Dakota State University students walking around campus

Rise with us

DSU is a place where innovation meets opportunity. We are a nationally recognized leader in technology-driven education, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. With hands-on learning experiences, expert faculty, and cutting-edge facilities, we prepare you for modern careers. Choose from a wide range of affordable, forward-thinking programs that allow you to shape your own path. Your future begins today.

Majors & Degrees

Network and Security Administration, BS

Program Quick Facts

Credits

120

Start Terms

Fall

|

Spring

|

Summer

Available

On Campus

|

Online

Tuition

$8,956.50

estimated cost per semester

More tuition details

Acquire the skills to maintain and secure interconnected networks with DSU's Bachelor of Science in Network and Security Administration. The program focuses on cybersecurity techniques, including defensive hacking, network forensics, and penetration testing. You'll develop valuable problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills that will help you effectively provide solutions to prevent data breaches. 

Upon completing this program, you will be fully prepared to support and secure networks. You will work with servers, routers, switches, firewalls, intrusion prevention systems, and more to become an expert in the installation, configuration, and troubleshooting of operating systems and computer hardware. 

Curriculum and experience highlights

Two DSU students looking at computerElevate your networking skills

DSU is a Cisco Networking Academy where you can sharpen your skills and prepare for the CCNA certification. This hands-on program enhances your core courses, offering self-paced learning and expert support to elevate your career. After completing Networking I, Networking II, and Routing & Switching, you can start your certification journey in this program.

Online or on-campus courses

The network and security administration bachelor’s program is offered 100% online or on campus. Whether you are a traditional student or a working professional, this flexible program allows you to complete your degree how it works best for you, remote, in-person, or hybrid, and as a full-time or part-time student. 

Accelerated options

This program allows you to complete your degree faster with options for a Degree in 3 and 4+1 programs. In the Degree in 3 program, you can earn a bachelor’s degree in network and security administration in just three years by taking 15 credits each semester. You also have the option to pursue a master’s degree simultaneously.

The 4+1 program lets you balance your undergraduate studies while starting a master's degree in fields like Cyber Defense or information systems, providing an efficient path for career advancement.

Why choose DSU for networking?

Students in class listening to professor

Advanced technology resources

As a DSU student, you'll have access to top-notch networking gear and servers for hands-on learning in network and security administration. The labs prepare you for immediate employment in roles like systems administrator, network specialist, or systems engineer.

You belong at DSU

At DSU, you can join various clubs and organizations that align with their interests, where they often have opportunities to compete in national events and achieve high rankings. Additionally, there are research opportunities and leadership roles available through scholarships and honors programs.


Faculty

Career possibilities

Our graduates find exciting career opportunities across a diverse range of industries such as business, education, manufacturing, software development, finance, and insurance. With a network and security administration degree, you will have the chance to build a rewarding career where you can lead skilled IT teams, oversee the management of vital technology systems, and implement measures to secure critical data assets. Your role will place you at the forefront of technological advancements, ensuring that sensitive information remains safe and accessible.

$96,800

Median annual wage for network and computer systems administrators in the US

100%

Program percentage of graduates placed in employment or further education

$59,530

Average salary of DSU graduates of network and security administration

Your future at DSU begins today.

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