Best Network Administration Degree Programs in Tennessee — 2026 Rankings
Compare the top network administration colleges in Tennessee. 7 accredited network administration schools ranked by graduation rate, career outcomes, and value—from Strayer University-Tennessee to Lipscomb University.
#1 ProgramLipscomb
Avg Salary$108,470
Tuition From$13,725/yr
Job Growth+22%
Key Takeaways
Best network administration degree programs: Lipscomb, Southern Adventist, South College
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Are Network Administration Degree Programs in Tennessee Worth It?
Yes. The best network administration degree programs in Tennessee deliver strong ROI—graduates earn $108,470 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $25,446/year.
Best Network Administration Bachelor's Programs in Tennessee, 2026
5
Programs
$108,470
Median Salary
$27,790/yr
Avg Tuition
82%
Avg Grad Rate
Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology
Program Landscape
Tennessee ranks among the nation's top destinations for network administration education, with 5 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 0 public and 4 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Lipscomb, Southern Adventist, South College, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Tennessee network administration programs earn a median salary of $92,200—6% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $16,450 to $37,300 annually, with an average of $27,790/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 82%, with the highest reaching 90%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Tennessee's leading technology employers. For students seeking network administration degrees in Tennessee, these top-ranked network administration schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Best Network Administration Master's Programs in Tennessee, 2026
2
Programs
$108,470
Median Salary
$15,088/yr
Avg Tuition
100%
Avg Grad Rate
Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology
Program Landscape
Tennessee offers 2 master's degree programs in network administration, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—Strayer University-Tennessee, South College—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Tennessee earn a median salary of $108,470, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $15,088/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Tennessee's network administration schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
Advance your career with a Network Administration master's degree
Best Network Administration Associate's Programs in Tennessee, 2026
2
Programs
$108,470
Median Salary
$16,450/yr
Avg Tuition
Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology
Program Landscape
Tennessee offers 2 accredited associate's degree programs in network administration, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Miller-Motte College-Chat..., South College, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Tennessee offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $16,450/yr—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $59,659 in Tennessee.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Tennessee's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among network administration schools in Tennessee, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their network administration degrees in Tennessee.
Start your Network Administration career with an associate's degree
Complete Network Administration Degree Program Rankings in Tennessee
Best Associate's Network Administration Degree Programs in Tennessee
### Program Landscape
Tennessee offers **2 accredited** associate's degree programs in network administration, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include **Miller-Motte College-Chat...**, **South College**, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
### Costs & Value
Community colleges in Tennessee offer these two-year programs at an average cost of **$16,450/yr**—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging **$59,659** in Tennessee.
### Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Tennessee's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
### Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among network administration schools in Tennessee, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their network administration degrees in Tennessee.
#1. Miller-Motte College-Chattanooga
Hakia ranks Miller-Motte College-Chattanooga as the #1 associate's in network administration degree program in Tennessee. This for-profit institution in Chattanooga, TN has annual tuition of $0. Ranking score: 72.4.
#2. South College
Hakia ranks South College as the #2 associate's in network administration degree program in Tennessee. This for-profit institution in Knoxville, TN has annual tuition of $16,450 ($335/credit). Ranking score: 51.7.
Online Associate's Network Administration Degree Programs in Tennessee
### Online Program Options
Tennessee's community colleges offer 1 online associate's network administration programs, providing flexible pathways for students balancing education with work or family responsibilities. Top-ranked online programs include **Miller-Motte College-Chat...**, all regionally accredited and recognized by Tennessee employers.
### Costs & Employer Recognition
Online associate's programs average **$0/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. Tennessee-based employers including HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis job market actively recruits graduates from online programs.
### Program Format
These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete **60 credit hours** in 2 years while working full-time.
### Technology & Flexibility
Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online network administration degrees in Tennessee, these accredited network administration schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.
Best Bachelor's Network Administration Degree Programs in Tennessee
### Program Landscape
Tennessee ranks among the nation's top destinations for network administration education, with **5 accredited** bachelor's degree programs across **0 public** and **4 private** institutions. The highest-ranked programs are **Lipscomb**, **Southern Adventist**, **South College**, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
### Career Outcomes
Graduates from Tennessee network administration programs earn a median salary of **$92,200**—6% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein.
### Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from **$16,450** to **$37,300** annually, with an average of **$27,790/yr**. Top programs maintain graduation rates above **82%**, with the highest reaching **90%**. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
### Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Tennessee's leading technology employers. For students seeking network administration degrees in Tennessee, these top-ranked network administration schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
#1. Lipscomb University
Hakia ranks Lipscomb University as the #1 bachelor's in network administration degree program in Tennessee. This private institution in Nashville, TN has annual tuition of $35,848 ($1494/credit) and a 90% graduation rate. Ranking score: 58.3.
#2. Southern Adventist University
Hakia ranks Southern Adventist University as the #2 bachelor's in network administration degree program in Tennessee. This private institution in Collegedale, TN has annual tuition of $24,350 ($1000/credit) and a 75% graduation rate. Ranking score: 50.3.
#3. South College
Hakia ranks South College as the #3 bachelor's in network administration degree program in Tennessee. This for-profit institution in Knoxville, TN has annual tuition of $16,450 ($335/credit). Ranking score: 48.5.
#4. Freed-Hardeman University
Hakia ranks Freed-Hardeman University as the #4 bachelor's in network administration degree program in Tennessee. This private institution in Henderson, TN has annual tuition of $25,000 ($795/credit). Ranking score: 46.7.
#5. Christian Brothers University
Hakia ranks Christian Brothers University as the #5 bachelor's in network administration degree program in Tennessee. This private institution in Memphis, TN has annual tuition of $37,300 ($1370/credit). Ranking score: 44.1.
Online Bachelor's Network Administration Degree Programs in Tennessee
### Online Program Options
1 Tennessee institutions offer bachelor's network administration degrees with online or hybrid options, enabling students to earn accredited degrees while maintaining professional or personal commitments. Top-ranked online programs include **Christian Brothers**, all regionally accredited and recognized by Tennessee employers.
### Costs & Employer Recognition
Online bachelor's programs average **$37,300/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. Tennessee-based employers including HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis job market actively recruits graduates from online programs.
### Program Format
These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete **120 credit hours** in 4 years while working full-time.
### Technology & Flexibility
Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online network administration degrees in Tennessee, these accredited network administration schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.
Christian Brothers University - Memphis, TN - Tuition: $37,300/year
Best Master's Network Administration Degree Programs in Tennessee
### Program Landscape
Tennessee offers **2** master's degree programs in network administration, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—**Strayer University-Tennessee**, **South College**—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
### Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Tennessee earn a median salary of **$108,470**, approximately **20-30% higher** than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein actively recruiting from these programs.
### Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages **$15,088/yr**, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
### Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Tennessee's network administration schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
#1. Strayer University-Tennessee
Hakia ranks Strayer University-Tennessee as the #1 master's in network administration degree program in Tennessee. This for-profit institution in Memphis, TN has annual tuition of $13,725 ($339/credit) and a 100% graduation rate. Ranking score: 60.0.
#2. South College
Hakia ranks South College as the #2 master's in network administration degree program in Tennessee. This for-profit institution in Knoxville, TN has annual tuition of $16,450 ($335/credit). Ranking score: 58.8.
Network Administration Degree Costs & Tuition in Tennessee
Metric
Value
Average in-state tuition
$25,446/year
Average out-of-state tuition
$63,615/year
Community college tuition
$6,362/year
4-year savings for residents
$152,676
2+2 transfer pathway savings
$38,168
Source: IPEDS 2023
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Network Administration Students in Tennessee
State Aid Programs
Tennessee offers exceptional financial aid opportunities for students pursuing network administration degrees. The state's flagship program, Tennessee Promise, covers full tuition and fees at community colleges, making it an ideal entry point for students starting with associate's degrees in network administration. Additionally, Tennessee HOPE provides up to $4,500 per year for eligible students attending four-year institutions, significantly reducing the burden of higher education costs. These state-funded programs are administered through the Tennessee Higher Education Commission and represent a substantial commitment to making IT education accessible. Students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at StudentAid.gov to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state grants, Tennessee institutions offer institutional scholarships and financial aid packages tailored to network administration majors. Many four-year universities, including those ranked among the best bachelor's programs in network administration, provide merit-based scholarships for strong academic performers. Community colleges participating in the Tennessee Transfer Pathways system ensure that students can transition credits seamlessly while maintaining financial aid eligibility. For detailed guidance on federal aid options, students should visit Federal Student Aid, while comprehensive information about Tennessee-specific programs is available through the Tennessee Higher Education Commission website. Combined with Tennessee's lack of state income tax, these financial advantages make the state particularly affordable for network administration students.
Network Administration Degree ROI Calculator — Tennessee
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a network administration degree in Tennessee. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Network Administration Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a network administration degree
$
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$133,333
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,712,662
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$140,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.9%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2023. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Network Administration Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Tennessee metro areas
Hakia.com
View data table
Category
value
Nashville
$119K
Knoxville
$114K
Memphis
$108K
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
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Top Employers Hiring Network Administration Graduates in Tennessee
Find network administration jobs in Tennessee. These major employers across Tennessee metro areas are actively hiring network administration degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Network Administration Jobs in Nashville
TN
Amazon
tech
Oracle Health (Cerner)
healthtech
Asurion
tech
AllianceBernstein
finance
HCA Healthcare
healthcare
Network Administration Jobs in Knoxville
TN
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
government
Pilot Flying J
retail
Network Administration Jobs in Memphis
TN
FedEx
logistics
International Paper
manufacturing
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
healthcare
Transfer Pathways for Network Administration Degrees in Tennessee
State Transfer System
Tennessee's transfer system provides structured pathways for network administration students moving from two-year to four-year institutions. The Tennessee Transfer Pathways program guarantees that credits earned at 4 associate's degree-granting institutions will transfer seamlessly to the state's 10 bachelor's degree programs in network administration. This system eliminates course redundancy and ensures students complete their degrees efficiently while maintaining cost savings. Students completing an associate's degree at community colleges like Volunteer State Community College, Northeast State Community College, or Pellissippi State Community College can transfer with full junior standing into bachelor's programs, reducing overall time-to-degree and tuition costs.
How Transfers Work
Articulation agreements between Tennessee's community colleges and universities specify which courses fulfill bachelor's degree requirements, allowing students to plan transfer strategies early. The Tennessee Promise program covers community college tuition entirely, making the first two years free before students transfer to four-year institutions where average in-state tuition is $8,520 annually. Transfer students benefit from guaranteed admission standards and reduced application barriers at participating universities. For detailed pathway information and specific course mappings, students should visit Tennessee Transfer Pathways or contact their community college advising office. Combined with Tennessee's state financial aid programs, the transfer pathway system makes network administration degrees highly accessible. Students interested in related IT fields can also explore Information Security in Tennessee or Cloud Computing in Tennessee pathways.
Why Pursue a Network Administration Degree in Tennessee?
Industry & Workforce
Tennessee offers strong opportunities for network administration students across 17 institutions providing specialized programming at all degree levels (IPEDS). The state hosts 4 associate's programs, 10 bachelor's programs, and 3 master's programs in network administration, creating multiple pathways for learners at different academic stages. Top-ranked institutions like The University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Tennessee Technological University, and Middle Tennessee State University provide quality education at affordable public in-state tuition rates averaging $8,520 for four-year institutions (BLS State Data).
Salary Outlook
Tennessee's geographic advantage includes major tech hubs and corporate centers in Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga, where employers like Amazon, FedEx, Nissan, and HCA Healthcare actively recruit IT professionals. The state's zero state income tax provides a significant financial advantage for graduates building their careers. Additionally, Tennessee's affordability is amplified through state financial aid programs including Tennessee Promise, which covers community college tuition costs. Students can explore related IT pathways through Cloud Computing in Tennessee, Cybersecurity in Tennessee, and Information Security in Tennessee to build comprehensive technical expertise in the networking field.
$0 State Income Tax
Tennessee Take-Home Pay Advantage
Tennessee has no state income tax. At the median network administration salary of $108,470, that keeps roughly $5,424 more in your pocket annually compared to states with a 5% income tax rate.
Source: Tennessee Department of Revenue
Network Administration Job Market & Salary Data in Tennessee
Employment Outlook
Tennessee's network administration job market is supported by a diverse employer base across multiple metropolitan areas and industry sectors. The state's major metro regions. Nashville-Davidson-Murfreesboro-Franklin, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga, all maintain active demand for network administration professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Tennessee's technology sector continues to grow, with network infrastructure roles remaining essential across healthcare, logistics, higher education, and automotive manufacturing. The state's lack of income tax provides an additional financial advantage for professionals seeking to maximize earnings potential in this field.
Salaries by Metro
Major employers driving demand for network administrators include Vanderbilt University, HCA Healthcare, Amazon, FedEx, and Nissan, all of which maintain significant operations throughout Tennessee. These organizations require strong network infrastructure and skilled professionals to manage complex IT systems. The Nashville-Davidson-Murfreesboro-Franklin metro area, in particular, is a growing tech hub with substantial opportunities in healthcare IT and corporate technology services. Students pursuing network administration degrees at institutions like The University of Tennessee-Knoxville or Middle Tennessee State University can leverage proximity to these employment centers and benefit from established connections between academic programs and regional employers. Career seekers should consult the College Scorecard for detailed employment outcomes from Tennessee institutions offering network administration credentials.
How We Rank Network Administration Degree Programs
Based on 7 programs from IPEDS 2023
We analyzed 7 network administration degree programs in Tennessee using IPEDS 2023 data and BLS labor statistics. Our rankings are produced algorithmically without editorial intervention, ensuring objectivity and reproducibility.
Ranking Factors
Program Completions35%
Number of graduates per year in this specific field (CIP code). Larger programs indicate established departments with more resources, course offerings, and career services. Measured from IPEDS Completions data.
Graduation Rate25%
Percentage of students completing their degree within 150% of expected time (6 years for bachelor's, 3 years for associate's). Higher rates indicate better student support and program quality. Source: IPEDS Graduation Rates survey.
Selectivity20%
Admission rate (lower = more selective). More selective institutions typically have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.
Career Outcomes20%
Regional salary data for network administration graduates. Tennessee median salary of $108,470 is factored into institutional scores based on local job market strength.
Ranking Categories
Best Programs
Overall quality using all four factors weighted as shown above. Ideal for students seeking the strongest academic experience.
Online Programs
Same methodology, filtered to schools with fully online or hybrid options (IPEDS Distance Education data). Some schools may have lower graduation rates due to different student demographics.
Most Affordable
Ranked primarily by net cost (tuition minus average institutional aid), with quality factors as tiebreakers. Best for cost-conscious students.
Last Updated: February 22, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2023 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.
Network Administration Degree Programs in Tennessee — Detailed School Profiles
Best Associate's Network Administration Degree Programs in Tennessee
Key Distinction: Miller-Motte College-Chattanooga offers comprehensive Network Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Miller-Motte College-Chattanooga's regional positioning offers proximity to growing tech hubs, but the program data provided lacks specifics on certification outcomes, lab resources, or employment tracking—critical metrics for evaluating an associate's program's true market value.
Miller-Motte College-Chattanooga offers Network Administration programs in Chattanooga, TN. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
South College — Knoxville, TN
Hakia Insight: South College's dual AS/AAS structure in network administration suggests intentional differentiation between applied and theoretical tracks, though outcome transparency on which credential better serves local employers in its market would clarify the actual advantage.
Programs Offered
Associate of Science in Network Administration — 2 years, on-campus
Associate of Applied Science in Network Administration — 2 years, online
Location Advantages:
Best Bachelor's Network Administration Degree Programs in Tennessee
Lipscomb University — Nashville, TN
Key Distinction: Lipscomb combines rigorous computer science foundations with network administration specialization, preparing graduates for both technical mastery and career advancement into network architecture and IT leadership roles.
Hakia Insight: Lipscomb's Nashville location isn't incidental—the city's concentration of healthcare IT systems (Vanderbilt, HCA) and financial services creates an unusual apprenticeship ecosystem where network admin students can specialize in high-security, high-stakes infrastructure most schools only simulate.
At the bachelor's level, lipscomb University's network administration offerings are embedded within a rigorous computer science and information technology curriculum that emphasizes both theoretical foundations and professional application. Students specializing in network administration pursue advanced coursework in network protocols, security architecture, cloud infrastructure, and enterprise systems administration—all taught with attention to industry practices and emerging technologies. Lipscomb's Nashville location and institutional connections create pathways into IT careers at major corporations, healthcare systems, and financial services firms active in the region. The program benefits from faculty with active industry experience and from Lipscomb's investment in modern computing facilities. Students engage in capstone projects and internships where they apply networking knowledge to real organizational challenges—whether designing secure networks, managing infrastructure migrations, or troubleshooting complex systems. Career outcomes for Lipscomb graduates in IT and network specializations include roles as network engineers, systems administrators, and IT infrastructure specialists at mid-market and enterprise organizations. The university actively supports students pursuing professional certifications including Cisco CCNA and CompTIA credentials.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Network Administration — 4 years, on-campus
Bachelor of Arts in Network Administration — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Nashville location provides access to major corporate IT employers including healthcare, financial services, and technology companiesProximity to Tennessee technology ecosystem and startup community
Southern Adventist University — Collegedale, TN
Key Distinction: Southern Adventist's network program uniquely appeals to students seeking IT careers aligned with institutional values, particularly in educational, non-profit, and mission-driven sectors.
Hakia Insight: Southern Adventist's framing around mission-driven sectors reveals a genuine market positioning: non-profits and educational institutions often hire differently than enterprise tech shops, and this program's values alignment may translate to tighter mentorship networks and lower competition for internships.
At the bachelor's level, southern Adventist University's network administration program is distinguished by its integration of hands-on networking labs with a broader information technology curriculum, preparing students for infrastructure roles in both traditional corporate environments and mission-driven organizations. The program covers routing and switching protocols, network security architecture, systems administration, and emerging technologies like cloud platforms and virtualization—coursework designed to make students competitive for roles ranging from junior network administrator to junior network engineer. SAU emphasizes ethical technology stewardship consistent with its institutional values, which resonates particularly with students interested in IT careers at educational institutions, non-profits, and international development organizations. The faculty bring practical industry experience and maintain current knowledge of networking standards and technologies. Students have access to modern networking labs equipped with Cisco equipment and virtualization platforms. Beyond technical training, the program cultivates problem-solving approaches and professional practices essential for supporting complex organizational networks. Graduates have found success in network operations roles at universities, corporate IT departments, and mission-focused organizations globally.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Network Administration — 4 years, on-campus
Bachelor of Arts in Network Administration — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Chattanooga location with access to regional technology employers and corporate IT departmentsUniversity's own IT infrastructure provides internship and employment opportunities
South College — Knoxville, TN
Hakia Insight: South College's bachelor's offering appears strategically positioned between its associate and master's degrees, but without disclosed partnerships, lab specifications, or graduate placement data, it's unclear whether this represents a genuine advancement pathway or credential stacking.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Network Administration — 4 years, on-campus
Bachelor of Arts in Network Administration — 4 years, online
Location Advantages:
Freed-Hardeman University — Henderson, TN
Hakia Insight: Freed-Hardeman's emphasis on cybersecurity within network administration (encryption, digital forensics, ethical hacking) signals a deliberate specialization; students should verify whether this focus narrows or expands job market access compared to broader network-first programs.
At the bachelor's level, FHU's Cybersecurity program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering network security, encryption, digital forensics and ethical hacking with hands-on learning in state-of-the-art cybersecurity labs. Expert faculty bring industry experience into the classroom, and the program emphasizes practical experiences to prepare students for high-demand cybersecurity careers.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Network Administration — 4 years, on-campus
Bachelor of Arts in Network Administration — 4 years, online
Location Advantages:
Christian Brothers University — Memphis, TN
Key Distinction: Christian Brothers University offers comprehensive Network Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Christian Brothers University's Memphis location offers access to FedEx and healthcare IT operations, but the provided description mirrors generic language used across multiple institutions—prospective students need to request specific lab equipment lists and employer hiring partnerships to assess real differentiation.
Christian Brothers University offers Network Administration programs in Memphis, TN. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Master's Network Administration Degree Programs in Tennessee
Strayer University-Tennessee — Memphis, TN
Hakia Insight: Strayer University-Tennessee's master's program data is insufficient to evaluate; the absence of faculty names, research labs, industry partners, or specialization options suggests either limited public transparency or a generalized curriculum—both red flags for prospective graduate students.
At the master's level, the provided content does not contain sufficient specific information about Strayer University's Network Administration program to identify unique strengths or differentiators.
Programs Offered
Master of Science in Network Administration — 1-2 years, on-campus
Master of Arts in Network Administration — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages:
South College — Knoxville, TN
Hakia Insight: South College's master's degree in network administration lacks disclosed outcomes, lab facilities, or cohort structure, making it impossible to assess whether the program justifies graduate tuition or functions primarily as a credential extension for associate degree holders.
Programs Offered
Master of Science in Network Administration — 1-2 years, on-campus
Master of Arts in Network Administration — 1-2 years, online
