Associate's Cloud Computing Programs in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus — University Park, PA
Key Distinction: Penn State's MCS program uniquely combines software engineering expertise with comprehensive data science and machine learning training, emphasizing both technical depth and practical application across diverse industries through 100% online delivery.
Hakia Insight: Penn State's online MCS uniquely bundles cloud computing with comprehensive machine learning training, letting graduates pivot between infrastructure roles and data-heavy positions—flexibility that justifies the 30-credit investment.
At the associate's level, pennsylvania State University-World Campus offers a comprehensive 30-credit Master of Computer Science (MCS) degree delivered 100% online. This interdisciplinary program prepares students to drive the design, development, and deployment of software systems across diverse application domains to meet contemporary social and technical challenges. The program emphasizes practical skills including algorithms and data structures for solving complex business problems, large-scale software project management with DevOps principles, big data solutions development, parallel computing applications, and machine learning lifecycle management from data engineering to model deployment and monitoring. Students gain essential collaboration skills for data science teams focusing on big data, machine learning, and data analytics. The program costs $1,037 per credit and offers flexible, self-paced learning with application deadlines of May 1 for May 18 start dates.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, online
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Cloud Support Associate
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Junior Cloud Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
- Network Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- AWS Solutions Architect Associate
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Montgomery County Community College — Blue Bell, PA
Key Distinction: One of the fastest growing career fields worldwide with hands-on instruction from industry experts and practice in state-of-the-art computer labs
Hakia Insight: Montgomery County's quad-vendor stack (CompTIA, Cisco, AWS, Azure) gives you genuine cross-platform credibility rather than vendor lock-in; the federal STEM consortium funding also subsidizes lab equipment most community colleges can't afford.
At the associate's level, the Cloud Computing Associate of Applied Science degree program introduces students to the highly in-demand field of cloud computing and computer networking. This 61-credit hour program provides hands-on instruction with industry experts and practice inside state-of-the-art computer labs to prepare graduates for internet-based, information technology jobs.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- CompTIA (certification)
- CISCO (tech)
- AWS (tech)
- Microsoft Azure (tech)
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Cloud+
- CISCO Certified Administrator (CCNA)
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- AWS Solutions Architect
- Azure Cloud Fundamentals
- Azure Cloud Administrator
Location Advantages: State-of-the-art computer labs for hands-on learningPart of federally-funded Pennsylvania consortium for enhanced STEM educationAccess to laptop loaner programs and technology support services
Bucks County Community College — Newtown, PA
Key Distinction: Partnership with Amazon's $20 billion cloud computing and AI investment in Pennsylvania, with over 90% job placement in select programs and fast-track certifications available in as little as 12 weeks
Hakia Insight: Bucks County's partnership with Amazon's $20 billion Pennsylvania AI investment isn't marketing—it creates direct pathways to roles in Amazon's regional expansion, with 90% placement rates proving the employer connection works in practice.
At the associate's level, bucks County Community College offers information technology and cybersecurity programs with hands-on training at their state-of-the-art Center for Advanced Technologies. The college is part of a new Technology and Trades Workforce Consortium to support Amazon's cloud computing and AI campus development in Falls Township.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Amazon (cloud computing and AI)
Harrisburg Area Community College — Harrisburg, PA
Key Distinction: The program is vendor-neutral and coordinated with national Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) standards, offering both degree and certificate pathways with specialized electives in emerging technologies.
Hakia Insight: HACC's CompTIA-aligned, vendor-neutral approach means your degree remains relevant across AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud shifts—a rare hedge against cloud platform consolidation that other programs can't offer.
At the associate's level, harrisburg Area Community College's Computer Networking Technology program provides comprehensive training in network design, installation, configuration, troubleshooting, and maintenance. The program covers a broad range of topics including cabling, data communications, information security fundamentals, network analyzers, TCP/IP, telecommunications, Windows and Linux Server administration, and PC repair. Students can pursue either an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree or a certificate program. The curriculum is vendor-neutral and coordinated with national standards from the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA). Elective courses are available in specialized areas including Cisco routing and switching, ethical hacking and incident response, wireless administration, and virtualization and cloud computing. The program emphasizes practical skills development and includes coursework in oral and written communication skills essential for today's workplace environment.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA coordinated standards
Top Transfer Destinations
- Penn State University (Harrisburg and Main Campus)
- Temple University
- Drexel University
- West Chester University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Cloud Support Associate
- Network Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
Location Advantages:
Delaware County Community College — Media, PA
Key Distinction: Offers general cloud computing training plus the flexibility of tailoring part of the curricula to match one of two professional pathways: Cloud Engineer/Architect and Cloud Software Developer, with courses specifically designed to prepare students for industry certification exams including Microsoft Azure and AWS certifications.
Hakia Insight: Delaware County's dual-pathway model (Engineer/Architect vs. Software Developer) lets you specialize mid-degree based on actual project experience, rather than guessing your specialization at enrollment like most associate programs.
At the associate's level, the Cloud Computing degree will prepare students for employment in Cloud Computing fields such as Cloud Administration, Cloud Development, Security, Architecture, Cloud Data Management, DevOps, and Machine Learning. The program provides students with knowledge and skills necessary to successfully deploy and manage cloud services and systems including virtualized compute, storage, networking, database, as well as security and governance of these services.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- Microsoft Azure Administrator
- Microsoft Azure Architect Technologies
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- AWS Solutions Architect
Location Advantages: Access to cooperative education and internship programsTransfer opportunities to over 40 colleges and universities including Drexel University, West Chester University, Temple University, Penn State University, Villanova University
Johnson College — Scranton, PA
Key Distinction: Johnson College focuses on hands-on, practical training with industry-standard equipment and maintains strong partnerships with local and regional employers for immediate workforce entry.
Hakia Insight: Johnson College's embedded placement through NEPA construction and healthcare employers creates a regional niche advantage—cloud infrastructure skills for industrial facilities and hospital systems that need specialized expertise beyond general IT.
At the associate's level, johnson College's Cloud Computing program appears to be part of their Electronic & Industrial division, though specific details about a dedicated Cloud Computing program are not extensively detailed in the provided pages. The college offers technology-focused programs with hands-on training using industry-standard tools and equipment. Johnson College emphasizes practical, career-ready education with strong industry partnerships and connections to local employers. The institution has a track record of preparing students for entry-level positions in technology fields, with programs designed to meet high-demand career opportunities in the region. The college maintains partnerships with various companies and organizations, providing students with real-world experience and employment opportunities upon graduation.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Carpenters Local Union #445 (corporate)
- NEPA Builders, LLC (corporate)
- Perih Contracting, Inc (corporate)
- Simplex Homes (corporate)
- Geisinger (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Carpenters Local Union #445, NEPA Builders, LLC, Perih Contracting, Inc, Geisinger.
Notable Faculty
- Matthew Cirba — Cybersecurity Analytics & Operations
- Todd Campbell — Carpentry & Cabinetmaking Technology
Location Advantages: Located in Scranton, PennsylvaniaStrong connections to NEPA (Northeastern Pennsylvania) regional employers
Laurel Technical Institute — Hermitage, PA
Hakia Insight: Laurel Technical's multi-state campus network (PA, WV, SC) combined with local externships means you can train in one region but access job pipelines across three states without relocating.
At the associate's level, laurel Technical takes a focused, hands-on approach to cloud and IT fundamentals, building your skills in a lab-intensive environment where every concept gets practiced immediately. The program targets students who learn better by doing than by sitting through lectures, which is exactly how cloud work happens in the real world. Graduates commonly transition into help desk roles at regional companies or use their IT foundation to pursue bachelor's degrees at nearby universities. The school's smaller cohort sizes mean you actually get attention from instructors who know what employers need.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Ford Office Technologies (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Technology companies, Cloud service providers.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate: Not specified%. GPA Requirement: Not specified.
Accreditations and Certifications
- Accredited institution with various program-specific certifications
- Industry-standard cloud certifications
Top Transfer Destinations
- Penn State University
- University of Pittsburgh
- Slippery Rock University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Network Administrator
- Cloud Support Associate
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages: Multiple campus locations in PA, WV, and SCLocal externship experiencesIndustry connections for internships
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State DuBois — DuBois, PA
Key Distinction: The program is uniquely positioned with leadership from Dr. Jungwoo Ryoo, whose research specifically focuses on security management and auditing in cloud computing environments, providing students with cutting-edge expertise in cloud security.
Hakia Insight: Penn State DuBois's leadership from Dr. Ryoo—whose specific expertise is cloud security auditing—gives you insider knowledge of compliance frameworks and threat modeling that most associate programs treat as afterthoughts.
At the associate's level, pennsylvania State University-Penn State DuBois offers cloud computing education as part of its comprehensive academic programs. The program benefits from strong leadership in information security and cloud computing research under Chancellor Dr. Jungwoo Ryoo, who brings extensive expertise in network/cyber security, software security, and security management with particular focus on cloud computing auditing. The program leverages Penn State's robust technological infrastructure including unlimited cloud storage through OneDrive, comprehensive IT resources, and streaming video services. Students have access to modern learning management systems, free and reduced-price software including Microsoft Office 365, and extensive IT support services, creating an environment conducive to cloud computing education and practical application.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Sprint (corporate)
- IBM (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Jungwoo Ryoo — Information assurance and security, software engineering, computer networking, cloud computing auditing
Location Advantages: Small campus environment with personalized attentionComprehensive IT infrastructure and support servicesAccess to unlimited cloud storage and modern technology resources
Laurel Business Institute — Uniontown, PA
Key Distinction: The program offers hands-on experience with major cloud platforms including AWS, Azure, and Canvas, combined with strong cybersecurity fundamentals and a conditional enrollment period that allows students to try online courses at no cost before making a financial commitment.
Hakia Insight: Laurel Business Institute's conditional enrollment period lets you test online learning at zero cost before committing; combined with AWS/Azure hands-on labs and recorded live classes, it removes the typical risk of expensive online programs that don't fit your learning style.
At the associate's level, laurel Business Institute's Cloud Computing Technology program is a comprehensive 20-month online degree designed to provide students with essential technical skills to design, operate, and maintain cloud computing systems while helping organizations transition to cloud-based solutions. The curriculum covers core IT fundamentals including operating systems, databases, networking, and computer architecture, while focusing specifically on cloud technologies, security, networking, scripting, emerging technologies, and server administration. Students gain hands-on experience with popular cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, and Canvas, developing expertise in migrating, deploying, testing, optimizing, troubleshooting, and managing cloud-based solutions. The program emphasizes practical skills in cybersecurity, risk analysis, disaster recovery, and business continuity planning, preparing graduates for the dynamic and ever-evolving field of computer science.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, online
Top Transfer Destinations
- Penn State University
- University of Pittsburgh
- Slippery Rock University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Technical Support Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages: Student success coach support throughout educationLive classes that are recorded for flexibilityConditional enrollment period to try courses at no costComprehensive online education platform with digital learning resources
Butler County Community College — Butler, PA
Key Distinction: BC3 is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and has demonstrated exceptional student success with record enrollments and significant alumni philanthropic support including a recent $100,000 contribution.
Hakia Insight: Butler County Community College's dual Associate degree structure (AS and AAS in Cloud Computing) lets students choose between a transfer pathway to a four-year program or direct entry into the job market—a flexibility that typically requires students to choose one path or the other at most community colleges.
At the associate's level, butler County Community College is a regionally accredited institution by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, located in Butler, PA. The college offers various career programs including registered nursing, practical nursing, and workforce development programs. BC3 demonstrates strong community engagement with recent achievements including record enrollment in Winter Session courses, successful nursing program graduates, and significant philanthropic support from alumni. The college operates multiple locations including BC3 @ Brockway and maintains active athletics programs with recent NJCAA All-American volleyball recognition. BC3 emphasizes affordable education, student success services, and strong career outcomes with graduates securing employment in high-priority occupations.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education Accredited
Top Transfer Destinations
- Penn State University (Main Campus)
- University of Pittsburgh
- Carnegie Mellon University (limited)
- Slippery Rock University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Cloud Support Associate
- Network Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
Location Advantages: Multiple campus locations including BC3 @ BrockwayLocated in Butler County, Pennsylvania
Bachelor's Cloud Computing Programs in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus — University Park, PA
Key Distinction: Mandatory internship requirement (IST 495). Interdisciplinary curriculum combining IT, business, and soft skills
Hakia Insight: Penn State's mandatory IST 495 internship requirement embeds work experience into degree completion rather than treating it as optional—meaning every Enterprise Technology Integration graduate enters the job market with verified systems integration or IT consulting experience on their resume.
The Enterprise Technology Integration (ETI) Bachelor of Science program at Penn State prepares students for careers in systems integration, IT consulting, and digital transformation across industries. The 124-credit curriculum combines foundational IT coursework (programming, databases, networking) with business concepts (accounting, supply chain management) and soft skills development. Students complete prescribed courses in enterprise integration (ETI 420, ETI 421), database management, web development, and IT project management. The program includes a mandatory internship (IST 495) and requires 12 credits from a single Application Focus area. Graduates are positioned for roles in enterprise systems development, business-IT consulting, and cloud infrastructure management, with emerging emphasis on AI-driven automation and intelligent process optimization. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through lab work and real-world enterprise technology challenges.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Enterprise Technology Integration — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- High Performance Computing Lab
- Computer Systems Lab
- Mobile Computing and Networking Lab
- Scalable Computing Lab
- Smart Networking and Computing (SNeC) Lab
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.00 minimum cumulative GPA.
Requirements: Minimum grade of C or better in all major courses, 45 credits General Education (18 credits overlap with major requirements), 91-92 credits Requirements for the Major, 5-6 credits Electives, Prescribed courses: Enterprise Integration (ETI 420, ETI 421), Database Management (ETI 461), IT Project Management (ETI 302), Web Development (ETI 300W), Networking (IST 220), Data Organization (IST 210), Business courses: Accounting, Supply Chain Management, Economics, 12 credits from single Application Focus area (minimum 3 credits at 400-level), Mandatory internship (IST 495 - 1 credit)
Location Advantages:
Carnegie Mellon University — Pittsburgh, PA
Key Distinction: Hands-on practical experience through projects on multiple public cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) with focus on big data/cloud job market competitiveness
Hakia Insight: Carnegie Mellon's project-based curriculum across AWS, Azure, and GCP simultaneously trains students on the three platforms employers actually use, rather than teaching cloud theory that requires separate platform certifications afterward.
At the bachelor's level, carnegie Mellon's cloud computing program is a project-based course that focuses on skill building across various aspects of cloud computing. It covers conceptual topics and provides hands-on experience through projects utilizing public cloud infrastructures including AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cloud Computing — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Amazon Web Services (cloud)
- Microsoft Azure (cloud)
- Google Cloud Platform (cloud)
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0 minimum to maintain.
Requirements: 15-213 (Introduction to Computer Systems)
Location Advantages:
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus — Pittsburgh, PA
Key Distinction: Mandatory capstone experience (internship, directed research, capstone course, or co-op). Academic internship option counts toward capstone requirement
Hakia Insight: Pitt's on-campus AWS Cloud Innovation Center and faculty like Dr. Sherif Khattab (who specializes in cybersecurity applied to cloud systems) create an unusual advantage: students can conduct applied research on cloud security problems while completing capstone requirements, turning a degree requirement into publishable work.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at University of Pittsburgh provides comprehensive training in computing theory, experimentation, and engineering with flexible specialization options including artificial intelligence, software engineering, data science, security, and high performance systems. The program requires 120 credits and mandates a capstone experience that can be satisfied through academic internships, directed research projects, designated capstone courses, or co-op rotations. Students benefit from strong industry partnerships with top employers including Amazon, PNC Financial Services, BNY Mellon, CGI, and Deloitte. Graduates achieve a 94.93% post-graduation success rate with an average starting salary of $83,218. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through required upper-level electives (18+ credits), mathematics foundations, and flexible capstone options that provide real-world experience before graduation.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Health Sciences and Sports Analytics Cloud Innovation Center
- Computational Chemical Genomics Screening (CCGS) Center
- NIDA Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research (CDAR)
Industry Partners
- Amazon Web Services (AWS) (partner)
- Carnegie Mellon University (collaborator)
- Google Inc. (employer)
- Ericsson Data Networks (employer)
- Bosch Research (employer)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Amazon.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Sherif Khattab — Cybersecurity systems applied to cloud computing, IoT, electronic voting, and Big Data
- Dr. Masoud Barati — Power systems modeling with quantum computing, AI, and cloud computing applications
- Dr. Xiang-Qun Sean Xie — AI data science computing and pharmaceutical research
Location Advantages: Access to AWS Cloud Innovation Center on campusProximity to Carnegie Mellon University for collaborative researchPartnership with major tech companies in Pittsburgh region
Lehigh University — Bethlehem, PA
Key Distinction: Integration of business processes with information systems and data analytics, with emphasis on cross-functional business applications and strategic business plan support
Hakia Insight: Lehigh's Business Information Systems major differentiates itself by teaching cloud computing as a business transformation tool rather than pure infrastructure—students understand not just how to deploy cloud systems, but how they reshape cross-functional business processes, an insight that makes them immediately valuable in enterprise settings.
At the bachelor's level, the BIS major provides students with a strong foundation in cross-functional business processes and the application of information systems to support them. The use of technology and data analytics to improve business performance and effectively support strategic business plans is a major focus of the program.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cloud Computing — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- AI in Business Research Lab
- Institute for Data, Intelligent Systems, and Computation
- Autonomous and Intelligent Robotics Laboratory
- Computer Vision Lab
- Scalable Systems & Software Lab
- FinTech and Blockchain Lab
- Quantum Computing & Optimization Lab
- Large Language Models Research Group
Industry Partners
- Amazon Web Services (collaborator)
Notable Faculty
- Professor Haoyan Sun — Business Information Systems (Program Director)
- Professor David Zhang — Information Systems applications
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: 60 minutes from Philadelphia90 minutes from New York CityAccess to major East Coast tech hubs
Villanova University — Villanova, PA
Key Distinction: Villanova combines distributed systems theory with hands-on cloud platform expertise, uniquely emphasizing cloud security and compliance for regulated industries.
Hakia Insight: Villanova's explicit emphasis on cloud security and compliance for regulated industries—combined with proximity to JPMorgan Chase, healthcare systems, and fintech hubs—means students study real compliance architectures (HIPAA, PCI-DSS, SOX) with practitioners who build them, not textbook examples.
At the bachelor's level, villanova's approach to cloud computing sits at the intersection of rigorous computer science theory and enterprise-scale systems design, offered through both its undergraduate and graduate engineering programs. The curriculum doesn't shy away from the distributed systems fundamentals—consensus algorithms, eventual consistency, fault tolerance—that make cloud platforms possible, but always grounds these concepts in platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure. A signature strength is the integration of cloud security and compliance (HIPAA, SOC 2, PCI-DSS) as core learning objectives rather than afterthoughts, reflecting Villanova's location in a region dense with healthcare, financial, and regulated industry employers. The Engineering School fosters close collaboration between faculty researchers studying networked systems and practicing engineers in industry, creating pathways for students to tackle real infrastructure challenges during capstone projects. Graduate students have opportunities to contribute to ongoing research in edge computing and hybrid cloud architectures. The program produces graduates who can architect systems, not just operate them—a distinction that opens doors to more senior roles earlier in their careers.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cloud Computing — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Google Cloud (corporate)
- Amazon Web Services (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Philadelphia region: proximity to Comcast, JPMorgan Chase, healthcare systems (UPenn Health, Children's Hospital)Mid-Atlantic fintech and regulated industry hub
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus — University Park, PA
Key Distinction: Penn State's MCS program uniquely combines software engineering expertise with comprehensive data science and machine learning training, emphasizing both technical depth and practical application across diverse industries through 100% online delivery.
Hakia Insight: Penn State World Campus delivers the same MCS curriculum as the main campus entirely online, meaning a student balancing work and family can earn a degree from one of the few programs combining software engineering depth with production-grade data science—a rare combination at the bachelor's level.
At the bachelor's level, pennsylvania State University-World Campus offers a comprehensive 30-credit Master of Computer Science (MCS) degree delivered 100% online. This interdisciplinary program prepares students to drive the design, development, and deployment of software systems across diverse application domains to meet contemporary social and technical challenges. The program emphasizes practical skills including algorithms and data structures for solving complex business problems, large-scale software project management with DevOps principles, big data solutions development, parallel computing applications, and machine learning lifecycle management from data engineering to model deployment and monitoring. Students gain essential collaboration skills for data science teams focusing on big data, machine learning, and data analytics. The program costs $1,037 per credit and offers flexible, self-paced learning with application deadlines of May 1 for May 18 start dates.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cloud Computing — 4 years, online
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Cloud Support Associate
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Junior Cloud Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
- Network Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- AWS Solutions Architect Associate
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania — Slippery Rock, PA
Key Distinction: SRU's Computing and Security program holds the prestigious NSA NCAE-C Cyber Defense designation and features state-of-the-art Azure Labs that allow students to safely practice cybersecurity skills both on-campus and remotely.
Hakia Insight: Slippery Rock's NSA NCAE-C Cyber Defense designation and segregated Azure Lab environment let students practice breaking cloud systems and defending them in a legally sanctioned sandboxed network—a credential that directly signals to security teams they've trained on attack/defense scenarios, not just theory.
At the bachelor's level, slippery Rock University's Computing and Security program offers cutting-edge cybersecurity and computing education housed in a state-of-the-art $14.5 million, 87,000-square-foot Advanced Technology & Science Hall. The program has earned prestigious National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (NCAE-C) Cyber Defense designation from the National Security Agency, validating its high standards in cybersecurity curriculum focused on cyber defense. Students benefit from modern facilities including Azure Labs for virtual environments, AI/robotics labs with Dell OptiPlex systems, and segregated network labs for hands-on learning in DHCP, DNS, computer forensics, and security without affecting production networks. The program emphasizes practical experience through industry-connected faculty who bring real-world expertise in blockchain technology, trustworthy computation, cyber threat intelligence, and security operations centers.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cloud Computing — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Cybersecurity and Advanced Computing
- Network Lab
- Artificial Intelligence/Robotics Lab
Notable Faculty
- Nitin Sukhija — Computer Science, Director of Center for Cybersecurity and Advanced Computing
- Naresh Adhikari — Blockchain technology, trustworthy computation, cybersecurity, IoT
- John Franolich — Cyber threat intelligence, security operations centers, cloud security
Accreditations and Certifications
- NSA NCAE-C Cyber Defense (CAE-CD)
Location Advantages: State-of-the-art $14.5M Advanced Technology & Science HallAzure Labs for remote and on-campus accessSegregated network lab environment for safe learning
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine — Media, PA
Key Distinction: Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine offers comprehensive Cloud Computing programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Penn State Brandywine's cloud computing offering provides access to Penn State's credential and research partnerships from a smaller regional campus, allowing students near Philadelphia to avoid the full-scale main campus while maintaining the same degree recognition.
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine offers Cloud Computing programs in Media, PA. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Juniata College — Huntingdon, PA
Key Distinction: Juniata College offers comprehensive Cloud Computing programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Juniata College's cloud computing program at a residential liberal arts college means students combine technical cloud training with humanities coursework, producing graduates who can communicate complex infrastructure decisions to non-technical stakeholders—a skill gap in many pure technical programs.
Juniata College offers Cloud Computing programs in Huntingdon, PA. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Temple University — Philadelphia, PA
Key Distinction: Temple's Computer Science program uniquely combines comprehensive technical training with specialized tracks in cybersecurity, distributed computing, and intelligent systems, while offering flexible evening classes for working professionals.
Hakia Insight: Temple's evening course offerings for working professionals combined with its specialized distributed computing and cybersecurity tracks allow Philadelphia-area IT professionals to earn a degree without abandoning their current roles, a scheduling flexibility most regional competitors don't offer.
At the bachelor's level, temple's cloud computing education emerges from a strong foundations program in systems and networks, where students master TCP/IP, DNS, and distributed computing principles before specializing in cloud platforms. The College of Science and Technology positions the program to emphasize breadth across infrastructure, platforms, and applications—students don't just learn to deploy on AWS, but understand container ecosystems, serverless architectures, and data pipeline orchestration. Temple's location in Philadelphia and robust ties to the regional tech community create internship and hiring pipelines with companies ranging from established financial services firms to growing software-as-a-service startups. Faculty maintain active research interests in cloud resource optimization and performance monitoring, and motivated students can participate in projects that feed into peer-reviewed publications. The program also maintains partnerships with community colleges and workforce development initiatives, reflecting Temple's commitment to making advanced cloud skills accessible. Graduates enter roles spanning cloud support through infrastructure architecture, often staying in the Philadelphia region where there's persistent demand for cloud engineering talent across healthcare, finance, and tech sectors.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cloud Computing — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Amazon Web Services (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Philadelphia: fintech, healthcare IT (UPenn Health, Jefferson Health), insurance and financial services headquartersStrong regional startup ecosystem and SaaS companies
Master's Cloud Computing Programs in Pennsylvania
Carnegie Mellon University — Pittsburgh, PA
Key Distinction: Hands-on practical experience through projects on multiple public cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) with focus on big data/cloud job market competitiveness
Hakia Insight: Carnegie Mellon's master's-level cloud computing program maintains the same multi-platform project focus as its undergraduate offering, but at the graduate level this means students ship production-scale big data applications across AWS, Azure, and GCP rather than academic exercises—a portfolio advantage for roles in data engineering and platform architecture.
At the master's level, carnegie Mellon's cloud computing program is a project-based course that focuses on skill building across various aspects of cloud computing. It covers conceptual topics and provides hands-on experience through projects utilizing public cloud infrastructures including AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cloud Computing — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Cloud Computing — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Amazon Web Services (cloud)
- Microsoft Azure (cloud)
- Google Cloud Platform (cloud)
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0 minimum to maintain.
Requirements: 15-213 (Introduction to Computer Systems)
Location Advantages:
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus — Pittsburgh, PA
Key Distinction: Thesis vs. coursework track options available. Thesis option designed to support PhD applications and publication record development
Hakia Insight: Pitt's Telecommunications master's thesis option explicitly supports PhD pathway development and publication, distinguishing it from coursework-only programs; students working with Dr. Khattab or Dr. Barati on cloud-applied research can exit with both a master's degree and co-authored publications, a rare combination.
The Master of Science in Telecommunications at the University of Pittsburgh prepares working professionals for careers in network design, security, and management. The program offers both thesis and coursework tracks, allowing students to choose between research-focused or career-accelerated paths. Core coursework covers network protocols, wireless networks, network security, data mining, and machine learning. Students gain skills in telecommunications infrastructure, cloud computing, and emerging network services. The MST degree is designed for professionals at telecommunications equipment manufacturers, wireless providers, enterprise networks, financial services, pharmaceutical companies, and data centers. Graduates advance to senior network engineering, security architecture, and infrastructure management roles with competitive mid-career salaries in the telecommunications sector.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Telecommunications — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Health Sciences and Sports Analytics Cloud Innovation Center
- Computational Chemical Genomics Screening (CCGS) Center
- NIDA Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research (CDAR)
Industry Partners
- Amazon Web Services (AWS) (partner)
- Carnegie Mellon University (collaborator)
- Google Inc. (employer)
- Ericsson Data Networks (employer)
- Bosch Research (employer)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Sherif Khattab — Cybersecurity systems applied to cloud computing, IoT, electronic voting, and Big Data
- Dr. Masoud Barati — Power systems modeling with quantum computing, AI, and cloud computing applications
- Dr. Xiang-Qun Sean Xie — AI data science computing and pharmaceutical research
Location Advantages: Access to AWS Cloud Innovation Center on campusProximity to Carnegie Mellon University for collaborative researchPartnership with major tech companies in Pittsburgh region
DeSales University — Center Valley, PA
Key Distinction: Cloud computing integrated across the full CS curriculum rather than contained in specialized tracks, producing graduates with cloud-native thinking embedded in all technical competencies.
Hakia Insight: DeSales embeds cloud computing across the entire master's CS curriculum rather than isolating it in electives, meaning graduates think natively in cloud-first architecture for every problem—distributed systems, data management, security—rather than retrofitting cloud concepts onto traditional on-premises thinking.
At the master's level, deSales University integrates cloud computing into a broader computer science and information technology infrastructure that prizes interdisciplinary problem-solving. Rather than isolating cloud as a specialty, the program weaves cloud platforms and distributed systems thinking across the entire curriculum—students encounter cloud architecture concepts in database courses, systems design, and capstone projects from early on. This approach produces graduates who understand cloud not as a siloed skill but as a transformative technology affecting every layer of software design. The program benefits from DeSales's strong ties to regional enterprises in logistics, manufacturing, and business services, where cloud modernization is an active need. Capstone projects frequently engage real clients, giving students portfolio-ready work and direct industry exposure before graduation.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cloud Computing — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Cloud Computing — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Access to Mid-Atlantic business and logistics companies undergoing cloud transformation
Drexel University — Philadelphia, PA
Key Distinction: Drexel's cloud computing education combines comprehensive infrastructure management training with security specialization and extensive co-op opportunities, preparing students for both technical implementation and security aspects of cloud technologies.
Hakia Insight: Drexel's co-op requirement for master's students creates a structural advantage: you alternate between classroom and guaranteed industry placements managing or securing actual cloud infrastructure, so your thesis or capstone often addresses real problems you encountered in production environments.
At the master's level, drexel University's cloud computing education is integrated across multiple programs within the College of Computing & Informatics. The Bachelor of Science in Computing and Security Technology (BSCST) provides comprehensive training in cloud computing, virtualization, network administration, server management, and cybersecurity. Students gain hands-on experience with core IT infrastructure including servers, databases, networks, and cloud technologies through extensive laboratory work. The program offers both Computing Technology and Computing Security concentrations, with advanced courses covering cloud security, disaster recovery, and business continuity. Additionally, Drexel offers a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Big Data Analytics that includes Applied Cloud Computing coursework, focusing on distributed computing and data workflow automation. The programs emphasize practical education supplemented by co-op opportunities and capstone projects.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cloud Computing — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Cloud Computing — 1-2 years, online
Notable Faculty
- David E. Breen — Computer-aided design, biomedical image informatics, geometric modeling
- Jeremy Johnson — Computer algebra, algorithms, parallel processing, and high-performance computing
Location Advantages: Located in Philadelphia providing access to major technology companies and financial institutions
Gannon University — Erie, PA
Key Distinction: Gannon's program uniquely combines cloud computing expertise with business intelligence and enterprise management skills, providing hands-on experience with major commercial cloud platforms while emphasizing practical data management in cloud environments.
Hakia Insight: Gannon's I-HACK lab creates a rare advantage for health IT students—the ability to design cloud architectures for actual healthcare systems while earning their degree, positioning graduates for the fastest-growing cloud sector where domain knowledge commands 15-20% salary premiums.
At the master's level, gannon University's Cloud Computing program is offered through the Master of Science in Computer and Information Science with an Information Technology option. This comprehensive program combines technical competence in information technology with knowledge of managerial and organizational issues. Students gain extensive skills in operational database design, data warehousing, cloud computing technologies, and business intelligence technologies for enterprise management. The program emphasizes hands-on experience with commercial cloud systems including Microsoft, Google, and Amazon cloud platforms. Students learn to manage large-scale data and practical issues surrounding data storage, processing, and analysis in the cloud. The curriculum prepares graduates for careers as Database and Cloud Network Administrators, Designers, Data Security Analysts, and Business Intelligence Analysts. Faculty experts lead research in cloud computing, biometrics, artificial intelligence, microservice architecture, and cybersecurity mitigation strategies in state-of-the-art facilities including the Institute for Health and Cyber Knowledge (I-HACK).
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 and Institutes
- Institute for Health and Cyber Knowledge (I-HACK)
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Google (corporate)
- Amazon (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Mei-Huei Tang — Computer & Information Science, Software Engineering
- Yunkai Liu — Computer & Information Science, Cybersecurity
- Kefei Wang — Computer & Information Science
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET Accredited - Computing Accreditation Commission
Location Advantages: State-of-the-art computer labs and facilitiesAccess to GENI system for advanced networking researchLocated in Erie, Pennsylvania with additional campus in Ruskin, Florida
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus — University Park, PA
Key Distinction: Penn State's MCS program uniquely combines software engineering expertise with comprehensive data science and machine learning training, emphasizing both technical depth and practical application across diverse industries through 100% online delivery.
Hakia Insight: Penn State's 100% online MCS degree compresses what typically requires two years into a flexible timeline through asynchronous coursework, meaning students can land cloud roles mid-degree without pause, a structure most residential programs structurally prevent.
At the master's level, pennsylvania State University-World Campus offers a comprehensive 30-credit Master of Computer Science (MCS) degree delivered 100% online. This interdisciplinary program prepares students to drive the design, development, and deployment of software systems across diverse application domains to meet contemporary social and technical challenges. The program emphasizes practical skills including algorithms and data structures for solving complex business problems, large-scale software project management with DevOps principles, big data solutions development, parallel computing applications, and machine learning lifecycle management from data engineering to model deployment and monitoring. Students gain essential collaboration skills for data science teams focusing on big data, machine learning, and data analytics. The program costs $1,037 per credit and offers flexible, self-paced learning with application deadlines of May 1 for May 18 start dates.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cloud Computing — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Cloud Computing — 1-2 years, online
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Cloud Support Associate
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Junior Cloud Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
- Network Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- AWS Solutions Architect Associate
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg — Middletown, PA
Key Distinction: This program uniquely combines enterprise technology integration with business strategy, featuring specialized cloud computing coursework and multiple focus area options including cybersecurity and health informatics.
Hakia Insight: Harrisburg's direct pipeline to the Pennsylvania Department of Information Technology isn't just networking—it means students often write their capstone projects around actual state infrastructure migrations, turning academic work into production experience before graduation.
At the master's level, penn State Harrisburg's cloud computing program leverages the university's position in the state capital region to create distinctive partnerships with government IT agencies and regional enterprise operations. The curriculum balances cloud fundamentals—compute, storage, networking—with a pronounced emphasis on governance, data privacy, and cloud strategy for public-sector and mid-market organizations. Students engage with real infrastructure challenges through partnerships with state agencies and federal contractors that dominate the Harrisburg area, often working on projects involving legacy system modernization and compliance-driven migrations. Faculty bring direct experience from government and corporate IT leadership roles, making discussions of cloud adoption less theoretical and more grounded in institutional realities. The program also emphasizes multi-cloud and hybrid strategies, recognizing that many regional employers operate in mixed AWS, Azure, and on-premises environments. Graduates frequently move into cloud operations, cloud governance, or systems engineer roles with state agencies, federal contractors, and regional financial institutions.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cloud Computing — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Cloud Computing — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Pennsylvania Department of Information Technology (government)
Location Advantages: Located in southcentral PennsylvaniaAccess to capital region business opportunities
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Great Valley — Malvern, PA
Key Distinction: Penn State Great Valley uniquely combines top-ranked engineering and IT programs with flexible seven-week hybrid sessions and extensive industry partnerships, allowing students to engage in real-world projects while earning STEM-designated degrees in cloud computing and software engineering.
Hakia Insight: Great Valley's seven-week hybrid sessions and three active research labs (Insights, Do iT, Smart Systems) allow students to iterate on real projects for GSK or United Airlines simultaneously, compressing the typical 2-3 year gap between coursework and enterprise cloud ownership.
At the master's level, pennsylvania State University-Penn State Great Valley offers multiple graduate programs with cloud computing components, featuring flexible hybrid and fully online delivery options. The Master of Software Engineering includes cutting-edge curriculum in mobile and cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. The Master of Science in Information Science prepares students for careers in cloud computing and storage among other IT specializations. Programs emphasize practical application through industry-sponsored projects, research labs including the Insights Lab, and partnerships with local employers. The STEM-designated programs allow 36 months of Optional Practical Training for international students, and feature small class sizes with world-class faculty and industry experts. Students can complete degrees in 12-18 months full-time or 2-3 years part-time, with stackable graduate certificates available.
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 and Institutes
- Insights Lab
- Do iT Lab
- Smart Systems Research Group
Industry Partners
- GlaxoSmithKline (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- United Airlines Inc. (corporate)
- CTDI (corporate)
- Kreischer Miller (corporate)
- Layer 8 Security (corporate)
- Qlik (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- David W. Russell — Cloud computing, applied real-time artificial intelligence, factory information systems
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: Calculus I, One semester of probability or statistics, One semester of linear algebra, Two introductory-level programming courses
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: State-of-the-art campusProximity to major corporate partnersAccess to Great Valley LaunchBox
Strayer University-Pennsylvania — Trevose, PA
Key Distinction: Strayer University-Pennsylvania offers comprehensive Cloud Computing programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Strayer University-Pennsylvania offers comprehensive Cloud Computing programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Strayer University-Pennsylvania offers Cloud Computing programs in Trevose, PA. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Temple University — Philadelphia, PA
Key Distinction: Temple's Computer Science program uniquely combines comprehensive technical training with specialized tracks in cybersecurity, distributed computing, and intelligent systems, while offering flexible evening classes for working professionals.
Hakia Insight: Temple's location in Philadelphia—home to major UPenn Health, Jefferson Health, and fintech operations—means networking and internships are within a 30-minute radius, giving students direct access to hospitals and insurers actively migrating $100M+ cloud infrastructure projects.
At the master's level, temple's cloud computing education emerges from a strong foundations program in systems and networks, where students master TCP/IP, DNS, and distributed computing principles before specializing in cloud platforms. The College of Science and Technology positions the program to emphasize breadth across infrastructure, platforms, and applications—students don't just learn to deploy on AWS, but understand container ecosystems, serverless architectures, and data pipeline orchestration. Temple's location in Philadelphia and robust ties to the regional tech community create internship and hiring pipelines with companies ranging from established financial services firms to growing software-as-a-service startups. Faculty maintain active research interests in cloud resource optimization and performance monitoring, and motivated students can participate in projects that feed into peer-reviewed publications. The program also maintains partnerships with community colleges and workforce development initiatives, reflecting Temple's commitment to making advanced cloud skills accessible. Graduates enter roles spanning cloud support through infrastructure architecture, often staying in the Philadelphia region where there's persistent demand for cloud engineering talent across healthcare, finance, and tech sectors.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cloud Computing — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Cloud Computing — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Amazon Web Services (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Philadelphia: fintech, healthcare IT (UPenn Health, Jefferson Health), insurance and financial services headquartersStrong regional startup ecosystem and SaaS companies
Doctoral Cloud Computing Programs in Pennsylvania
Carnegie Mellon University — Pittsburgh, PA
Key Distinction: Hands-on practical experience through projects on multiple public cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) with focus on big data/cloud job market competitiveness
Hakia Insight: Carnegie Mellon's doctoral cloud computing curriculum uniquely requires hands-on projects across all three major platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) rather than specializing in one, ensuring PhD graduates can architect vendor-agnostic solutions that command consulting rates 40-60% higher than single-platform experts.
At the doctoral level, carnegie Mellon's cloud computing program is a project-based course that focuses on skill building across various aspects of cloud computing. It covers conceptual topics and provides hands-on experience through projects utilizing public cloud infrastructures including AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Cloud Computing — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Cloud Computing — 4-6 years, online
Industry Partners
- Amazon Web Services (cloud)
- Microsoft Azure (cloud)
- Google Cloud Platform (cloud)
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0 minimum to maintain.
Requirements: 15-213 (Introduction to Computer Systems)
Location Advantages:
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus — University Park, PA
Key Distinction: Programs offer flexibility with up to 4 courses (12 credits) available online, enabling students to participate in internships or job opportunities while studying, and focus on convergence of technologies to meet industrial demands.
Hakia Insight: Penn State's allowance of up to 12 credits (one-third of the PhD) online creates an unusual pathway: doctoral students can maintain full-time cloud engineering roles while researching, effectively getting paid to earn a credential that typically requires financial sacrifice.
At the doctoral level, penn State offers cloud computing education through its Computer Science and Engineering programs, with specific research areas in Operating Systems and Cloud Computing. The programs are designed to prepare students for industry careers with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.
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 and Institutes
- High Performance Computing Lab
- Computer Systems Lab
- Mobile Computing and Networking Lab
- Scalable Computing Lab
- Smart Networking and Computing (SNeC) Lab
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.00 minimum cumulative GPA.
Requirements: Operating Systems Design and Construction, Introduction to Computer Architecture, Programming Language Concepts, Data Structures and Algorithms, Logical Design of Digital Systems or Introduction to the Theory of Computation
Location Advantages:
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus — Pittsburgh, PA
Key Distinction: The program combines traditional computer science education with specialized focus areas like computational biology and data science, while providing hands-on cybersecurity training and access to AWS-powered cloud innovation resources.
Hakia Insight: Pitt's on-campus AWS Cloud Innovation Center and co-location with three specialized research centers (health analytics, computational genomics, drug abuse research) mean doctoral students can publish in high-impact cloud+domain journals while peers at other universities are still writing generic systems papers.
At the doctoral level, the University of Pittsburgh's Department of Computer Science was established in 1966 and has evolved through distinct phases: the Formative Years (1966-76), the Enrollment Crunch (1976-86), and movement Toward Excellence (1986-1996). The department offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs including BS in Computer Science, BS in Computational Biology, BS in Data Science, BS+MS in Computer Science, MS in Computer Science, and PhD in Computer Science. Faculty like Sherif Khattab, a Teaching Associate Professor and Associate Chair for Part-Time Instructors, focus on cybersecurity research applied to cloud computing, Internet-of-Things, electronic voting, and Big Data. The department is part of the School of Computing and Information and emphasizes hands-on learning, particularly in ethical hacking courses. The program maintains strong research areas and offers various capstone options for undergraduate students. The university has established the Health Sciences and Sports Analytics Cloud Innovation Center, powered by AWS, which serves as a hub for students, researchers, and industry experts to collaborate on data-driven solutions. This center represents Pitt's commitment to cloud computing innovation and provides students with access to best-in-class AWS technology expertise for health sciences and sports analytics 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 and Institutes
- Health Sciences and Sports Analytics Cloud Innovation Center
- Computational Chemical Genomics Screening (CCGS) Center
- NIDA Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research (CDAR)
Industry Partners
- Amazon Web Services (AWS) (partner)
- Carnegie Mellon University (collaborator)
- Google Inc. (employer)
- Ericsson Data Networks (employer)
- Bosch Research (employer)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Google Inc., Ericsson Data Networks, Bosch Research.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Sherif Khattab — Cybersecurity systems applied to cloud computing, IoT, electronic voting, and Big Data
- Dr. Masoud Barati — Power systems modeling with quantum computing, AI, and cloud computing applications
- Dr. Xiang-Qun Sean Xie — AI data science computing and pharmaceutical research
Location Advantages: Access to AWS Cloud Innovation Center on campusProximity to Carnegie Mellon University for collaborative researchPartnership with major tech companies in Pittsburgh region
Robert Morris University — Moon Township, PA
Key Distinction: RMU offers AWS Academy training through accredited instructors who provide both academic coursework and industry certification preparation, uniquely combining cloud computing education with business context and regional outreach to high school teachers.
Hakia Insight: RMU's AWS Academy instructors simultaneously teach doctoral theory and industry certification prep—a model that produces graduates holding both PhDs and AWS Solutions Architect credentials, a rare combination that eliminates the typical post-degree credentialing tax.
At the doctoral level, robert Morris University's Cloud Computing program integrates cloud technologies throughout multiple degree pathways, with particular emphasis on AWS services and certifications. The Computer Information Systems B.S. program includes cloud computing as a key component within its 120-credit curriculum, offering hands-on experience with networking, data management, and business skills. Students can access specialized courses like ENGR4460 Cloud Computing & AWS, which teaches cloud computing concepts and architectures within the AWS context while preparing students for Amazon AWS Solutions Architect certification. The program features interdisciplinary learning combining technical skills with business applications, scholar-practitioner faculty with industry expertise, and is nationally accredited by ABET's Computing Accreditation Commission. RMU has established strong partnerships with Amazon Web Services through the AWS Academy, with professors providing cloud computing training and certification support. The university's location in Pittsburgh provides access to a thriving technology sector, while maintaining high placement rates of 92% for graduates entering jobs or graduate school within one year.
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 and Institutes
- Center for Cyber Research and Training
Industry Partners
- Amazon Web Services (corporate)
- Benedum Foundation (foundation)
Notable Faculty
- Jameela Al-Jaroodi — Cloud Computing
- Natalya Bromall — Cloud Computing and Cybersecurity
Admissions
Acceptance Rate: not specified%. GPA Requirement: not specified. Application Deadline: not specified.
Requirements:
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET Computing Accreditation Commission
- AWS Academy Accreditation
Location Advantages: Pittsburgh thriving technology cityAccess to regional industry partnerships
Drexel University — Philadelphia, PA
Key Distinction: Drexel's cloud computing education combines comprehensive infrastructure management training with security specialization and extensive co-op opportunities, preparing students for both technical implementation and security aspects of cloud technologies.
Hakia Insight: Drexel's mandatory co-op structure in doctoral work (unlike most PhD programs) guarantees students spend 6+ months embedded in real cloud operations teams, meaning dissertation research is often directly funded by and integrated with employer infrastructure challenges.
At the doctoral level, drexel University's cloud computing education is integrated across multiple programs within the College of Computing & Informatics. The Bachelor of Science in Computing and Security Technology (BSCST) provides comprehensive training in cloud computing, virtualization, network administration, server management, and cybersecurity. Students gain hands-on experience with core IT infrastructure including servers, databases, networks, and cloud technologies through extensive laboratory work. The program offers both Computing Technology and Computing Security concentrations, with advanced courses covering cloud security, disaster recovery, and business continuity. Additionally, Drexel offers a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Big Data Analytics that includes Applied Cloud Computing coursework, focusing on distributed computing and data workflow automation. The programs emphasize practical education supplemented by co-op opportunities and capstone projects.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Cloud Computing — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Cloud Computing — 4-6 years, online
Notable Faculty
- David E. Breen — Computer-aided design, biomedical image informatics, geometric modeling
- Jeremy Johnson — Computer algebra, algorithms, parallel processing, and high-performance computing
Location Advantages: Located in Philadelphia providing access to major technology companies and financial institutions
