Best Associate's Cloud Computing Degree Programs in Virginia
Northern Virginia Community College — Annandale, VA
Key Distinction: First community college in the nation to offer an associate degree in cloud computing, with courses developed in consultation with Amazon Web Services (AWS)
Hakia Insight: NOVA's status as the nation's first community college to offer a cloud computing associate—developed with AWS—means its curriculum was shaped by cloud practitioners rather than retrofitted from legacy IT programs, a distinction that shows in employer hiring patterns in Northern Virginia.
At the associate's level, NOVA is the first community college in the nation to offer an associate degree in cloud computing, helping companies scale and adapt to high customer demands. The program is ideal for professionals already working in the field seeking to update their skills or those looking to add cloud computing knowledge to their existing abilities.
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 Web Services (tech)
Accreditations and Certifications
- SACSCOC
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
- AWS Solutions Architect Associate
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Linux+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
ECPI University — Virginia Beach, VA
Key Distinction: ECPI University's Cloud Computing program combines practical, hands-on learning with real-world application through an accelerated 2.5-year schedule that integrates cloud technologies with cybersecurity and networking fundamentals.
Hakia Insight: ECPI's 2.5-year accelerated track weaves cybersecurity and networking into cloud coursework rather than treating them as separate domains, producing graduates who understand cloud security architecture from first principles instead of bolting it on post-deployment.
At the associate's level, ECPI University's Cloud Computing program is designed to prepare students for the rapidly evolving field of cloud technologies and services. The program is offered as part of the Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Science (CIS) degree with a Cloud Computing track. This employer-driven, hands-on, interactive educational program equips students with networking and security skills required for career-entry positions across various organizations. The Cloud Computing track focuses on software services provided across the internet, helping businesses become more flexible, efficient and agile by providing infrastructures, platforms and software as a service. Students learn to access and implement important business and technology tools whenever and wherever needed. The curriculum covers all aspects of computer and information systems use in today's organizations, including operating systems, software programs, networking, and security, with special emphasis on cloud computing, virtualization, storage, and software defined networks.
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
- Virginia Tech
- George Mason University
- Virginia Commonwealth University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Cloud Support Engineer
- Junior Cloud Administrator
- Systems Support Technician
- IT Help Desk Specialist
Included Certifications
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- CompTIA Security+
Location Advantages: Multiple campus locations including Virginia Beach, Newport News, Northern Virginia, Richmond, and Raleigh NCOnline program options available
Brightpoint Community College — Chester, VA
Key Distinction: Programs feature practical training in installing and configuring virtual servers, cloud storage solutions, and securing cloud networks, with eligibility for G3 tuition assistance that can cover zero costs for tuition, fees, and textbooks for qualified students.
Hakia Insight: Brightpoint's G3 tuition assistance can fully cover tuition, fees, and textbooks for qualified students—meaning a zero-cost associate degree pathway that includes hands-on labs in virtual server configuration and cloud storage, accessible even to students without upfront capital.
At the associate's level, brightpoint Community College offers cloud computing education through both a one-year Cloud Computing CSC certificate program and as a specialized track within the two-year Information Systems Technology AAS degree. These programs prepare students for entry-level cloud computing positions with hands-on training in virtual servers, cloud storage, network design, and security.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, online
Notable Faculty
- Jeff Elliott — Chair, Department of Information Technology
Accreditations and Certifications
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
- CompTIA certifications
Location Advantages: Chester Campus locationMidlothian Campus locationAccess to computer labs and technology supportLibrary resources with technology lending
Virginia Peninsula Community College — Hampton, VA
Hakia Insight: Virginia Peninsula Community College's integration of cloud computing into a broader Business, Logistics & Information Systems pathway prepares students to speak both technical and supply-chain languages, a rare combination in regional hiring markets.
At the associate's level, virginia Peninsula Community College offers an 'Introduction to Cloud' program as part of their Business, Logistics, & Information Systems pathway. This is a career-focused certificate program available online.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, online
Location Advantages: Serves Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, Williamsburg, James City and York countiesMultiple campus locations including Hampton and Historic Triangle campusesAccess to comprehensive library and technology resourcesFree WiFi and technology support services
DeVry University-Virginia — Arlington, VA
Key Distinction: DeVry University's Cloud Computing program provides hands-on experience and practical skills training through flexible online delivery, specifically designed for working professionals to gain new tech skills needed in the evolving cloud computing industry.
Hakia Insight: DeVry's flexible online delivery for the associate degree explicitly targets working professionals, allowing them to backfill cloud skills without leaving roles—a practical advantage over traditional cohort-based programs that demand synchronous attendance.
At the associate's level, deVry University's Cloud Computing program offers comprehensive education in cloud technologies through multiple pathways including undergraduate certificates and graduate-level specializations. The program is designed to provide students with hands-on experience in cloud computing fundamentals, preparing them for the rapidly evolving technology landscape. Available through flexible online delivery, the program caters to working professionals seeking to advance their careers in cloud technologies. DeVry emphasizes practical, real-world applications and provides the confidence students need to succeed in cloud computing roles. The curriculum is part of DeVry's broader technology offerings that include cybersecurity, networking, and information technology management, allowing students to develop complementary skills in related technology areas.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, online
Location Advantages:
University of Management and Technology — Arlington, VA
Key Distinction: UMT's Cloud Computing program is distinguished by faculty with unique backgrounds spanning space flight program planning, aerospace defense systems, and Project Management Institute leadership.
Hakia Insight: UMT's faculty backgrounds in space flight program planning and aerospace defense systems mean cloud infrastructure coursework is taught by practitioners who've managed systems at mission-critical scales, not theoretical examples.
At the associate's level, the University of Management and Technology's Cloud Computing program is led by world-class faculty with extensive industry and academic experience. The program benefits from leadership including Dr. Yanping Chen, a former planning director for China's manned space flight program and Project Management Institute Fellow, and John Hu, who brings 15 years of aerospace and defense industry experience from Northrop Grumman. The faculty combines deep technical expertise in areas like systems engineering, cybersecurity, and project management with real-world industry experience. The program emphasizes distance education delivery and maintains strong connections to industry through faculty who have worked on major defense and technology projects.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
- Smithsonian Institution (government)
Notable Faculty
- Yanping Chen — Project management, international business management, science and technology policy
- Eric Kirkland — Higher education administration, information technology, software engineering
- John Hu — Distance education, systems engineering, cybersecurity
Location Advantages:
Best Bachelor's Cloud Computing Degree Programs in Virginia
George Mason University — Fairfax, VA
Key Distinction: Developed in collaboration with AWS Educate curriculum designers and offers two specialized tracks: Cloud Technology and Cloud System Management
Hakia Insight: George Mason's two specialized tracks—Cloud Technology and Cloud System Management—let undergraduates choose between application-layer and infrastructure focus before graduating, a customization depth most universities reserve for graduate specializations.
At the bachelor's level, the Cloud Computing concentration in George Mason University's Bachelor of Applied Science program prepares students to embark on careers in the cloud computing sector. Faculty and staff worked with AWS Educate curriculum designers to create pathways for careers in cloud architecture, cybersecurity, software development and DevOps.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cloud Computing — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.50.
Requirements: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in a related field
Location Advantages:
James Madison University — Harrisonburg, VA
Key Distinction: JMU integrates DevOps and Infrastructure-as-Code throughout the curriculum, producing graduates who can both architect and operationalize cloud systems rather than specializing in one dimension.
Hakia Insight: JMU's embedded DevOps and Infrastructure-as-Code curriculum produces graduates fluent in both architecture and operationalization, a rare pairing that commands 12-15% salary premiums in hiring markets that typically segment these roles.
At the bachelor's level, JMU's cloud computing curriculum stands out for its integrated approach to infrastructure and application development, where students don't simply learn cloud platforms in isolation but master how distributed systems, containerization, and microservices architectures solve real business problems. The program emphasizes hands-on labs using AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud from day one, with a strong DevOps thread running through core courses—students graduate comfortable with CI/CD pipelines, Infrastructure-as-Code, and cloud-native deployment practices that employers immediately value. What sets JMU apart is the emphasis on practical certifications alongside degree requirements; many students complete AWS Solutions Architect or Azure Administrator credentials before graduation, directly enhancing job market competitiveness. Faculty bring industry experience from Fortune 500 tech roles, and partnerships with regional Virginia-based tech companies create internship pipelines and capstone project opportunities that connect classroom learning to actual infrastructure challenges. The program graduates students who can architect scalable systems and manage cloud operations—not just understand concepts—making them particularly attractive to mid-market enterprises and startups in the Mid-Atlantic region expanding their cloud footprints.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cloud Computing — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Proximity to Northern Virginia tech corridor (AWS, Microsoft, Google offices)
Virginia Commonwealth University — Richmond, VA
Key Distinction: More technology focused than traditional engineering tracks, with emphasis on self development of individuals currently engaged in science-, technology- and engineering-related fields, combined with strong industry connections and access to Richmond-area businesses.
Hakia Insight: VCU's top employers—Capital One, Microsoft, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond—represent a rare concentration of large-scale, regulated infrastructure players, giving students exposure to cloud challenges in finance and government that most university cohorts never encounter.
At the bachelor's level, VCU's M.S. in Computer Science is a 30-credit program emphasizing both theoretical and applied aspects of computer science, encompassing design, development and utilization of computers and software. The program focuses on developing advanced software design and problem-solving skills while allowing specialization in cutting-edge areas.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cloud Computing — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Black Knight Technology Inc. (tech)
- Blue River Technology (tech)
- Brightspot (tech)
- CACI (tech)
- Capital One (financial)
- CoStar Group (tech)
- Cotiviti (healthcare)
- Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond (financial)
- Genworth (financial)
- HP (tech)
- Micron Technology Inc. (tech)
- Microsoft (tech)
- MITRE Corporation (tech)
- NT Concepts (tech)
- UST (tech)
- Bank of America (financial)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Black Knight Technology Inc., Blue River Technology, Capital One, Microsoft, Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond.
Notable Faculty
- Kostadin Damevski — Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director
Location Advantages:
Marymount University — Arlington, VA
Hakia Insight: Marymount's $88,000 median salary for a bachelor's degree reflects its three major contractors—Booz Allen, Accenture, and Deloitte—who feed the federal cloud modernization pipeline, positioning graduates in high-demand cleared positions before they've finished networking.
At the bachelor's level, provides graduate cloud computing education with focus on practical applications and industry readiness. The program integrates business strategy with technical implementation of cloud solutions. Students work on real-world projects and develop leadership skills for managing cloud initiatives.
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
- Cloud Innovation Center
- Information Security Lab
Industry Partners
- Booz Allen Hamilton (consulting partner)
- Accenture (technology consulting)
- Deloitte (professional services)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $88,000. Top Employers: Booz Allen Hamilton, Accenture, Federal Government Agencies.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- Project Management Professional
- Certified Information Systems Manager
- AWS Solutions Architect
Liberty University — Lynchburg, VA
Key Distinction: Liberty's cloud program uniquely combines fully online accessibility with embedded industry certifications and faith-integrated instruction for working professionals and distance learners.
Hakia Insight: Liberty's fully online cloud program embedded with AWS and Microsoft certifications removes the geographic and scheduling friction that typically forces working professionals to choose between careers and credentials, a logistical advantage that shows in completion rates.
At the bachelor's level, liberty University delivers cloud computing education through flexible, faith-integrated online and hybrid formats designed for distance learners and working professionals seeking structured technical advancement. The program emphasizes practical cloud platform certifications—AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud—as embedded milestones within degree requirements, so students earn credentials while progressing toward their degree. This approach appeals to career-changers and upskilling professionals who want institutional credentials alongside industry-recognized certifications. The curriculum balances foundational networking and systems concepts with applied cloud deployment, containers, and infrastructure-as-code practices. Liberty's large online infrastructure means robust support systems and peer communities despite distributed enrollment; many students find cohort-based project work and discussion forums especially valuable. The program structure accommodates working adults by offering asynchronous coursework, weekend intensives, and evening sections. Graduates frequently transition into cloud support roles, junior cloud engineering positions, and infrastructure teams at mid-to-large enterprises. For distance learners prioritizing flexibility, certification stacking, and career-ready technical skills over research depth or small-cohort mentorship, Liberty's cloud pathway offers a structured and affordable option.
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
- AWS Certified Associate-level certifications embedded
- Microsoft Azure certifications available
Location Advantages: Fully online accessibilityNo geographic constraints
Strayer University-Virginia — Arlington, VA
Key Distinction: Strayer University's Cloud Computing program offers flexible online delivery with a focus on practical, career-oriented education within a comprehensive Information Technology framework that includes multiple specialization options.
Hakia Insight: Strayer's cloud computing concentration within a broader IT degree framework allows students to test cloud specialization before committing fully, reducing the risk of a narrow major choice while preserving the option to pivot across IT roles mid-degree.
At the bachelor's level, strayer University's Cloud Computing program is offered as a concentration within their Bachelor of Science in Information Technology degree. This online program is designed to prepare students for the rapidly growing field of cloud computing and infrastructure management. As part of Strayer's comprehensive Information Technology curriculum, the Cloud Computing concentration sits alongside other specialized tracks including Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Data Management, IT Project Management, Networking, and Software Development. The program is delivered through Strayer's established online learning platform, making it accessible to working professionals and students who need flexible scheduling options. Strayer University is an accredited institution that has been serving students for over 125 years, with a focus on career-oriented education and practical skills development.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cloud Computing — 4 years, online
Location Advantages:
University of Richmond — University of Richmond, VA
Key Distinction: Richmond uniquely combines cloud technical skills with business strategy and governance education, preparing students for cloud architect and strategy roles rather than just infrastructure engineering.
Hakia Insight: Richmond's dual BA/BS structure and proximity to Capital One headquarters create an unusual advantage: undergrads can move between pure technical depth and business-strategy focus without switching programs, while competing for transformation projects at one of the nation's largest cloud-native financial services employers.
At the bachelor's level, richmond's approach to cloud computing education is rooted in the liberal arts ethos—students gain technical depth in cloud architecture and software engineering while also engaging deeply with the business strategy, governance, and ethical dimensions of cloud adoption that distinguish leaders from operators. The curriculum balances cloud infrastructure (AWS, Azure) with courses in cloud economics, organizational change management, and data governance, preparing graduates to navigate implementation challenges that are as much human and organizational as they are technical. Faculty bring consulting and enterprise architecture experience, and Richmond's location in Virginia's research triangle creates natural partnerships with companies like Capital One and various financial services firms where cloud modernization projects need people who can bridge technical and business perspectives. Student capstones frequently involve consulting projects for regional firms, giving hands-on experience translating business requirements into cloud solutions. This focus makes Richmond's graduates particularly competitive for cloud architect and cloud strategy roles—positions that command higher compensation and greater career growth than purely technical cloud engineering positions—rather than pure DevOps or infrastructure roles.
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
- Distributed Systems Research Lab
- Data Science and Analytics Lab
Industry Partners
- Capital One (financial technology partner)
- Altria (corporate partner)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $85,000. Top Employers: Capital One, Deloitte, Amazon Web Services, Google.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.7.
Accreditations and Certifications
- AWS Developer Associate
- Google Cloud Professional Data Engineer
- Certified Kubernetes Administrator
Location Advantages: Richmond, Virginia financial services and fintech ecosystemProximity to Capital One headquartersAccess to enterprise cloud transformation projects
Averett University — Danville, VA
Key Distinction: Averett University offers comprehensive Cloud Computing programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Averett's regional positioning in Danville provides access to mid-market enterprise cloud migration projects that larger universities' students often miss, offering hands-on experience with real transformation work rather than classroom simulations.
Averett University offers Cloud Computing programs in Danville, VA. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Washington University of Science and Technology — Vienna, VA
Hakia Insight: Washington University of Science and Technology's AWS Educate partnership creates a direct pipeline to Amazon hiring, but the real differentiator is curriculum alignment with AWS certification exam paths—graduates can stack industry credentials alongside their degree.
At the bachelor's level, 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.
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: Amazon Web Services.
Location Advantages:
Hampton University — Hampton, VA
Hakia Insight: Hampton's partnerships with NASA Langley and Northrop Grumman unlock security clearance sponsorships and government contracting experience that most bachelor's programs can't offer, translating to median salaries that underestimate actual earning potential in cleared positions.
At the bachelor's level, hampton's cloud computing program emerges from the institution's historic mission to prepare African American and underrepresented minority students for leadership in technology fields. The curriculum combines rigorous cloud architecture and engineering foundations with strategic emphasis on leadership development and career advancement pathways—recognizing that technical competency alone doesn't guarantee equitable access to senior roles. Faculty bring experience from major technology companies and actively mentor students toward internships and positions where they can gain visibility and sponsorship. The program provides access to cloud platforms and certification exam funding that might otherwise present financial barriers, ensuring cost isn't an obstacle to credentialing. Partnerships with major tech employers who prioritize diversity create direct pipelines; recruiters actively engage with Hampton students, and many employers offer internships specifically designed to develop the next generation of cloud leaders. Students engage with peer cohorts who share similar backgrounds and aspirations, building networks that persist throughout their careers—a distinctive advantage in an industry where informal networks significantly impact opportunity access. Capstone projects often involve solving real business problems for partner organizations, building both technical portfolio pieces and professional relationships. The program tracks outcomes carefully, with particular attention to placement in high-trajectory roles and advancement timelines. Hampton's emphasis on preparing not just cloud engineers but future cloud leaders—managers, architects, and strategists—shapes the entire educational experience.
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
- Advanced Computing Research Lab
- Cybersecurity and Cloud Lab
Industry Partners
- NASA Langley Research Center (research partner)
- Northrop Grumman (aerospace partner)
- Microsoft (technology partner)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $75,000. Top Employers: NASA, Northrop Grumman, Amazon, IBM.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- AWS Solutions Architect Professional
- Microsoft Azure Architect
- Google Cloud Professional
Best Master's Cloud Computing Degree Programs in Virginia
Washington University of Science and Technology — Vienna, VA
Hakia Insight: The master's program's AWS Educate integration means students aren't just learning cloud architecture in theory—they're building on the same platforms AWS uses to train its own workforce, collapsing the gap between academic projects and production systems.
At the master's level, 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.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cloud Computing — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Cloud Computing — 1-2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Amazon Web Services.
Location Advantages:
George Mason University — Fairfax, VA
Key Distinction: Developed in collaboration with AWS Educate curriculum designers and offers two specialized tracks: Cloud Technology and Cloud System Management
Hakia Insight: George Mason's two-track system (Cloud Technology vs. Cloud System Management) lets working professionals specialize mid-degree based on employer needs, a modularity most master's programs force at admissions rather than adapting in real time.
At the master's level, the Cloud Computing concentration in George Mason University's Bachelor of Applied Science program prepares students to embark on careers in the cloud computing sector. Faculty and staff worked with AWS Educate curriculum designers to create pathways for careers in cloud architecture, cybersecurity, software development and DevOps.
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
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.50.
Requirements: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in a related field
Location Advantages:
Marymount University — Arlington, VA
Hakia Insight: Marymount's $88K median salary for a master's degree reflects its unique niche: the program explicitly trains for federal contractor roles (Booz Allen, Accenture), where cloud-plus-business-strategy graduates command premiums over pure infrastructure engineers.
At the master's level, provides graduate cloud computing education with focus on practical applications and industry readiness. The program integrates business strategy with technical implementation of cloud solutions. Students work on real-world projects and develop leadership skills for managing cloud initiatives.
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
- Cloud Innovation Center
- Information Security Lab
Industry Partners
- Booz Allen Hamilton (consulting partner)
- Accenture (technology consulting)
- Deloitte (professional services)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $88,000. Top Employers: Booz Allen Hamilton, Accenture, Federal Government Agencies.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- Project Management Professional
- Certified Information Systems Manager
- AWS Solutions Architect
Strayer University-Virginia — Arlington, VA
Key Distinction: Strayer University's Cloud Computing program offers flexible online delivery with a focus on practical, career-oriented education within a comprehensive Information Technology framework that includes multiple specialization options.
Hakia Insight: Strayer's online concentration model avoids the sunk cost of a full program pivot—working IT professionals can add cloud specialization to their existing degree without restarting, reducing time-to-credential and enabling immediate salary lift.
At the master's level, strayer University's Cloud Computing program is offered as a concentration within their Bachelor of Science in Information Technology degree. This online program is designed to prepare students for the rapidly growing field of cloud computing and infrastructure management. As part of Strayer's comprehensive Information Technology curriculum, the Cloud Computing concentration sits alongside other specialized tracks including Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Data Management, IT Project Management, Networking, and Software Development. The program is delivered through Strayer's established online learning platform, making it accessible to working professionals and students who need flexible scheduling options. Strayer University is an accredited institution that has been serving students for over 125 years, with a focus on career-oriented education and practical skills development.
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:
Virginia Commonwealth University — Richmond, VA
Key Distinction: Thesis vs. non-thesis track options. Flexible part-time enrollment at your own pace
Hakia Insight: VCU's 30-credit, self-paced structure with thesis optionality appeals to practitioners who need flexibility, but the real asset is Kostadin Damevski's research lab—graduate students can pivot into publishable cloud systems work rather than pure coursework.
VCU's M.S. in Computer Science is a 30-credit, flexible master's program designed for working professionals seeking career advancement in technology fields. The program offers both thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to customize their educational path. Full-time students complete the degree in approximately two years (3 semesters), while part-time students enjoy flexible enrollment timelines to balance work and studies. Specializations include cloud computing, cybersecurity, data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and software engineering. The program emphasizes both theoretical and applied computer science through 500-level courses and signature offerings like High Performance Distributed Systems and Knowledge Discovery and Data Mining. VCU's College of Engineering provides dedicated Career Services, industry partnerships with major employers (Microsoft, Capital One, MITRE, Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond), and faculty with real-world expertise. Graduates advance into roles such as senior software developers, cybersecurity engineering directors, and computer systems analysts across banking, healthcare, IT, and telecommunications sectors. The program leverages Richmond's business ecosystem and well-funded labs for hands-on learning and networking opportunities.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
- Black Knight Technology Inc. (tech)
- Blue River Technology (tech)
- Brightspot (tech)
- CACI (tech)
- Capital One (financial)
- CoStar Group (tech)
- Cotiviti (healthcare)
- Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond (financial)
- Genworth (financial)
- HP (tech)
- Micron Technology Inc. (tech)
- Microsoft (tech)
- MITRE Corporation (tech)
- NT Concepts (tech)
- UST (tech)
- Bank of America (financial)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Microsoft.
Notable Faculty
- Kostadin Damevski — Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director
Location Advantages:
Liberty University — Lynchburg, VA
Key Distinction: Liberty's cloud program uniquely combines fully online accessibility with embedded industry certifications and faith-integrated instruction for working professionals and distance learners.
Hakia Insight: Liberty's AWS and Microsoft partnerships embedded in a fully online, faith-integrated model serve a niche most programs ignore: professionals whose values and constraints (geography, schedule, faith community) have historically forced them to choose between career advancement and personal alignment.
At the master's level, liberty University delivers cloud computing education through flexible, faith-integrated online and hybrid formats designed for distance learners and working professionals seeking structured technical advancement. The program emphasizes practical cloud platform certifications—AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud—as embedded milestones within degree requirements, so students earn credentials while progressing toward their degree. This approach appeals to career-changers and upskilling professionals who want institutional credentials alongside industry-recognized certifications. The curriculum balances foundational networking and systems concepts with applied cloud deployment, containers, and infrastructure-as-code practices. Liberty's large online infrastructure means robust support systems and peer communities despite distributed enrollment; many students find cohort-based project work and discussion forums especially valuable. The program structure accommodates working adults by offering asynchronous coursework, weekend intensives, and evening sections. Graduates frequently transition into cloud support roles, junior cloud engineering positions, and infrastructure teams at mid-to-large enterprises. For distance learners prioritizing flexibility, certification stacking, and career-ready technical skills over research depth or small-cohort mentorship, Liberty's cloud pathway offers a structured and affordable option.
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
- AWS Certified Associate-level certifications embedded
- Microsoft Azure certifications available
Location Advantages: Fully online accessibilityNo geographic constraints
University of Management and Technology — Arlington, VA
Key Distinction: UMT's Cloud Computing program is distinguished by faculty with unique backgrounds spanning space flight program planning, aerospace defense systems, and Project Management Institute leadership.
Hakia Insight: UMT's faculty backgrounds in aerospace defense systems and space flight planning mean cloud curriculum isn't generic infrastructure—it's built by engineers who've architected mission-critical, high-assurance systems where cloud failure means catastrophic consequences.
At the master's level, the University of Management and Technology's Cloud Computing program is led by world-class faculty with extensive industry and academic experience. The program benefits from leadership including Dr. Yanping Chen, a former planning director for China's manned space flight program and Project Management Institute Fellow, and John Hu, who brings 15 years of aerospace and defense industry experience from Northrop Grumman. The faculty combines deep technical expertise in areas like systems engineering, cybersecurity, and project management with real-world industry experience. The program emphasizes distance education delivery and maintains strong connections to industry through faculty who have worked on major defense and technology projects.
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
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
- Smithsonian Institution (government)
Notable Faculty
- Yanping Chen — Project management, international business management, science and technology policy
- Eric Kirkland — Higher education administration, information technology, software engineering
- John Hu — Distance education, systems engineering, cybersecurity
Location Advantages: