Computer Information Systems, Cloud Computing, Associate of Applied Science

Computer Information Systems

Cloud Computing

Associate of Applied Science

Overview

The Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing at Laredo College prepares students to design, implement, and manage secure cloud-based IT infrastructures. This two-year program builds from IT foundations into advanced cloud technologies while also integrating general education coursework to strengthen communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.

Students will gain experience in:

  • Cloud platforms and virtualization – deploying, configuring, and managing services
  • Advanced cloud infrastructure management through a capstone project
  • System and network administration with Windows, Linux, and UNIX environments
  • Database fundamentals with MySQL
  • Scripting and automation for IT processes
  • Information security practices to safeguard data and services in the cloud

The program emphasizes hands-on training with industry-standard tools and prepares students for AWS cloud credentials.

Graduates are prepared for roles such as Cloud Systems Administrator, Cloud Infrastructure Specialist, Virtualization Engineer, or IT Security Specialist. Career opportunities exist in a variety of industries including finance, healthcare, education, government, and cloud service providers.

Information

The Cloud Computing AAS is a comprehensive 60-credit-hour degree program that combines technical coursework with general education requirements to provide a well-rounded education. Students gain the skills to manage complex IT environments and transition organizations into secure, cloud-based infrastructures. The program culminates in a capstone project, where students deploy and manage cloud infrastructure in a simulated enterprise environment.

Key areas covered include:

  • Cloud computing fundamentals and advanced concepts
  • Cloud deployment, infrastructure management, and automation
  • Linux/UNIX and Windows system administration
  • Information security for cloud environments
  • Virtualization and database management
  • General education courses in English, math, science, history, and culture

Program Details:

  • Credits: 60
  • Prerequisites: Completion of Cloud Computing Certificate I and Certificate II (or equivalent knowledge); grade of “C” or better required in all courses
  • Pathway: Direct-to-workforce degree; prepares students for certifications and transfer opportunities into related bachelor’s programs

For More Information:
Students interested in this program may contact the Computer Sciences & Technology Department at Laredo College for advising and enrollment assistance:

 

Plan of Study

Recommended Course Sequence Semesters Offered Credit Hours
FIRST SEMESTER
ITSC 1405 - Introduction to PC Operating Systems Fall 4
ITNW 1425 - Fundamentals of Networking Technologies Fall 4
ITSY 1400 - Fundamentals of Information Security Fall 4
ITSE 1429 - Programming Logic and Design- Python Fall 4
16 Hours
SECOND SEMESTER
ITNW 1309 - Fundamentals of Cloud Computing Spring 3
ITNW 1316 - Network Administration I Spring 3
ITSC 1358 - UNIX System Administration I Spring 3
ITSE 1359 - Introduction to Scripting Languages Spring 3
12 Hours
THIRD SEMESTER
XXXX X3XX - Language, Philosophy and Culture/Creative Arts Elective (CORE) Fall, Spring 3
3 Hours
FOURTH SEMESTER
MATH X3XX - Mathematics Elective (CORE) Fall, Spring 3
3 Hours
FIFTH SEMESTER
ITSY 1342 - Information Technology Security Fall 3
ITSE 1303 - Introduction to MySQL Fall 3
ITNW 1313 - Computer Virtualization Fall 3
XXXX X3XX - American History/Government/Political Science/Social and Behavioral Science Elective (CORE) Fall, Spring 3
12 Hours
SIXTH SEMESTER
ITNW 2427 - Advanced Cloud Concepts Spring 4
ITNW 1436 - Cloud Deployment & Infrastructure Management (Capstone) 1 Spring 4
ENGL 1301 - Composition I Fall, Spring 3
XXXX X3XX - Life and Physical Science Elective (CORE) Fall, Spring 3
14 Hours
AAS DEGREE MINIMUM: 60 SEMESTER CREDIT HOURS/PATHWAY TOTAL: 60 SEMESTER CREDIT HOURS

1Capstone Experience: ITNW 1436 Cloud Deployment & Infrastructure Management (Capstone) is a course taught in the last semester. The learning experiences in this course result in a consolidation of a student's educational programmatic experience.