Cybersecurity & Network Administration Degree
Become an Information Technologist today and fill one of the millions of open positions in industries across the U.S. looking to keep networks safe, efficient, and operational. Per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of network and computer systems administration positions should grow by 6 percent through 2026, an increase of 24,000 jobs.
Programs and Coursework
WVU Parkersburg offers two degrees for those pursuing a career in network administration:
• Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Technology
• Bachelor of Applied Technology with a concentration in Cybersecurity & Network Administration
The cybersecurity associate degree offers an educational foundation rooted in computer hardware, operating systems, and hands-on learning experiences. Coursework includes core classes that help further understanding and gain a widespread knowledge of network system administration:
• SEC 101 – Security Fundamentals
• CIT 105 – Introduction to Networks
• CIT 106 – Routing and Switching Essentials
• CIT 211 – Network Infrastructure
• CIT 205 – Scaling Networks
• CIT 206 – Connecting Networks
Our network administration degree goes further by allowing students to gain advanced skills in network administration and cybersecurity. The goal of this program is to create minimal friction as students transition from the classroom to their career. The involved coursework builds on what’s offered by the associate’s degree:
• SEC 300 Intro to Security
• CIT 305 Advanced Routing
• STEM 300 Ethics and Technology
• CIT 405 Multi-Layer Switched Network
• SEC 351 Defenses & Countermeasures
• STEM 420 Project Management
• CIT 330 Directory Services Infrastructure (MCP)
OR SEC 430 Operating System Security
• CIT 406 Adv. Network Troubleshooting
OR SEC 350 Network Security
Associate
Associate of Applied Science in Computer & Information Technology
The Associate of Applied Science in Computer & Information Technology gives students a foundation in computer hardware and operating systems and provides hands-on coursework in network administration through Cisco Networking Academy courses and systems administration through Microsoft Windows and Linux courses.
Bachelor
Bachelor of Applied Technology with a concentration in Cybersecurity & Network Administration
The Bachelor of Applied Technology (BAT) program gives students the opportunity to continue their education after completing their associate’s degree. The majors in the BAT program are designed for students who complete an Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Technology or Computer Science and want to learn advanced skills in either computer networking and security or software engineering. The degree provides both academic as well as hands-on coursework in both majors. This program will provide students a clear transition to employment with advanced skills.
Potential Employment Opportunities
Our bachelor’s program provides practical knowledge, analytical skills, and in-depth experience to achieve necessary professional certifications, build network infrastructure, maintain existing networks, as well as secure systems from deviant actors.
With this skill set, you’ll have an array of technology-focused careers ahead of you:
IT Professional
Network Administrator
Systems Technician
Due to the expected growth in this field, there will be many employment opportunities available upon graduation. Once employed, you can expect a median annual salary of over $82,000 or median hourly pay of $39.45.
TUITIONEstimated rates for the 2024-2025 academic year. Additional course fees may apply and rates are subject to change. |
|
|---|---|
| Per Credit Hour | $188 - $260 |
| Per Semester | $2,256 - $3,120 |
| Fall & Spring Semesters | $4,512 - $6,240 |
| Per Credit Hour | $376 - $401 |
| Per Semester | $4,512 - $4,812 |
| Fall & Spring Semesters | $9,024 - $9,624 |
| Per Credit Hour | $50 |
| Per Semester | $600 |
| Fall & Spring Semesters | $1,200 |
Estimated Costs of AttendanceEstimated total costs of attendance for students, varied based on residential status and living situation. |
|
| Room & Board | $9,144 |
| Transportation | $2,400 |
| Tuition & Fees | $5,783 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,500 |
| Miscellaneous | $1,173 |
Total | $20,000 |
| Room & Board | $14,544 |
| Transportation | $2,400 |
| Tuition & Fees | $5,783 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,500 |
| Miscellaneous | $2,273 |
Total | $26,500 |
| Room & Board | $9,144 |
| Transportation | $2,400 |
| Tuition & Fees | $10,506 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,500 |
| Miscellaneous | $1,173 |
Total | $24,723 |
| Room & Board | $14,544 |
| Transportation | $2,400 |
| Tuition & Fees | $10,506 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,500 |
| Miscellaneous | $2,273 |
Total | $31,223 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Programs
Michele Wilson
Dean
Workforce, Technical and Computer Information Science Division
Workforce & Economic Development Room 109A
304-424-8355
Why WVU Parkersburg?
If you’re looking at colleges for cybersecurity or network administration, WVU Parkersburg should be at the top of your list. Our high academic standards keep coursework rigorous, helping prepare students for a career creating, maintaining, and securing computer networks. We believe in not only providing education to our students but opportunities, including our career training courses that offer certification in Cisco CCNA and Microsoft MCITP & MCSE, among others.
Contact WVU Parkersburg today so we can help you achieve your career dreams. Call us at 304-424-8000 for more information or to schedule a visit.