Online Undergraduate Certificate in Cloud Computing

In simple terms, cloud computing refers to remote computer services, such as hardware or storage, that can be accessed remotely via a stable internet connection. Before cloud computing, organizations had to purchase, maintain and house a stack of servers somewhere in the office. Today, companies can rent cloud servers in data centers all over the world. Using these servers, they can host their own email addresses, store their data and take advantage of a variety of services to businesses and individuals via the internet.

Put more technically, cloud computing is the on-demand delivery of computer resources such as email, data storage, natural language processing, databases and software. While most people only pay attention to the storage elements (for instance, using Google Drive or Microsoft SharePoint to store a document that multiple people need to access), there are hardware advantages too.

A good example of cloud hardware usage can be found at design companies. Instead of purchasing an expensive machine capable of running CAD software, companies can now access this intensive software through less-powerful machines that remotely operate powerful machines via the cloud.

Some specialties include cloud database and machine learning. Database computing focuses on using existing cloud databases such as Amazon Web Services or Google Cloud to store data and accelerate the transfer of information and metrics.

Machine learning is a more intensive form of cloud computing. This discipline focuses on using artificial intelligence (AI) elements within cloud infrastructures to provide data analysis and even make decisions for your business. Machine learning systems can provide a higher degree of data analysis and are capable of more effectively organizing data in a way that allows business leaders to make informed decisions.

Cloud computing enables businesses to shed the complex logistics and cost of owning physical servers or running software applications on their own machines. Cloud computing services basically allow businesses to rent computing capabilities from a provider such as Google, Microsoft or Amazon and only pay for what they use. Additionally, it reduces up-front costs and is protected against obsolescence unlike expensive and powerful machines and storage solutions.

For businesses, cloud computing reduces IT costs and allows for more flexibility, not only when increasing or decreasing their needs for cloud services but with collaboration among employees. Cloud services can also provide a level of security and mitigation of data loss.

For an example of the benefits, we need look no further than the coronavirus outbreak in 2020. During this time, many employees were sent to work from home, stripping them of the benefits of an office. Companies that had robust cloud computing systems in place were able to maintain a much more agile workflow as their employees were able to take advantage of identical systems and infrastructures.

Cloud services are also an excellent solution for companies that are just getting started. Instead of having to buy several high-priced machines for employees, businesses can now rely on less-powerful, more cost-effective machines that remotely access the computing power of cloud services.

A certificate shows that you’ve completed a program of study in a particular topic area. Adding this credential to your resume can demonstrate to future employers that you have the knowledge and skills needed to perform critical job tasks in cloud computing. An Undergraduate Certificate in cloud computing from DeVry can help prepare you for a career in the cloud computing field.

An Undergraduate Certificate in Cloud Computing from DeVry can help prepare you for job opportunities by teaching you necessary skills and giving you hands-on experience. A certificate can also help you pursue further education. Credits earned in your Cloud Computing Certificate program at DeVry can be applied toward a Bachelor’s in Information Technology and Networking when you pursue the Cloud Based Networking and Virtualization specialization.⁴

Graduates from our Cloud Computing certificate program may consider opportunities such as:

Different employers may have different requirements, so be sure to read the full job description when you apply for a position to determine if the role is the right fit for you.