Computer networks are critical parts of almost every organization. Network and computer systems administrators are responsible for the day-to-day operation of these networks. They organize, install, and support an organization’s computer systems, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), network segments, intranets, and other data communication systems.

In this field, you might be performing network maintenance to ensure the networks all work correctly with minimal interruptions. Other duties may include installing software and hardware, designing e-mail and other communication programs, testing operational systems, and ensuring that software and network applications are working properly.

Job Requirements and Potential Growth

Most positions in this field require a Bachelor’s degree and or 5 years of work experience and have a salary range of $60-150,000. Often these types of positions will be in the Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services, Insurance Carriers, Management Companies, Telecommunications, and/or Administrative and Support Services.  The demand for workers in this area is very high with a growth rate of 6-8% over the next ten years. Currently, there is a projected need of over 3,500 candidates to fill positions in Minnesota.

Industry Certification

An Industry certification is a process of program evaluations ensuring that an individual has met the minimum industry knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the tasks of the given certification. It is important to gain certifications in high value areas. Low value certifications are those that require little effort or knowledge and anyone can earn. A high value certification is one that the industry sees as needed and desired in order to prove your personal knowledge, skills and abilities on a given topic or area.

Having high value certifications shows that you are looking to be a leader and high impact contributor to the field.

MN State CAREERwise Education Certifications for Computer Network Architecture