What is Network and Communications Management?

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A computer network is defined as a group of two or more computers linked together by physical connections, such as Ethernet or fiber optic cables, or through wireless connections, such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Network and communications management involves making sure these computer network devices function properly and do not experience issues with their connections.

Network and communications management also involves making sure communications systems aren’t failing to properly transmit complete data in a timely fashion. A communications system is any system that facilitates the exchange of information, generally between two or more computers, whether they are on the same network or not. Today, communications systems include mobile consumer devices like IoT devices, smartphones, laptops and more.

If issues are encountered in the analysis of either of these systems, network and communications managers are responsible for troubleshooting and remedying the problem, then installing fail-safes to proactively prevent future issues.

Throughout this article, we will help you learn about the field of network and communications management and the various types of jobs in this field as we explore the following topics:

What Jobs are Available in Network and Communications Management?

The network and communications management field falls within the computer information technology sector, which is growing faster than average, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This industry is projected, on a national level, to see an 13% growth rate from 2020 to 2030, adding more than 667,000 jobs to the job market1.

Thanks to the current demand for professionals in this field, there is a wide variety of occupations to pursue. Here is a list of roles that network and communications management degree holders may consider but are not limited to:

- Computer Network Support Specialist –
A computer network specialist troubleshoots and performs regular maintenance and testing on existing computer networks.
- Computer Security Specialist –
A computer security specialist protects computer networks and communication systems from present threats and potential risks.
- Computer Support Specialist –
A computer support specialist may also be referred to as a help-desk technician, as their focus is on non-IT customer support. Computer support specialists assist non-IT users by answering simple questions, providing technical support and instruction on how to use business-specific programs or working with computer support specialists to resolve problems.
- Corporate Security Manager –
A corporate security manager assesses security risks, develops proactive threat mitigation plans and implements controls to prevent theft of proprietary information or equipment.
- Database Administrator –
A database administrator ensures that database users can easily access information and that the database system is working as expected. When database functions are not performing as they should, database administrators are also responsible for correcting those issues along with continued system monitoring.
- Disaster Recovery Analyst –
A disaster recovery analyst is responsible for the standardization and adoption of policies and procedures intended to secure data, information systems and technology.
- Data Communications Analyst –
A data communications analyst monitors network performance, installs software upgrades and programs, and builds out network architecture.
- Network or Computer Systems Administrator –
A network administrator maintains computer network hardware and software components, with a focus on local and wide-area networks (LANs and WANs).
- Network Systems Analyst –
A network analyst installs and maintains network components such as hubs, routers and modems.
- Network Engineer –
A network engineer facilitates data transfer between computers in a network by configuring network components, scheduling timely updates and maintenance, monitoring performance and troubleshooting.
- Network Security Analyst –
A network security analyst is in charge of preventing data loss and service interruptions by designing and implementing security measures to protect data, networks and computer systems.
- Network Security Specialist –
A network security specialist audits computer networks for security issues, develops and implements solutions, and assists with disaster recovery planning and execution.

What Qualifications are Required for Network and Communications Management?

A career in network and communications management typically requires at least a bachelor’s degree in computer or information science, though many employers prefer candidates with a graduate degree in a related field.

Getting an education through a program like DeVry University’s Bachelor’s in Network and Communications Management can help you develop work skills such as general data development and management.

A formal education in network and communications management can also help get you familiar with the regulations that govern the networking and communications field. Not only can this help you stay compliant, but also it can provide a foundation to understand and adapt to future changes. Courses commonly taught in network and communications management programs tend to include computer programming, mathematics and software development.

Certificate programs are also available and they typically focus on local area network and operating system topics. Associate and bachelor’s degrees can include wide-area network theory, routes and routers and the foundations of data communications.

What is Involved in a Network and Communications Management Qualification?

Becoming a network and communications manager requires technical knowledge about computer networks and communications. Skills that network and communications managers should also have can also include the ability to make sound business decisions. For example, a manager might need to plan ways to reduce costs, enhance customer services or optimize operational efficiency using network and communications technology.

Here are some of the primary skills you may develop over the course of a network and communications management program:

- Interacting with computers –
Using computers and computer systems to program hardware, code software, enter data, or process information.
- Exploring network trends –
Identifying emerging and advanced networks to deliver audio, video, images and data across various technologies.
- Communications analysis –
Assessing network transmissions and transmission methods for errors.
- Resource management –
Strategic planning, allocation and coordination of people and other resources.
- Advanced network security –
Identifying network vulnerabilities (both wired and wireless), responding to threats and participating in disaster recovery and risk prevention.
- System evaluation –
Measuring system KPIs and determining actions to improve or protect performance.

Interested in Pursuing a Career in Network and Communications Management?

DeVry University has several degree programs for those interested in getting into the field of network and communication management. Check out our Undergraduate Tech Certificates to get started on gaining practical, hands-on experience while you build your foundational knowledge.

DeVry’s online tech certificate programs can be completed in as little as 10 months*, or faster if you have eligible transfer credits. Better yet, you may be able to earn course credits at DeVry in a certificate program and then apply them to a Bachelor's in Network and Communications Management when you’re ready to continue your education at DeVry. Or, explore a Master’s in Network and Communications Management degree through our Keller Graduate School of Management if you want to pursue advancing your career.

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^*Not including breaks. Assumes year-round, full-time enrollment.
¹Growth projected on a national level. Local growth will vary by location. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.html