Network and Cloud Computing
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology

Establish your expertise in networking and cloud systems and get ready to play a vital role in everyday business operations with the Network and Cloud Computing specialization. Learn to plan, design, configure, troubleshoot and administer networks in environments ranging from small, local networks to enterprise-wide integrated cloud infrastructures. Study topics like cloud migration, cloud and server administration, internetworking architecture design, Linux administration and system assurance and security.

After graduation, you’ll be prepared to pursue a career in the field of cloud and network administration.

Develop cross-platform skills

Learn to design, develop and administer across cloud platforms and for some of the top cloud providers in the industry including both AWS and Azure.

Learn Cisco, Microsoft and Linux

Develop experience using the most relevant technologies and systems today. The Capella SoBTH Advisory Board helps ensure that Capella’s BS in IT program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org (The FlexPath option is not included in this specialized accreditation.)

Gain industry experience

Build your portfolio with valuable experience by working on projects with real clients.

Classes start October 9

Use the code MSFALL to waive the $50 application fee.

At a glance

Online
180 Total quarter credits
135 Max transfer credits
8–13 General education courses
8–12 Elective courses
10 Core courses
5 Specialization courses
2 Capstone courses

Reduce your tuition by $15,000

Enroll in a qualified program and apply for a $15K Capella Progress Reward, a scholarship to help fund your bachelor’s degree.

Apply now

Explore Network and Cloud Computing courses

This degree requires a total of 180 program credits in GuidedPath
You’ll need to complete 8–13 general education courses, 10 core courses, five specialization courses, 8-12 elective courses and two capstone courses

View all courses in catalog

Course	Descriptions	Quarter credits
IT4545 Cloud Concepts, Architecture, and Management	Learners gain an understanding of foundational cloud concepts including on demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, elasticity, measured service. Learners develop hands-on proficiency with an industry-standard cloud platform (Microsoft Azure). Learners also analyze the benefits and economic advantages of cloud computing, as well as strategies for transitioning from on-premise infrastructure to cloud infrastructure. Learners design security measures in accordance with regulatory compliance requirements (HIPAA, GDPR, PCIDSS, etc.). Prerequisite IT2280, IT3358.	6 quarter credits
IT4525 Cloud Computing Fundamentals	Learners in this course develop the skills to analyze, plan, design and implement fundamental cloud solutions. Learners acquire and apply knowledge of implementation strategies specific to cloud network, compute, and storage. Learners also implement security, monitoring, and logging solutions, along with special cloud workloads such as AI and machine learning. Concepts of cloud migration planning and cloud cost optimization are also discussed. Prerequisite IT2280.	6 quarter credits
IT4575 Linux Operating Systems	Learners in this course demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental concepts of the Linux operating system. Learners use command line tools and software packages, and practice hardware configuration, file management, process management, and file editing. In this course, learners apply knowledge of advanced topics specific to the Linux operating system. Learners administer the Linux system, script, and implement network configuration and security. Prerequisite Completion of or concurrent registration in IT3280.	6 quarter credits
IT4157 Internetworking Architectures	Learners in this course develop their understanding of the design and integration of multi-protocol networks (local area networks and wide area networks) to form an enterprise network. Learners design intranets/internets, virtual local area networks (VLANs), and firewalls using different internetworking devices and media. In addition, learners evaluate the planning, methods, procedures, and tools necessary to prevent vulnerabilities in networked systems and analyze the procedures used to validate and restore network services following an incident. Learners also strengthen the skills needed to manage, operate, and maintain networked, managed, and linked systems and peripherals. Learners who have received credit for IT4150 or IT4155 may not take IT4157. Prerequisite IT2280.	6 quarter credits
IT4803 System Assurance Security	This course is an overview of information assurance and security topics for network administrators who must implement security strategies to protect their organization from exposure to the Internet; network designers also create security-conscious designs. Learners identify and apply strategies to guard against hackers and forms of viruses, use firewalls and gateways, and build authentication skills and encryption techniques. Learners identify methods for attacking a network system and validate defenses against them. Upon successful completion of this course, learners are prepared to take the exam for the Security+ certification. Prerequisite IT2280.	6 quarter credits

*Course has prerequisite(s). See catalog for details.

What you’ll learn

The Network and Cloud Computing specialization is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to administer networks in a variety of environments.

The curriculum addresses planning, designing, configuring and troubleshooting networks in environments ranging from small, local networks to enterprise-wide integrated cloud infrastructures. Specific topics include cloud migration, cloud and server administration, internetworking architecture design, Linux administration, AI and machine learning, and system assurance and security.

On successful completion of this program, you should be able to:

Communicate effectively in IT business environments.
Evaluate the effectiveness of implementing a network and cloud-based design through collaboration and the support of IT tools.
Design effective IT solutions for business IT environments using networking and cloud practices, policies, standards and technologies.
Create a plan to solve business problems using network and cloud-based technology and standards.
Administer a variety of network and cloud-based business IT environments.
Troubleshoot a variety of network and cloud-based business IT environments.
Apply network and cloud standards, policies, and security practices.
Employ network and cloud-based design and administration concepts and technologies.

Review the Capella career exploration guide to learn more about this program and career paths to explore.

Faculty spotlight

Melissa Zgola, EdD

Program Director, Information Technology

How much does the BS in IT cost?

The total cost of your degree will depend on academic performance, transfer credits, scholarships and other factors. See GuidedPath cost information below.

A structured learning format with an active peer community and faculty guidance. We’ll set the schedule, you meet the deadlines.

Learn more about GuidedPath »

Based on the quarter system; 1–3 courses per 10-week quarter
1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or quarter

$18,675 MAX TRANSFER CREDITS

$39,785 AVERAGE TRANSFER CREDITS

$365 per 1000-2000 level credit $415 per 3000-4000 level credit, $175 resource kit fee, 180 total quarter credits, 135 max transfer credits

*This is only an estimate, effective July 10, 2023, and is subject to change. Your price will vary depending on your specialization, transfer credits, and tuition discounts. Books, supplies, and other fees are not included in this estimate. GuidedPath prices show the tuition you would pay if you brought in an average number of transfer credits or the maximum allowed transfer credits. New or recently revised program estimates are based on comparable programs.

Capella is committed to transparency in its tuition and pricing. In addition to tuition, you will be responsible for additional costs, which may include an application fee, travel expenses, and practicum costs. A resource kit fee of $50-$200, charged quarterly or per billing session, covers the cost of required books, software, and other course materials. Click here to review program-specific fee amounts in our University Catalog.

Find out more about financing and payment options to help you complete your program. Federal aid also is available to help manage the costs of higher education. Learn more about financing your education.

Get the details

Connect with an enrollment counselor to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.

“The material that Capella used in their classes provided real-world examples of IT industries. I felt that these gave me greater insight into not only how things work but to think more strategically.”

Will Resendes* – BS Information Technology

*Actual Capella graduate who agreed to appear in promotional materials.

Are there scholarships available for bachelor’s degrees?

Your education is an investment in your future. There are more ways to save than you might think.

Transfer credits

At Capella, you may be able to transfer previous college credit to cover up to 75% of select bachelor’s degrees, saving you significant time and money.

Gen ed courses included

Capella students have a great way to complete gen ed requirements with access to ACE^®-recommended courses from our affiliate, Sophia Learning.

Save with prior learning and certifications

Potential savings* of $8,665 on your Bachelor of Science in Information Technology in the GuidedPath learning format with your CISSP®** – Certified Information Systems Security Professional.

*Additional fee of $50 assessed each quarter you request documented credit.

**Learners who submit IAC-IT documented credit for the CISSP, CISM, CISA, CEH and SSCP can be awarded a maximum of 5 specialization courses through documented credit. They may be able to submit petitions for the remaining credits allowed for CPL in their curriculum.

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Accreditation and recognitions provide evidence that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.

See all our accreditations and recognitions.

*Capella’s BS in IT program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org (The FlexPath option is not included in this specialized accreditation.)

What are the BS in IT admissions requirements?

Applicants to the BS in Information Technology, Network and Cloud Computing program must provide the following information for admission:

High school diploma or equivalent
Transcript of any reported GED
A $50 nonrefundable application fee, required at the time of application, to cover transcript requests, transcript evaluation, and other administrative costs
You must be at least 24 years old. This requirement may be waived for:
- Military applicants and veterans
- Applicants with 24 or more quarter credits of prior college or university coursework (transferable college coursework and/or credentials that map to preapproved Credit for Prior Learning opportunities may be considered toward the 24-credit minimum equivalency total)
Applicants who do not have any credits eligible for transfer must successfully complete a university-approved reading and writing assessment; by evaluating your skills prior to your first course, Capella can more effectively provide resources to prepare you for a successful learning experience
A valid, government-issued form of photo identification

SAT and ACT are not required for admission.

International student requirements

If you live outside the U.S. or aren’t a U.S. citizen, you may be considered an international student.

To meet the requirements for Capella admission, you must:

Earn the minimum score on an acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
Attend an internationally recognized institution
Provide transcripts for evaluation

Learn more about international student admissions.

What support does Capella offer online students?

Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of bachelor’s students. We’ve structured the experience in manageable pieces to help you earn your degree with support from faculty, staff and online resources.

Faculty

Our courses are taught by distinguished faculty members who hold top credentials and have hands-on expertise in their fields.

Enrollment counselors

Our enrollment counselors can help set you up for success. They’ll help you find the right degree and program and answer all your questions about Capella. They can also help you with the admissions process.

Academic coaches

Once you enroll, these specialists can help tailor a program to your goals and experiences and help you stay on track to meet program requirements.

Articles and resources

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IT program guide

Get the details on every IT program offered at Capella University – including learning formats, financing options, and more, all in one place.

Download program guide »

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