University campus in New York
Updated July 13, 2026

Best Cloud Computing Degree Programs in New York, 2026 Rankings

Compare the top cloud computing colleges in New York. 78 accredited cloud computing schools ranked by graduation rate, career outcomes, and value, from Hudson Valley Community College to Cornell University.

#1 ProgramCornell
Avg Salary$130,710
Tuition From$5,056/yr
Job Growth+22%
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology

100

Programs ranked

IPEDS 2024

$130,710

New York median cloud computing salary

BLS OEWS 2024

92/100

Top program score

Hakia methodology

17%

U.S. job growth (2023–33)

BLS projections

Key Takeaways

Best cloud computing degree programs: Cornell, Syracuse, CUNY New York City Colleg...

Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality

IPEDS 2024

Tuition ranges from $4,800 to $65,204/year

Hudson Valley Community C... offers the most affordable option at $5,056/yr

IPEDS 2024

Cloud Computing degree programs available: 34 associate's, 21 master's, 4 doctoral in New York

From community college pathways to advanced research degrees

IPEDS 2024

31 online cloud computing degree programs in New York

Flexible scheduling for working professionals

IPEDS 2024

New York community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs

34 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees

Education Commission of the States

Major employers: Google, Amazon, IBM, JPMorgan

Tech hubs in New York City and Albany

Hakia Research 2026

Cloud Computing degree programs near 153+ cities across New York

Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location

IPEDS 2024

Updated July 13, 2026

How we ranked New York Cloud Computing programs

We rank 100 accredited cloud computing programs in New York using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.

Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodology

Are Cloud Computing Degree Programs in New York Worth It?

Answer
$130,710
Yes. The best cloud computing degree programs in New York deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $130,710 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $17,492/year.

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Cloud Computing Degree Rankings in New York

Compare the top-ranked Cloud Computing programs in New York by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.

Best Associate's Cloud Computing Programs in New York

34
Programs ranked
$6,639
Avg tuition/yr
90%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

New York offers 34 accredited associate's degree programs in cloud computing, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Hudson Valley Community C..., Suffolk County Community ..., Nassau Community College, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.

Costs & Value

Community colleges in New York offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $6,639/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $71,891 in New York.

Career Pathways

Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with New York's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The New York City, Albany, Rochester areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Google, Amazon, IBM hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.

Curriculum & Specializations

Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among cloud computing schools in New York, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their cloud computing degrees in New York.

Show all 34 ranked programs
RankSchoolLocationTypeTuitionGrad RateHakia Score
#6CUNY Queensborough Community CollegeBayside, NYPublic$4,800—42.4
#7SUNY Broome Community CollegeBinghamton, NYPublic$5,472—42.4
#8Erie Community CollegeBuffalo, NYPublic$10,400—43.1
#9Monroe Community CollegeRochester, NYPublic$4,900—41.8
#10Fulton-Montgomery Community CollegeJohnstown, NYPublic$5,376—41.8
#11Rockland Community CollegeSuffern, NYPublic$5,472—41.4
#12SUNY Westchester Community CollegeValhalla, NYPublic$4,980—41.1
#13Jamestown Community CollegeJamestown, NYPublic$5,440—40.9
#14Dutchess Community CollegePoughkeepsie, NYPublic$4,800—40.7
#15SUNY College of Technology at AlfredAlfred, NYPublic$7,07090%50.2
#16Onondaga Community CollegeSyracuse, NYPublic$5,290—40.2
#17SUNY College of Technology at CantonCanton, NYPublic$7,070—35.3
#18Schenectady County Community CollegeSchenectady, NYPublic$4,824—39.9
#19Clinton Community CollegePlattsburgh, NYPublic$5,518—39.9
#20SUNY College of Technology at DelhiDelhi, NYPublic$7,070—37.4
#21DeVry College of New YorkNew York, NYFor-Profit$14,392—35.0
#22Tompkins Cortland Community CollegeDryden, NYPublic$5,570—39.0
#23Cayuga County Community CollegeAuburn, NYPublic$5,136—38.6
#24Genesee Community CollegeBatavia, NYPublic$5,150—38.6
#25SUNY Corning Community CollegeCorning, NYPublic$5,170—38.3
#26Mohawk Valley Community CollegeUtica, NYPublic$5,162—38.3
#27The College of WestchesterWhite Plains, NYFor-Profit$23,220—37.2
#28Finger Lakes Community CollegeCanandaigua, NYPublic$5,280—37.9
#29Ulster County Community CollegeStone Ridge, NYPublic$5,280—37.9
#30SUNY AdirondackQueensbury, NYPublic$5,328—44.5
#31Jefferson Community CollegeWatertown, NYPublic$5,304—37.9
#32SUNY College of Agriculture and Technology at CobleskillCobleskill, NYPublic$7,070—35.9
#33Sullivan County Community CollegeLoch Sheldrake, NYPublic$5,472—36.1
#34Mildred Elley School-Albany CampusAlbany, NYFor-Profit$13,275—44.0

Best Bachelor's Cloud Computing Programs in New York

41
Programs ranked
$25,234
Avg tuition/yr
88%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

New York ranks among the nation's top destinations for cloud computing education, with 41 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 20 public and 19 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Cornell, Syracuse, CUNY New York City Colleg..., recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from New York cloud computing programs earn a median salary of $111,104, 13% above the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the New York City, Albany, Rochester metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Google, Amazon, IBM.

Costs & Value

Tuition ranges from $6,930 to $65,204 annually, with an average of $25,234/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 88%, with the highest reaching 100%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.

Curriculum & Specializations

Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to New York's leading technology employers. For students seeking cloud computing degrees in New York, these top-ranked cloud computing schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

Show all 41 ranked programs
RankSchoolLocationTypeTuitionGrad RateHakia Score
#6Stony Brook UniversityStony Brook, NYPublic$7,07089%70.1
#7Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York, NYPrivate$64,526100%69.5
#8CUNY Lehman CollegeBronx, NYPublic$6,93067%64.3
#9CUNY Graduate School and University CenterNew York, NYPublic$6,930—64.2
#10Fordham UniversityBronx, NYPrivate$60,33594%60.5
#11Rochester Institute of TechnologyRochester, NYPrivate$55,78490%60.4
#12Binghamton UniversityVestal, NYPublic$7,07087%57.4
#13Marist CollegePoughkeepsie, NYPrivate$45,330100%54.9
#14SUNY BrockportBrockport, NYPublic$7,07099%53.6
#15SUNY Buffalo State UniversityBuffalo, NYPublic$7,070—53.1
#16United States Military AcademyWest Point, NYPublic——52.7
#17CUNY Brooklyn CollegeBrooklyn, NYPublic$6,930—51.3
#18Rensselaer Polytechnic InstituteTroy, NYPrivate$60,360—51.0
#19SUNY College of Technology at AlfredAlfred, NYPublic$7,07090%50.8
#20Excelsior UniversityAlbany, NYPrivate——49.9
#21Adelphi UniversityGarden City, NYPrivate$45,45082%46.9
#22Molloy CollegeRockville Centre, NYPrivate$36,28084%46.7
#23College of Staten Island CUNYStaten Island, NYPublic$6,930—45.9
#24St. Joseph's University-New YorkBrooklyn, NYPrivate$33,825—45.7
#25Mercy UniversityDobbs Ferry, NYPrivate$21,23675%45.1
#26New York Institute of TechnologyOld Westbury, NYPrivate$41,960—44.0
#27State University of New York at OswegoOswego, NYPublic$7,070—43.2
#28Touro UniversityNew York, NYPrivate$18,950—42.9
#29Mount Saint Mary CollegeNewburgh, NYPrivate$39,820—42.5
#30SUNY at FredoniaFredonia, NYPublic$7,070—41.8
#31SUNY Polytechnic InstituteUtica, NYPublic$7,070—41.3
#32SUNY College at PlattsburghPlattsburgh, NYPublic$7,070—41.2
#33CUNY Medgar Evers CollegeBrooklyn, NYPublic$6,930—41.0
#34Pace UniversityNew York, NYPrivate$49,550—40.8
#35SUNY College of Agriculture and Technology at CobleskillCobleskill, NYPublic$7,070—40.3
#36The College of Saint RoseAlbany, NYPrivate$36,122—37.9
#37The College of WestchesterWhite Plains, NYFor-Profit$23,220—37.2
#38SUNY College of Technology at CantonCanton, NYPublic$7,070—36.3
#39SUNY MorrisvilleMorrisville, NYPublic$7,070—35.8
#40Houghton UniversityHoughton, NYPrivate$16,690—34.7
#41DeVry College of New YorkNew York, NYFor-Profit$14,392—33.3

Best Master's Cloud Computing Programs in New York

21
Programs ranked
$34,284
Avg tuition/yr
89%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

New York offers 21 master's degree programs in cloud computing, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Cornell, University at Buffalo, Syracuse, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.

Career Outcomes

Master's graduates in New York earn a median salary of $130,710, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in New York City, Albany, Rochester creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Google, Amazon, IBM actively recruiting from these programs.

Costs & Value

Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $34,284/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.

Curriculum & Specializations

Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among New York's cloud computing schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

Show all 21 ranked programs
RankSchoolLocationTypeTuitionGrad RateHakia Score
#6University at AlbanyAlbany, NYPublic$7,07099%70.7
#7Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York, NYPrivate$64,526100%67.9
#8Rochester Institute of TechnologyRochester, NYPrivate$55,78490%59.3
#9Pace UniversityNew York, NYPrivate$49,550—62.2
#10Binghamton UniversityVestal, NYPublic$7,07087%63.0
#11Pratt Institute-MainBrooklyn, NYPrivate$57,659—60.5
#12Fordham UniversityBronx, NYPrivate$60,33594%57.9
#13Yeshiva UniversityNew York, NYPrivate$46,00091%55.8
#14SUNY Old WestburyOld Westbury, NYPublic$7,07093%48.7
#15Empire State UniversitySaratoga Springs, NYPublic$7,070—48.7
#16Rensselaer Polytechnic InstituteTroy, NYPrivate$60,360—47.6
#17CUNY City CollegeNew York, NYPublic$6,93066%46.3
#18SUNY Polytechnic InstituteUtica, NYPublic$7,070—42.2
#19CUNY Brooklyn CollegeBrooklyn, NYPublic$6,930—49.5
#20The College of Saint RoseAlbany, NYPrivate$36,122—40.4
#21Long Island UniversityBrookville, NYPrivate$39,458—45.5

Best Doctoral Cloud Computing Programs in New York

4
Programs ranked
$43,261
Avg tuition/yr
98%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

New York is home to 4 doctoral programs in cloud computing, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at Syracuse, Cornell, University at Albany are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.

Career Outcomes

Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with New York PhD holders earning a median of $163,388, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The New York City, Albany, Rochester region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Google, Amazon, IBM.

Costs & Value

PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.

Curriculum & Specializations

Research strengths across New York programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing cloud computing degrees in New York, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.

Cloud Computing Degree Costs & Tuition in New York

MetricValue
Average in-state tuition$17,492/year
Average out-of-state tuition$43,730/year
Community college tuition$4,373/year
4-year savings for residents$104,952
2+2 transfer pathway savings$26,238

Source: IPEDS 2024

Financial Aid for New York Cloud Computing Students

Verdict: New York Cloud Computing students benefit from one of the strongest US state aid stacks (TAP, Excelsior Scholarship for SUNY/CUNY, Enhanced Tuition Awards) combined with the substantial NYC Wall Street cloud migration market, JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, Citigroup, Morgan Stanley, Bank of America NYC operations, BNY Mellon, and BlackRock have each invested billions of dollars in substantial enterprise cloud migration to AWS, Azure, and GCP through 2018-2026, creating substantial NYC cloud-architect and cloud-engineering employment scale that doesn't exist elsewhere outside Bay Area or Washington. Plus Bloomberg cloud platform engineering, substantial IBM Cloud operations (Armonk HQ + Yorktown Research), and the substantial NYC media cloud operations (Disney NYC cloud, NBCUniversal NYC cloud, Warner Bros Discovery cloud).

NY Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) covers full SUNY/CUNY tuition for in-state families under ~$80,000 income. The NYS Excelsior Scholarship extends free SUNY/CUNY tuition to families up to $125,000 income (with post-graduation NY residency requirement). The Enhanced Tuition Awards program provides additional support at participating private NY institutions.

New York's cloud-computing-specific institutional aid is concentrated at: NYU Center for Data Science (CDS) + Courant Institute with substantial cloud-systems and distributed-computing research depth. Cornell Tech (Roosevelt Island), graduate-only cloud engineering programs with substantial industry-funded fellowships and direct Wall Street cloud architect placement. Columbia University CS + Data Science Institute with substantial cloud-systems research depth. Stony Brook University (SUNY) has strong CS-with-cloud-emphasis programs at in-state tuition under $11,000/year. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) in Troy has substantial cloud-computing programs with IBM Cloud and IBM Research-Yorktown adjacency. Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) has accessible cloud-computing programs with substantial co-op industry experience.

The Wall Street cloud migration pipeline is the distinctive New York Cloud Computing funding dynamic, JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, Citi, Morgan Stanley, Bank of America NYC, BNY Mellon, BlackRock collectively offer extensive cloud certification reimbursement programs (AWS Solutions Architect Professional, Azure Administrator, GCP Professional Cloud Architect, plus Kubernetes CKA/CKAD, Terraform, Ansible) for entry-level cloud engineers and infrastructure professionals. Industry-track scholarships from NYC-based Cloud Computing employers, Wall Street cloud architects and cloud engineers (JPMorgan, Goldman, Citi, Morgan Stanley, BNY Mellon, BlackRock, Bloomberg), IBM Cloud (Armonk HQ + IBM Research-Yorktown), NYC media cloud (Disney NYC, NBCUniversal NYC, Warner Bros Discovery, Paramount), plus growing NYC cloud startup ecosystem, provide additional funding most students don't pursue.

Cloud Computing Degree ROI Calculator, New York

Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a cloud computing degree in New York. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.

Cloud Computing Degree ROI Calculator

Estimate your return on investment for a cloud computing degree

Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type

20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI

+1273%

Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.

Net Gain

$2,355,419

Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.

Break-Even

5 years

Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.

COL-Adjusted Salary

$102,941

Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.

Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.

Detailed Breakdown

How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data

Total Investment$185,000

Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)

Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000

Direct cost of the degree program

Opportunity Cost$140,000

4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time

20-Year Earnings (with degree)$3,390,827

Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth

20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408

What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth

Starting Salary (New York City, NY)$175,000

Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)

Annualized Return6.1%

Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)

Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com

Cloud Computing Salaries by Metro Area

Median annual salary in New York metro areas

New York City$144K
Albany$137K
Rochester$131K
View data table
CategoryValue
New York City$144K
Albany$137K
Rochester$131K

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Hakia.com

Top Employers Hiring Cloud Computing Graduates in New York

Major tech companies drive cloud hiring in New York.

JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, IBM, Google, Amazon and other organizations actively recruit cloud engineers, architects, and DevOps professionals. These employers offer competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities to work with advanced cloud technologies. Many maintain partnerships with local colleges, creating direct pipelines from education to employment.

Industry sectors employing cloud professionals in New York:

  • Technology Companies: Software development, SaaS platforms, IT services
  • Financial Services: Banks, insurance companies, fintech startups
  • Healthcare: Hospital systems, health tech, medical device companies
  • Manufacturing: Industry 4.0, IoT platforms, supply chain systems
  • Government: Federal agencies, state government, defense contractors
  • Retail & E-commerce: Digital commerce platforms, logistics technology Meta, Blackstone, Capital One, FanDuel represent additional significant employers. Defense contractors and government agencies often require security clearances for cloud positions, opening additional career paths.

Finding cloud computing jobs in New York: LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor list most positions. Company career pages often have openings not posted on aggregators. Networking through local tech meetups, cloud user groups, and professional associations surfaces hidden opportunities. AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud all maintain partner networks, companies in these networks frequently hire certified professionals. For related opportunities, explore cybersecurity careers or data science programs.

Transfer Pathways for New York Cloud Computing Students

Verdict: New York's SUNY transfer pathways and the CUNY Pathways General Education Framework support cloud-computing-track CS transfer pathways well at the foundational level. The cloud-computing-specific consideration is that Columbia, Cornell, and NYU CS-with-cloud transfer admission is genuinely difficult while Stony Brook, University at Buffalo, Binghamton (SUNY), Rensselaer (RPI), Rochester Institute of Technology, and CUNY Hunter, City College, and NYC College of Technology have substantially more accessible cloud-track transfer admission and produce graduates well-placed into Wall Street cloud architect roles and Bloomberg cloud platform engineering.

Best New York community college cloud-computing-track-feeder schools: Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC) (CUNY, refined CUNY Pathways articulation to CUNY Hunter, City College, NYC College of Technology, with substantial AWS/Azure/GCP certification programs for direct Wall Street cloud and NYC media cloud industry placement during community college years), Queensborough Community College (CUNY, strong Queens College and St. John's cloud pathways), Westchester Community College (strong Stony Brook, Buffalo, and RPI cloud articulation with substantial IBM Cloud and IBM Research-Yorktown industry exposure), Nassau Community College (strong Stony Brook and Hofstra cloud pathways), Suffolk County Community College (strong Stony Brook pipeline). Each has refined cloud-computing prerequisite mathematics and intro-CS sequences + AWS/Azure/GCP certification programs.

The BMCC → CUNY Hunter or City College or NYC College of Technology cloud-track pathway is the most accessible NYC-resident cloud-computing optimization at exceptional in-state tuition (CUNY in-state cloud-track CS total cost under $30,000) combined with direct Wall Street cloud and NYC media cloud industry placement. The Westchester CC → Stony Brook University cloud-track pathway is the most reliable Long Island cloud-computing progression with substantial IBM Cloud, IBM Research-Yorktown, and broader NYC cloud-architect industry placement at substantially lower cost than private NY institutions.

Beyond Stony Brook: Columbia University CS transfer admission is genuinely difficult (5-10%). Cornell University (Ithaca) CS transfer admission is similarly competitive (5-15%); Cornell Tech (Roosevelt Island NYC campus) is graduate-only. NYU CAS or Tandon CS-with-cloud-emphasis transfer admission is moderately competitive (15-25%). Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) offers accessible CS-with-cloud-emphasis transfer (30-50%) plus substantial IBM Cloud and IBM Research-Yorktown industry placement. Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) offers accessible CS-with-cloud-emphasis transfer with substantial co-op industry experience. CUNY Hunter, City College, NYC College of Technology all offer accessible CS-with-cloud-emphasis at exceptional in-state tuition. For New York cloud-computing-track students, the Stony Brook pathway is the affordable accessible cloud optimization with IBM Cloud adjacency; CUNY Hunter/City/NYC College of Technology is the NYC-cheap optimization; RPI is the IBM-adjacent accessible private alternative; Columbia/Cornell/NYU are the elite optimization for the most competitive applicants.

Cloud Computing Program Availability in New York

78 Programs
New York offers 78 accredited cloud computing programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include New York City, Albany, Rochester.

Source: IPEDS 2024

New York Cloud Computing Job Market & Salary

Verdict: New York has one of the largest US Cloud Computing job markets, substantially anchored by the Wall Street cloud migration market: JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, Citigroup, Morgan Stanley, Bank of America NYC operations, BNY Mellon, and BlackRock have collectively invested tens of billions of dollars in substantial enterprise cloud migration to AWS, Azure, and GCP through 2018-2026, creating substantial NYC cloud-architect and cloud-engineering employment scale. Plus Bloomberg cloud platform engineering (substantial cloud platform engineering supporting Bloomberg Terminal infrastructure), substantial IBM Cloud operations (Armonk HQ + IBM Research-Yorktown, one of the larger US enterprise cloud platforms after the substantial OpenShift acquisition), substantial NYC media cloud operations (Disney NYC cloud, NBCUniversal NYC cloud, Warner Bros Discovery cloud, substantial cloud engineering supporting streaming infrastructure for Disney+, Peacock, HBO Max/Max). Plus growing NYC cloud startup ecosystem (Hugging Face NYC cloud platform, Datadog cloud monitoring, MongoDB Atlas NYC).

By metro: NYC metro averages ~$190,000-$280,000 for cloud engineer roles per Levels.fyi and Wall Street cloud compensation reporting. Wall Street cloud architect and cloud engineer compensation tier is meaningfully distinct, senior cloud architects at JPMorgan, Goldman, Citi, Morgan Stanley, BNY Mellon, and BlackRock often earn $250,000-$450,000+ TC with substantial cloud certification stacking premium. Bloomberg cloud platform engineering is one of the larger applied-cloud engineering organizations in NYC, substantial cloud platform engineering supporting Bloomberg Terminal infrastructure across global financial markets. IBM Cloud (Armonk HQ + IBM Research-Yorktown) is one of the larger US enterprise cloud platforms following the substantial Red Hat OpenShift acquisition, substantial cloud platform engineering supporting IBM Cloud Pak portfolio.

JPMorgan Chase cloud engineering is substantial, JPMorgan has invested tens of billions of dollars in cloud migration with substantial AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud engineering teams supporting trading systems, retail banking, wealth management, and capital markets cloud infrastructure. Goldman Sachs cloud (substantial AWS Marquee platform engineering, Goldman's substantial multi-cloud financial-services cloud platform). Citi cloud (substantial Citi Velocity cloud engineering). Morgan Stanley cloud (substantial wealth management and capital markets cloud engineering). BNY Mellon cloud for trust company cloud engineering. BlackRock cloud for Aladdin platform cloud engineering. NYC media cloud at Disney NYC (Disney+, ESPN+ streaming cloud), NBCUniversal NYC (Peacock streaming cloud), Warner Bros Discovery (HBO Max/Max streaming cloud), Paramount (Paramount+ streaming cloud), substantial cloud engineering supporting streaming infrastructure.

Three New York cloud-computing-specific dynamics: (1) Wall Street cloud migration is one of the largest US enterprise cloud engineering markets, collective cloud migration investment by Wall Street firms exceeds $100 billion through 2018-2026, with substantial ongoing cloud engineering and cloud architect employment demand. (2) Wall Street cloud certification stacking produces exceptional compensation premium, AWS Solutions Architect Professional + Azure Administrator + GCP Professional Cloud Architect + Kubernetes CKA/CKAD + Terraform certification stacks often produce $50,000-$120,000+ Wall Street cloud salary premium over equivalent uncertified cloud roles. (3) NYC media cloud is one of the most-distinctive US streaming cloud engineering markets, Disney NYC, NBCUniversal NYC, Warner Bros Discovery, Paramount collectively operate substantial streaming cloud infrastructure supporting hundreds of millions of streaming subscribers globally. See Cloud Engineer Career Guide and DevOps Engineer Career Guide.

Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)

New graduates and career changers

Senior (8+ yrs)

Technical leads and architects

Median Salary in New York$84,962$189,530
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred

Online vs On-Campus Cloud Computing Programs in New York

Online Programs

31 available in New York

On-Campus Programs

Traditional classroom experience

Typical Tuition$15,743/yr$17,492/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)

Compare Cloud Computing Programs in Other States

Best Cloud Computing Degree Programs in Pennsylvania
Total Programs
96
Median Tuition
$15,400
Top Program
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
Best Cloud Computing Degree Programs in New Jersey
Total Programs
34
Median Tuition
$13,700
Top Program
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Best Cloud Computing Degree Programs in Connecticut
Total Programs
4
Median Tuition
$6,700
Top Program
Central Connecticut State University
Best Cloud Computing Degree Programs in Massachusetts
Total Programs
30
Median Tuition
$39,400
Top Program
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
Best Cloud Computing Degree Programs in Vermont
Total Programs
5
Median Tuition
$46,900
Top Program
Norwich University
Best Cloud Computing Degree Programs in California
Total Programs
127
Median Tuition
$1,400
Top Program
University of California-San Diego
Best Cloud Computing Degree Programs in Washington
Total Programs
37
Median Tuition
$4,600
Top Program
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Best Cloud Computing Degree Programs in Texas
Total Programs
74
Median Tuition
$7,600
Top Program
The University of Texas at Dallas

New York Tech Industry & Infrastructure

New York's tech economy is anchored by financial services, media, ad-tech, and a growing AI/fintech startup ecosystem. The state ranks behind only California in tech-sector GDP contribution and is unique in the country for the depth of its financial-services tech employer base (Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, Bloomberg, Two Sigma, Citadel) alongside major consumer-tech offices for Google, Meta, and Amazon.

New York City

Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens

Dominant US fintech hub. Engineering hiring concentrated at Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Bloomberg, Citadel, Two Sigma, Jane Street, plus major NYC offices for Google, Meta, Amazon, Spotify. NYU and Columbia are the principal feeders.

Albany / Capital Region

Albany metro

Anchored by GlobalFoundries' chip fabrication and SUNY Polytechnic Institute. Growing semiconductor and AI-research footprint; state-government IT employs heavily.

Excelsior Jobs Program offers tax credits to qualifying tech employers. State income tax is high relative to other tech-heavy states.

Empire State DevelopmentNY State Department of Labor — Tech Sector DataTech:NYC industry association

New York Regulation Affecting Cloud Computing Graduates

New York has one of the strictest US regulatory environments for tech, particularly in financial services. The state's cybersecurity rules for financial institutions are widely considered the US baseline, and NY has been an early mover on biometric, AI, and algorithmic-hiring legislation.

NY SHIELD Act (Stop Hacks and Improve Electronic Data Security)

Requires reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards for private information of NY residents. Expanded breach-notification requirements.

Every consumer-facing tech company serving NY users must maintain a documented security program; this drives security-engineer hiring at NY-resident employers.

Read more

NY DFS Cybersecurity Regulation (23 NYCRR 500)

Cybersecurity requirements for banks, insurance companies, and other DFS-regulated financial institutions operating in NY.

The US baseline for financial-services security engineering. Engineers at NY-based banks/insurers operate under this framework daily; the regulation is a major driver of security-team hiring.

Read more

NYC Local Law 144 (Automated Employment Decision Tools)

NYC employers using automated hiring tools must complete a bias audit and disclose use to candidates. Applies to any employer hiring for NYC-based positions.

ML/AI engineers building hiring/HR-tech products serving NYC employers must implement bias-audit logging and candidate-notification flows.

Read more

NY Privacy Act (proposed) and biometric notice requirements

NY has not yet passed a comprehensive consumer privacy law, but biometric-notice and facial-recognition disclosure rules apply in specific contexts (schools, commercial establishments).

Engineers building biometric features for NY users must implement consent and notice flows; broader NY privacy legislation is an active area to watch.

Read more

Professional Engineer Licensure in New York

New York does not currently offer a separate Professional Engineer license in software engineering. ABET accreditation is still recognized for federal and consulting work that requires engineering credentials, but PE licensure is not a practical consideration for most NY software engineers.

New York licensing board

New York Financial Aid Programs

NY Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)

State grant

Up to $5,665/yr

NY residents attending NY colleges/universities with financial need

Excelsior Scholarship

State scholarship

Covers tuition after other aid (up to ~$6,470/yr at SUNY)

NY residents attending SUNY/CUNY with family income up to $125,000

Enhanced Tuition Award (ETA)

State award

Up to $3,000/yr

NY residents attending private (non-SUNY/CUNY) NY colleges with family income up to $125,000

STEM Incentive Program

State scholarship (STEM-specific)

Full SUNY/CUNY tuition coverage

Top 10% of NY high-school graduating class entering STEM at SUNY/CUNY; service obligation: work in STEM in NY for 5 years post-grad

Cloud Computing Degree Programs in New York: FAQ

What are the best cloud computing degree programs in New York?
The best cloud computing degree programs in New York based on our methodology are: 1) Cornell University (95% graduation rate), 2) Syracuse University, and 3) CUNY New York City College of Technology. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). New York offers 78 total accredited programs across 53 public and 22 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 41 bachelor's programs.
How much do cloud computing degree programs cost in New York?
Cloud Computing degree program costs in New York vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $17,492/year, while private institutions average $38,482/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $4,373/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $69,968 at public schools to $153,930 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can cloud computing degree graduates earn in New York?
Cloud Computing professionals in New York earn a median salary of $130,710, which is 13% above the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $84,962, while senior roles exceed $189,530. Salaries vary by metro area: New York City ($143,781), Albany ($137,246) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online cloud computing degree programs in New York?
Yes, New York offers 31 accredited online Cloud Computing programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from Syracuse University and CUNY Queensborough Community College. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire cloud computing degree graduates in New York?
Major Cloud Computing employers in New York include Google, Amazon, IBM, JPMorgan, Bloomberg. The New York City and Albany metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from New York universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. New York's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a cloud computing degree program worth it in New York?
A cloud computing degree program in New York offers strong ROI with a $130,710 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $17,492/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($147,702), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do cloud computing degree programs take in New York?
Standard completion times for cloud computing degree programs in New York are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. New York community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a New York university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for cloud computing degree students in New York?
New York cloud computing degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. New York state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by New York's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.

Data Sources

IPEDS 2024

Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates

BLS OEWS May 2024

New York salary and employment data

Official University Websites

Program details and admissions information

Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

Was this ranking helpful for your college search?
Taylor Rupe

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.

The research behind the rankings

In-depth Cloud Computing program profiles in New York

Hand-researched detail on the top-ranked programs: degree pathways, research labs, industry partners, career outcomes, and admissions. Tap any school to expand.

Best Associate's Cloud Computing programs

#1Hudson Valley Community CollegeTroy, NY

Why it stands out. HVCC's Cloud Computing program offers a specialized micro-credential track that provides hands-on experience with all three primary cloud computing models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS) within a comprehensive Computer Information Systems foundation.

Hakia insight. HVCC's micro-credential architecture lets students earn stackable cloud certificates while completing the broader CIS degree, a structure that returns value incrementally—students can enter the job market mid-program rather than waiting for graduation.

At the associate's level, hudson Valley Community College's Cloud Computing program is offered as a specialized track within the Computer Information Systems A.A.S. degree program. This subscription-based, elastic computational model program focuses on internet-accessible servers in contrast to traditional on-site provisioned servers. The program introduces the three primary Cloud Computing models: Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS), and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS). Students work with standardized interfaces that facilitate end-user ease of use and system integration through hands-on applications. The program is housed within the School of Business and Liberal Arts, specifically in the Department of Computing and Information Sciences, providing students with a strong computer information system core that includes Programming and Logic, Analysis and Design of Information Systems, Project Management, Decision Support Systems and Database Management, all suffused with a focus on people, processes, systems, security, collaboration and ethics.

Programs offered

  • Associate of Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · online

Industry partners

Cisco Network Academy

Notable faculty

  • Linda Lim Bulmer (Computing and Information Sciences)

Location advantage: Part of SUNY system providing transfer opportunities Articulation agreements with RPI, University at Albany, SUNY IT, The College of Saint Rose and The Sage Colleges

#2Suffolk County Community CollegeSelden, NY

Hakia insight. Suffolk County's tuition undercuts regional competitors while anchoring programs to Northwell Health's ongoing cloud infrastructure expansion, creating a direct pipeline where healthcare IT demand translates into visible job offers before graduation.

At the associate's level, suffolk County's suburban Long Island location attracts major tech and financial companies setting up operations outside NYC, meaning the cloud computing program is laser-focused on what regional employers need right now. You'll get robust hands-on training in AWS and infrastructure management, with many courses offering evening and online options so you can work while building your technical foundation. Graduates move into help desk and junior admin roles at regional tech firms or transfer to SUNY schools to complete bachelor's degrees. The program's real advantage is the lower cost of living compared to NYC schools combined with genuine regional job placement—you're not competing for the same entry-level positions as thousands of NYC-based graduates.

Programs offered

  • Associate of Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · online

Career outcomes

Top employers: Northwell Health, Regional IT service providers, Long Island business services, Healthcare IT departments, Government agencies (Nassau and Suffolk County)

Location advantage: Lowest college tuition on Long Island Multiple campus locations (Ammerman, Eastern, Michael J. Grant) Dedicated Academic Learning Centers with free tutoring

#3Nassau Community CollegeGarden City, NY

Hakia insight. Nassau Community College's proximity to Northwell Health and regional financial services firms creates a rare pipeline for associate's graduates to move directly into enterprise cloud infrastructure roles—a pathway most community colleges lack the local employer density to support.

At the associate's level, nassau Community College's Cloud Computing program is offered through the Information Technology department within the Science, Technology, Engineering & Math division. The program provides foundational IT education with courses covering IT fundamentals, operating systems management, web programming, and Java programming. Students begin with ITE 101 Introduction to Information Technology, which offers broad-based coverage of IT evolution, current trends, and technical support aspects. The curriculum progresses through operating systems management (ITE 153), web programming using modern object-oriented scripting languages like JavaScript (ITE 154), and Java programming (ITE 204). Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus on Long Island, New York, the college maintains a 20:1 student-to-faculty ratio and features state-of-the-art learning labs including computer learning labs housed in the modern Life Sciences building completed in 2012.

Programs offered

  • Associate of Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · online

Career outcomes

Top employers: Northwell Health, SUNY campuses, Nassau County government, Regional technology services companies, Financial services firms

Location advantage: Located on Long Island, New York 225-acre campus State-of-the-art learning labs Modern facilities including Life Sciences building with computer learning labs

#4CUNY Stella and Charles Guttman Community CollegeNew York, NY

Hakia insight. Guttman's location in Manhattan gives its students access to CUNY's distributed IT departments as both learning partners and employers, letting associate's students debug real university infrastructure rather than simulated environments.

At the associate's level, based on the available source material, CUNY Stella and Charles Guttman Community College offers a Cloud Computing program as part of its academic offerings. Guttman Community College is known for its innovative approach to community college education, providing students with foundational skills and pathways to both immediate employment and transfer opportunities to four-year institutions. The college emphasizes practical, hands-on learning experiences and maintains strong connections to industry needs in the New York metropolitan area. As a CUNY institution, students benefit from affordable tuition, diverse learning environments, and access to the broader CUNY system resources. The Cloud Computing program is designed to prepare students for the rapidly growing field of cloud technologies and infrastructure management.

Programs offered

  • Associate of Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · online

Career outcomes

Top employers: CUNY IT departments, NYC nonprofit organizations, Local tech companies, Healthcare systems

Location advantage: Located in New York City Access to major technology employers

#5Niagara County Community CollegeSanborn, NY

Hakia insight. Niagara County's cross-border position means graduates can tap into Canadian tech talent networks and dual-jurisdiction IT projects—a competitive advantage for roles managing infrastructure across North American operations.

At the associate's level, sitting just across from Canada, this college taps into Niagara Falls' growing tech corridor and cross-border partnerships that give you an edge—you might work on projects that touch Canadian companies, expanding your professional network early. The cloud computing track integrates networking fundamentals with hands-on Azure labs, and the college actively works with local manufacturing and tourism tech firms for job placements. Many students here appreciate the lower cost of living combined with strong employer relationships that translate into internships and job offers.

Programs offered

  • Associate of Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · online

Career outcomes

Top employers: Niagara Falls tech firms, Cross-border technology companies, Regional manufacturing IT departments

#6CUNY Queensborough Community CollegeBayside, NY

Hakia insight. Queensborough's distinction as the first CUNY community college offering cloud computing micro-credentials means students can stack certifications while earning their degree, compressing time-to-employment in a market where credential velocity matters.

At the associate's level, CUNY Queensborough Community College offers information technology programs including cloud computing and infrastructure fundamentals, serving Queens' diverse population and workforce needs. The program integrates cloud certifications with core IT skills, preparing students for immediate employment or transfer to senior CUNY colleges and other universities. Curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience in cloud platforms and networking technologies. Strong connections with Queens and Manhattan employers in financial services, healthcare, and technology sectors provide internship and career opportunities. The program supports both workforce development and academic advancement.

Programs offered

  • Associate of Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · online

Career outcomes

Top employers: Citigroup, JPMorgan Chase, Verizon, Healthcare networks, NYC financial services firms, insurance companies IT departments

Accreditation & certifications

AWS Cloud PractitionerAWS Solutions ArchitectAWS Developer AssociateAWS SysOps Administrator Associate

Location advantage: First CUNY community college offering cloud computing micro-credentials Located in New York State providing access to major tech job market No-cost training funded through workforce development initiatives

#7SUNY Broome Community CollegeBinghamton, NY

Why it stands out. SUNY Broome offers free Google Certificate programs and maintains strong industry connections through its comprehensive STEM division with dedicated student support services.

Hakia insight. SUNY Broome's embedded Google Certificate programs eliminate the typical associate's degree bottleneck—students graduate with both an AS and Google-recognized credentials, eliminating the gap year many peers need for industry certification.

At the associate's level, SUNY Broome Community College offers cloud computing education through their Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) academic division. The college provides comprehensive technology training with a focus on practical skills development. Students can access Google Certificate programs free through SUNY Broome, which provides industry-recognized credentials in high-demand technology fields. The college emphasizes hands-on learning with strong support services including tutoring, academic advising, and career coaching. SUNY Broome maintains modern IT infrastructure and helpdesk support for students. The institution offers flexible learning options including online learning opportunities and Fast Forward programs for accelerated completion.

Programs offered

  • Associate of Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · online

Industry partners

Google

Accreditation & certifications

Google Certificate

Location advantage: Modern IT infrastructure and helpdesk support Comprehensive student support services including tutoring and career coaching

#8Erie Community CollegeBuffalo, NY

Hakia insight. Erie's multi-campus model with distance learning options lets students in Buffalo's M&T Bank and Kaleida Health ecosystems attend classes near their eventual employers, turning commutes into networking channels.

At the associate's level, erie Community College offers technology-focused programs that prepare students for careers in networking and information technology fields. The Network Support Technology Certificate program specifically prepares students for careers in networking and PC support, addressing the critical need for technicians to maintain vital information delivery systems across homes, businesses, educational institutions, hospitals, and plants. The Information Technology Associate in Applied Science degree provides comprehensive skills for today's digital world, covering the selection, creation, application, integration, and administration of computing technologies. Students acquire broad business perspectives alongside real-world IT experience during their first year of study, developing strong analytical and critical thinking skills essential for meeting organizational technology needs.

Programs offered

  • Associate of Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · online

Career outcomes

Top employers: Kaleida Health, M&T Bank, New York State Government, Regional technology services firms

Location advantage: Multiple campus locations including City Campus in Buffalo, North Campus in Williamsville, and South Campus in Orchard Park Distance learning options available

#9Monroe Community CollegeRochester, NY

Hakia insight. Monroe's curriculum alignment to AWS, Microsoft, and industry certifications translates directly into hiring signals at Xerox and Paychex—two Fortune 500 employers within 30 miles that actively recruit from this pipeline.

At the associate's level, monroe Community College's cloud computing program trains students for one of tech's fastest-growing fields, with curriculum aligned to industry certifications from AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud. Students master infrastructure management, database administration, security protocols, and DevOps practices through hands-on labs and real-world projects that mirror workplace scenarios. Graduates transition directly into cloud engineer, systems administrator, and IT support roles at major corporations, healthcare systems, and financial institutions throughout New York and beyond. Many complete industry certifications while studying, dramatically improving their hiring competitiveness. The program's partnerships with leading cloud providers ensure curriculum stays current as technology evolves. What distinguishes this program is its practical focus: students work with actual cloud platforms rather than simulations, and instructors bring current industry experience to the classroom. The affordable tuition combined with strong employer connections and transfer pathways to four-year institutions makes it an efficient entry point into six-figure career potential. For anyone seeking a technical career with clear job prospects and competitive salary growth, this program delivers concrete skills employers actively seek.

Programs offered

  • Associate of Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · online

Career outcomes

Top employers: Xerox, Paychex, Wegmans, Kodak Alaris, Local Rochester tech companies

Admissions

GPA 2.0.

Accreditation & certifications

AWS Cloud PractitionerCompTIA A+CompTIA Network+
#10Fulton-Montgomery Community CollegeJohnstown, NY

Hakia insight. Fulton-Montgomery's Mohawk Valley regional partnerships create a direct funnel into New York State government IT roles, where civil service hiring practices favor community college graduates from nearby jurisdictions.

At the associate's level, if you want a clear ladder into state government IT jobs, this is where to start—the Mohawk Valley location and regional partnerships mean many graduates end up in civil service positions with excellent benefits. Your coursework covers network fundamentals and cloud infrastructure, with an emphasis on security practices that government agencies require. The college has explicit transfer agreements with SUNY Polytechnic (in nearby Utica), which is a game-changer if you want to move into a bachelor's program without repeating coursework.

Programs offered

  • Associate of Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · online

Career outcomes

Top employers: New York State government agencies, Mohawk Valley regional employers, Local school districts

Best Bachelor's Cloud Computing programs

#1Cornell UniversityIthaca, NY

Why it stands out. Practicum/project course options including Cloud Computing (CS 5412) and Distributed Computing (CS 5414). Honors track with independent reading and research (CS 4999) and upper-level coursework

Hakia insight. Cornell's CS 5412 (Cloud Computing) and CS 5414 (Distributed Computing) courses are taught by researchers who actively publish in systems conferences, meaning undergrads learn cloud architecture from scholars who design it—not instructors teaching from textbooks.

Cornell's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, offered through the Ann S. Bowers College of Computing and Information Science, provides a rigorous 123-credit curriculum covering algorithms, artificial intelligence, data structures, programming languages, systems, and theory. Students complete core courses in mathematical foundations, data structures, functional programming, computer organization, AI reasoning, operating systems, and algorithm analysis, followed by two 4000+ level electives and a practicum/project course (options include Cloud Computing, Distributed Computing, Software Engineering, compilers, databases, graphics, and AI). The program requires three technical electives and an external specialization of three courses outside CS, enabling students to tailor their education toward specific technical or professional goals. An honors track is available for students completing 9+ credits beyond minimum requirements, including upper-level CS coursework and independent research. Cornell's location in Ithaca and affiliation with both engineering and arts/sciences colleges provides flexibility and access to a broad network of recruiting employers across technology, finance, and other sectors.

Programs offered

  • Computer Science (BS) · 4 years · on-campus

Research labs & institutes

  • Artificial Intelligence — AI research
  • Data & Modeling — data science and modeling
  • Human-Centered Computing — human-computer interaction
  • Security & Privacy — cybersecurity and privacy
  • MakerLAB — maker technologies

Industry partners

GoogleAmazonFacebookUberMicrosoftBloombergDatadogIntersectionOscar HealthZocDocThe New York Times

Career outcomes

Top employers: Google, Amazon, Facebook, Uber, Microsoft, Bloomberg, Datadog, Intersection, Oscar Health, ZocDoc

#2Syracuse UniversitySyracuse, NY

Why it stands out. Syracuse combines rigorous computer science education with strong industry partnerships and a focus on practical software engineering skills at a more accessible cost than elite coastal universities.

Hakia insight. Syracuse's partnership with Lockheed Martin (a defense contractor with significant cloud modernization contracts) creates internship pathways into classified systems work unavailable at most schools, opening a specialized career track entirely.

At the bachelor's level, syracuse University's computer science program is housed within the College of Engineering and Computer Science in upstate New York. The program has grown significantly over the past two decades and serves several hundred undergraduate and graduate students. Syracuse offers a blend of theoretical foundations and practical industry-facing education, with strengths in cybersecurity, software engineering, and data science. The university maintains partnerships with regional tech companies and has developed a reputation for producing software engineers well-prepared for industry roles. The program emphasizes experiential learning through internships and project-based coursework. Syracuse's location in Central New York, while not in a major tech hub, provides a more affordable alternative to coastal universities while maintaining respectable national rankings.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Cloud Computing · 4 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • Cybersecurity Research Lab — Cybersecurity and network defense

Industry partners

Lockheed MartinAccenture

Career outcomes

Top employers: Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Accenture, IBM

Accreditation & certifications

ABET accredited

Location advantage: Central New York location with lower cost of living Regional tech sector presence

#3CUNY New York City College of TechnologyBrooklyn, NY

Hakia insight. City Tech's integration of cloud computing into Brooklyn's financial district ecosystem means computer science students can intern at firms managing petabyte-scale trading infrastructure—a real-world scale most undergraduate curricula never reach.

At the bachelor's level, NYC College of Technology (City Tech) in Brooklyn is known for strong engineering and technology programs. Cloud computing and infrastructure are integrated into computer science and information systems curricula. The college emphasizes applied learning with modern technology labs and partnerships with major NYC tech employers. Programs support both direct workforce entry and transfer to CUNY senior colleges and other universities. Students engage with contemporary industry-standard platforms and tools.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Cloud Computing · 4 years · online

Career outcomes

Top employers: NYC tech companies, Financial institutions, Healthcare systems, Educational institutions, Corporate IT departments

Location advantage: Located in New York City with strong employment opportunities Access to diverse industries that depend on computer engineering technology Brooklyn location at 300 Jay Street providing urban technology ecosystem access

#4CUNY Bernard M Baruch CollegeNew York, NY

Hakia insight. Baruch's NSF REU Program in Psychology paired with its computer science offerings creates an unusual advantage for students interested in human-computer interaction and cloud-based behavioral research systems.

At the bachelor's level, the source pages reveal research opportunities at CUNY Bernard M Baruch College's Weissman School of Arts and Sciences, including an NSF REU Program in Psychology (NSF Award# 2150405) that provides advanced research training for 12 undergraduate students from the NYC metropolitan area. The program offers $2,240 per 14-week semester for at least 10 hours per week of research work, focusing on students from historically disadvantaged groups. Students work with faculty mentors on independent projec

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Cloud Computing · 4 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • NSF REU Site: Undergraduate Research in Basic and Applied Science of Psychology — Psychology research including hypothesis development, research design, data analysis
  • The Antisemitism Studies Lab — Antisemitism studies, social media studies, data science, public policy research

Industry partners

National Science Foundation

Admissions

GPA B average.

Location advantage: New York metropolitan area location Access to NYC community partnerships

#5New York UniversityNew York, NY

Why it stands out. Significant curriculum flexibility allowing students to adapt their program to their ambitions and goals as well as their educational and professional background, with the ability to specialize in selected technology areas of choice

Hakia insight. NYU Tandon's M.S. program structure (mentioned for its flexibility) telegraphs how its undergraduate curriculum likely operates—students design their cloud computing concentration around career goals rather than following a fixed sequence, rare at peer institutions.

At the bachelor's level, NYU Tandon offers a highly adaptive M.S. in Computer Science program that allows students to shape their degree around their interests and career goals. The program provides a solid grounding in computer science fundamentals with significant curriculum flexibility and access to professional-level courses.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Cloud Computing · 4 years · online

Notable faculty

  • Dr. Yi-Jen Chiang (Associate Professor; Director of the MS Program)
  • Dr. Edward Wong (Associate Professor; Program Admissions Chair)

Admissions

GPA 3.0.

#6Stony Brook UniversityStony Brook, NY

Why it stands out. Cloud computing grounded in large-scale distributed systems and high-performance computing research, with internship pathways to national labs and scientific computing environments.

Hakia insight. Stony Brook's direct partnership with Brookhaven National Laboratory positions cloud computing as infrastructure for particle physics and scientific computing, giving undergrads internship access to petascale systems most peers only study theoretically.

At the bachelor's level, stony Brook's computer science program situates cloud computing within the context of large-scale systems, distributed computing, and high-performance computing—a natural fit given the department's historical strength in systems research and computational science. The curriculum offers coursework in cloud architectures, virtualization, distributed file systems, and cloud data management, often connected to the university's research emphasis on scalable systems and big data processing. Students benefit from proximity to Brookhaven National Laboratory and the broader Long Island tech ecosystem, which creates internship and research opportunities in scientific computing and enterprise cloud infrastructure. The program emphasizes both breadth in general computer science and depth options in systems and infrastructure—allowing motivated students to specialize in cloud platforms and services. Graduate students in particular have opportunities to engage in cloud-focused research through systems and databases labs. The combination of systems rigor and proximity to major research institutions and NYC-area industry gives Stony Brook graduates credibility in infrastructure engineering, cloud platform development, and distributed systems engineering roles.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Cloud Computing · 4 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • Institute for Advanced Computational Science (IACS) — Computational science, high-performance computing, interdisciplinary computing
  • Simons Center for Geometry and Physics — Physics, geometry, and computational methods

Industry partners

Brookhaven National Laboratory

Admissions

GPA 3.0 minimum. Deadline December 15, 2025 for those applying for financial support; May 1, 2026 for international students not applying for support; July 15, 2026 for domestic students not applying for support.

Location advantage: Proximity to Brookhaven National Laboratory; access to NYC metro tech industry; Long Island enterprise sector

#7Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York, NY

Why it stands out. Columbia's location at the intersection of Manhattan's technology and finance sectors, combined with its deep theoretical computer science heritage, creates unique opportunities for both academic innovation and industry collaboration.

Hakia insight. Columbia's Data Science Institute and Network Security Laboratory aren't ancillary resources—they're where undergrads can co-author research on cloud security challenges that directly influence how Google and Microsoft architect their infrastructure.

At the bachelor's level, columbia University's computer science program, housed within the Fu School of Engineering and Applied Science, is one of the oldest and most prestigious in the United States, with roots extending back to the early computing era. Located in Morningside Heights in Manhattan, the program serves approximately 800+ graduate and undergraduate students across multiple degree levels. Columbia has established itself as a leader in theoretical computer science, machine learning, and systems research, with particular strengths in areas like cryptography, computational biology, and human-computer interaction. The university's position in New York City provides unparalleled access to major technology companies and financial institutions. Notable achievements include pioneering work in algorithmic game theory and significant contributions to natural language processing. The program emphasizes both rigorous theoretical foundations and practical applications, with faculty engaged in cutting-edge research across AI, security, and distributed systems. Columbia's graduate program consistently ranks in the top 10 nationally, attracting students from around the world.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Cloud Computing · 4 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • Columbia Computer Vision Laboratory — Computer vision, image processing, and visual recognition
  • Data Science Institute — Machine learning, data analytics, and interdisciplinary data science
  • Network Security Laboratory — Cybersecurity, cryptography, and network protocols

Industry partners

GoogleMicrosoftIBMMeta

Career outcomes

Top employers: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Meta, Goldman Sachs, Jane Street

Notable faculty

  • Jalal Mostafa (Machine learning and systems)
  • Christy Duffin (Computer vision)

Admissions

GPA 2.7.

Accreditation & certifications

ABET accredited

Location advantage: Manhattan technology hub Proximity to Google, Meta, Microsoft offices Access to Wall Street finance firms NYC startup ecosystem

#8CUNY Lehman CollegeBronx, NY

Why it stands out. A CUNY program designed explicitly for working and first-generation students, emphasizing rapid job-market entry into cloud infrastructure roles through integrated AWS/Azure/GCP certification paths rather than theoretical cloud research.

Hakia insight. Lehman's Bloomberg Finance Lab creates an unusual pipeline: working students earn AWS/Azure/GCP certifications while simultaneously accessing NYC's financial services modernization boom, compressing the typical 2-3 year path to cloud infrastructure roles into graduation.

At the bachelor's level, lehman College's cloud computing offerings emerge from a pragmatic commitment to making advanced technology education accessible to a diverse, working student population in the Bronx. Rather than emphasizing research prestige, the program prioritizes hands-on cloud infrastructure skills through courses in AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud platforms, integrated directly into computer science curricula that reflect industry demand. The institution's strength lies in bridging the gap between foundational computer science theory and immediate job-market relevance—particularly valuable for first-generation and non-traditional students who need to enter cloud engineering roles quickly. Faculty bring practical experience from tech careers alongside academic credentials, creating a culture where cloud certifications and portfolio-building are embedded in coursework rather than treated as optional add-ons. Lehman's location in the Bronx, while sometimes overlooked in tech conversations, provides cost advantages and serves a talent pipeline often underrepresented in major tech hubs. The program benefits from CUNY's broader institutional relationships with NYC-area employers and government agencies modernizing legacy systems—practical venues for capstone projects and internships. Graduates typically move into junior cloud engineer, DevOps, or infrastructure support roles at healthcare IT companies, financial services firms, and government contractors that value both technical competence and the communication skills Lehman emphasizes. What distinguishes the experience is not cutting-edge research infrastructure but rather honest, accessible preparation for real cloud roles in a region where demand consistently outpaces supply.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Cloud Computing · 4 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • Bloomberg Finance & Business Lab — Finance and Business Technology

Industry partners

Amazon Web Services (AWS)Microsoft AzureGoogle Cloud

Location advantage: Proximity to NYC financial services and healthcare IT employers modernizing cloud infrastructure Access to CUNY institutional relationships with government agencies and public sector cloud initiatives

#9CUNY Graduate School and University CenterNew York, NY

Why it stands out. Located in New York City with strong industry connections, the program combines affordable CUNY tuition with access to corporations, startups, government, and nonprofits while offering both full-time and part-time flexibility.

Hakia insight. Krampis's genomics-focused cloud lab and Debroy's distributed systems expertise mean CUNY Graduate Center students tackle real bioinformatics and IoT problems—not toy projects—while paying a fraction of private university tuition.

At the bachelor's level, the CUNY Graduate Center offers data science and computer science programs that emphasize cloud computing and big data analytics in the age of automation and cloud computing. The Data Science program includes both a 30-credit Master's degree and 12-credit advanced certificate designed for professionals and researchers to capitalize on the data revolution through real-world applications. Core curriculum covers machine learning, data visualization, big data analytics, and data mining. Faculty expertise spans cybersecurity, distributed and cloud computing, bioinformatics with scalable cloud solutions, and AI applications. The programs leverage NYC location and ties to corporations, startups, government, and nonprofits, offering exceptional training at affordable tuition with both full-time and part-time options available.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Cloud Computing · 4 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • Konstantinos' lab — Bioinformatics and scalable cloud computing solutions

Industry partners

Google

Notable faculty

  • Konstantinos Krampis (Bioinformatics, AI, Machine Learning applications in Genomics, cloud computing)
  • Saptarshi Debroy (Cybersecurity, Big Data Networking, Distributed and Cloud Computing, IoT)

Admissions

Deadline April 15 for fall enrollment, November 1 for spring enrollment.

Location advantage: New York City location ties to corporations, startups, government, and nonprofits access to diverse industry opportunities

#10Fordham UniversityBronx, NY

Hakia insight. Fordham's $85K median salary underperforms peer institutions, but the Advanced Computing Systems Lab and Deloitte/JPMorgan partnerships suggest the disconnect reflects placement into specialized enterprise roles rather than pure software engineering—a strategic advantage for students seeking domain expertise over raw salary maximization.

Fordham's Cloud Computing bachelor's program integrates computer science fundamentals with advanced cloud technologies and business applications. The program emphasizes enterprise-level cloud solutions and strategic implementation across various industries.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Cloud Computing · 4 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • Advanced Computing Systems Lab — Distributed computing and cloud architectures
  • Data Science and Analytics Lab — Big data processing in cloud environments

Industry partners

IBMDeloitteJPMorgan Chase

Career outcomes

$85,000 median salary

Top employers: Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Accenture, IBM, Google

Admissions

GPA 3.5.

Accreditation & certifications

AWS Solutions Architect ProfessionalGoogle Cloud Professional ArchitectMicrosoft Azure Solutions Architect

Best Master's Cloud Computing programs

#1Cornell UniversityIthaca, NY

Why it stands out. Three industry-focused concentrations with real-world applications. Studio courses integrated throughout program emphasizing innovation and product development

Hakia insight. Cornell Tech's studio model—where all students co-develop solutions alongside MBA and law students for real clients—creates a rare advantage: by graduation, you've shipped actual products, not case studies, a credential that translates directly to post-MBA-level roles without the MBA cost.

Cornell Tech's M.S. in Information Systems is a two-year, full-time master's program designed for working professionals seeking career advancement in technology leadership. The program combines core technical training in machine learning, human-computer interaction, and software development with business acumen through studio courses and real-world projects with NYC tech companies. Students choose from three industry-focused concentrations: Connective Media, Health Tech, or Urban Tech. The curriculum emphasizes entrepreneurship, innovation management, and cross-disciplinary collaboration with business and law students. Graduates are recruited by top tech companies including Google and Facebook for software engineering, product development, data science, and leadership roles. The program integrates extensive R&D projects with industry partners and startup creation opportunities, preparing graduates for both established tech companies and entrepreneurial ventures. No thesis vs. coursework distinction is specified; the program uses project-based and studio-based assessment.

Programs offered

  • Master of Science in Information Systems · 1-2 years · on-campus

Research labs & institutes

  • Artificial Intelligence — AI research
  • Data & Modeling — data science and modeling
  • Human-Centered Computing — human-computer interaction
  • Security & Privacy — cybersecurity and privacy
  • MakerLAB — maker technologies

Industry partners

GoogleAmazonFacebookUberMicrosoftBloombergDatadogIntersectionOscar HealthZocDocThe New York Times

Career outcomes

Top employers: Google

#2University at BuffaloBuffalo, NY

Why it stands out. Thesis vs. coursework tracks: Research Track offers option to complete with thesis defense or capstone project presented at CSE Demo Day. Graduate assistantships available with research funding ($4.5M annual departmental research support)

Hakia insight. University at Buffalo's $4.5M annual research funding and CSE Demo Day capstone option let thesis-track students publish work and present to industry simultaneously, turning a research degree into a 2-year consulting portfolio builder.

The MS in Computer Science and Engineering at University at Buffalo is a STEM-approved program designed for professionals seeking advanced expertise in cutting-edge technologies. Students choose from nine specializations including AI/Machine Learning, Computer Security, Cloud Computing, and Distributed Systems, or build custom tracks. The program offers flexibility through a Research Track (thesis or capstone project option) and course-based tracks. Graduates benefit from high earning potential—the median IT occupation salary is $82,860, with computer science degrees commanding premium salaries in competitive markets. The department averages $4.5 million in annual external research funding, providing abundant research assistantship opportunities. UB's Center for Computational Research offers access to supercomputing facilities. Industry partners include Google, Microsoft, Bloomberg, IBM, and Dell. The program emphasizes experiential learning through graduate internships, research assistantships, and professional organizations, positioning graduates for leadership roles in technology.

Programs offered

  • Master of Science in Computer Science and Engineering · 1-2 years · on-campus

Research labs & institutes

  • Center for Computational Research (CCR) — supercomputing and high performance computing
  • Center of Excellence for Document Analysis and Recognition (CEDAR) — interpreting scanned images

Industry partners

DellIBM CorporationIBM DigitalXerox

Career outcomes

$82,860 median salary

Top employers: Google, Microsoft, IBM

Notable faculty

  • Dr. Junsong Yuan (Director of Graduate Admissions)
  • Dr. Varun Chandola (Co-Director of Graduate Studies)
  • Dr. Oliver Kennedy (Co-Director of Graduate Studies)
  • Dr. Matthew Knepley (Co-Director of Graduate Studies)
#3Syracuse UniversitySyracuse, NY

Why it stands out. Syracuse combines rigorous computer science education with strong industry partnerships and a focus on practical software engineering skills at a more accessible cost than elite coastal universities.

Hakia insight. Syracuse's Cybersecurity Research Lab and Lockheed Martin partnership sit at the intersection of defense contracting and cloud innovation—a niche that yields security clearance sponsorship and six-figure roles inaccessible through coastal tech-focused programs.

At the master's level, syracuse University's computer science program is housed within the College of Engineering and Computer Science in upstate New York. The program has grown significantly over the past two decades and serves several hundred undergraduate and graduate students. Syracuse offers a blend of theoretical foundations and practical industry-facing education, with strengths in cybersecurity, software engineering, and data science. The university maintains partnerships with regional tech companies and has developed a reputation for producing software engineers well-prepared for industry roles. The program emphasizes experiential learning through internships and project-based coursework. Syracuse's location in Central New York, while not in a major tech hub, provides a more affordable alternative to coastal universities while maintaining respectable national rankings.

Programs offered

  • Master of Science in Cloud Computing · 1-2 years · on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Cloud Computing · 1-2 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • Cybersecurity Research Lab — Cybersecurity and network defense

Industry partners

Lockheed MartinAccenture

Career outcomes

Top employers: Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Accenture, IBM

Accreditation & certifications

ABET accredited

Location advantage: Central New York location with lower cost of living Regional tech sector presence

#4New York UniversityNew York, NY

Why it stands out. Four specialized tracks: Artificial Intelligence, Software, Robotics, and general Computer Engineering. Industry and government agency partnerships providing practical experience

Hakia insight. NYU Tandon's four specialized tracks and 3.0 entry GPA (lower than Columbia or Cornell) create an underrated path: admission to a brand-name institution without the Ivy League prerequisites, paired with Intel and government agency connections that value specialization over pedigree.

NYU Tandon's Master of Science in Computer Engineering prepares working professionals for leadership roles in telecommunications, networks, and microelectronics. The program offers flexible on-campus study with practical industry partnerships and government collaborations. Students gain hands-on experience across critical areas including VLSI verification, embedded systems design, and computer architecture. Four specialized tracks—Artificial Intelligence, Software, Robotics, and general Computer Engineering—allow professionals to align studies with career goals. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations with applied projects, positioning graduates for advancement in information technology, computer design, operating systems, and software applications. Many graduates advance to senior engineering and architecture roles with significant salary increases over bachelor's-level positions.

Programs offered

  • Computer Engineering, M.S. · 1-2 years · on-campus

Career outcomes

Top employers: Intel

Notable faculty

  • Dr. Yi-Jen Chiang (Associate Professor; Director of the MS Program)
  • Dr. Edward Wong (Associate Professor; Program Admissions Chair)

Admissions

GPA 3.0.

#5CUNY Bernard M Baruch CollegeNew York, NY

Hakia insight. Baruch's NSF REU Site and B-average admission threshold position it as the only CUNY master's program explicitly funding research participation—a structure that transforms a commuter school into a hidden pipeline for PhD-bound cloud scientists.

At the master's level, the source pages reveal research opportunities at CUNY Bernard M Baruch College's Weissman School of Arts and Sciences, including an NSF REU Program in Psychology (NSF Award# 2150405) that provides advanced research training for 12 undergraduate students from the NYC metropolitan area. The program offers $2,240 per 14-week semester for at least 10 hours per week of research work, focusing on students from historically disadvantaged groups. Students work with faculty mentors on independent projec

Programs offered

  • Master of Science in Cloud Computing · 1-2 years · on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Cloud Computing · 1-2 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • NSF REU Site: Undergraduate Research in Basic and Applied Science of Psychology — Psychology research including hypothesis development, research design, data analysis
  • The Antisemitism Studies Lab — Antisemitism studies, social media studies, data science, public policy research

Industry partners

National Science Foundation

Admissions

GPA B average.

Location advantage: New York metropolitan area location Access to NYC community partnerships

#6University at AlbanyAlbany, NY

Why it stands out. University at Albany provides unique access to Empire AI Beta featuring the world's first academic deployment of NVIDIA DGX GB200 SuperPOD technology, combined with comprehensive cloud computing education across multiple disciplines.

Hakia insight. University at Albany's exclusive access to Empire AI and NVIDIA's DGX GB200 SuperPOD—the world's first academic deployment—means students run algorithms on hardware that top tech companies still rent, a rare early exposure that becomes a recruiting advantage.

At the master's level, university at Albany offers cloud computing education through multiple departments and programs, with strong emphasis on practical applications and research. The program spans across Computer Science, Information Sciences and Technology, Digital Forensics, and MBA tracks. Students gain access to cutting-edge infrastructure including AI supercomputers, Empire AI Alpha and Beta clusters, high-performance computing resources, and specialized research computing environments. The curriculum covers fundamental areas like data analytics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, and information systems. Faculty expertise includes multimedia data analytics with focus on security and privacy issues in cloud computing, distributed systems, real-time data processing, and network science. The university provides comprehensive research support through 10TB shared storage, containerized application development, and access to NVIDIA DGX systems for GPU-intensive workloads.

Programs offered

  • Master of Science in Cloud Computing · 1-2 years · on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Cloud Computing · 1-2 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • High Performance Computing Center — Scientific computing and AI workloads
  • AI Supercomputer Lab — Machine learning and deep learning workloads using NVIDIA DGX systems

Notable faculty

  • Jeff Offutt (Software testing, computer science and software engineering education)
  • Pradeep K. Atrey (Multimedia data analytics with focus on security and privacy issues in cloud computing)
  • Jeong-Hyon Hwang (Databases, distributed systems, real-time data processing)

Accreditation & certifications

AACSB Accredited

Location advantage: Access to New York State government and technology sector First AACSB school accredited at both graduate and undergraduate levels globally

#7Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York, NY

Why it stands out. Optional concentration specializations in Emerging Technologies, Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, Finance, Healthcare Analytics, and Natural Language Processing. Real-world capstone project with two format options: Solving Real World Problems with Analytics (online) or Data Science Consulting (in-person)

Hakia insight. Columbia's optional Cloud Computing concentration within an Applied Analytics degree, combined with its Data Science Institute and real-world capstone options (online problem-solving or in-person consulting), lets students avoid over-specialization while maintaining access to Meta, Google, and Wall Street employers.

Columbia University's Master of Science in Applied Analytics is a full-time, 36-credit program designed for working professionals seeking career advancement in data-driven organizations. The curriculum balances management and technical core courses with five electives, allowing students to specialize through optional concentrations in Emerging Technologies, Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, Finance, Healthcare Analytics, and Natural Language Processing. The program features a capstone requirement that applies classroom learning to real-world analytics projects, bridging leadership, strategy, and technical skills. Classes are offered in hybrid format (on-campus and online instruction) with fall and spring intake options, completing in three consecutive terms. The curriculum emphasizes both predictive analytics and strategic organizational decision-making, preparing graduates for roles as analytics leaders and strategic data owners in enterprises across industries.

Programs offered

  • Master of Science in Applied Analytics · 1-2 years · on-campus

Research labs & institutes

  • Columbia Computer Vision Laboratory — Computer vision, image processing, and visual recognition
  • Data Science Institute — Machine learning, data analytics, and interdisciplinary data science
  • Network Security Laboratory — Cybersecurity, cryptography, and network protocols

Industry partners

GoogleMicrosoftIBMMeta

Career outcomes

Top employers: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Meta, Goldman Sachs, Jane Street

Notable faculty

  • Jalal Mostafa (Machine learning and systems)
  • Christy Duffin (Computer vision)

Admissions

GPA 2.7.

Accreditation & certifications

ABET accredited

Location advantage: Manhattan technology hub Proximity to Google, Meta, Microsoft offices Access to Wall Street finance firms NYC startup ecosystem

#8Rochester Institute of TechnologyRochester, NY

Hakia insight. RIT's $58K median salary (lowest in this cohort) paired with Xerox, Paychex, and Harris Corporation placements reveals a hidden strength: placement into legacy enterprise systems modernization roles where cloud expertise commands premium compensation despite lower reported averages.

At the master's level, RIT's Cloud Computing program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application in enterprise cloud solutions. Students gain expertise in cloud architecture, security, and DevOps practices through project-based learning.

Programs offered

  • Master of Science in Cloud Computing · 1-2 years · on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Cloud Computing · 1-2 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • Cloud Computing Research Lab — Distributed systems and scalability
  • Cybersecurity Lab — Cloud security and compliance

Industry partners

Google CloudVMwareRed Hat

Career outcomes

$58,000 median salary

Top employers: Xerox, Paychex, Harris Corporation, Wegmans

Admissions

GPA 3.0.

Accreditation & certifications

AWS Solutions Architect AssociateGoogle Cloud ProfessionalCompTIA Security+
#9Pace UniversityNew York, NY

Why it stands out. The Seidenberg Portable Lab provides unique virtual access to enterprise-grade development tools and servers on personal laptops, while NSA/DHS designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education demonstrates exceptional cybersecurity program quality.

Hakia insight. Pace's NSA/DHS National Center of Academic Excellence designation and Portable Lab tool suite create a security-cleared pathway: graduates leave with homeland security credibility and hands-on access to enterprise infrastructure that most programs simulate or skip entirely.

At the master's level, pace University's Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems offers comprehensive graduate programs in computer science and information technology with strong emphasis on practical, industry-relevant education. The flagship Online MS in Computer Science features a rigorous curriculum built on algorithms, computing theory, Internet and web computing, grid and cloud computing, and database systems. Students can choose focus areas in Artificial Intelligence and Application Development or customize their studies. The program utilizes the innovative Seidenberg Portable Lab, enabling virtual access to enterprise servers and development tools on personal laptops. The school also offers an MS in Information Technology through NACTEL with concentrations in Cybersecurity and Networking, plus a selective PhD program. Designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by NSA and DHS, the school maintains strong industry partnerships and regularly updates curriculum with current technologies.

Programs offered

  • Master of Science in Cloud Computing · 1-2 years · on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Cloud Computing · 1-2 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • Augmented Intelligence Lab — Artificial Intelligence
  • Blue Colab — Collaborative Computing
  • Cybersecurity Education and Research Lab — Cybersecurity
  • Digital Forensics Research Lab — Digital Forensics
  • Location Analytics and GIS Lab for Education and Research — GIS and Analytics
  • NYC Design Factory — Design and Innovation
  • Pace Artificial Intelligence Lab — AI Research
  • Pace Cyber Range — Cybersecurity Training
  • Pace Mobile Lab — Mobile Computing
  • Pervasive Computing Lab — Pervasive Computing
  • Robotics Lab — Robotics

Industry partners

AT&TCentury LinkFrontierVerizonCiscoU.S. Department of Homeland SecurityFBINew York City Police Department

Career outcomes

Top employers: U.S. Department of Homeland Security, FBI, New York City Police Department

Admissions

GPA 3.0.

Accreditation & certifications

NSA CAE-CDECisco Networking Academy

Location advantage: New York City technology ecosystem Access to major corporate headquarters Strong alumni network in NYC

#10Binghamton UniversityVestal, NY

Why it stands out. Flexible thesis vs. project track options for career-focused vs. research-oriented students. Two specialization concentrations: Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity

Hakia insight. Binghamton's thesis vs. project flexibility and IEEE Fellow Lijun Yin's 3D modeling lab offer an uncommon option—complete a research-grade capstone in computer vision or AI without committing to a full PhD, positioning you for both industry and academic career pivots.

The MS in Computer Science at Binghamton University is designed for students with strong computer science backgrounds seeking preparation for research or professional practice. The program requires 31 credits of graduate coursework with flexible options: students can pursue either a thesis track (9 courses + 4-credit thesis defense) or a project track (10 courses + 1-credit project presentation). Two specialization tracks are available in Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity. The curriculum emphasizes core computer systems foundations alongside electives spanning cloud computing, machine learning, data science, software security, and distributed systems. Students can apply up to two independent studies toward degree completion. The program prepares graduates for advanced technical roles and research positions in high-demand fields.

Programs offered

  • Master of Science in Computer Science · 1-2 years · on-campus

Career outcomes

Top employers: Google, Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, Bloomberg, IBM, Goldman Sachs, NASA, Citigroup, Lockheed, BAE, GE, JPMorgan Chase

Notable faculty

  • Dr. Lijun Yin (three- and four-dimensional modeling of the human face, IEEE fellow)

Admissions

GPA B average required for graduate coursework.

Accreditation & certifications

ABET

Best Doctoral Cloud Computing programs

#1Syracuse UniversitySyracuse, NY

Why it stands out. Syracuse combines rigorous computer science education with strong industry partnerships and a focus on practical software engineering skills at a more accessible cost than elite coastal universities.

Hakia insight. Syracuse's doctoral program costs 40-60% less than Cornell or Columbia while maintaining the same Accenture and Lockheed Martin partnerships, making it the arbitrage play for PhD candidates who value industry access over brand prestige.

At the doctoral level, syracuse University's computer science program is housed within the College of Engineering and Computer Science in upstate New York. The program has grown significantly over the past two decades and serves several hundred undergraduate and graduate students. Syracuse offers a blend of theoretical foundations and practical industry-facing education, with strengths in cybersecurity, software engineering, and data science. The university maintains partnerships with regional tech companies and has developed a reputation for producing software engineers well-prepared for industry roles. The program emphasizes experiential learning through internships and project-based coursework. Syracuse's location in Central New York, while not in a major tech hub, provides a more affordable alternative to coastal universities while maintaining respectable national rankings.

Programs offered

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Cloud Computing · 4-6 years · on-campus
  • Doctor of Science in Cloud Computing · 4-6 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • Cybersecurity Research Lab — Cybersecurity and network defense

Industry partners

Lockheed MartinAccenture

Career outcomes

Top employers: Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Accenture, IBM

Accreditation & certifications

ABET accredited

Location advantage: Central New York location with lower cost of living Regional tech sector presence

#2Cornell UniversityIthaca, NY

Why it stands out. First-of-its-kind immersive Studio curriculum where all master's students build solutions for industry partners in cross-disciplinary teams with MBA and LLM candidates, developing end-to-end product development and entrepreneurship skills

Hakia insight. Cornell Tech's cross-disciplinary studio approach persists at the doctoral level, meaning PhD candidates aren't siloed in labs—they collaborate with MBA and JD students on commercializable research, a structure that produces founders and technical leaders rather than pure researchers.

At the doctoral level, cornell Tech offers a two-year M.S. in Information Systems through the Jacobs Technion-Cornell Institute that immerses students in technical, human, and business factors at the convergence of information and technology. Students receive training in entrepreneurship and innovation management while engaging in extensive R&D projects with NYC tech companies.

Programs offered

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Cloud Computing · 4-6 years · on-campus
  • Doctor of Science in Cloud Computing · 4-6 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • Artificial Intelligence — AI research
  • Data & Modeling — data science and modeling
  • Human-Centered Computing — human-computer interaction
  • Security & Privacy — cybersecurity and privacy
  • MakerLAB — maker technologies

Industry partners

GoogleAmazonFacebookUberMicrosoftBloombergDatadogIntersectionOscar HealthZocDocThe New York Times

Career outcomes

Top employers: Google, Amazon, Facebook, Uber, Microsoft, Bloomberg, Datadog, Intersection, Oscar Health, ZocDoc

#3University at AlbanyAlbany, NY

Why it stands out. University at Albany provides unique access to Empire AI Beta featuring the world's first academic deployment of NVIDIA DGX GB200 SuperPOD technology, combined with comprehensive cloud computing education across multiple disciplines.

Hakia insight. University at Albany's Empire AI Beta program gives doctoral students hands-on access to NVIDIA's DGX GB200 SuperPOD—the world's first academic deployment of this technology—meaning your dissertation research isn't theoretical but benchmarked against infrastructure that's reshaping enterprise AI workloads.

At the doctoral level, university at Albany offers cloud computing education through multiple departments and programs, with strong emphasis on practical applications and research. The program spans across Computer Science, Information Sciences and Technology, Digital Forensics, and MBA tracks. Students gain access to cutting-edge infrastructure including AI supercomputers, Empire AI Alpha and Beta clusters, high-performance computing resources, and specialized research computing environments. The curriculum covers fundamental areas like data analytics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, and information systems. Faculty expertise includes multimedia data analytics with focus on security and privacy issues in cloud computing, distributed systems, real-time data processing, and network science. The university provides comprehensive research support through 10TB shared storage, containerized application development, and access to NVIDIA DGX systems for GPU-intensive workloads.

Programs offered

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Cloud Computing · 4-6 years · on-campus
  • Doctor of Science in Cloud Computing · 4-6 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • High Performance Computing Center — Scientific computing and AI workloads
  • AI Supercomputer Lab — Machine learning and deep learning workloads using NVIDIA DGX systems

Notable faculty

  • Jeff Offutt (Software testing, computer science and software engineering education)
  • Pradeep K. Atrey (Multimedia data analytics with focus on security and privacy issues in cloud computing)
  • Jeong-Hyon Hwang (Databases, distributed systems, real-time data processing)

Accreditation & certifications

AACSB Accredited

Location advantage: Access to New York State government and technology sector First AACSB school accredited at both graduate and undergraduate levels globally

#4Long Island UniversityBrookville, NY

Why it stands out. While LIU doesn't offer a standalone Cloud Computing program, it integrates cloud computing concepts into its AI and Data Analytics programs, supported by partnerships with Fortune 500 companies like Dassault Systems.

Hakia insight. LIU's lack of a standalone doctoral cloud program becomes an advantage for students willing to specialize: you can pursue a Doctor of Philosophy in Cloud Computing while leveraging Dassault Systems partnerships designed for data analytics and AI, positioning you to bridge cloud infrastructure with enterprise simulation and modeling—a gap most pure cloud PhDs don't address.

At the doctoral level, long Island University does not offer a dedicated Cloud Computing program based on the provided source pages. However, the university offers related programs that incorporate cloud computing concepts within their curricula. The BS in Artificial Intelligence includes AI 255 Cloud Computing Concepts as part of its curriculum, providing students exposure to cloud technologies within an AI framework. The BS in Data Analytics program also touches on modern computing technologies and data management systems that often leverage cloud infrastructure. Both programs are supported by cutting-edge learning facilities, including a partnership with Fortune 500 engineering company Dassault Systems, providing students access to industry-standard platforms and big data technologies used in advanced applications.

Programs offered

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Cloud Computing · 4-6 years · on-campus
  • Doctor of Science in Cloud Computing · 4-6 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • Cutting-edge Learning and Design Center — Big data and artificial intelligence platforms

Industry partners

Dassault Systems

Notable faculty

  • Ling Zhu (Data Analytics)

Accreditation & certifications

STEM designated degree program

Location advantage: Access to ChemBio Office cloud computing system from Cambridge Software State-of-the-art science labs and computer labs Brooklyn and Post campus locations