-solving skills.[viii] 

What’s Next?

A master’s degree in computer networking earned online may be a smart way to get ahead in the field. And online study provides a way of pursuing a graduate degree without interfering with work or family responsibilities. If this sounds intriguing, take a look at the sponsored programs on this page to see if any are perfect for you!


[i]bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm - tab-2 [ii]bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm - tab-2 [iii]bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm - tab-4 [iv]bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm - tab-5 [v]bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm - tab-6 [vi]bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm - tab-5 [vii]bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm - tab-6 [viii]bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm - tab-4