- 1.Cloud Computing professionals earn a median salary of $168,700/year, with 17% job growth projected through 2032—much faster than average.
- 2.Our top-ranked cloud computing programs are Carnegie Mellon University, University of California-Irvine, and University of Southern California—selected based on graduation rates, program size, and career outcomes.
- 3.Best value: University of North Carolina at Greensboro offers cloud computing degrees at just $4,422/year with a strong% graduation rate.
- 4.62 accredited cloud computing programs available nationwide, with options at every degree level from associate's to doctoral.
- 5.Entry-level positions typically require a bachelor's degree; master's degrees unlock senior roles with 20-40% higher salaries and leadership opportunities.
Source: BLS OEWS 2024, Flexera State of Cloud Report 2024
Best Cloud Computing Programs - Top 10
These are the best cloud computing programs in the United States based on our comprehensive methodology that considers graduation rates, program size, institutional reputation, and career outcomes. Rankings are updated annually using data from IPEDS and BLS.
Best Cloud Computing Programs - Top 10
Carnegie Mellon University
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
Carnegie Mellon established the Computer Science Department in 1965 with a $5 million grant from the Richard K. Mellon Foundation, making it one of the founding institutions of computer science education, and today offers the only online cloud computing course that provides hands-on experience across AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud Platform with real resource provisioning.
Program Overview
Carnegie Mellon University's approach to cloud computing education is embedded within its renowned Master of Science in Computer Science program, offered by a department that has been consistently ranked among the highest programs available for computer science study. The flexible MS in Computer Science program allows students to construct their own course of study in consultation with advisors, typically completing the degree in three semesters through 96-108 units of coursework. Students can dive deep into cloud computing through specialized courses like 15-319/619 Cloud Computing, which provides hands-on experience with Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform.
What sets CMU apart is its project-based approach to cloud computing education, where students don't just learn theory but actively rent and provision compute resources, develop scaling and load balancing solutions, and work with distributed systems like HDFS, MongoDB, Cassandra, and DynamoDB. The program uniquely combines foundational computer science education with cutting-edge research opportunities across areas like artificial intelligence, systems, and security, all backed by the university's historic legacy as the birthplace of computer science education and home to innovations like the emoticon, created by faculty member Scott Fahlman.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Advanced high performance computing, data storage and communications for university, government and industry researchers nationwide
Location Advantages
- •Pittsburgh tech corridor with growing cloud computing industry
- •Access to supercomputing resources through Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Technology companies utilizing cloud infrastructure
Admissions
University of California-Irvine
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
UCI's Computer Science Department is housed within the only independent computing school in the UC system, enabling a uniquely broad view of computer science that spans from embedded systems to distributed computing, with faculty leading groundbreaking research in IoT and cyber-physical systems that directly inform cloud computing applications.
Program Overview
UC Irvine does not offer a dedicated Cloud Computing program, but provides extensive cloud computing education through its Computer Science Department within the Donald Bren School of Information and Computer Sciences. The department offers both a Professional Master of Computer Science (MCS) and a research-oriented MS program, with cloud computing covered through courses like Distributed Computer Systems (COMPSCI 230P), Computer and Communications Networks (COMPSCI 232P), and Introduction to IoT (COMPSCI 244P). The MCS is particularly notable as an 11-course (44-unit) professionally-oriented program completed in 4-5 quarters, featuring extensive lab components and industry-focused capstone projects. With almost 60 full-time faculty members and over 200 Master's students, the department provides world-class research spanning networking and distributed computing, which forms the foundation of cloud technologies. Faculty research includes cutting-edge work in cyber-physical systems, IoT, mobile sensor networks, and distributed systems - all critical components of modern cloud infrastructure.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Embedded systems, cyber-physical systems, and IoT - foundational technologies for edge computing and cloud integration
Large-scale data processing and cloud-based computational biology
Location Advantages
- •Orange County tech ecosystem access
- •Proximity to major California tech companies
- •Strong industry partnerships for capstone projects
Career Outcomes
Admissions
University of Southern California
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
USC operates as part of the newly launched School of Advanced Computing and uniquely bridges Silicon Valley tech culture with Hollywood entertainment industry needs, particularly evident in their Game Development specialization and partnerships with companies like Easley-Dunn Productions.
Program Overview
USC's Computer Science program operates within the newly formed School of Advanced Computing, housed in the prestigious Viterbi School of Engineering. The MS in Computer Science provides intensive preparation in computing systems design, programming, and application, with students gaining deep understanding of both fundamentals and current issues across computer science and engineering. The 32-unit program offers remarkable flexibility, allowing students to pursue a general track or specialize in areas like Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, or Game Development, with an optional thesis track adding four additional units. What sets USC apart is its location in Los Angeles, providing unparalleled access to the entertainment industry through game development programs, while maintaining strong connections to traditional tech giants. The program is eligible for OPT STEM extension and offers both on-campus and online delivery through DEN@Viterbi, with identical tuition structures.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
AI applications for social good including combating human trafficking and wildlife conservation
Human-centric robotics, multi-robot systems, and socially assistive robotics
Large-scale computing research and advanced networking technologies
Human-robot interaction and socially assistive robotics
Advanced machine learning algorithms and data science applications
Location Advantages
- •Los Angeles entertainment industry access for game development and multimedia
- •Silicon Beach tech corridor with emerging startups
- •Proximity to aerospace and defense contractors
- •Year-round networking and internship opportunities
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Amazon, Microsoft, Meta Platforms, Goldman Sachs, Google
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Johns Hopkins University
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
The only top-ranked computer science master's program taught primarily by active practitioners from the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, NASA, and major defense contractors, offering unparalleled access to real-world applications of emerging technologies in national security and space exploration.
Northeastern University
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
Northeastern's cloud computing programs uniquely combine AWS-developed curriculum with mandatory experiential learning through co-ops at major cloud providers like Amazon and Google, while offering pathways from 6-month certificates to full master's degrees across multiple tech hub campuses.
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
NC State pioneered the first academic production-level cloud technology with its Virtual Computing Laboratory in 2004, and serves as the first university-based IBM Quantum Computing Hub in North America.
Stevens Institute of Technology
Doctoral: High Research (R2)
Stevens ranks among the top 20 nationally for online graduate IT programs by U.S. News & World Report and offers one of the most comprehensive enterprise and cloud computing specializations, with direct access to Manhattan's tech startup ecosystem and Fortune 500 headquarters.
Western Governors University
Masters: Larger Programs
WGU's Cloud and Network Engineering program is one of the few bachelor's degrees that seamlessly integrates AI-driven automation with traditional networking, offering four vendor-specific tracks and up to 11 industry certifications embedded within a single competency-based degree program.
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
UMN's ITI program uniquely combines cloud computing with business strategy and IT infrastructure management, featuring specialized tracks in DevSecOps and cloud security that use cutting-edge tools like AWS Security Hub and Kubernetes - designed specifically for working professionals seeking career advancement.
George Mason University
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
George Mason's Cloud Computing program uniquely partnered with AWS Educate curriculum designers to create industry-aligned coursework, and achieved #2 national ranking for bachelor's cloud computing programs while serving the massive Northern Virginia tech corridor with an estimated 5.6 million cloud-related jobs worldwide.
Our rankings methodology weighs program strength (25%), graduation rate (20%), career outcomes (15%), institutional quality (12%), industry recognition (10%), selectivity (10%), and data transparency (8%). Learn more about our methodology →
Who Should Study Cloud Computing?
Cloud computing is ideal for students who enjoy working with large-scale systems, are interested in how modern applications scale to millions of users, and want to be at the center of digital transformation efforts. You should be comfortable with both technical concepts and business requirements.
- Systems thinkers who enjoy understanding how distributed applications work at scale
- Problem solvers interested in optimizing performance, costs, and reliability
- Technology enthusiasts who want to work with cutting-edge infrastructure
- Career-focused students seeking high-demand skills across all industries
- Bridge builders who can translate between technical teams and business needs
Prior networking or programming experience is helpful but not required. Most programs start with fundamentals, though comfort with technology concepts and logical thinking are important for success.
Cloud Computing Degree Levels Compared
Cloud computing education is available at multiple levels, each suited to different career goals and backgrounds. Many professionals also pursue industry certifications alongside formal degrees.
Cloud Computing Programs by Degree Level
2-year programs for career entry or transfer to bachelor's programs
Top-ranked undergraduate programs nationwide
Top graduate programs for specialization and advancement
PhD programs for research and academic careers
Flexible online programs for working professionals
Best Cloud Computing Programs - Bachelor's
A bachelor's degree in cloud computing is the standard credential for entry-level positions. These 4-year programs provide comprehensive training and hands-on experience.
Best Cloud Computing Programs - Top 3 Bachelor's
Western Governors University
290 graduates, N/A% grad rate, Score: 62.8
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
43 graduates, 92% grad rate, Score: 61.4
Kean University
59 graduates, 91% grad rate, Score: 58.8
4. Utah Valley University (Orem, UT) - Score: 56.9, Tuition: $5,614
5. DePaul University (Chicago, IL) - Score: 55.5, Tuition: $43,379
6. Wentworth Institute of Technology (Boston, MA) - Score: 55.4, Tuition: $40,410
7. Weber State University (Ogden, UT) - Score: 54.3, Tuition: $5,471
8. Ohio University-Main Campus (Athens, OH) - Score: 53.2, Tuition: $13,746
9. University of North Carolina at Greensboro (Greensboro, NC) - Score: 52.8, Tuition: $4,422
10. Stevenson University (Owings Mills, MD) - Score: 52.3, Tuition: $36,940
Best Cloud Computing Programs - Master's
A master's degree in cloud computing prepares students for senior and specialized roles. These 1-2 year programs offer advanced expertise and leadership training.
Best Cloud Computing Programs - Top 3 Master's
Carnegie Mellon University
168 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 100.0
University of California-Irvine
16 graduates, 96% grad rate, Score: 69.4
University of Southern California
1 graduates, 92% grad rate, Score: 69.4
4. Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, MD) - Score: 67.7, Tuition: $62,840
5. Northeastern University (Boston, MA) - Score: 67.5, Tuition: $62,000
6. North Carolina State University at Raleigh (Raleigh, NC) - Score: 66.2, Tuition: $6,535
7. Stevens Institute of Technology (Hoboken, NJ) - Score: 64.0, Tuition: $58,680
8. George Mason University (Fairfax, VA) - Score: 59.9, Tuition: $10,095
9. Rochester Institute of Technology (Rochester, NY) - Score: 58.9, Tuition: $55,784
10. University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus (Pittsburgh, PA) - Score: 57.2, Tuition: $20,154
Best Cloud Computing Programs - Online
Online cloud computing programs offer flexibility for working professionals. Top accredited programs provide the same curriculum quality as on-campus alternatives.
Best Cloud Computing Programs - Top 3 Online
Carnegie Mellon University
168 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 100.0
University of California-Irvine
16 graduates, 96% grad rate, Score: 69.4
University of Southern California
1 graduates, 92% grad rate, Score: 69.4
4. Western Governors University (Salt Lake City, UT) - Score: 67.8, Tuition: $7,710
5. Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, MD) - Score: 67.7, Tuition: $62,840
6. Northeastern University (Boston, MA) - Score: 67.5, Tuition: $62,000
7. North Carolina State University at Raleigh (Raleigh, NC) - Score: 66.2, Tuition: $6,535
8. Stevens Institute of Technology (Hoboken, NJ) - Score: 64.0, Tuition: $58,680
9. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities (Minneapolis, MN) - Score: 61.4, Tuition: $14,496
10. George Mason University (Fairfax, VA) - Score: 59.9, Tuition: $10,095
Best Cloud Computing Programs - Associate's
An associate's degree in cloud computing provides a 2-year pathway into the field. These programs are ideal for career starters or those planning to transfer to a 4-year program.
Best Cloud Computing Programs - Top 3 Associate's
Weber State University
18 graduates, 92% grad rate, Score: 58.7
Idaho State University
12 graduates, 87% grad rate, Score: 57.4
Bellevue College
18 graduates, 96% grad rate, Score: 56.9
4. Dallas College (Dallas, TX) - Score: 55.0, Tuition: $4,050
5. Columbia Basin College (Pasco, WA) - Score: 52.5, Tuition: $5,514
6. Edmonds College (Lynnwood, WA) - Score: 52.3, Tuition: $4,073
7. Madison Area Technical College (Madison, WI) - Score: 51.9, Tuition: $4,386
8. Cypress College (Cypress, CA) - Score: 50.2, Tuition: $1,104
9. Renton Technical College (Renton, WA) - Score: 49.5, Tuition: $4,673
10. Herzing University-Atlanta (Atlanta, GA) - Score: 49.1, Tuition: $12,360
Best Cloud Computing Programs - Graduate
Graduate programs in cloud computing (PhD and doctoral degrees) prepare students for research, academic, and senior leadership positions.
Best Cloud Computing Programs - Top 3 Graduate
Carnegie Mellon University
12 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 85.4
University of California-Berkeley
3 graduates, 96% grad rate, Score: 82.8
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
13 graduates, 97% grad rate, Score: 81.5
4. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Champaign, IL) - Score: 75.7, Tuition: $14,768
5. Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) - Score: 75.7, Tuition: $65,204
6. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor (Ann Arbor, MI) - Score: 74.6, Tuition: $17,977
7. Syracuse University (Syracuse, NY) - Score: 71.2, Tuition: $61,310
8. University of Maryland-College Park (College Park, MD) - Score: 67.0, Tuition: $9,889
9. University of California-Irvine (Irvine, CA) - Score: 66.0, Tuition: $11,834
10. University of California-Los Angeles (Los Angeles, CA) - Score: 65.9, Tuition: $11,834
Most Affordable Cloud Computing Programs
Looking for quality cloud computing education without the hefty price tag? These programs offer the best value—balancing tuition costs with strong academic outcomes and career prospects. Our Value Score factors in graduation rates, program strength, and institutional quality relative to cost.
Top 5 Most Affordable Cloud Computing Programs
| Rank | Institution | Location | Tuition | Value Score | Grad Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of North Carolina at Greensboro | Greensboro, NC | $4,422 | 105.6 | — |
| 2 | Florida State College at Jacksonville | Jacksonville, FL | $2,095 | 103.0 | 89% |
| 3 | Utah Valley University | Orem, UT | $5,614 | 101.4 | 92% |
| 4 | North Carolina State University at Raleigh | Raleigh, NC | $6,535 | 101.3 | 85% |
| 5 | Weber State University | Ogden, UT | $5,471 | 99.3 | 92% |
Cloud Computing Career Outcomes
Cloud computing graduates enter one of the fastest-growing technology sectors. The BLS projects 22% job growth for cloud-related roles through 2032, much faster than average. Companies across all industries need cloud expertise as they migrate systems and build scalable applications.
Career Paths
Cloud Engineer
Design, build, and maintain cloud infrastructure and services using platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
Bridge development and operations teams, automating deployment and infrastructure management in cloud environments.
Cloud Solutions Architect
Design comprehensive cloud strategies and architectures for enterprise clients and complex applications.
Site Reliability Engineer
Ensure system reliability, performance, and scalability for large-scale cloud applications and services.
Implement security measures, compliance frameworks, and risk management for cloud-based systems.
Cloud Computing Curriculum Overview
Cloud computing programs combine foundational IT concepts with modern cloud technologies. Curriculum typically includes networking, programming, database management, security, and hands-on experience with major cloud platforms.
- Fundamentals: Networking protocols, operating systems (Linux/Windows), virtualization concepts
- Programming: Python, PowerShell, infrastructure as code (Terraform, CloudFormation)
- Cloud Platforms: AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform hands-on labs
- Architecture: Distributed systems, microservices, containerization (Docker, Kubernetes)
- DevOps: CI/CD pipelines, automation, monitoring, configuration management
- Security: Cloud security frameworks, identity management, compliance, encryption
- Business: Cloud economics, migration strategies, vendor management
Many programs integrate industry certification preparation for AWS certifications, Azure certification paths, or Google Cloud certifications.
Cloud Computing Programs by State
Arizona
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Florida
Georgia
Illinois
Indiana
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin
Cloud Computing vs Related Fields
Cloud computing is infrastructure-focused, dealing with how applications are deployed, scaled, and managed in cloud environments. The field combines networking, security, automation, and systems administration in the context of major cloud platforms.
The practical, certification-oriented nature of cloud careers distinguishes them from traditional CS paths. AWS, Azure, and GCP certifications often matter more than degrees for proving competence, and hands-on experience with real cloud infrastructure is essential.
Cloud roles range from cloud architects (designing solutions) to DevOps engineers (automating deployments) to site reliability engineers (ensuring uptime). The common thread is infrastructure—if you enjoy thinking about how systems run rather than what applications do, cloud may be a good fit.
Which Should You Choose?
- You want to work with modern, scalable infrastructure
- You're interested in the intersection of development and operations
- You enjoy optimizing systems for performance and cost
- You want skills that are in demand across all industries
- You want broad foundations in programming and algorithms
- You're interested in software development over infrastructure
- You want maximum career flexibility across tech roles
- You enjoy theoretical computer science concepts
- You prefer managing existing systems over building new ones
- You're interested in IT support and helpdesk roles
- You want to focus on business applications of technology
- You prefer less programming and more administration
- You're specifically interested in security and risk management
- You want to specialize in protecting systems and data
- You're interested in compliance and governance
- You enjoy threat analysis and incident response
Is a Cloud Computing Degree Worth It?
For most students interested in technology careers, yes. Cloud computing skills are in extremely high demand as organizations continue digital transformation efforts. The combination of high salaries ($127,000 median), strong job growth (22% through 2032), and career flexibility makes cloud computing an excellent investment.
When it's worth it: You're interested in modern technology infrastructure, comfortable with both technical and business concepts, and want skills that transfer across industries. Cloud roles often offer remote work options and opportunities for rapid career advancement.
When to consider alternatives: You're only interested in basic IT support (associate degree may suffice), you prefer pure software development (computer science might be better), or you want to specialize immediately (targeted bootcamps may be faster).
Cloud computing also pairs well with certifications—many professionals combine degree education with AWS certifications or Azure certifications for maximum career impact.
Alternative Paths to Cloud Careers
While a cloud computing degree provides comprehensive preparation, several alternative paths can lead to cloud careers
- Best Cloud Engineering Bootcamps — Intensive programs for career switchers
- AWS Certifications Roadmap — Industry-recognized credentials for all skill levels
- Azure Certification Paths — Microsoft cloud credentials
- Google Cloud Certifications — Google Cloud Platform credentials
- Cloud Certs vs Degrees — ROI comparison for different paths
Many successful cloud engineers combine approaches—starting with certifications for immediate employment, then adding formal education for advancement. For specific career guidance, see how to become a DevOps engineer.
Cloud Computing Degree FAQ
Based on 485 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES 2024, NSA CAE Database
Number of cloud computing graduates from IPEDS 2023, indicating program resources and faculty depth
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023, measuring student success
State-level salary data from BLS OES 2024 for relevant occupations
Carnegie Classification with bonus for R1 research universities
NSA/DHS CAE-CD designation for cybersecurity programs, ABET accreditation for engineering
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
Completeness of reported metrics to IPEDS
Related Resources
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.