Online Degrees in Cloud Computing
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in cloud computing, there’s no better time than now to get started. With the increasing adoption of cloud computing across various industries, the demand for skilled professionals in this field is on the rise. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in cloud computing (which falls under the computer systems design and related services industry) are poised for rapid growth, fueled by the increasing use of information technology services by firms and individual consumers.
Cloud computing is changing the way companies manage their IT services, and as a result, there is a growing need for professionals with expertise in this area. One of the best ways to get the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in a cloud computing career is by pursuing a degree in cloud computing from an accredited university. In this article, we’ll explore the top degree programs available and the career prospects in this exciting field.
What is Cloud Computing
Cloud computing refers to the practice of using a network of remote servers, hosted on the internet, to store, manage, and process data, rather than relying on a local server or a personal computer. In cloud computing, users can access computing resources, such as applications, data storage, and processing power, on demand, without needing to own and maintain their own physical infrastructure. The cloud service provider manages and maintains the underlying hardware, software, and security of the cloud infrastructure.
Overall, cloud computing has revolutionized the way organizations and individuals use and manage computing resources, making it easier, faster, and more efficient to store, process, and access data and applications.
Online Degrees in Cloud Computing
A degree in cloud computing can provide students with specialized knowledge and skills related to cloud infrastructure, deployment, and security, which can be helpful in securing a job in the field.
In this article, we will cover the available cloud computing degrees from the associate level to graduate and the free online courses available for cloud computing.
Below is an overview of the duration and admission requirements for these programs.
| Program | Credits | Duration | Admission requirements |
| Associates Degree (AAS) | 60 credits | 2 Years | High school transcripts or GED scores |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 120-180 credits | 4 Years | High school graduate / (GED) certificate or other equivalency diploma. |
| Master’s Degree | 40-60 Credits | 1-2 years | Undergraduate transcripts, Minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.5, Three letters of reference, Personal statement of professional goals |
| Graduate Certificate | 10-12 months | Undergraduate degree/ professional work experience in a related field |
Below are some of the top accredited online degrees in Cloud Computing.
Associates Degree
#1. Germanna Community College
Program: Cloud Computing, Information Systems Technology, Associate Degree
Tuition: $10,420.00 for the entire program
Accreditation: Regional accreditation by SACSCOC
Financial aid: Available, with 61% of students receiving financial aid.
Germanna Community College offers an AAS in Information Systems Technology with a specialization in Cloud Computing that prepares students for entry-level careers in cloud computing. The program covers topics such as information management, java programming, Computation, storage, security and networking.
Bachelor’s Degrees in Cloud Computing
#1. Morgan State University
Program: BS in Cloud Computing
Tuition: $255 per credit hour (resident); $642 per credit hour (non-resident)
Accreditation: Regional accreditation by Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Financial aid: Available, with 97% of students receiving financial aid.
The B.S. in Cloud Computing aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of cloud computing principles, trends, applications, and significance. Additionally, the program strives to develop the necessary skills for a career in cloud computing and proficiency in cloud computing technologies for real-world problem-solving.
#2. South College
Program: BS in Computer Science with a Concentration in Blockchain and Cloud Computing
Tuition: $310 per credit hour
Accreditation: Regional accreditation by SACSCOC
Financial aid: Available, with 94% of students receiving financial aid.
The BS in Computer Science program, with a focus on Blockchain and Cloud Computing, covers the fundamentals of data storage, management, and processing. This program builds on the general Bachelor of Science in Computer Science courses with an emphasis on document and information security. With this concentration, students become familiar with server networks used for data management and learn the benefits and applications of each program.
#3. CSU Global
Program: Specialization In Virtualization And Cloud Computing
Tuition: $350 per credit
Accreditation: Regional accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission
Financial aid: Available, with 84% of students receiving financial aid.
This program includes five introductory online courses in strategic communication, totaling 15 credit hours. These courses cover essential topics such as virtualization technology, AWS cloud administration, cloud computing fundamentals, and enterprise cloud computing. It is an ideal addition to degree programs such as the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems and Business Analytics, and Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.
#4. Purdue Global University
Program: BS in Cloud Computing and Solutions
Tuition: $371 per credit hour
Accreditation: Regional accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission
Financial aid: Available, with 49% of students receiving financial aid.
Purdue Global offers a Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing Solutions that prepares students for careers in cloud computing architecture, administration, and security. The program covers topics such as advanced cloud security, cloud services management, security testing for cloud applications, and migrating data and applications to the cloud.
#5. Thomas Edison State University
Program: BS in Cloud Computing
Accreditation: Regional accreditation by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Financial aid: Available, with 95% of students receiving financial aid.
The Bachelor of Science (BS) program, which focuses on Cloud Computing, aims to provide students with a comprehensive and advanced understanding of core areas of Information Technology/Computer Science that are relevant to cloud computing. This includes networking, security, architecture, and support, among others. The program prepares students for entry-level positions in various areas of cloud computing, such as SysOps, support, operations, architecture, and development.
#6. Western Governors University
Program: BS in Cloud Computing
Tuition: $3,790 per semester (6-month term)
Accreditation: Regional accreditation by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Financial aid: Available, with 75% of students receiving financial aid.
WGU’s bachelor’s degree in cloud computing allows students to specialize beyond the foundational program to develop skills tailored to their career goals. A deep understanding of platforms like AWS and Azure can increase job prospects and promotions. The program offers courses that provide industry certifications, creating career opportunities for students.
#7. East Coast Polytechnic Institute
Tuition: $8,712 per semester
Accreditation: Regional accreditation by SACSCOC
Financial aid: Available, with 84% of students receiving financial aid.
The B.S. in Computer & Information Science program teaches operating systems, networking, software, security, and customer service. Graduates will be able to design and implement computer-based solutions, work in teams, communicate, evaluate technical literature, develop cloud computing tools, and apply ethical practices. The Cyber and Information Security Technology Major focuses on network installation, security, testing, and maintenance. Graduates will be able to administer and secure network infrastructure and implement security controls.
Master’s Degree Programs In Cloud Computing
#1. University of Maryland Global Campus
Program: MS Cloud Computing Systems
Tuition: $514 per credit (in-state); $659 per credit (out-of-state)
Accreditation: Regional accreditation by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Financial aid: Available, with 67% of students receiving financial aid.
The University of Maryland Global Campus offers an online master’s degree program in cloud computing systems that provides you with both technical and management skills required to design, operate, and maintain cloud computing systems. This program also prepares you to assist organizations in transitioning to cloud-based solutions. With a comprehensive knowledge of cloud technology and its impact on business processes, including financial management, procurement, and communications, you can design efficient cloud environments and make valuable contributions to any organization.
#2. Campbellsville University
Program: MS in Cloud Computing
Tuition: $550 per credit
Accreditation: Accreditation by SACSCOC
Financial aid: Available, with 90% of students receiving financial aid.
With the Master of Science in Cloud Computing program from Campbellsville University Online, you can become an expert in this emerging field and gain the knowledge and skills to implement cloud computing in organizations. Upon graduation, you will be qualified for in-demand careers such as cloud engineer, cloud analyst, and more.
#3. Capella University
Program: MS Information Technology Enterprise Networks and Cloud Computing
Tuition: $700.00 per credit
Accreditation: Regional accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission
Financial aid: Available, with 100% of students receiving financial aid.
Capella University’s online MS in Information Technology, Enterprise Networks, and Cloud Computing teaches how to implement cloud computing in a variety of settings. Learn about network governance, security, and emerging trends while building foundational knowledge for planning, designing, and transitioning. Improve cybersecurity expertise and expand career possibilities in IT.
#4. Louisiana State University
Program: MS Information Technology
Tuition: $862.00 per credit
Accreditation: Regional accreditation by SACSCOC
Financial aid: Available, with 98% of students receiving financial aid.
LSU’s online Graduate Certificate in Cloud Computing and Machine Learning prepares professionals for careers in cloud computing organizations. The program equips graduates with technical skills and knowledge of cloud computing frameworks, infrastructure, project management, and blockchain applications. Graduates can compete for top technical jobs in the industry.
Certificate Programs In Cloud Computing
#1. American Military University
Program: Cloud Computing for Amazon Web Services Certificate
Tuition: $285 per credit
Accreditation: Accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission
Financial aid: Available, with 98% of students receiving financial aid.
The American Military University’s online cloud computing certificate program provides a strong foundation in virtualization, network installation, data security, and privacy in a cloud environment. This certification and advanced knowledge are valuable in today’s interconnected world.
#2. Mt. San Antonio College
Program: Cloud Computing for Amazon Web Services Certificate
Tuition: $311 per credit
Accreditation: Accreditation by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
Financial aid: Available, with 75% of students receiving financial aid.
The CIS Cloud Computing for Amazon Web Services program equips students with the necessary skills to create infrastructure solutions for IaaS architectures. These solutions involve tasks such as provisioning computing instances, establishing virtual private networks, managing databases, and storing data in a secure online environment.
#3. University of Arizona
Program: Cloud Computing Undergraduate Certificate
Tuition: $500 per credit
Accreditation: Regional accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission
Financial aid: Available, with 95% of students receiving financial aid.
This certificate equips you with technical skills to design, operate, and leverage virtualization and cloud technologies. Gain hands-on experience in general cloud technologies, Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services, and advanced topics, including incident response, defense techniques, and penetration testing.
#4. DeVry University
Program: Undergraduate Certificate in Cloud Computing
Tuition: $514 per credit hour
Accreditation: Regional accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission
Financial aid: Available, with 98% of students receiving financial aid.
DeVry University offers an online certificate program that equips you with the necessary skills to become a successful cloud computing professional. Our curriculum includes topics that prepare you for industry-recognized tech certifications such as Comp TIA IT Fundamentals, Comp TIA Linux+, Comp TIA Network+, Comp TIA Cloud+, and Comp TIA Security+. Completing your Undergraduate Certificate in cloud computing from DeVry takes only one year and four months, or even less with qualifying transfer credits. This certificate can help you achieve your career aspirations as an IT and cloud computing professional.
#5. Missouri University of Science and Technology
Program: Graduate Certificate in Information Systems & Cloud Computing
Tuition: $1,200 per credit
Accreditation: Accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission
Financial aid: Available, with 99% of students receiving financial aid.
The certificate program is designed for working professionals seeking to enhance their understanding of advanced data management technologies. The curriculum focuses on key topics such as cloud computing, object-oriented database structure, data mining, and mobile database systems. These subjects serve as the foundation of the program and will provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the field of data management.
#6. DePaul University
Program: Cloud Computing Technologies Certificate Program
Tuition: $2,665.00 for the entire program
Accreditation: Regional accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission
Financial aid: Available, with 100% of students receiving financial aid.
DePaul University’s Cloud Computing Technologies Program educates IT professionals on leading cloud technologies and organizational considerations for effective cloud service utilization. The program suits business and IT professionals, including senior IT managers, systems architects, IT operations managers, application developers, and engineers. The program offers a comprehensive overview of cloud computing technologies for those seeking an overall understanding.
Free Cloud Computing Courses
#1. Google Cloud Training
Offered by Google
Google Cloud Training is an excellent free platform to learn GCP, offering hands-on training and $300 credit to spend on GCP products. There are nine learning paths and exclusive digital Google Cloud skill badges available, with self-paced classes that can be taken at any time. Cloud OnBoard is a free online training program for IT professionals and developers, featuring hands-on labs and lessons taught by expert instructors. Students earn an e-certificate for participation. Google Cloud Training is a top choice for free cloud computing courses with certification.
#2. Amazon Web Services
Offered by Amazon
AWS is a widely used cloud computing platform by startups, enterprises, and government agencies. It boasts more features than any other cloud provider and has over 100 free short courses available on its training platform. Some of these courses include AWS Cloud Practitioner Essentials, Managed Databases, Machine Learning, Blockchain, and Amazon Honeycode Essentials. AWS Cloud Practitioner Essentials is designed to help students prepare for the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam.
Jobs for Cloud Computing Degrees
Some of the careers available for cloud computing degree holders include cloud architects, cloud administrators, cloud security specialists, cloud project managers, and cloud consultants. These professionals work to design, implement, and maintain cloud-based solutions that help businesses operate more efficiently and effectively. Here is a look at the corresponding salaries for these occupations:
Demand for Cloud Computing
The demand for skilled professionals in the cloud computing job market is on the rise. According to reports, the global cloud computing industry was valued at USD 368.97 billion in 2021, and it is predicted to maintain a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.7% from 2022 to 2030. This growth indicates a promising future for cloud computing careers, with significant growth anticipated over the next few years. The majority of the market, more than half, will comprise banking, IT, telecom services, insurance, and financial services. This growing and complex industry necessitates specific skills and knowledge that individuals in cloud computing must possess.
Cloud Computing Certifications
As you consider pursuing an online degree in cloud computing, remember that this field is constantly evolving. You’ll need to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies and be willing to adapt to changes as they arise. One way to stay current in the field is by getting a certification. Certifications demonstrate your expertise in a particular area of cloud computing and can help you stand out in a competitive job market. Some popular cloud computing certifications include:
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
- AWS Solutions Architect Professional
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals
- Google Associate Cloud Engineer
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert
- Google Professional Cloud Architect
Is A Degree in Cloud Computing Worth it?
An online degree in cloud computing is a smart investment for anyone looking to join this growing industry. With the flexibility, convenience, and variety of programs available, you can tailor your education to fit your needs and career goals. Additionally, the strong demand for cloud computing professionals and the potential for high salaries make this an attractive career path for those passionate about technology and innovation. So why wait? Start exploring your options today and take the first step towards a high-flying career in cloud computing.
