Computer and Network Administrators Remain in High Demand
Computer and network administrators work in almost every sector of the global economy, installing, configuring, troubleshooting, and maintaining operations and security for vital internal and customer-facing networks. They typically provide routine system upgrades and performance evaluations, along with on-call customer and client support to keep systems running in optimal conditions.
Career Opportunities for Computer and Network Administration Professionals
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that new jobs for these highly prized professionals will grow by 27 percent between 2006 and 2016.(1) Once on the job, computer and network administrators care for local-area networks (LAN), wide-area networks (WAN), and company Internet and intranet systems.
Network professionals take jobs throughout most of America's industries. The Information Technology Association of America reports that more than 90 percent of IT workers are employed by non-technology companies.(2)
Almost a quarter of all working computer support specialists and network administrators worked for scientific, technical service, and professional industries last year, from small startup companies to major corporations.
Earning Your Associate's Degree in Computer and Network Administration
Coursework typically includes a wide range of network technologies, including wireless systems currently used in most industries. Foundation classes in:
- computer science
- information technology
- network architecture
- server systems
- software management
- network security
- customer service procedures help round out the curriculum.
The BLS reports that because of high demand, companies are becoming increasingly flexible in requiring specific degrees for support positions. However, recruiters will favor candidates with formal post-secondary career training along with skills in communication and analytical problem-solving.(1)
(1)U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition: Computer Support Specialists and Systems Administrators (http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos268.htm)
(2)Career Voyages (http://www.careervoyages.gov/includes/incsmallwindow-allindustries-industryoverview.cfm?industrynumber=8)
