High School

In high school, take as many courses as possible in computer science, mathematics, and science, which provide a solid foundation in computer basics and analytical-thinking skills. You should also practice your verbal and written communications skills in English and speech classes. Business courses are valuable in that they can give you an understanding of how important business decisions, especially those concerning investment in computer technology, are made.

Postsecondary Training

Most network administration jobs require at least a bachelors degree in an information science-related field, or computer engineering or electrical engineering. More specialized positions require an advanced degree. Workers with a college education are more likely to deal with the theoretical aspects of computer networking and are more likely to be promoted to management positions. Opportunities in computer design, systems analysis, and computer programming, for example, are open only to college graduates. If you are interested in this field, you should also pursue postsecondary training in network administration or network engineering, as well as complete co-ops and internships in network administration.

Certification

Many colleges and universities, online learning platforms, and other educational providers offer certificate programs in computer networking, artificial intelligence and other types of emerging technology, and other fields. These programs typically last six months to a year.

Other Education or Training

Continuing education is key to success in nearly every profession, including the information technology industry. You must always be willing to learn more about new and different technologies. Many companies will require you to keep up to date on new technological advances by attending classes, workshops, and seminars throughout the year. Also, many companies and professional associations update network specialists through newsletters, other periodicals, and online bulletin boards. The Association for Computing Machinery, IEEE Computer Society, Network Professional Association, and USENIX, the Advanced Computing Systems Association provide continuing education opportunities via webinars and conference sessions and workshops. Contact these organizations for more information.

Certification or Licensing

Besides the technical/vocational schools that offer courses related to computer networking, several major companies offer professionally taught courses and nationally recognized certification; chief among them are Cisco, Red Hat, OpenText, and Microsoft. The certified network professional program, which is offered by the Network Professional Association, supports and complements the aforementioned vendor product certifications. Applicants must pass an examination, have at least three years professional experience, and demonstrate experience in the field.

Participating in network administration-related internships and co-ops will provide useful experience.

Computer work is complex, detailed, and often very frustrating. In order to succeed in this field, you must be well organized and patient. You should enjoy challenges and problem solving, and you should be a logical thinker, but also have a lot of curiosity about how things work. You must also be able to communicate complex ideas in simple terms, as well as be able to work well under pressure and deadlines.