6 benefits of getting a cloud computing certificate
Written by Michael Feder
Reviewed by Kathryn Uhles, MIS, MSP, Dean, College of Business and IT
Cloud computing is the act of using the internet to access on-demand resources, including remote servers and databases. In one survey, an estimated  said they used the cloud in some capacity to protect data, store files and reduce costs of traditional, on-site server use.
This demand means the cloud computing field is rapidly expanding. The market was estimated to reach a , which is forecast to climb to . That’s a steep compound annual growth rate of nearly 20%, based on the expected demand from companies of all sizes.
This growth should present a number of opportunities for cloud computing experts to assist in the field. Many of these experts must go through a cloud certificate program, which teaches students basic skills including cloud development, cloud operations and foundations in cloud technologies. The right cloud certificate can help students showcase relevant skills on their resumés and potentially create additional networking opportunities.
1. Job market expansion
Many IT positions will see year-over-year growth thanks to the expansion of cloud computing. For example, openings for database architects, who help migrate networks to cloud environments, are  from 2022 to 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Cloud expansion will help create  for network and computer systems administrators.
This growth means new opportunities for aspiring cloud professionals. As IT professionals deepen their skills in cloud computing, they can potentially make themselves even more valuable to their employer.
BLS Occupational Employment Projections, 2021-2031 is published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This data reflects BLS’ projections of national (not local) conditions. These data points are not specific to °®ÎŰ´«Ă˝ students or graduates.
2. Job flexibility
Many positions that require a technology degree offer flexible work options, including the possibility of remote work. Since cloud computing connects users and data through the internet, you can theoretically connect to the cloud virtually anywhere in the world. As long as you have a reliable internet connection and a capable computer, many employers allow cloud employees to work from home.
This job flexibility could be particularly beneficial for anyone looking to start a family or create a healthier work-life balance.
It can also mean flexible work hours. This flexibility allows you to complete work tasks while leaving enough time to run errands, take breaks and connect with family during the day.
3. Access to cutting-edge technology
Cloud computing technology represents the latest and greatest in modern computing. It’s shown to be Ěý˛ą˛Ô»ĺĚý. Access to cloud computing resources allows companies to keep data safe and accessible for all employees, no matter where they’re located.
Companies using cloud technology can also innovate in ways that other companies cannot. For example, a popular ride-sharing company uses the cloud to . An American grocery retailer  to track pricing and deliver a better customer experience.
These and other organizations need talented professionals to take advantage of big-data analytics, machine learning and other capabilities. Developing these skills through a cloud certificate program allows students to learn skill sets desired by industry-leading employers.
4. The ability to work in various industries
Cloud computing is used across a variety of industries. It’s used in healthcare to , in retail to  and in finance for an . No matter your preferred industry, skills in cloud computing can help get you there.
If it’s time for a change of pace or you’re looking for different job responsibilities, a certificate in cloud computing may help. You can learn job-ready skills and be able to showcase them on your resumé for employers to notice.
5. Resumé enhancement
Your resumé is one of the most important assets you have when searching for a job. Completing a cloud certificate program and adding those details can help you stand out to potential employers during a job search.
Recruiters and hiring managers may spend hours reading resumés when hiring for a position. They’re all looking for the same thing: a good combination of skill and experience in a candidate willing to learn and help create growth. A well-written resumé, one that highlights your hard and soft skills and emphasizes the value of your completed cloud certificate program, can highlight your aptitude for a particular job.
It’s important to choose a cloud certificate program with your future in mind. Use it to bridge any gaps in your cloud skill set. By doing so, you’ll likely be seen as more qualified for cloud-computing careers than if you applied without the certificate.
6. Networking opportunities
Beginning your career in cloud computing can also help you meet other professionals with similar goals. You can connect with fellow cloud specialists, engineers, architects and analysts who have similar skills and might be working in your industry or other industries.
These networking opportunities can also help you improve your career prospects. Here are some of the opportunities that skills-based networking can help you with:
- Apply for unique career opportunities — Contacts in your network can help you discover, apply for and fulfill career opportunities you may not otherwise have access to.
- Begin work in a new industry — If you’re looking to change positions, employers or industries, connecting with members of your network is a great place to start.
- Build additional skills — Contacts can help you build additional skills that might be useful in your industry.
- Qualify for a professional membership — Your cloud computing certificate may qualify you for membership into professional organizations offering career opportunities, workshops and seminars to expand skills and job prospects.
- Attend cloud computing conferences — Visit events that cover the latest trends in cloud computing and help you further build your network.
These and other networking opportunities help students of all skill levels take productive steps after completing a cloud certificate program.
Cloud computing at °®ÎŰ´«Ă˝
°®ÎŰ´«Ă˝ (UOPX) offers a Cloud Computing Certificate for those interested in gaining foundational knowledge and skills to help organizations build and manage cloud services. Coursework is aligned to industry certification exams, like those for Amazon Web Services (AWS) Cloud Practitioner, Cloud Developer and SysOps Administrator.
If you’re seeking a more basic understanding of general information technology or cybersecurity, UOPX also offers a variety of online programs. Learn more about undergraduate and graduate online technology degrees here:
- Associate of Arts in Information Technology:Â This IT program introduces you to information technology concepts and principles in programming, data analytics, cybersecurity and networking. Learn technical skills necessary for additional skill building as you enter the IT field.
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology: In this program, you’ll learn skills like business process, cybersecurity, information systems, operations and systems analysis.
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity:Â This online program teaches skills like security policies, network security, cybersecurity and more.
- :Â This course collection can help you prepare for the EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification exam. Topics include the phases of ethical hacking, recognizing weaknesses and vulnerabilities of a system, social engineering, IoT threats, risk mitigation and more.
- :Â This course collection can help you prepare for the EC-Council Certified Incident Handler (ECIH) certification exam. This specialist certification focuses on how to effectively handle security breaches.Â
- :Â This course collection can help you prepare for the entry-level EC-Council Certified Network Defender (CND) certification exam. Courses focus on protecting a network from security breaches before they happen.
- Computer Hacking Forensics Investigator Course Collection: This course collection can help you prepare for the EC-Council Computer Hacking Forensics Investigator (CHFI) certification exam. You’ll learn about the latest technologies, tools and methodologies in digital forensics, including the dark web, IoT, malware, the cloud and data forensics.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
A graduate of Johns Hopkins University and its Writing Seminars program and winner of the Stephen A. Dixon Literary Prize, Michael Feder brings an eye for detail and a passion for research to every article he writes. His academic and professional background includes experience in marketing, content development, script writing and SEO. Today, he works as a multimedia specialist at °®ÎŰ´«Ă˝ where he covers a variety of topics ranging from healthcare to IT.
ABOUT THE REVIEWER
Currently Dean of the College of Business and Information Technology, Kathryn Uhles has served °®ÎŰ´«Ă˝ in a variety of roles since 2006. Prior to joining °®ÎŰ´«Ă˝, Kathryn taught fifth grade to underprivileged youth in °®ÎŰ´«Ă˝.
This article has been vetted by °®ÎŰ´«Ă˝'s editorial advisory committee.Â
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