5 Signs a Computer Networking Degree is Right for You

Computer networks are indispensable to today’s businesses, facilitating instant communication and collaboration for people and organizations worldwide. Networks help improve the speed and efficiency of daily business operations, allowing for easy file sharing, remote access, data protection and more.

As business needs for connectivity, data management and network security grow, so will the demand for skilled computer networking professionals. In fact, the U.S Department of Labor predicts that employment for network administrators and network architects will increase by as much as 6 percent by 2024.

Diverse career pathways and opportunities for advancement make computer networking attractive to students interested in technology careers. Learn more about jobs in computer networking and possible career paths you may choose with a networking degree.

Here are five signs a computer networking career might be a good fit:

1. You enjoy technical problem-solving. Computer network professionals are involved in every aspect of managing an organization’s computer systems. Network engineers and architects build and maintain networks, while network administrators and computer support specialists provide technical support to computer users. All are involved in troubleshooting network issues and developing solutions to help an organization’s network run smoothly.
2. You enjoy working with the latest technology. In order to design and build data communication networks, computer networking professionals must understand the latest innovations and breakthroughs in network technology. They also install important network upgrades and provide recommendations for an organization’s future hardware and software investments.
3. You work well alone and in a team. Solving network issues is often a collaborative effort. Computer network professionals consult with network engineers, equipment vendors and other members of an organization’s IT team to ensure that clients’ and workers’ network needs are fulfilled. They also work independently to troubleshoot a network issue or redesign an organization’s computer and information systems.
4. You want a flexible career path. With a degree in computer networking, you’ll have the foundational knowledge to pursue careers in a variety of roles and industries. Many computer networking professionals work for computer systems and design firms, while others may work in telecommunications, insurance, government agencies and more. A background in networking is also excellent preparation for careers in network management and information security.
5. You want room to grow. Most entry-level networking positions require at least an associate degree in computer or information science, but many advanced roles require a bachelor’s degree or higher. Entry level computer networking positions include support specialists and network administrators, and professionals can easily advance to computer network engineer with additional experience and education.