Computer network architects design, build and maintain a variety of data communication networks, from expansive cloud infrastructures to smaller intranets. Along with a host of technical skills, computer network architects also have a deep understanding of the company or organization’s business plans and objectives. They also need business acumen to do everything from budgeting the network design and implementation to managing a staff.

If you’ve ever saved something to the cloud, then you’ve depended on the handiwork of a computer network architect.

"You will have to constantly learn," says Peter Steenkiste, a professor of computer science and electrical and computer engineering at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh. "You need to be very much aware of not just about the technologies available today but about the trends. A lot of the designing of networks is effectively upgrading and expanding the networks."

As companies and firms expand their IT networks, they’ll increasingly rely on these professionals to build new networks and upgrade existing ones. The popularity of cloud computing is also expected to drive the need for more computer network architects. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 3.5% employment growth for computer network architects between 2022 and 2032. In that period, an estimated 6,300 jobs should open up.

Computer network architects usually need at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems or a related field, such as engineering. Getting an undergraduate degree in a computer-related major, however, is preferable because it gives students the hands-on skills they’ll need to perform on the job. Acquiring an MBA in information systems is also good because it gives applicants the specialized business skills that are useful in the field.

Employers also like would-be computer network architects to have anywhere from five to 10 years of professional experience in information systems before they would consider them for the role.