Programming vs. Networking Careers: No Four-Year Degree Required
Interested in launching a career in IT without a bachelor’s degree? Two of the most popular and accessible paths are programming and networking. While both are critical to today’s digital infrastructure, they involve different responsibilities, skill sets, and long-term career options.
This guide breaks down programming vs. networking roles, what skills and certifications they require, and how to choose the right path based on your goals.
Programming vs. Networking: What's the Difference?
Both programming and networking are foundational to IT, but they focus on different aspects of technology. Programming involves building the software and systems that computers and applications rely on. Networking, by contrast, is about connecting those systems and ensuring secure, efficient communication.
Let’s explore each path in more detail.
What Is Programming in IT?
Programming refers to writing, testing, and maintaining the code that powers software, applications, and systems. It plays a crucial role in building tools for data management, automation, cybersecurity, and user-facing experiences.
From developing apps to maintaining back-end logic, programmers help ensure that digital systems run smoothly and meet user needs.
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Common Programming Career Paths
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, software developer jobs are expected to grow 17% through 2032, with a median annual salary of $131,490—much faster than average for all occupations.
With an associate degree in programming or IT, you can qualify for several entry-level roles:
- Junior Software Engineer
- Web Developer
- Full Stack Developer (Entry-Level)
- Application Developer
- Mobile App Developer
- Programmer Analyst
- QA Tester
- Technical Support Specialist
As you gain experience and certifications, you could progress to mid- and senior-level roles such as:
- Software Engineer
- Data Scientist
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Embedded Systems Developer
- Blockchain Developer
Skills You’ll Need for Programming Careers
To thrive in programming roles, you’ll need:
- Proficiency in one or more coding languages (like Python, Java, or C++)
- A solid grasp of algorithms, data structures, and debugging techniques
- Familiarity with development frameworks, APIs, and databases
- Experience using version control tools like Git and platforms like Docker
- Foundational knowledge of computer science and software design
Recommended Certifications for Programmers
While not always required, certifications can strengthen your resume and open doors to higher-paying roles.
While not always required, certifications can strengthen your resume and open doors.
According to the 2023 Stack Overflow Developer Survey, developers with certifications in cloud platforms, security, and modern programming languages see improved job prospects and salaries.
Valuable certifications include:
- Certified Python Developer or Oracle Java Certification
- AWS Certified Developer – Associate
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate
- CompTIA Security+ (for security-oriented roles)
- MongoDB or SQL Server certifications for data-focused positions
What Is Networking in IT?
Networking refers to the design, setup, and management of systems that connect computers and devices so they can share data and communicate securely.
IT professionals in networking ensure that digital infrastructures remain functional, secure, and scalable. Their responsibilities include configuring routers and switches, monitoring network traffic, implementing firewalls, and maintaining uptime.
Common Networking Career Paths
With an associate degree in IT or network administration, you may qualify for roles in a fast-growing field.
The BLS projects 6% growth for computer support specialist roles between 2022–2032, with a median salary of $61,580. These jobs often require less than a four-year degree and offer direct paths into the IT workforce.
- Network Support Specialist
- Network Technician
- Junior Network Administrator
With experience and certifications, these roles can lead to:
- Network Engineer
- Wireless Network Engineer
- Network Security Analyst
- Network Architect
- IT Infrastructure Engineer
Skills You’ll Need for Networking Careers
Core networking skills include:
- Understanding of TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, and routing protocols
- Network design and infrastructure planning
- Proficiency in configuring firewalls, routers, and switches
- Familiarity with wireless and cloud-based networking
- Network security fundamentals and intrusion detection
- Troubleshooting, monitoring, and analytics tools
- Experience with virtualization and SDN (Software-Defined Networking)
- Scripting for network automation (e.g., Python, Bash)
Recommended Certifications for Networking Professionals
Entry-level certifications:
- CompTIA Network+
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
- Juniper Networks Certified Associate – JNCIA
Advanced certifications:
- Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)
- Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)
- Juniper Networks Certified Expert – JNCIE
- AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
How to Choose the Right IT Career Path
Programming focuses on building the software that powers devices and applications. Networking, on the other hand, ensures those systems stay connected, secure, and efficient.
If you prefer solving problems through code and creating new digital tools, programming could be the right fit. If you’re more interested in maintaining systems, ensuring uptime, and working with infrastructure, networking may be a better match.
Take the Next Step in Your IT Career with Campus
At Campus, our Associate of Science in Information Technology program prepares you for both. You’ll gain hands-on experience with cybersecurity, cloud services, network administration, and IT support—no four-year degree required.
Best of all, our tuition is priced under the Pell Grant maximum, and many students qualify for financial aid that covers the full cost.