Network and System Administration
Maintain Computer Networks
Network and system administration is a fast-paced, challenging field that needs dedicated problem-solvers to maintain the computer networks that keep business moving.
Network and system administrators design, build, integrate, maintain and secure local area networks, design and support server systems and software, and provide end-user support for LAN-based applications.
Kirkwood offers more than $3 million in scholarships for students each year. Students in this program may be eligible to have half their tuition paid for by the Kibbie Grant.
Graduates of the network and system administration program will be able to:
- Design, build, and troubleshoot an Internet capable network.
- Implement and deploy operating systems for servers and workstations.
- Apply legal concepts to the information technology industry.
- Exhibit accepted ethical practices pertaining to the IT Industry.
- Formulate a secure network environment.
- Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills.
- Participate effectively as part of a team.
System Administration Diploma*
*State and federal aid may be used for the diploma on its own or as part of the degree program above.
Find Your Future
Network computer systems administrators work for a variety of organizations to install, configure, and maintain organizations’ computer networks and systems. They are the specialists who keep computer systems in good working condition and maintain network security by utilizing their specialized knowledge. Network administrators can prevent minor breaches from turning into major ones or help avoid them altogether. If you enjoy critical thinking, problem solving, and love knowing how things work, this is the career for you!
Hands-On Learning
As part of the Network and System Administration program, you’ll have a chance to apply the skills you learn in the classroom to the real world through extracurricular activities. Participate in the Cyber Defense Club or compete in events at a national level.
Kirkwood placed in the top 100 in the Spring 2023 National Cyber League (NCL) competition. The competition provides a virtual environment for students to both train and advance and their cybersecurity skills.
Hear from the students who participated:
“By competing in events like this I am constantly learning and honing the kinds of skills that will make me an adept cybersecurity professional once I graduate. It has given me an avenue to implement much of the content that we have covered in classes.”
Ben Merz
Cedar Falls, Iowa
“I recently applied for an internship with a local cybersecurity firm and listed both the NCL Team and Individual events on my resume. I was asked about the skills that I used in NCL during my second-round interview with the company.”
Keegan Paisley
Solon, Iowa
Program Costs
Network and Systems Administration
School Year: 2024–25
Program Entry Semester: Fall
| Fall | Spring | Fall | Spring | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit Hours per Semester | 15 | 15 | 16 | 18 | 64 |
| In-State Tuition | $3,255 | $3,255 | $3,472 | $3,906 | $13,888 |
| Technology Fee per Semester | $50 | $50 | $50 | $50 | $200 |
| Clinical Expenses (mileage, lodging, screenings, etc.) | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Conferences/Seminars | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Course Resources (textbooks, software, etc.) | $695 | $605 | $185 | $495 | $1,980 |
| Course/Section Fees | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Laptop (required devices) | $2,100 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $2,100 |
| Testing Fees | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Third Party Credentials | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Tool Sets | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Uniforms | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Other | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $6,100 | $3,910 | $3,707 | $4,451 | $18,168 |
Costs provided are estimated and based on the following current tuition rates: $217 (In-State), $290 (Out-of-State), $400 (International).
Fees and costs are subject to change.
To view all costs associated with attending college visit our Tuition and Costs page.
Explore More
What career could this lead to?
Students in Kirkwood's Network & System Administration program are encouraged to join the Kirkwood chapter of Business Professionals of America (BPA). With 45,000 members in more than 1,800 chapters across 25 states and Puerto Rico, as well as an international presence in China, Haiti and Peru, BPA has the ability to enhance student participation in professional, civic, service and social endeavors.
BPA is one of eight recognized members of the National Coordinating Council for Career and Technical Student Organizations (NCC-CTSO). CTSOs are co-curricular groups that help students in career and technical education programs further their knowledge and skills by participating in activities, events, and competitions.
Assist students in acquiring the latest tools to provide relevant content for knowledge in network system administration and desktop support.
“This program has something for everyone who wants to get into networking—be that security, virtualization, scripting—or just understanding networking fundamentals. The NaSA program is a great way to explore all possible career paths and find what best suits you and your career goals.”
Ben Merz,
Cedar Falls, Iowa