Cloud computing helps with reducing costs, enhancing flexibility, and ultimately increasing competitive advantage. Rather than funneling excess resources into databases, hardware, and software, companies can access data through the Internet and only pay for what they use. Online courses for cloud computing are a great resource if you want to learn more about this technology.
Because of its many benefits, the demand for cloud computing is on the rise and companies are looking to hire professionals with this essential skill. This article covers some of the best online cloud computing training programs that can help you get started in this profession. We also cover the best free cloud computing course options.
What Is Cloud Computing?
Cloud computing is the online delivery of computer services including databases, software, servers, networks, storage, and intelligence. This relatively new business solution allows companies to access services on-demand over the Internet.
When a company decides to move to the cloud, it opts to store its IT infrastructure in an offsite data center maintained by a cloud service provider. This is an increasingly popular option for businesses as it is flexible, responsive, scalable, and allows them to develop quickly.
Questions to Ask Yourself Before Attending an Online Cloud Computing Course
Which Aspects of Cloud Computing Would You Like to Learn?
Before you enroll in a course, you will need to determine whether you are hoping for a brief overview of the field or looking for more advanced training in specific cloud services. For example, if you want to work with Azure, a course covering Amazon Web Services won’t be the best option.
Should You Attend a Coding Bootcamp to Learn Cloud Computing?
In short, yes, you should attend a coding bootcamp offering cloud computing-related training. Not only do most coding bootcamp programs take a short time to complete, but they are also considerably cheaper than those offered by universities and colleges. The best cloud computing bootcamp will teach you the most up-to-date technologies you need to know.
The Best Online Cloud Computing Courses: An Overview
If you want to quickly develop your cloud computing skills in platforms like Google Cloud and Amazon Web Services (AWS), you should consider courses or training programs. Conveniently, you can attend some of the best cloud computing courses online from the comfort of your own home. Listed below are some of the best online courses, classes, and training programs.
| Provider | Course | Price | Length | Certificate |
| Austin Coding Academy | Full-Stack Software Development | $9,175 | 9 Months | Yes |
| Community College of Vermont | Software Development Bootcamp | $10,000 | 3 Months | Yes |
| Coursera | Preparing for Google Cloud Certification: Cloud DevOps Engineer Professional Certificate | N/A | 5 Months | Yes |
| Coursera | Preparing for Google Cloud Certification: Cloud Engineer Professional Certificate | N/A | 6 Months | Yes |
| edureka! | AWS Solutions Architect Certification Training Course | $499 | 18 days- 6 weeks | Yes |
| edX | Full Stack Cloud Developer | $603 | 6 Months | Yes |
| General Assembly | Software Engineering Immersive Online | $15,950 | 3 Months | Yes |
| INE.com | Introduction to Azure and Cloud Concepts | $39/monthly | 6 hours | No |
| Pluralsight | Understanding AWS Cores Services | $29/monthly | 2.5 hours | No |
| Simplilearn | Caltech Cloud Computing Bootcamp | $8,000 | 6 Months | Yes |
| Springboard | Machine Learning Engineering Bootcamp | $10,340 | 6 Months | No |
| Udemy | Getting Started With Cloud Computing – Level 1 | $99.99 | 2.5 hours | Yes |
| Udemy | Introduction to Cloud Computing on AWS for Beginners | $24.99 | 8 Hours | Yes |
| University of Toronto | Cloud Computing | $2,307 | N/A | Yes |
| University of Washington | Network and System Administration | $1,075 | 10 Weeks | Yes |
| edX | Introduction to Cloud Infrastructure Technologies | Free | 14 Weeks | No |
| GitHub | Kubernetes Bootcamp | Free | 1 Hour | No |
| Oracle | Oracle Cloud Infrastructure Cloud Services | Free | 11 Hours | No |
| Udemy | Cloud Computing With Amazon Web Services | Free | 2.5 hours | No |
| Udemy | Introduction to Cloud Computing | Free | 1 hour | No |
The Best Online Cloud Computing Classes, Courses, or Training
Below, we provide further details about the best online courses for cloud computing. You’ll learn about what skills are included, the level of experience required, and the learning format. The best free online cloud computing classes are included at the end.
Full-Stack Software Development | Austin Coding Academy
- Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
- Level: Beginner/Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: JavaScript, HTML, CSS, object oriented programming (OOP)
The curriculum focuses on the fundamentals of code to equip students with in-demand skills through practical application. There’s an optional but highly recommended two-week preparation course that helps you to prepare for the next nine months. To help you take the next step, the Austin Coding Academy harnessed local companies to help you land a job after graduation.
As a student at Austin Coding Academy, you’ll learn the most popular programming languages used in websites, web-based applications, and mobile applications. You’ll also learn how to collect, analyze and process data which are essential aspects of cloud server technologies. The curriculum adopts a hands-on learning approach using Node.js/Express.js and SQL.
Key Takeaway: This flexible online cloud computing training program is suitable for beginners and intermediate learners and features a two-week preparatory course.
Software Development Bootcamp | Community College of Vermont
- Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Node.Js, Express, React, MongoDB
Many students who’ve gone through this course landed their first tech jobs shortly after graduation. This is largely due to its focus on in-demand technologies, frameworks, and programming languages that are widely recognized by employers and hiring managers.
The curriculum is delivered by industry experts and offers hands-on experience, career services, and networking opportunities. Among other things, you’ll learn HTML, cloud deployment, CSS, JavaScript, Node.Js, Express, React, and MongoDB. It is a course that will transform you from beginner to expert in 12 weeks.
Key Takeaway: This is a rigorous program from an accredited institution covering full stack software development including in-demand technologies like JavaScript, MongoDB, NodeJs, and Express
Preparing for Google Cloud Certification: Cloud DevOps Engineer Professional Certificate | Coursera
- Learning Format: Certification program
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: CI/CD pipelines, application logs, Kubernetes, cloud debugging
This five-course certificate program provides superb preparation for the Google Cloud Professional DevOps Engineer certification exam. By the end of it, you’ll have acquired skills in Google Cloud Platform, SRE culture, organizational culture, Kubernetes, and Google cloud computing.
Although presented as a beginner course, applicants ideally should have some experience with cloud computing and DevOps. While Coursera facilitates this course, it’s provided by Google Cloud, so you can rest assured that it will thoroughly prepare you for the associated certification examination. To learn about pricing, you can inquire through Coursera’s website.
Key Takeaway: This course will prepare you for the industry-recognized Google Cloud Professional DevOps Engineer certification exam. It combines theoretical learning with hands-on labs using the Qwiklabs platform.
Preparing for Google Cloud Certification: Cloud Engineer Professional Certificate | Coursera
- Learning Format: Certification program
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Cloud architecture, cloud applications, cloud deployment models
In addition to being a search engine, Google offers this six-course certification program through Coursera. The programs offered by Google lead directly to a wide range of career paths in cloud infrastructure. These include virtual networks, application development, Kubernetes (hybrid and multi-cloud), network security, API management, data engineering and analytics, machine learning, and AI.
Key Takeaway: This program is ideal for professionals wanting official Google certification. It will help students launch their careers through hands-on training in the concepts of cloud computing.
AWS Online Solution Architect Certification Training Course | edureka!
Learning Format: Instructor-led full course
Level: Beginner
Subjects Covered: Cloud computing service models, virtualization, AWS global infrastructure, ways to access AWS, storage options, networking, load balancing, security management
You can choose between two scheduling options for this course. One option includes daily classes Monday through Friday, and the other option meets on weekends. These live instructor-led classes are comprehensive and provide all the training you need to prepare for the AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate exam.
Key Takeaway: This course provides live online classes that prepare beginners for the AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate exam.
Full Stack Cloud Developer | edX
- Learning Format: Certificate program
- Level: Beginner/Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, DevOps, cloud-native, containerization technology, Python
This 10-course certificate program is offered by edX in collaboration with IBM. It provides participants with the opportunity to develop the technical knowledge needed to start a career as a full stack cloud developer.
You won’t need much experience in cloud computing as this program will equip you with the core skills of in-demand technologies like Python, DevOps, containers, and Python. The coursework includes a project in which you will create a cloud environment using IBM Cloud to demonstrate your native cloud tools and technical skills.
Key Takeaway: This is a professional certificate for working students hoping to start a career as a full stack cloud developer.
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Software Engineering Immersive Online | General Assembly
- Learning Format: Full bootcamp with hands-on training
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Front end development, full stack development, front end frameworks, APIs, cloud development
Cloud computing covers several technical areas including networking, servers, databases, and software. This program focuses on full stack web technologies and tools to give you the skills needed to become a confident software engineer or cloud engineer.
As a student, you’ll learn Python, React, JavaScript, Django, APIs, and GitHub technologies and programming languages. This program features peer-to-peer interactions and after-hours technical assistance.
Key Takeaway: This course is great if you are looking for a career transition into the tech industry. It offers an ideal platform for you to pursue advanced studies in cloud environments and cloud security.
Introduction to Azure and Cloud Concepts | INE.com
- Learning Format: On-demand course
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Azure and cloud basics, Azure management tools, Azure service level agreements, cost management, shared responsibility model
This course takes six hours to complete and is intended for IT professionals who need a basic understanding of cloud computing and Microsoft Azure cloud. It covers why so many businesses choose to move their workloads into Azure, core cloud concepts, and how to predict and manage cloud resource costs.
This course is composed of eight modules, including Cloud Concepts, Management Tools, Azure Subscriptions, Azure Cost Management, and Azure Support. You’ll have access to quizzes and exercises to help you practice your new skills. INE.com has various additional courses you can take if you want to build your cloud computing skills further.
Key Takeaway: This affordable program is ideal for IT professionals looking to widen their skillset.
Understanding AWS Core Services | Pluralsight
Learning Format: Self-paced course
Level: Beginner
Subjects Covered: Content and network delivery services, file storage services, database services and utilities, app integration services
This course includes a series of short videos that cover all the basics of AWS services and prepare students for the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam. Pluralsight offers a 10-day free trial period where you can try out a variety of cloud computing online courses before paying for a subscription.
Key Takeaway: This is a quick, self-led course that will teach you all the basics of AWS services.
Caltech Cloud Computing Bootcamp | Simplilearn
- Learning Format: Online bootcamp
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Cloud provider selection, application migration, performance testing, autoscaling, disaster recovery, database management, web services and API, autoscaling, identity access management
If you are looking for a complete education in all cloud computing basics, this might be the course for you. This six-month bootcamp program includes various hands-on projects to give students the chance to cement their new knowledge. It includes live online classes by professionals with experience in the field.
Students finish their studies with a capstone project in four domains. The program also comes with one-to-one mentoring, access to an employer network, and resume writing assistance to help you land your first job after graduation.
Key Takeaway: This cloud computing bootcamp is perfect for newcomers to the field because it comes with career services as well as comprehensive modules.
Machine Learning Engineering Bootcamp | Springboard
- Learning Format: Full bootcamp course with hands-on training
- Level: Intermediate/Advanced
- Subjects Covered: Machine learning, deep learning, deep neural network configurations, computer vision, image processing, various cloud-based services, Python, Hadoop, Spark, Docker, Paperspace and AWS
More than 2000 students have completed this data science and Machine Learning course. The program runs for six months during which students learn to work with data in large data sets in SQL, decision tree models, deep learning, and cloud-based services such as AWS and Microsoft Azure.
However, some prerequisites need to be met before enrolling in this program. You need to have at least a year of experience in software engineering, data science, or languages such as Python, C++, and Java. Alternatively, you should have a bachelor’s degree in math, physics, economics, data science, or a related field.
Key Takeaway: This program is for professionals with strong software skills who wish to become artificial intelligence or machine learning engineers.
Udemy | Getting Started With Cloud Computing – Level 1
- Learning Format: Self-paced course
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Basic characteristics of cloud computing, SaaS, PaaS, IaaS, cloud deployment models, benefits of public cloud services
This course comes with over two hours of video content, one article, and two downloadable resources. In addition, you will receive a certificate of completion. Some of the modules in this course include Cloud Service Models, Cloud Deployment Models, and The Five Characteristics of Cloud Computing
You do not need any background knowledge to enroll in this course. It is designed for IT workers who wish to broaden their skillset or computer science students hoping to become cloud administrators or software developers.
Key Takeaway: This is a self-paced course that gives you a broad overview of cloud computing basics for students and IT professionals.
Introduction to Cloud Computing on AWS for Beginners | Udemy
- Learning Format: Full course with hands-on exercises
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: DevOps tools on AWS, Platform as a Service (PaaS) applications, docker containers, databases, server visualization, Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2), Serverless Computing, Cloud Foundry
This course is ideal for people aspiring to be AWS cloud practitioners. The curriculum is designed to introduce learners to the basic concepts of cloud computing services such as AWS, and progress to advance concepts.
It is a perfect course to prepare you for a professional certification exam including the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner or AWS Certified Solutions Architect exams. Students have unlimited access to course materials.
Key Takeaway: This course is designed for people aspiring to learn more about cloud computing services like Amazon Web Services (AWS). The program is short and uses both theoretical and hands-on learning approaches to ensure students learn Amazon Web Services from beginner to expert level.
Cloud Computing | University of Toronto
- Learning Format: Certificate program
- Level: Beginners/Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: Platform as a Service (PaaS), Software as a Service (SaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), foundations of cloud computing, private cloud services, cloud computing jobs
This is a three-course certificate program to help you understand the various service models such as Platform as a Service (PaaS), Software as a Service (SaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS). It is delivered by industry experts in cloud computing. Students will develop relevant skills through hands-on projects.
Key Takeaway: At the end of the class, you will receive a certificate of completion. This is a great course for students looking to gain practical experience and a strong understanding of cloud computing to start their careers.
Network and System Administration | University of Washington
- Learning Format: A training program
- Level: Beginner/Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: Core security concepts, Python, AWS, scripting techniques
The University of Washington is known for its world-class academic programs including this cloud course in network and system administration. It is a 10-week evening course delivered online, making it ideal for professionals with full-time jobs. It has no formal requirements, making it ideal for a wide range of students.
This program will prepare you for the roles and responsibilities expected of a network and systems administrator. This training program will prepare you for a professional certificate in cyber security, big data technologies, ethical hacking, DevOps with Docker, and Kubernetes.
Key Takeaway: This is a course provided by industry experts that prepares students for roles in network and security administration. Skills gained here can be applied to real-world problems in the workplace.
The Best Free Online Cloud Computing Courses
If you are looking to learn the basics, you might be interested in a free cloud computing course. Many major platforms offer free training to students and IT workers looking to broaden their skillsets. Below we list some of the best free cloud computing courses available.
Introduction to Cloud Infrastructure Technologies | edX
- Learning Format: Full course
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Basics of cloud computing, types and concepts of cloud computing, the cloud industry, benefits of cloud computing
If you are new to cloud technology and have no idea where to start, you should take this 14-week online program to learn the concepts of cloud computing. This course is offered by edX in collaboration with The Linux Foundation and offers a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the cloud.
By the end of this self-paced course, you’ll have tackled many next-generation technologies, scalable storage, and networking solutions. There are no prerequisites to taking this course, which makes it beginner-friendly.
Key Takeaway: This online course can be audited for free or enrolled in through the paid option and helps you embark on your learning path to cloud computing.
Kubernetes Bootcamp | GitHub
- Learning Format: Self-paced bootcamp
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Kubernetes, app deployment, pods, nodes
Kubernetes is a system for automating computer applications and is one of the most essential container technologies used in data and cloud computing. Designed by Google, it is now overseen by the Cloud Native Computing Foundation.
This hour-long training program focuses purely on Kubernetes. By the end of this bootcamp, you’ll have a good understanding of the role Kubernetes plays in cloud computing applications.
You’ll also learn how to deploy and scale applications on a Kubernetes cluster. The interactive lessons help you understand related concepts with quizzes to test your understanding.
Key Takeaway: A self-paced program, ideal for students or professionals looking to improve their working knowledge of Kubernetes.
Oracle Cloud Infrastructure Foundations | Oracle
- Learning Format: Certification training course
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Identity and access management, networking, cloud computing, storage, database management, application development, security, analytics and AI
Various Oracle training programs are available for free at the Oracle University website. Oracle cloud training is best suited for students or professionals looking to accelerate their careers by becoming Oracle-certified professionals.
Featured training programs cover the basics of Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI), key OCI services, managing workloads on the cloud, deploying databases, and the basic concepts of cyber security. The Oracle Cloud Infrastructure Foundations course includes over 11 hours of expert training and ends in the certification exam.
Key Takeaway: Oracle training programs are excellent for students looking to become certified specialists in Oracle cloud technology. The training program covers a range of cloud computing concepts in topics designed to help you meet your career goals.
Cloud Computing With Amazon Web Services | Udemy
Learning Format: On-demand video training
Level: Beginner
Subjects Covered: Creating virtual servers in the cloud, configuring monitoring services, autoscaling, setting up your own infrastructure
This free option comes with two hours and 40 minutes of on-demand video training to walk you through the basics of how to create virtual servers, configure storage services, and set up your own infrastructure in the cloud. It only requires a basic knowledge of computers.
Key Takeaway: This option is best for complete beginners who are looking to gain basic information about how to use Amazon Web Services.
Introduction to Cloud Computer | Udemy
Learning Format: On-demand video training
Level: Beginner
Subjects Covered: Fundamental elements of cloud computing
This short course acts as a quick introduction to help students understand the real value of cloud computing and how to use basic cloud technologies. It is designed for complete beginners, though some basic computer knowledge will come in handy.
Key Takeaway: This course acts as a basic introduction for anyone brand new to cloud computing.
Cloud Computing Course Certificates vs Certifications
A certificate is proof you have completed a specific program delivered over a certain timeframe, while a certification is issued by a professional body after passing an associated examination. Certifications demonstrate your technical skills and expertise. There are cloud computing online certification courses that will help prepare you to pass the required exam.
Importance of Cloud Computing Certifications
Cloud computing certifications are vital in demonstrating expertise in this exciting industry and provide a competitive edge in the job market. Most hiring organizations prefer job seekers with certifications as proof of their competence and technical skills, as opposed to candidates without certifications or their equivalent.
Cloud Computing Certifications
Getting cloud computing certifications can be a great way to prove your competency to potential employers if you are hoping to progress in your career. They can also help you negotiate a higher wage. Below is more information about some of the most common cloud computing certifications.
AWS Certified Solution Architect Associate
To earn this certification you will need to pass the 65-question multiple choice exam and pay the $150 fee. The certification is intended for those with at least one year of relevant work experience using Amazon Web Services. You can find sample questions and an exam guide online to help you prepare for the exam.
AWS Certified Developer Associate
This certification is for professionals with at least a year of experience developing and maintaining AWS-based applications. The exam consists of 65 questions, takes 130 minutes to complete, and costs $150. To pass, you will need expert knowledge of at least one high-level programming language. You’ll also need adequate experience with all the key features of AWS services.
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam costs $100 and takes 90 minutes to complete. This certification is for anyone with at least six months of experience using the AWS cloud and an introductory understanding of IT services, security concepts, and the ways the cloud can impact your business.
Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals
To pass the exam for this certification, you’ll need to be familiar with networking, application support, and application development. You’ll also need a basic knowledge of Azure cloud services, Azure architecture, and Azure management and governance. There is an official practice test to help you assess your knowledge before the exam.
Google Associate Cloud Engineer
The Google Associate Cloud Engineer multiple choice exam tests your knowledge of how to set up a cloud solution environment, deploy and plan a cloud solution, and configure access and security. The exam is two hours long and has a $125 registration fee. It is recommended that you have at least six months of hands-on experience with Google cloud.
How to Choose the Right Online Cloud Computing Course, Class, or Training Program
Online cloud computing programs are ideal for learners of all levels who are looking to pick up new skills. Classes can be short compared to other programs and, as a result, are ideal for people with full-time jobs. If you are a beginner, you should consider online courses as they are often best suited to students with little to no cloud computing knowledge.
How to Choose the Right Online Cloud Computing Course, Class, or Training Program
Theory and Practice
Ideally, you will choose a class that has a good mix of lectures that go over the theory behind cloud computing concepts and projects that give you hands-on experience. The best way for most students to learn is to test their new skills through assignments, quizzes, or class projects.
Updated Curriculum
Technology is a field that is constantly developing and evolving. You will want to make sure you choose a program with the most up-to-date information if you are hoping to start a career in cloud computing. Make sure you carefully review which skills are covered in the course curriculum and read any available reviews online before committing to a course.
Hands-On Training
Many cloud computing online training programs, especially free ones, consist of self-paced video lectures. These can certainly be useful if you are looking for a flexible way of broadening your skillset, but it will be easier to truly master more advanced cloud computing concepts if your chosen course gives you the opportunity to use your new skills and receive feedback.
The Success of the School or Program
To start your research, you should check the school or program statistics, such as graduation rates, average salary, job placement, and student loan statistics. Check the provider’s website for student testimonials and reviews and contact the provider’s relevant departments to gather additional resources and information about the course that interests you.
Program Tuition Fees
The price of the program is a factor you need to consider, especially if you are on a tight budget. The last thing you’d want is to enroll in a course that increases your education debt without some certainty of job placement. If the program that interests you exceeds your budget, you can contact the provider or visit the website to explore payment assistance and plans.
Duration of the Program
Different online training courses take different amounts of time to complete. If you have a full-time job, short courses can be completed without disrupting your professional life. Whereas, if you have plenty of time, a longer course may be a better option for you.
Why You Should Take Online Cloud Computing Courses or Classes
You should take an online cloud computing course as it is the easiest way to launch your career in this field. Most programs will set you up for entry-level positions in cloud computing, which often lead to career growth and high salaries. According to BLS, the median salary for computer and information technology occupations is $97,430 with a projected job growth rate of 15 percent from 2021 to 2031.
Online courses for cloud computing can take a short time to complete, so you can pick up new skills quite quickly. They are good alternatives to college or university courses as they are cheaper and can equip you with in-demand skills and knowledge to manage real-world problems in the industry.
Cloud Computing Courses Online FAQ
Yes, careers in cloud computing are well paid. According to BLS, computer and information technology careers earn an average salary of $97,430. Gaining additional experience in the field or cloud computing certifications can help you negotiate a higher salary.
How long are online cloud computing courses?
Online cloud computing courses can take anywhere from a few hours to a few months to complete. Many online courses are self-paced, so you can complete the content as quickly as your schedule allows. Longer programs, such as bootcamps, often have regularly scheduled classes over a matter of weeks.
Are free cloud computing courses worth it?
Free cloud computing courses are worth it if you are hoping to learn the basics of the field quickly. They might not be helpful if you are looking for in-depth knowledge or hoping to build a resume that will appeal to hiring managers in the field.
Are online cloud computing courses important for professional development?
Online cloud computing courses are important for professional development because they are a great way of keeping your skills up-to-date. Solutions in cloud computing are constantly developing to meet the expectations and needs of the changing business environment.
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