Major: System Administration

If you’ve ever experienced the satisfaction of playing on a winning team, you know how much it takes to get everyone working together smoothly. A computer system, with its network of hardware, software, programmers, users, and data presents a similar challenge.

If you major in system administration, you’ll learn how to meet that challenge, making use of the latest and most effective technology. And once you graduate, you should find your skills in demand in a variety of workplaces.

Students of system administration learn how to manage computer operations based out of specific organizations and locations.

Did You Know?

• Between 2004 and 2014, employment of systems administrators is expected to increase much faster than the average career.

Are You Ready To...?

• Intern off-campus while earning your degree
• Learn how to set up, monitor, and adjust networked computer systems
• Study operating systems, such as Microsoft Windows
• Practice installing and troubleshooting hardware and software
• Explore the latest technologies
• Learn the best ways to store data
• Study cybersecurity
• Join a study group

It Helps to Be...

A good problem solver who is able to work independently and as part of a team. In both your studies and your career, you’ll need to juggle many responsibilities at once.

College Checklist

• If the program leads to an associate’s degree, does it focus more on preparing students for further education or for the workforce?
• Will the program help you prepare for certification exams?
• Are instructors certified and actively working in the field?
• Are hands-on learning activities a regular part of your education?
• Does the program have state-of-the-art classrooms and computer labs?
• Does the program coordinate with local companies and organizations to provide internships?
• What are recent graduates doing now?

Did You Know?

• Viruses cost business big bucks: $55 billion in 2003.

Course Spotlight

In an introductory course in operating-system technologies, you’ll learn the ABCs of the software that runs computers. You’ll learn how operating systems help us make the most of our PCs by storing data efficiently, controlling memory, and connecting to networks.

You’ll probably study and compare more than one type of operating system, including such key players as Windows, DOS, UNIX, and Linux.