Do You Need a Degree for Cloud Computing?

The cloud computing industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, shaping how organizations operate, store data and deliver services. This pivot toward cloud technology has changed how businesses operate across different sectors, fueling the demand for skilled professionals who can manage and optimize cloud platforms.

However, as more professionals seek to enter this dynamic field, the question arises: is a degree necessary to build a successful career in cloud computing, or can hands-on skills alone suffice?

Understanding the Cloud Computing Industry: Is It All About Skills?

Cloud computing has evolved as technology has continued to progress. Key players like Google Cloud, Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure lead the market, offering a range of cloud solutions that continue to drive global business operations.
With services ranging from basic data storage to complex artificial intelligence models, cloud providers are constantly pushing the boundaries of what technology can achieve.

Given the scope and pace of advancements in cloud technology, the industry places a significant emphasis on technical skills. Many cloud computing roles require hands-on knowledge of cloud technologies and platforms, networking and data security practices.

Dr. Mohammad Abu Shattal, program chair of the B.S. in Cloud Computing program at Franklin University, expands on this: 

“Cloud roles often involve complex, theory-based responsibilities such as designing secure architectures, implementing advanced networking configurations and developing algorithms for data processing at scale. Hands-on experience is essential, and formal education can provide the structured, in-depth knowledge needed to tackle complex challenges and innovate in areas where understanding core principles is critical.” 

While formal education, such as a degree in computer science, traditionally laid the foundation for technical careers, cloud computing has evolved into a field where self-taught skills, certifications and real-world experience can also be valuable.

For instance, professionals often find that hands-on experience with platforms like AWS or Azure can bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

The Role of a Cloud Engineer: Skills vs. Degrees

A cloud engineer is typically responsible for designing, developing and managing an organization’s cloud architecture. They also enable secure and efficient data storage and application deployment. Additional tasks include:

• Configuring and managing cloud infrastructure
• Ensuring data security and compliance
• Implementing disaster recovery and backup plans
• Optimizing performance and cost management on cloud platforms

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For aspiring cloud engineers, choosing between formal education and skills gained through certifications can be a game-changer.

Certification programs like Google Cloud Platform Professional Architect or AWS Certified Solutions Architect provide hands-on, platform-specific skills, allowing professionals to demonstrate their expertise directly related to industry demands.

While certifications focus on specific technical skills, a university or college degree in cloud computing or computer science offers a broader understanding of foundational knowledge, cloud fundamentals and other complementary skills.

For example, degree programs often emphasize soft skills like communication, teamwork and problem-solving. Project management skills, crucial for cloud engineers who frequently collaborate with cross-functional teams, are often refined through the structured, immersive experience that degree programs provide.

A degree can provide a deeper context to cloud technologies, making it easier for those in a cloud engineer role to adapt to a wide range of platforms and architectures.

Can You Learn Cloud Computing Without a Degree?

Dr. Abu Shattal says that learning cloud computing without a degree has become more doable thanks to the wealth of resources available. 

“To succeed in cloud computing without a formal degree, focus on earning key certifications to demonstrate your expertise, starting with foundational credentials and advancing to specialized areas like security, DevOps or cloud architecture. Building hands-on experience is crucial; create personal projects, seek freelance work or pursue internships, and consider contributing to open-source projects to showcase your skills and connect with the professional community.”  

With this in mind, options for an informal education path include:

• Online Courses and Boot Camps. Platforms like Udacity, Coursera and LinkedIn Learning offer cloud computing courses that range from beginner to advanced. These programs can help professionals gain experience via working on their own personal projects and can also help them build their cloud portfolio.
• Certifications. Industry-recognized certifications, such as those from AWS, Google Cloud or Microsoft Azure, validate specific technical skills and are often favored by employers.
• Community Resources and Open-Source Projects. Participate in cloud-focused open-source projects or join cloud computing groups, like GitHub or Stack Overflow. This enables learners to gain practical, real-world experience by working on cloud-based projects.

Structured learning environments like boot camps or certifications can provide direction and focus, helping learners gain specific technical skills.

However, hands-on experience still remains an important part of the process, as the nature of cloud computing work involves troubleshooting, optimizing and scaling applications in real-time. Many professionals combine these resources with internships or freelance work, allowing them to apply their knowledge directly within an industry setting.
 

The Benefits of Earning a Cloud Computing Degree

Dr. Abu Shattal explains that a degree in cloud computing provides a comprehensive educational experience. 

“A degree emphasizes practical application through real-world projects in cloud architecture, security and app development. With integrated industry certifications and expert-led courses, it prepares students for high-demand roles in a rapidly evolving field. The curriculum balances technical skills and cloud strategy, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for competitive careers in cloud technology.” 

In addition, a degree often provides a broader technical foundation, better preparing students for a range of roles and responsibilities. This foundational knowledge can be particularly valuable for professionals who want to transition into specialized fields, such as cloud engineering, machine learning or cloud security.

Other benefits of a cloud computing degree worth mentioning are:

• Credibility. A degree from a recognized institution is a testament to a candidate’s dedication, discipline and understanding of fundamental principles. This is especially helpful when looking to start a career in cloud computing.
• Networking Opportunities. University programs often provide opportunities to connect with professors, peers and industry professionals, opening doors to internships, job opportunities and professional connections.
• Comprehensive Knowledge. A degree program delves into a broad range of topics directly related to cloud computing, such as networking fundamentals, data management, and cybersecurity. Additionally, it equips students with transferable skills like critical thinking, communication and collaboration, which are highly valued by organizations across different industries.

Cloud Computing Certifications vs. a Bachelor's Degree: What Do Employers Want?

For entry-level positions, many employers value certifications at a minimum, as they provide assurance that the candidate has specific, job-ready skills in cloud platforms. Certifications such as AWS Certified Solutions Architect or Google Cloud Certified are widely recognized and respected across industries.

However, a bachelor’s degree often holds more weight for mid-to senior-level roles, particularly for roles that demand a thorough understanding of cloud infrastructure, system integration or advanced problem-solving. Degrees provide not only technical training but can also help provide critical thinking skills that come from studying a wide range of technology topics.

To sum this up, certifications provide:

• Directly applicable, platform-specific skills
• Rapid skill acquisition
• Competitive advantage in technical roles

While a bachelor's degree offers:

• Comprehensive technical and theoretical knowledge
• Development of critical thinking and soft skills
• A foundation for specialized or advanced roles

However, Dr. Abu Shuttal says it’s important to note that employers increasingly appreciate a blend of certifications and a degree, as this combination demonstrates both the technical capability and a well-rounded understanding of cloud computing fundamentals. 

Cloud professionals with both often stand out as competitive candidates ready to adapt to tech industry demands.

The Future of Cloud Computing: Why Education Matters

Understanding how cloud platforms interact with emerging technologies is important for future cloud professionals.

Artificial intelligence (AI), for instance, relies on cloud infrastructure to process large data volumes, while edge computing requires a cloud engineer to optimize data handling at localized nodes to reduce latency.

Formal education in cloud computing provides professionals with the theoretical knowledge necessary to stay ahead of these trends, offering a competitive advantage in an evolving job market. As services and technologies grow more complex, the cloud computing field will likely favor professionals with a solid foundation and the adaptability that formal education offers.

Start Cloud Computing With Franklin University’s Bachelor's Degree

Franklin University’s bachelor’s degree in cloud computing is designed to equip students with the skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive cloud industry. The program offers a flexible learning environment that accommodates both traditional students and working professionals, ensuring that all students can benefit from a comprehensive, industry-relevant curriculum.

Explore the opportunities waiting for you in cloud computing—visit the program page to learn more or start your application today and take the first step toward an in-demand career.

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