As companies invest in new technologies, mobile networks and cloud-based infrastructure, the demand for networking professionals continues to increase. With a networking-focused IT degree, you can pursue growing careers such as network administrator, engineer or service technician, systems architect or wireless network engineer.
For example, a high-growth career in this field is computer network architecture. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 13% job growth for computer network architects from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual salary for this role was $129,840 as of May 2023.
The skills you’ll develop
This program builds a strong IT foundation that adapts to industry advancements. The core curriculum blends theory and hands-on practice in infrastructure, cloud computing, DevOps, data and cybersecurity. You’ll work with industry-standard tools such as Python, Java, Unix, PowerShell and SQL, gaining the skills to design and implement impactful IT solutions across industries.
Beyond the broader IT curriculum, networking delves into the design, configuration and optimization of interconnected systems. You’ll gain hands-on experience with routing protocols, network hardware, wireless technologies and troubleshooting tools. You’ll also learn to secure networks using firewalls, intrusion detection and VPN configurations — specialized skills essential for managing and protecting complex network environments.
Choosing the right IT degree for you
ASU’s ABET-accredited online IT bachelor’s degrees build a solid foundation in engineering, mathematics and core industry concepts. While they share common elements, each program focuses on distinct career goals.
- BS in information technology
- Covers a broad IT foundation with hands-on projects in network security, data management and more. Prepares you to develop technology solutions and optimize efficiency across industries.
- BS in information technology with a concentration in cybersecurity
- Focuses on network forensics, security analysis, cloud security and risk assessment. Equips you to secure digital infrastructures and protect organizations from cyber threats.
- BS in information technology with a concentration in networking
- Emphasizes network design, high-availability architecture, performance analysis and cloud networking. Provides skills to build and maintain secure, scalable IT infrastructures.
Whether you choose the networking concentration or another path, you can pursue an Accelerated Master’s degree. Once accepted, you can earn a master’s degree in as little as one year after completing your undergraduate degree. This opportunity saves time and money while providing advanced knowledge in your field. Applicable master's degrees include:
Advance your career in a fast-growing industry with an online Bachelor of Science in information technology with a concentration in networking from Arizona State University. This ABET-accredited program provides a holistic understanding of designing, securing and scaling modern systems. Upon graduating, you can pursue careers focused on developing and maintaining the networks and infrastructure that keep data flowing.
Coursework strengthens your expertise and prepares you for real-world challenges while exploring network design, implementation, performance analysis, management, forensics and cloud architecture. The curriculum also covers integrating on-premise systems with cloud-based infrastructures, a highly sought-after skill as organizations shift to hybrid environments.
The program concludes with a networking-focused capstone course, where you’ll plan and implement an IT project build. This hands-on experience reinforces your skills, ensuring you graduate ready for the workforce.
Of the 350+ faculty members in Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, the majority have been honored with the highest awards in their fields. Faculty milestones include:
- National Academy of Construction members
- National Academy of Engineering members
- National Academy of Inventors members
- National Academy of Sciences member
The Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering is dedicated to providing a dynamic learning environment and supporting all students on the paths to their degrees. We’ve received numerous peer-reviewed programmatic honors from U.S. News & World Report.
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ASU's academic programs that prepare you for professional licensure or certification are designed to meet Arizona's requirements. Completing an ASU program may not fulfill educational requirements for licensure or certification in other states. For additional information, visit the professional licensure webpage.
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”