Dakota State University students walking around campus

Preparation + opportunity = success

That's the DSU equation. We're a four-year university with nationally recognized programs, cutting-edge facilities, and the brightest thinkers. But we're also a tight-knit, inclusive community. Small class sizes mean hands-on training and individualized attention. All this with an affordable, public school price that's among the best values in the region.

Majors & Degrees

Network and Security Administration (BS)

Prepare for a career in network and security administration

With a Bachelor of Science in Network and Security Administration degree, you’ll learn the skills to maintain and secure inner-connected networks. After completing this bachelor’s degree, you’ll be prepared to install, configure, and troubleshoot operating systems and computer hardware. By gaining advanced knowledge in network services from hands-on work with servers, VoIP phones, routers, and switches to firewalls and intrusion prevention systems, you’ll be fully equipped to support and secure wired and wireless networks.

As you learn how to ensure cybersecurity in organizations through practice with defensive hacking, network forensics, and penetration testing, you’ll gain valuable skills in problem-solving, analysis, and communication to provide timely solutions, outline technology procedures, and prevent data breaches.  

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.

Complete your bachelor’s degree in three years

Fast-track your education with the option to complete your bachelor’s in Network and Security Administration in three years. If you choose the accelerated option, you’ll take courses as a full-time student, averaging 15 credits each semester (Fall, Spring, and Summer).

Student working with computer server

Advanced technology resources

As a DSU student, you’ll have access to enterprise-grade networking gear and servers, which are the most current technology resources for learning network and security administration. The virtual and physical labs provide hands-on learning, preparing you to manage and protect network devices in any industry immediately after graduation. You’ll become a vital IT team member or leader in roles such as systems administrator, network specialist, or systems engineer.

students lounging

Belong at DSU

At DSU, you can be involved in many different clubs and organizations centered around your interests. Join clubs like CybHER, the Defensive Security Club, or Gaming Club to peak your computing passions and boost your resume. Students also compete and place among the top in the nation in network defense competitions like the Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition or Esports. Take part in campus-wide research opportunities or apply for leadership opportunities with cyber-specific scholarships or the honors program. 

Student with backpack on DSU's campus

Make it a master’s

Complete your master’s and bachelor’s degrees at the same time. By accelerating your master’s degree, you’ll continue from your undergraduate directly to graduate, whether you complete the bachelor’s in three or four years.

The 4+1 program (3+1 with the accelerated option) allows you to work toward your Master of Science in Cyber Defense or Information Systems degree during your bachelor's program. You’ll graduate with two degrees in less time, equipping you to take the lead in securing any organization’s cyber and informational integrity.

 

Career possibilities

Our graduates are recruited to work within various industries including business, education, manufacturing, software, finance, and insurance. As a network and security specialist, you can pursue a successful career leading IT teams, and managing and securing technology and data assets.

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of the BS degree in Network and Security Administration, students will be able to:

  • Implement technical security controls to protect an organization's IT assets.
  • Apply relevant skillsets for enterprise network and system administration.
  • Investigate network security vulnerabilities through penetration testing techniques.

Faculty