- 1.Hakia's analysis of the best cloud computing associate's degree programs reveals that associate's degree in cloud computing costs 60-70% less than bachelor's programs—average $2,497/year at community colleges vs $12,000 at 4-year universities.
- 2.Our top-ranked associate's programs are Green River College, Bellevue College, Everett Community College—selected for transfer agreements and job placement rates.
- 3.33% of associate's graduates transfer to bachelor's programs, often with guaranteed admission to state universities.
- 4.Entry-level cloud computing technician positions start at $45,500 median salary (BLS, 2024).
- 5.Complete in 2 years full-time, or 3-4 years part-time while working—many programs offer evening and weekend classes.
Source: An associate's degree in cloud computing is worth it for students seeking affordable entry into tech careers. At ~$3,500/year (vs $40,000+ for bachelor's), you can enter the workforce in 2 years or transfer to a 4-year university with completed prerequisites. Entry-level technician roles start at $45,500.
Why Choose an Associate's Degree in Cloud Computing?
An associate's degree in cloud computing and cloud certification offers a cost-effective pathway into technology careers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Network and Computer Systems Administrators earn a median salary of $96,800 annually, with entry-level positions starting around $65,000.
Key Benefits of the 2-Year Path
- Lower cost: Average $3,500-4,000/year at community colleges vs $11,000+ at 4-year schools (AACC)
- Strong job outlook: 3% projected growth from 2024-2034 (BLS)
- Large job market: 331,500 positions nationwide in this field
- Transfer-friendly: Credits typically transfer to bachelor's programs at state universities
- Flexible scheduling: Evening, weekend, and online options for working adults
- Hands-on focus: Practical skills emphasized over theoretical coursework
Salary potential: Entry-level cloud computing positions start at $65,000, with experienced professionals earning up to $150,320 (BLS OEWS, 2024).
Who succeeds with an associate's: Students seeking quick entry to tech careers, working adults balancing jobs and education, career changers looking for an affordable credential, and those planning to transfer to bachelor's programs.
Best Cloud Computing Associate's Programs - Top 10
Green River College
Green River is one of Washington's top transfer community colleges, nationally known for math and science preparation.
Green River College Associate's Cloud Computing Program Overview
Hakia ranks Green River College as the #1 associate's in cloud computing degree program.
Green River College's associate's Cloud Computing program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $4,074 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Seattle metro area
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Seattle metro area
- •Access to Microsoft, Amazon, Boeing
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Microsoft, Amazon, Boeing
Admissions
Bellevue College
Bellevue College is a public institution known for cloud computing education with strong transfer pathways.
Bellevue College Associate's Cloud Computing Program Overview
Hakia ranks Bellevue College as the #2 associate's in cloud computing degree program.
Bellevue College's associate's Cloud Computing program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $4,074 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Direct access to Seattle tech corridor employers
Hakia Insight: Students at Bellevue College benefit from active collaborations with Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Direct access to Seattle tech corridor employers
- •Proximity to Amazon HQ (Puget Sound region)
- •Microsoft offices in Puget Sound area
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Amazon, Microsoft, T-Mobile
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Everett Community College
Everett Community College is a public institution known for cloud computing education with strong transfer pathways.
Everett Community College Associate's Cloud Computing Program Overview
Hakia ranks Everett Community College as the #3 associate's in cloud computing degree program.
Everett Community College's associate's Cloud Computing program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $4,046 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Everett, WA location
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Everett, WA location
Career Outcomes
Boeing, Amazon Web Services, Microsoft, Naval Base Kitsap contractors, Local tech consulting firms
Admissions
Pierce College District
Pierce College District is a public institution known for cloud computing education with strong transfer pathways.
Pierce College District Associate's Cloud Computing Program Overview
Hakia ranks Pierce College District as the #4 associate's in cloud computing degree program.
Pierce College District's associate's Cloud Computing program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $4,074 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Lakewood, WA location
Hakia Insight: Lakewood, WA location
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Lakewood, WA location
Career Outcomes
Amazon Web Services, Microsoft, T-Mobile, CenturyLink, Local government IT
Admissions
Northern Virginia Community College
NOVA is Virginia's largest community college with a direct transfer pathway to George Mason University through the ADVANCE program, which guarantees admission for qualifying students.
Northern Virginia Community College Associate's Cloud Computing Program Overview
Hakia ranks Northern Virginia Community College as the #5 associate's in cloud computing degree program.
Northern Virginia Community College's associate's Cloud Computing program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $5,550 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Close to Washington DC tech corridor
Hakia Insight: Through ties with George Mason University and Virginia Tech, Northern Virginia Community College bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Close to Washington DC tech corridor
- •Access to federal contractors and tech companies
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Federal contractors, DC area tech companies
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale
Keiser is a private university with multiple Florida campuses offering accelerated associate degrees with flexible scheduling options.
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale Associate's Cloud Computing Program Overview
Hakia ranks Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale as the #6 associate's in cloud computing degree program.
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale's associate's Cloud Computing program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $22,936 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. South Florida tech hub
Hakia Insight: South Florida tech hub
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •South Florida tech hub
- •Multiple campus locations
Career Outcomes
Florida tech companies
Admissions
Spokane Community College
Spokane Community College is a public institution known for cloud computing education with strong transfer pathways.
Spokane Community College Associate's Cloud Computing Program Overview
Hakia ranks Spokane Community College as the #7 associate's in cloud computing degree program.
Spokane Community College's associate's Cloud Computing program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $3,195 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Online learning availability
Hakia Insight: Online learning availability
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Online learning availability
- •Multiple center locations throughout Washington
Career Outcomes
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Tacoma Community College
TCC offers affordable CS education at 1/3 the cost of state universities with direct transfer agreements to Washington universities.
Tacoma Community College Associate's Cloud Computing Program Overview
Hakia ranks Tacoma Community College as the #8 associate's in cloud computing degree program.
Tacoma Community College's associate's Cloud Computing program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $4,477 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Tacoma location
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Tacoma location
- •Access to Seattle tech market
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Seattle/Tacoma tech companies
Admissions
Houston Community College
HCC serves the Greater Houston metro area, one of the largest tech employment markets in Texas with strong energy sector tech demand.
Houston Community College Associate's Cloud Computing Program Overview
Hakia ranks Houston Community College as the #9 associate's in cloud computing degree program.
Houston Community College's associate's Cloud Computing program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $2,904 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Multiple campus locations throughout Houston area
Hakia Insight: Houston Community College's direct partnerships with Houston energy companies and NASA give students a competitive edge through industry-embedded projects and recruiting pipelines.
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Multiple campus locations throughout Houston area
- •Located in major technology and energy hub
- •Access to Texas Medical Center area
- •Online learning options available
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Energy sector, NASA, Houston tech companies
Admissions
Cypress College
Cypress College is a public institution known for cloud computing education with strong transfer pathways.
Cypress College Associate's Cloud Computing Program Overview
Hakia ranks Cypress College as the #10 associate's in cloud computing degree program.
Cypress College's associate's Cloud Computing program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $1,104 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Cypress, CA location
Hakia Insight: Students at Cypress College benefit from active collaborations with Air Force Association and National Security Agency, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Cypress, CA location
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Best Cloud Computing Associate's Programs - Top 10 — Complete Program Data
#1. Green River College Associate's Cloud Computing Program
Hakia ranks Green River College as the #1 associate's in cloud computing degree program. Location: Auburn, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,074/year | Graduation Rate: 99% | Score: 100.0
What makes Green River College stand out: Green River is one of Washington's top transfer community colleges, nationally known for math and science preparation.
Program Overview: Green River College offers an Associate in cloud computing (ACS-DTA/MRP) designed for students preparing to transfer to cloud computing programs at Washington universities. Students can complete their degree in as little as six quarters full-time. GRC also offers Bachelor of Applied Science degrees in Software Development and Cybersecurity & Networking for students who want to continue at the college.
Degree Programs: Associate in Cloud Computing DTA/MRP (6 quarters); BAS in Software Development (2 additional years)
Industry Partners: Seattle area tech companies
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Microsoft, Amazon, Boeing
Admissions:
#2. Bellevue College Associate's Cloud Computing Program
Hakia ranks Bellevue College as the #2 associate's in cloud computing degree program. Location: Bellevue, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,074/year | Graduation Rate: 96% | Score: 95.4
What makes Bellevue College stand out: Bellevue College is a public institution known for cloud computing education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Students at Bellevue College benefit from active collaborations with Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Program Overview: Bellevue College offers an associate degree program in cloud computing designed for students seeking entry into the cloud computing field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Bellevue, WA, the program provides foundational skills in cloud computing with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: Certificate in Cloud Computing (1 year); Associate Degree in Cloud Computing/IT (2 years)
Industry Partners: Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Amazon, Microsoft, T-Mobile | Common Roles: Cloud Systems Administrator, DevOps Technician, Cloud Support Engineer
Admissions:
Accreditations: AWS Solutions Architect Associate, Azure Administrator Certified, Google Cloud Associate Cloud Engineer
#3. Everett Community College Associate's Cloud Computing Program
Hakia ranks Everett Community College as the #3 associate's in cloud computing degree program. Location: Everett, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,046/year | Graduation Rate: 93% | Score: 94.2
What makes Everett Community College stand out: Everett Community College is a public institution known for cloud computing education with strong transfer pathways.
Program Overview: Everett Community College offers an associate degree program in cloud computing designed for students seeking entry into the cloud computing field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Everett, WA, the program provides foundational skills in cloud computing with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: AS in Cloud Computing & Infrastructure (2 years); Certificate in Cloud Systems (1 year)
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Boeing, Amazon Web Services, Microsoft, Naval Base Kitsap contractors, Local tech consulting firms | Common Roles: Cloud Infrastructure Technician, Help Desk Support Associate, Junior Systems Administrator
Admissions:
#4. Pierce College District Associate's Cloud Computing Program
Hakia ranks Pierce College District as the #4 associate's in cloud computing degree program. Location: Lakewood, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,074/year | Graduation Rate: 93% | Score: 93.7
What makes Pierce College District stand out: Pierce College District is a public institution known for cloud computing education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Lakewood, WA location
Program Overview: Pierce College District offers an associate degree program in cloud computing designed for students seeking entry into the cloud computing field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Lakewood, WA, the program provides foundational skills in cloud computing with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: AS in Cloud Computing (2 years); Certificate in Cloud Technologies (1 year)
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Amazon Web Services, Microsoft, T-Mobile, CenturyLink, Local government IT | Common Roles: Cloud Support Technician, Junior Cloud Administrator, Help Desk Technician
Admissions:
#5. Northern Virginia Community College Associate's Cloud Computing Program
Hakia ranks Northern Virginia Community College as the #5 associate's in cloud computing degree program. Location: Annandale, VA | Type: Public | Tuition: $5,550/year | Score: 93.6
What makes Northern Virginia Community College stand out: NOVA is Virginia's largest community college with a direct transfer pathway to George Mason University through the ADVANCE program, which guarantees admission for qualifying students.
Hakia Insight: Through ties with George Mason University and Virginia Tech, Northern Virginia Community College bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Overview: Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) offers an Associate of Science in cloud computing designed primarily for students who wish to transfer to a four-year college or university. The program prepares students for success in bachelor's degree programs or entry-level programmer positions. NOVA's ADVANCE transfer partnership with George Mason University provides a guaranteed pathway for Cloud Computing students to complete their bachelor's degree, with students saving money at NOVA before seamlessly transferring to Mason.
Degree Programs: Associate of Applied Science in Information Systems Technology: Cloud Computing Specialization (2 years); Career Studies Certificate in Cloud Computing (1 year)
Industry Partners: George Mason University, Virginia Tech
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Federal contractors, DC area tech companies
Admissions: GPA: 2.5 minimum for ADVANCE program
Accreditations: SACSCOC, AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, AWS Solutions Architect Associate, CompTIA A+, CompTIA Linux+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+
#6. Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale Associate's Cloud Computing Program
Hakia ranks Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale as the #6 associate's in cloud computing degree program. Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL | Type: Private | Tuition: $22,936/year | Graduation Rate: 84% | Score: 93.2
What makes Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale stand out: Keiser is a private university with multiple Florida campuses offering accelerated associate degrees with flexible scheduling options.
Hakia Insight: South Florida tech hub
Program Overview: Keiser University offers an Associate of Science degree in Information Technology and Programming that requires 72 credit hours completed over approximately 24 months. The program develops skills in software, hardware, and system integration while exposing students to essential computer networking and programming concepts. Students learn current networking practices and computer policies critical to real-world applications.
Degree Programs: Associate of Science in Information Technology and Programming (24 months)
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Florida tech companies
Admissions:
#7. Spokane Community College Associate's Cloud Computing Program
Hakia ranks Spokane Community College as the #7 associate's in cloud computing degree program. Location: Spokane, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $3,195/year | Graduation Rate: 92% | Score: 93.0
What makes Spokane Community College stand out: Spokane Community College is a public institution known for cloud computing education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Online learning availability
Program Overview: Spokane Community College offers an associate degree program in cloud computing designed for students seeking entry into the cloud computing field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Spokane, WA, the program provides foundational skills in cloud computing with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: Associate Degree in Cloud Computing (2 years)
Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: Cloud Solutions Architect, Cloud Administrator, Cloud Infrastructure Specialist
Admissions:
Accreditations: CAHIIM
#8. Tacoma Community College Associate's Cloud Computing Program
Hakia ranks Tacoma Community College as the #8 associate's in cloud computing degree program. Location: Tacoma, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,477/year | Graduation Rate: 87% | Score: 92.3
What makes Tacoma Community College stand out: TCC offers affordable CS education at 1/3 the cost of state universities with direct transfer agreements to Washington universities.
Program Overview: Tacoma Community College offers an Associate of Arts in cloud computing (DTA/MRP) designed for students transferring to baccalaureate institutions in Washington state. The 90-credit degree satisfies general education requirements at most Washington universities. TCC costs approximately 1/3 of state university tuition, with 60% of students receiving financial aid. Graduates are prepared for careers in programming, system architecture, and IT management.
Degree Programs: AS in Cloud Computing (2 years); Certificate in Cloud Technologies (1 year)
Industry Partners: Tacoma area employers
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Seattle/Tacoma tech companies
Admissions: GPA: 2.0 minimum
#9. Houston Community College Associate's Cloud Computing Program
Hakia ranks Houston Community College as the #9 associate's in cloud computing degree program. Location: Houston, TX | Type: Public | Tuition: $2,904/year | Graduation Rate: 86% | Score: 87.4
What makes Houston Community College stand out: HCC serves the Greater Houston metro area, one of the largest tech employment markets in Texas with strong energy sector tech demand.
Hakia Insight: Houston Community College's direct partnerships with Houston energy companies and NASA give students a competitive edge through industry-embedded projects and recruiting pipelines.
Program Overview: Houston Community College offers Associate in Science and Associate of Applied Science degrees in cloud computing and Computer Programming. The program teaches fundamental programming principles including algorithm analysis, software design, operating systems, and databases. Students can specialize in Microsoft C#, Java, or Database Administration. HCC serves the Greater Houston area where nearly 5,000 computer programmers are employed.
Degree Programs: Associate in Science - Cloud Computing (2 years); Associate of Applied Science - Computer Programming (2 years)
Industry Partners: Houston energy companies, NASA
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Energy sector, NASA, Houston tech companies
Admissions:
#10. Cypress College Associate's Cloud Computing Program
Hakia ranks Cypress College as the #10 associate's in cloud computing degree program. Location: Cypress, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $1,104/year | Graduation Rate: 68% | Score: 86.4
What makes Cypress College stand out: Cypress College is a public institution known for cloud computing education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Students at Cypress College benefit from active collaborations with Air Force Association and National Security Agency, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Program Overview: Cypress College offers an associate degree program in cloud computing designed for students seeking entry into the cloud computing field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Cypress, CA, the program provides foundational skills in cloud computing with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: Associate Degree in Cloud Computing (2 years)
Industry Partners: Air Force Association, National Security Agency, Department of Homeland Security
Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: Cloud Architect, Network Management, System Administration and Support, Cybersecurity Analyst
Notable Faculty: Ben Izadi (Computer networking professor and Cybersecurity Program Director); Russ Alizadeh (Cloud Computing and Network Security instruction)
Admissions:
Accreditations: Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security
Full Cloud Computing Associate's Rankings 2026
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Green River College | Auburn, WA | Public | $4,074 | 99% | 100 |
| 2 | Bellevue College | Bellevue, WA | Public | $4,074 | 96% | 95.4 |
| 3 | Everett Community College | Everett, WA | Public | $4,046 | 93% | 94.2 |
| 4 | Pierce College District | Lakewood, WA | Public | $4,074 | 93% | 93.7 |
| 5 | Northern Virginia Community College | Annandale, VA | Public | $5,550 | — | 93.6 |
| 6 | Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale | Fort Lauderdale, FL | Private | $22,936 | 84% | 93.2 |
| 7 | Spokane Community College | Spokane, WA | Public | $3,195 | 92% | 93 |
| 8 | Tacoma Community College | Tacoma, WA | Public | $4,477 | 87% | 92.3 |
| 9 | Houston Community College | Houston, TX | Public | $2,904 | 86% | 87.4 |
| 10 | Cypress College | Cypress, CA | Public | $1,104 | 68% | 86.4 |
| 11 | Renton Technical College | Renton, WA | Public | $4,673 | 65% | 85.3 |
| 12 | Rio Hondo College | Whittier, CA | Public | $1,306 | 65% | 85.2 |
| 13 | Mission College | Santa Clara, CA | Public | $1,380 | — | 85 |
| 14 | Long Beach City College | Long Beach, CA | Public | $1,472 | — | 84.6 |
| 15 | Chaffey College | Rancho Cucamonga, CA | Public | $1,104 | — | 83.9 |
| 16 | Fresno City College | Fresno, CA | Public | $1,288 | — | 83 |
| 17 | Fullerton College | Fullerton, CA | Public | $1,104 | — | 82.8 |
| 18 | Victor Valley College | Victorville, CA | Public | $1,402 | — | 82.7 |
| 19 | Midland College | Midland, TX | Public | $3,870 | 94% | 82.5 |
| 20 | Mt San Jacinto Community College District | San Jacinto, CA | Public | $1,380 | — | 82.4 |
| 21 | Cerro Coso Community College | Ridgecrest, CA | Public | $1,380 | — | 82.4 |
| 22 | Sierra College | Rocklin, CA | Public | $1,104 | — | 82.2 |
| 23 | Valencia College | Orlando, FL | Public | $1,984 | 86% | 82.2 |
| 24 | San Joaquin Delta College | Stockton, CA | Public | $1,288 | — | 82 |
| 25 | South Puget Sound Community College | Olympia, WA | Public | $4,623 | — | 81.7 |
Showing 1–25 of 50
Transfer Pathways to Bachelor's Programs
Transfer pathways are critical for associate's degree students. According to NCES, about 34% of first-time community college students transfer to another institution within 150% of normal completion time.
Preparation is Key: Success in transfer requires strong foundations and careful planning. Students should complete prerequisite courses at their community college and verify course equivalencies through official articulation agreements before transferring.
State Transfer Systems
- California: The Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) guarantees CSU admission. Use ASSIST.org to verify course-by-course transfer equivalencies.
- Washington: Direct Transfer Agreement (DTA) programs provide guaranteed pathways to state universities.
- North Carolina: The Comprehensive Articulation Agreement ensures seamless credit transfer to UNC System schools.
- Texas: The Texas Common Course Numbering System facilitates transfer between community colleges and state universities.
Key to Success: Research from PPIC shows successful transfer students share common traits: they start planning early, attend colleges with strong transfer partnerships, and choose universities with robust support services for transfer students.
Community College Advantages
Community colleges are experiencing a significant resurgence. According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, community college enrollment increased 5.4% between Fall 2023 and Fall 2024 (+288,000 students)—the largest growth among all institutional sectors.
As Dr. Walter Bumphus, president of the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), noted: "Community colleges have always been gateways to opportunity, but in 2025, they are increasingly engines of innovation in workforce development."
Why Community Colleges Excel for Technology Programs
- Smaller class sizes: Community college classes average 25-35 students, compared to 100+ in university introductory courses (Community College Review)
- Industry-connected instructors: Many instructors work in tech and teach part-time, bringing current industry practices to the classroom
- Lower cost: Average public community college tuition is $3,990/year vs $11,260 at public 4-year schools (AACC Fast Facts 2024)
- Open access: No SAT/ACT requirements—community colleges serve all students regardless of prior academic performance
- Flexible scheduling: Evening, weekend, and hybrid options designed for working adults
- Transfer pathways: State articulation agreements provide guaranteed transfer to 4-year universities
2-Year Curriculum Overview
Cloud Computing associate's programs typically require 60-65 credit hours completed over 2 years full-time. The curriculum balances technical skills with general education requirements, preparing students for both employment and transfer to bachelor's programs.
Core Cloud Computing Courses
- Networking Fundamentals
- Linux Administration
- Virtualization
- Cloud Platforms (AWS/Azure)
- Security Basics
- Scripting
Typical Course Sequence
- Year 1: Programming fundamentals, math requirements (algebra/statistics), English composition, introductory technical courses
- Year 2: Advanced technical courses, electives in specialization area, capstone project or internship
Transfer Requirements: Most courses will transfer to 4-year universities through articulation agreements. A grade of C or better is typically required for technical courses. Check your state's transfer agreements (e.g., ASSIST.org for California, Direct Transfer Agreement for Washington).
Accelerated & Online Options
Online learning has become mainstream in higher education. According to NCES, 53% of U.S. students were enrolled in at least one online course in 2022-23. BestColleges research found that 60% of institutions reported online classes filling first in 2024—indicating strong student preference for flexible formats.
Enrollment Trends: The National Student Clearinghouse reports associate degree enrollment grew 6.3% in Spring 2025. Notably, older first-year students are driving growth—enrollment among those aged 25+ increased 19.7% compared to the prior year.
Flexible Format Options
- Fully online: Complete your degree from anywhere with asynchronous courses—many community colleges now offer 100% online associate's degrees
- Hybrid programs: Mix of online coursework and in-person labs—ideal for hands-on technical practice
- Accelerated tracks: Complete in 18 months with year-round enrollment at schools offering quarterly or trimester calendars
- Evening/weekend programs: Designed for working adults; many community colleges offer courses starting at 6pm or on Saturdays
Tip: Look for programs with asynchronous course delivery if your work schedule is unpredictable. Synchronous (live) classes require logging in at specific times.
Associate's vs Bootcamp vs Certificate
Choosing between an associate's degree, bootcamp, or certificate depends on your career goals, timeline, and budget. Each path has trade-offs.
Coding Bootcamp Outcomes: According to the Council on Integrity in Results Reporting (CIRR), 71% of coding bootcamp graduates find a job within 6 months of completion. Course Report's 2025 survey found 79% of alumni land programming jobs within six months, with a 51% average salary increase over pre-bootcamp income.
Comparison
- Associate's degree (2 years, $7-15K total): Regionally accredited credential, transfers to bachelor's programs, qualifies for federal financial aid, recognized by employers across industries
- Coding bootcamp (3-6 months, $10-20K): 71% job placement within 6 months (CIRR), fastest path to specific dev roles, but limited to certain job titles and employers
- Industry certificate (6-12 months, $2-5K): CompTIA, AWS, or vendor-specific certifications focus on specific skills; best for career changers with some tech background
Key difference: Only associate's degrees are regionally accredited and qualify for federal student aid. Bootcamps typically require full upfront payment or income share agreements. As The Century Foundation notes, always read the fine print on any education program's outcomes claims.
Our recommendation: Choose an associate's degree if you want maximum flexibility—transfer options, employer recognition, and financial aid eligibility. Choose a bootcamp if you're confident about a specific developer role and can afford the upfront cost.
Financial Aid & Employer Tuition Assistance
Community college programs qualify for federal financial aid, state grants, and employer tuition assistance. With average tuition under $4,000/year, many students graduate debt-free.
Federal Pell Grants: The maximum Federal Pell Grant for 2024-25 is $7,395 (minimum $740). Since this exceeds typical community college tuition, eligible students may have funds left for books and fees. Lifetime eligibility is limited to 12 semesters.
Free Community College Programs: Over 300 promise programs now operate at state and local levels, including:
- California: California College Promise provides free tuition for first-time students at participating community colleges
- Maryland: Community College Promise Scholarship covers up to $5,000/year in tuition
- Oregon: Oregon Promise Grant covers tuition for recent high school graduates
- Maine: Free College Scholarship covers tuition at all 7 Maine community colleges for classes 2020-2025
Employer Tuition Assistance: In 2023, 80% of large U.S. employers offered tuition reimbursement, spending $28 billion annually (Learn & Work Ecosystem Library). Key programs:
- Amazon Career Choice: Pre-pays 100% of tuition, books, and fees for associates and bachelor's degrees at participating schools. Available to hourly employees after 90 days.
- Target Dream to Be: 100% tuition coverage for 250+ programs at 40 partner schools, or up to $5,250/year for other programs
- Starbucks College Achievement Plan: 100% tuition coverage for Arizona State University online bachelor's programs after 3 months of 20+ hours/week
Tax benefits: The American Opportunity Tax Credit provides up to $2,500/year in tax credits for the first four years of higher education.
Top States for Cloud Computing Associate's Programs
| State | Total Programs | Median Tuition | Top Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Cloud Computing Associate's Programs in California | 1 | $14,400 | DeVry University |
| Best Cloud Computing Associate's Programs in Texas | 1 | $14,400 | DeVry University |
| Best Cloud Computing Associate's Programs in New York | 2 | $14,400 | Excelsior University |
| Best Cloud Computing Associate's Programs in Florida | 4 | $15,000 | Florida State College at Jacksonville |
| Best Cloud Computing Associate's Programs in Pennsylvania | 1 | $15,500 | Pennsylvania College of Technology |
| Best Cloud Computing Associate's Programs in Maryland | 1 | $36,900 | Stevenson University |
| Best Cloud Computing Associate's Programs in Illinois | 4 | $37,000 | DePaul University |
| Best Cloud Computing Associate's Programs in Georgia | 1 | $14,400 | DeVry University |
Software Engineering Career Track
+$25K avg salary increase·9 months
- Curriculum designed by Colt Steele, industry veteran
- 1-on-1 mentorship from industry professionals
- Money-back job guarantee
Affiliate link · We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Data Sources
Federal database of U.S. postsecondary institutions
May 2024 salary data by occupation and location
Department of Education outcomes data
Related Cloud Computing Resources
Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.