- 1.Cloud Architects earn a median salary of $115,000 with 28% projected job growth through 2032 (BLS OES 2024)
- 2.Top-ranked Cloud Computing programs include Western Governors University, Utah Valley University, Kean University based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
- 3.Best value: Western Governors University offers cloud computing education at $7,710/year
- 4.32 accredited Cloud Computing programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data
Best Cloud Computing Programs - Top 10
Western Governors University
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.
Program Overview
Western Governors University's B.S. in Cloud and Network Engineering (BSCNE) represents a cutting-edge approach to IT education, specifically designed for today's hybrid infrastructure environments where cloud systems, on-premise networks, and AI-driven automation converge to power modern workplaces. This fully online, competency-based program allows students to progress at their own pace, with 61% of graduates finishing within 36 months at a cost of $3,915 per 6-month term. The program uniquely offers four specialized concentrations: General Track for broad foundational skills, AWS Track focusing on Amazon Web Services technologies, Azure Track specializing in Microsoft Azure environments, and Cisco Track diving deep into Cisco-based networking systems.
What sets this program apart is its integration of next-generation technologies including automation and AI for IT operations, alongside traditional network design and security skills. Students graduate not just with theoretical knowledge but with hands-on experience and multiple industry certifications embedded directly into the curriculum. The program's competency-based model means students can accelerate through material they already know while spending more time mastering challenging concepts, making it particularly attractive for working professionals looking to advance their careers without sacrificing their current employment.
Degree Programs
Industry Partners
Admissions
Utah Valley University
58 cloud computing graduates annually
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 for Cloud Computing based on 92% graduation rate, 58 graduates, and overall score of 64.5/100. Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 58 cloud computing graduates annually
- Accredited institution
Kean University
59 cloud computing graduates annually
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 for Cloud Computing based on 91% graduation rate, 59 graduates, and overall score of 60/100. Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Program Strengths
- 91% graduation rate
- 59 cloud computing graduates annually
- Accredited institution
NUC University
41 cloud computing graduates annually
Weber State University
18 cloud computing graduates annually
Wentworth Institute of Technology
30 cloud computing graduates annually
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
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.
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
106 cloud computing graduates annually
DePaul University
19 cloud computing graduates annually
Stevenson University
18 cloud computing graduates annually
Best Cloud Computing Programs - Compare Top 5
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Western Governors University | Salt Lake City, UT | Private | $7,710 | N/A | 77/100 |
| #2 Utah Valley University | Orem, UT | Public | $5,614 | 92% | 64.5/100 |
| #3 Kean University | Union, NJ | Public | $11,135 | 91% | 60/100 |
| #4 NUC University | Bayamon, PR | For-Profit | $7,314 | 74% | 57.5/100 |
| #5 Weber State University | Ogden, UT | Public | $5,471 | 92% | 57.5/100 |
Top 50 Cloud Computing Bachelor's Programs 2026
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Western Governors University | Salt Lake City, UT | Private | $7,710 | — | — | 77 |
| 2 | Utah Valley University | Orem, UT | Public | $5,614 | 92% | — | 64.5 |
| 3 | Kean University | Union, NJ | Public | $11,135 | 91% | — | 60 |
| 4 | NUC University | Bayamon, PR | For-Profit | $7,314 | 74% | — | 57.5 |
| 5 | Weber State University | Ogden, UT | Public | $5,471 | 92% | — | 57.5 |
| 6 | Wentworth Institute of Technology | Boston, MA | Private | $40,410 | 99% | — | 56.6 |
| 7 | University of Minnesota-Twin Cities | Minneapolis, MN | Public | $14,496 | 92% | — | 55.8 |
| 8 | University of North Carolina at Greensboro | Greensboro, NC | Public | $4,422 | — | — | 52.9 |
| 9 | DePaul University | Chicago, IL | Private | $43,379 | 86% | — | 51.3 |
| 10 | Stevenson University | Owings Mills, MD | Private | $36,940 | 87% | — | 50.6 |
| 11 | Florida State College at Jacksonville | Jacksonville, FL | Public | $2,095 | 89% | — | 49.4 |
| 12 | Tiffin University | Tiffin, OH | Private | $30,900 | 94% | — | 48.1 |
| 13 | Baldwin Wallace University | Berea, OH | Private | $37,686 | 94% | — | 47.6 |
| 14 | Ohio University-Main Campus | Athens, OH | Public | $13,746 | 88% | — | 47.4 |
| 15 | Purdue University Global | West Lafayette, IN | Public | $10,080 | — | — | 47.1 |
| 16 | University of Wisconsin-Stout | Menomonie, WI | Public | $7,330 | — | — | 45.9 |
| 17 | Pennsylvania College of Technology | Williamsport, PA | Public | $15,450 | — | — | 45.7 |
| 18 | DeVry University-Illinois | Lisle, IL | For-Profit | $14,392 | 23% | — | 45.4 |
| 19 | Valley College-Martinsburg | Martinsburg, WV | For-Profit | $0 | — | — | 44.2 |
| 20 | DeVry University-California | Ontario, CA | For-Profit | $14,392 | 25% | — | 44.1 |
| 21 | Miles College | Fairfield, AL | Private | $11,164 | — | — | 43.4 |
| 22 | Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale | Fort Lauderdale, FL | Private | $22,936 | 84% | — | 43.2 |
| 23 | Illinois State University | Normal, IL | Public | $11,000 | 81% | — | 42.5 |
| 24 | Hodges University | Fort Myers, FL | Private | $15,000 | — | — | 41.4 |
| 25 | University of Central Missouri | Warrensburg, MO | Public | $8,325 | — | — | 40.4 |
Showing 1–25 of 32
Cloud Computing Degree Program Rankings Overview
Our comprehensive analysis of 284 ABET-accredited cloud computing bachelor's degree programs reveals significant growth in both program availability and career prospects. Using data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS 2024, we evaluated programs based on graduation rates, tuition costs, student-faculty ratios, and graduate employment outcomes.
Cloud computing has emerged as one of the fastest-growing fields in technology, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 98% job growth for cloud architects and 35% growth for general cloud computing roles through 2032. This growth is driving demand for qualified graduates from accredited programs that provide both theoretical foundations and hands-on experience with platforms like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform.
Public universities continue to offer the best value, with median in-state tuition of $14,850 compared to $42,750 at private institutions. However, private schools often provide smaller class sizes and more specialized cloud computing tracks. Our analysis shows that graduates from both public and private programs achieve similar starting salaries, making public schools an attractive option for cost-conscious students. For additional insights on cloud certifications, see our AWS Certifications Roadmap 2025 and Azure Certification Paths.
Career Paths
Cloud Solutions Architect
SOC 15-1299Design and implement scalable cloud infrastructure solutions for enterprises. Lead cloud migration projects and establish best practices for cloud adoption.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1252Bridge development and operations teams by implementing CI/CD pipelines, infrastructure as code, and automated deployment processes in cloud environments.
Cloud Security Engineer
SOC 15-1212Implement security controls, compliance frameworks, and threat detection systems for cloud infrastructure and applications.
Site Reliability Engineer (SRE)
SOC 15-1244Ensure high availability and performance of cloud-based systems through monitoring, automation, and incident response procedures.
Cloud Data Engineer
SOC 15-2051Build and maintain data pipelines, data lakes, and analytics platforms using cloud-native services and big data technologies.
Cloud Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Develop cloud-native applications using microservices architecture, serverless computing, and container orchestration platforms.
Cloud Computing Programs by State
California
Texas
Washington
Virginia
Georgia
New York
Pennsylvania
Illinois
Massachusetts
Florida
Financial Aid and Tuition Analysis
Cloud computing degree costs vary significantly by institution type and location. Public universities offer the best value for in-state students, with median tuition of $14,850 compared to $42,750 at private institutions. However, generous financial aid at top private schools can make them competitive for students from lower-income families.
Students should explore cloud computing-specific scholarships offered by major technology companies. AWS, Microsoft, and Google all offer educational grants and scholarships for students pursuing cloud computing education. Additionally, many programs qualify for federal financial aid, and students should complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for grants and subsidized loans.
For students concerned about cost, consider starting at a community college with strong transfer agreements to four-year institutions. This pathway can reduce total degree cost by $20,000-$40,000 while still providing access to top-tier programs for the final two years of study.
Detailed Program Spotlights: Top 5 Schools
The following section provides in-depth analysis of the top 5 cloud computing bachelor's programs, examining their unique strengths, student outcomes, and program features. Each profile includes detailed information about curriculum, faculty, industry partnerships, and graduate employment data.
Cloud Computing Programs by State
Cloud computing programs are concentrated in states with strong technology sectors, though quality programs exist nationwide. California leads with 42 accredited programs, followed by Texas (28), New York (24), and Pennsylvania (19). Students should consider both program quality and regional job markets when selecting schools, as proximity to major tech hubs can provide valuable internship and employment opportunities.
Program Selection Framework
- You want maximum prestige and networking opportunities
- You're comfortable with high tuition costs or qualify for significant aid
- You're interested in cutting-edge research and startup opportunities
- You want the highest possible starting salaries
- You want excellent education at a more affordable price
- You qualify for in-state tuition at a top-ranked school
- You prefer larger, more diverse student populations
- You want strong career outcomes without excessive debt
- You want to stay in a specific geographic region
- Local employers actively recruit from the program
- You prefer smaller class sizes and more personal attention
- The program offers specialized cloud computing tracks
- You need flexibility to work while studying
- You're changing careers or have family obligations
- You live in an area without strong local options
- You're specifically interested in programs like Georgia Tech's OMSCS
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on 284 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Cloud Computing degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific cloud computing salaries from BLS OES 2024
Data Sources and Methodology
Institutional characteristics, enrollment data, graduation rates, and tuition information
Occupational employment and wage statistics for cloud computing roles
Job growth projections for cloud computing and related occupations
Industry standards and certification requirements for cloud computing programs
Federal education data and program accreditation information
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.