Purdue University Global announced today it has introduced an innovative bachelor of science degree in cloud computing, the first new degree program offered by Purdue Global since its establishment within the Purdue University system in April.

Purdue Global also announced it has partnered with ManTech, a global leader in technology solutions, to offer the cloud computing program to its employees, supporting ManTech's portfolio of mission-focused solutions for national security, intelligence community and federal civilian agencies. Forrester Research reports that by 2020, 59 percent of the world's consumer Internet population will use personal cloud storage, up from 47 percent in 2015.

"We're thrilled that ManTech has chosen Purdue Global as its partner in this fascinating and incredibly fast-growing area of study," said Dr. Jeffrey Buck, dean of Purdue Global's School of Business and IT. "Our new cloud computing degree program is an example of how we can help organizations meet the demand for highly trained workers while creating a personalized, high-quality educational experience for students that fits their schedules."

The new Purdue Global cloud computing program, developed with real-world requirements and input from experts at ManTech, will help students master the foundational goals of cloud computing. These include understanding cloud trends, recognizing best practices and evaluating different cloud providers and solutions. It also includes examination of some of the world's most prestigious cloud service providers, including AWS, Azure and Google.

"We see strong synergy between this exciting new cloud computing education program and the CISSP cyber certification training we launched in 2017," said Kevin M. Phillips, ManTech president and CEO. "As our customers pursue cloud-centric transformation and modernization, they can rely on ManTech people with proven expertise in cloud computing and cyber that take digital to the tactical edge, ensuring mission success, peak performance of new virtual systems, and end-to-end cybersecurity."

Like other ManTech-sponsored employee education programs, the new partnership with Purdue Global provides extreme flexibility for participating employees. Course registration is open at least four times per year, and all training in vendor and service provider certifications is online and self-directed. Beginners start with basic concepts in cloud computing, such as cloud infrastructure administration and migrating data to the cloud. More experienced individuals with a deeper background can accelerate into advanced courses.

As with other Purdue Global certificate and degree programs, the cloud computing degree program is built to accommodate busy schedules, enabling adult students to learn at their own pace. In addition, students can receive college credits for their on-the-job cloud experience and previous certifications through its innovative ExcelTrack program, which saves time and helps students complete their degrees faster.

"This breakthrough initiative leverages ManTech's proven technology expertise in a college-accredited program that will attract and train top-level talent," said Jeff Brody, ManTech's Chief Human Resources Officer. "It enhances our tradition of helping ManTech people leverage their experience, build on it and advance their careers in new ways that help safeguard America."