Top 3 Cloud Computing Programs in Virginia 2025
George Mason University
406 Cloud Computing graduates annually, 80% graduation rate
James Madison University
162 Cloud Computing graduates annually, 95% graduation rate
Virginia Commonwealth University
167 Cloud Computing graduates annually, 92% graduation rate
- 1.Virginia has 12 accredited cloud computing and related IT programs across public universities and private colleges
- 2.Virginia Tech leads with 85% graduation rate and dedicated AWS Academy partnership for hands-on cloud training
- 3.Virginia cloud computing professionals earn median $118,240 annually—12% above the national median for the field
- 4.Northern Virginia (DC metro) hosts Amazon Web Services headquarters and 500+ cloud-focused tech companies
- 5.Virginia's data center corridor along I-95 creates abundant internship and career opportunities in cloud infrastructure
Cloud Computing Education Landscape in Virginia
Virginia has emerged as a major cloud computing hub, anchored by Amazon Web Services headquarters in Northern Virginia and the world's largest concentration of data centers along the I-95 corridor. This infrastructure boom has created exceptional opportunities for cloud computing students, with direct pathways from Virginia universities to major cloud providers, federal contractors, and Fortune 500 companies.
Virginia's public university system offers affordable, high-quality cloud computing education with strong industry partnerships. Virginia Tech leads with dedicated cloud computing tracks and AWS Academy certification pathways. For broader program comparisons, see our national cloud computing degree rankings and cloud computing degree hub for comprehensive program information.
Career-focused students should review our cloud engineering career guide and explore AWS certification pathways that complement degree programs. Virginia's proximity to federal agencies also creates unique opportunities in government cloud implementations.
Virginia Cloud Computing Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | George Mason University | Fairfax, VA | Public | $10,095 | 80% | 78.4 |
| 2 | James Madison University | Harrisonburg, VA | Public | $7,914 | 95% | 71.3 |
| 3 | Virginia Commonwealth University | Richmond, VA | Public | $12,850 | 92% | 67.3 |
| 4 | Liberty University | Lynchburg, VA | Private | $15,015 | 78% | 62.6 |
| 5 | Strayer University-Virginia | Arlington, VA | For-Profit | $13,725 | — | 62.3 |
| 6 | Marymount University | Arlington, VA | Private | $37,400 | 99% | 59.7 |
| 7 | University of Richmond | University of Richmond, VA | Private | $62,600 | 96% | 59.7 |
| 8 | Averett University | Danville, VA | Private | $38,400 | 99% | 56.4 |
| 9 | Washington University of Science and Technology | Vienna, VA | For-Profit | $12,758 | 55% | 53.8 |
| 10 | Hampton University | Hampton, VA | Private | $26,198 | 86% | 53 |
| 11 | Shenandoah University | Winchester, VA | Private | $34,614 | 91% | 48.7 |
| 12 | Regent University | Virginia Beach, VA | Private | $18,986 | 64% | 47.6 |
| 13 | University of Management and Technology | Arlington, VA | For-Profit | $9,360 | — | 46.1 |
| 14 | Christopher Newport University | Newport News, VA | Public | $10,001 | — | 43 |
| 15 | Norfolk State University | Norfolk, VA | Public | $5,926 | 71% | 42.7 |
| 16 | Radford University | Radford, VA | Public | $8,401 | — | 37.6 |
Top 5 Cloud Computing Programs in Virginia: Side-by-Side
| School | George Mason | James Madison | Washington University of... | Virginia Commonwealth | Liberty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $10,095 | $7,914 | $12,758 | $12,850 | $15,015 |
| Graduation Rate | 80% | 95% | 55% | 92% | 78% |
| Annual Graduates | 406 | 162 | 86 | 167 | 168 |
| Acceptance Rate | 89% | 76% | 11% | 93% | 99% |
| Type | Public | Public | For-Profit | Public | Private |
| Score | 78.4/100 | 71.3/100 | 68.2/100 | 67.3/100 | 62.6/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Cloud Computing in Virginia
Virginia offers 16 bachelor's-level cloud computing programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are George Mason University, James Madison University, Virginia Commonwealth University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $88,270 in the Virginia market.
A bachelor's in cloud computing typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Cloud Computing Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Cloud Computing Bachelor's Programs in Virginia
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 George Mason | $10,095 | 80% | 406 | 78.4 |
| #2 James Madison | $7,914 | 95% | 162 | 71.3 |
| #3 Virginia Commonwealth | $12,850 | 92% | 167 | 67.3 |
Top Cloud Computing Schools for Master's Degrees in Virginia
For graduate study, Virginia offers 7 master's-level cloud computing programs. Leading institutions include Washington University of Science and Technology, George Mason University, Marymount University. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Virginia reaching $163,930 or more.
Top 3 Cloud Computing Master's Programs in Virginia
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Washington University of... | $12,758 | 55% | 86 | 68.2 |
| #2 George Mason | $10,095 | 80% | 77 | 73.9 |
| #3 Marymount | $37,400 | 99% | 25 | 54.4 |
Most Affordable Cloud Computing Colleges in Virginia
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable cloud computing programs in Virginia are at Norfolk State University ($5,926/year), James Madison University ($7,914/year), Radford University ($8,401/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Virginia's competitive tech salaries.
At Norfolk State University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $23,704 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $88,270, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.4 years.
Most Affordable Cloud Computing Programs in Virginia (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Norfolk State | $5,926 | $23,704 | 0.4 years | Public |
| #2 James Madison | $7,914 | $31,656 | 0.6 years | Public |
| #3 Radford | $8,401 | $33,604 | 0.6 years | Public |
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $10,095 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 80% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cloud Computing Graduates: 406 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 89%
- • Ranking Score: 78.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 80% graduation rate
- 406 cloud computing graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 78.4 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (80%), program size (406 graduates), state salary outcomes ($126,100), and selectivity (89% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
This Bachelor of Applied Science program offers seamless transfer pathways from community college with guaranteed admission at 2.85 GPA, features industry partnerships with Amazon Web Services, and provides specialized concentrations including cloud computing designed to meet high-demand regional job markets.
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree from an accredited two-year institution
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.85
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120-126
Available Specializations / Concentrations
James Madison University
Harrisonburg, VA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,914 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 95% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cloud Computing Graduates: 162 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 76%
- • Ranking Score: 71.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 95% graduation rate
- 162 cloud computing graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 71.3 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (95%), program size (162 graduates), state salary outcomes ($126,100), and selectivity (76% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The B.B.A. in Computer Information Systems at JMU prepares students to leverage technology strategically in business environments with a curriculum emphasizing problem-solving, systems development, data management, cybersecurity and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and cloud computing. Graduates are well-equipped for careers in consulting, systems analysis, project management, cybersecurity and business analytics.
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Washington University of Science and Technology
Vienna, VA • For-Profit
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $12,758 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 55% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cloud Computing Graduates: 86 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 11%
- • Ranking Score: 68.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 55% graduation rate
- 86 cloud computing graduates annually
- For-Profit institution
- Overall score: 68.2 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (55%), program size (86 graduates), state salary outcomes ($126,100), and selectivity (11% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Programs offer partnerships with Amazon Web Services and hands-on experience with leading cloud technology through AWS Educate membership. The curriculum covers advanced topics including artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and cybersecurity with faculty from top-tier institutions.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Mathematics: Two courses beyond pre-calculus level
- •Lab science: One year's worth of coursework
- •Computer science: Prior coursework in a structured language, discrete structures, data structures or computer architecture
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 30
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Amazon Web Services
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $12,850 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cloud Computing Graduates: 167 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 93%
- • Ranking Score: 67.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 167 cloud computing graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 67.3 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (167 graduates), state salary outcomes ($126,100), and selectivity (93% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
VCU's Computer Science program offers a rigorous curriculum with specialized concentrations in cybersecurity, data science, and software engineering, taught by full-time faculty who also serve as advisers. The program emphasizes both theoretical and applied aspects of computer science with accelerated Bachelor's-to-Master's options available.
Admission Prerequisites
- •MATH 139 or MATH 141
- •MATH 151
- •MATH 307
- •STAT 212
- •5+ additional science courses
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
- Transfer Friendly
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $15,015 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 78% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cloud Computing Graduates: 168 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 99%
- • Ranking Score: 62.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 78% graduation rate
- 168 cloud computing graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 62.6 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (78%), program size (168 graduates), state salary outcomes ($126,100), and selectivity (99% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Liberty University's Information Technology program offers comprehensive cloud computing education with industry certifications through Cisco Networking Academy partnerships and hands-on capstone projects including cloud applications leveraging artificial intelligence. The program develops both technical expertise and leadership skills within a Christian worldview context.
Program Details
- Credits: 120 Credit Hours
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Design and implement cloud infrastructure solutions for enterprise clients, focusing on AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud platforms.
Automate cloud deployments, manage CI/CD pipelines, and optimize cloud infrastructure performance and costs.
Implement security controls, monitor cloud environments for threats, and ensure compliance with federal and industry regulations.
Site Reliability Engineer
Ensure high availability and performance of cloud-based applications and services through monitoring and automation.
Cloud Data Engineer
Build and maintain data pipelines, data lakes, and analytics platforms using cloud-native technologies.
Virginia's Public University System for Cloud Computing
Virginia's public higher education system provides multiple pathways into cloud computing careers, each with distinct strengths and regional advantages. The state's commitment to technology education has resulted in significant investments in cloud computing infrastructure and industry partnerships across its university system.
Virginia Tech leads with the most comprehensive cloud computing program, featuring dedicated AWS and Microsoft partnerships. The university's location in Southwest Virginia provides a more affordable cost of living while maintaining strong industry connections through its alumni network and research partnerships.
Northern Virginia universities like George Mason University benefit from proximity to the nation's largest cloud computing hub. Students have unparalleled access to internships, networking events, and job opportunities with major cloud providers and federal contractors. This region hosts Amazon Web Services headquarters, Microsoft's federal division, and hundreds of cloud consulting firms.
Regional universities like VCU in Richmond, JMU in Harrisonburg, and ODU in Norfolk serve their local tech ecosystems while providing more affordable education options. These programs often feature strong cooperative education components and direct partnerships with regional employers transitioning to cloud technologies.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Virginia
Cloud Computing Programs in Other States
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to the world's largest cloud computing job market in Northern Virginia
- Affordable in-state tuition at high-quality public universities
- Direct pathways to AWS, Microsoft, and federal cloud computing roles
- Strong industry partnerships and internship opportunities
- Proximity to major data centers and cloud infrastructure hubs
- More specialized cloud computing degree programs (consider California or Texas)
- Lower cost of living during college years
- Specific industry focus like entertainment or aerospace cloud computing
- International cloud computing opportunities and partnerships
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia Cloud Computing Programs
Based on 12 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Cloud Computing degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific cloud computing salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Cloud Computing Resources
Taylor Rupe
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Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.