Computer networks are critical parts of almost every organization. Network and computer systems administrators are responsible for the day-to-day operation of these networks. They organize, install, and support an organization’s computer systems, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), network segments, intranets, and other data communication systems.

In this field, you might be performing network maintenance to ensure the networks all work correctly with minimal interruptions. Other duties may include installing software and hardware, designing e-mail and other communication programs, testing operational systems, and ensuring that software and network applications are working properly.

 

Job Requirements and Potential Growth

Most positions in this field require a Bachelor’s degree and or 5 years of work experience and have a salary range of $60-150,000. Often these types of positions will be in the Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services, Insurance Carriers, Management Companies, Telecommunications, and/or Administrative and Support Services.  The demand for workers in this area is very high with a growth rate of 6-8% over the next ten years. Currently, there is a projected need of over 3,500 candidates to fill positions in Minnesota.

Are you Career Ready: As a Minnesota State student you have access to a number of incredible resources. One of those resources is Careerwise Education, a Minnesota State program that allows you to explore careers, plan your education and find a job!

From this Site, you have the ability to assess your current skills, investigate career pathways, explore educational options, explore job markets, and so much more. It is a one-stop shop that will help you determine your career path and goals!

Since Q4 of 2017, there has been a continued growth of 30+% for some IT employment needs. It is anticipated that by 2020 there will be a shortage of over 2,500 IT professionals just in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area alone. (Insights for Action)

Employment of network and computer systems administrators is projected to grow 6 percent from 2016 to 2026. Demand for information technology (IT) workers is high and should continue to grow as firms invest in newer, faster technology and mobile networks. Growth is also expected as the use of IT in healthcare increases.

An Industry certification is a process of program evaluations ensuring that an individual has met the minimum industry knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the tasks of the given certification. It is important to gain certifications in high value areas. Low value certifications are those that require little effort or knowledge and anyone can earn. A high value certification is one that the industry sees as needed and desired in order to prove your personal knowledge, skills and abilities on a given topic or area.

Having high value certifications shows that you are looking to be a leader and high impact contributor to the field.

MN State CAREERwise Education Certifications for Computer Network Architecture

Are you in need of connections within the industry but don’t know where to start? One great way to get to know the people and organizations within the security arena is to join a security professional organization.

There are many to select from and some that have amazing student rates to join. Joining a professional organization will give you the access you need to like-minded faculty, students and industry leaders who are looking to improve the world of security. You will be able to network and meet new industry connections, find out about the latest research in the area, and develop relationships that can bring about amazing opportunities for advancement.