Cloud Computing for Business
Exploring cloud computing's impact, challenges and benefits in digital transformation
A cutting-edge programme for digital business transformation
Enhance your understanding of cloud technologies and their applications
The Cloud Computing for Business module provides a thorough exploration of Cloud Computing technologies, focusing on their impact, challenges, and benefits in the realm of digital business transformation. Students will delve into the fundamental aspects of Cloud Computing, assessing key principles, frameworks, and methodologies necessary for effective implementation.
The course also addresses governance and security challenges, guiding students to evaluate various cloud security architectures and deployment strategies. Additionally, the module covers a wide range of cloud services, including storage, machine learning, compute, analytics, and quantum computing. Students will learn to critically assess these services and develop strategies to harness their potential for driving business transformation.
Innovative teaching methods for mastering digital business technologies
The Cloud Computing for Business module is designed to shape the digital leaders of tomorrow. Students will gain a deep understanding of how to leverage scalable and flexible IT resources to drive innovation and efficiency in business operations.
Combining synchronous and asynchronous learning, it features advanced teaching strategies like problem-based learning, gamification and the flipped classroom approach, all guided by expert tutors. Students will delve into cloud principles, governance, security, and a wide range of services, leveraging AI to enrich their learning experience and drive business transformation.
The course is assessed through a project (100% of marks), which will examine your comprehensive and practical understanding of the material.
Time commitment
Classroom and demonstrations: 36 hours
Practical work/tutorials: 24 hours
Independent learning: 190 hours
Total: 250 hours
Credit points
10 ECTS
Full course breakdown
Subjects covered:
Our Cloud Computing for Business module covers a comprehensive range of topics essential for mastering cloud technologies and driving digital transformation:
- Cloud Computing Introduction
Foundations. Defining Cloud Computing. Service Models. Deployment Models. Cloud Technologies. - Enterprise Digital Architecture & Digital Transformation
Enterprise Systems Architecture. Functional/Non-functional architectural requirements. Information & Applications. Opportunities/Challenges. Business Model Innovation. Digital Transformation as a staged process. Business Readiness. - Cloud Strategy for Digital Transformation
Alignment with Business Goals. KPIs. SLAs. Innovation. Enterprise Architecture on the Cloud. Performance. Interoperability. Scalability. Availability. Mobility. Analyticity. Usability. - Cloud Adoption
Cloud Adoption Frameworks. Organisational Change Management. Migration Scenarios. Hybrid Model. DevSecOps. - Cloud Security I
Cloud Security Concepts. IaaS/PaaS/SaaS Security. IAM. - Cloud Security II
Intrusion Detection/Incident Response. Encryption/KMS. Disaster Recovery/Business Continuity. - Cloud Native
Cloud Native concepts. Architectural Considerations. Microservices/Events/Streams/APIs/Data. Impact on dev / deployment. Impact on organisational structures / processes. Context-specific Patterns. Automation & Orchestration. - Capacity Assessment & Optimisation
Resource Utilisation. Information Lifecycle Management. Elasticity. Economic Considerations. - Scope of Cloud Services
Scope of Cloud Service Offerings. Data Services. Big Data Analytics. AI & ML Services. IoT Services. Quantum Computing Services. - Fog & Edge Computing
Architectural approaches to IoT and Edge Computing. Fog and Edge Architectures (e.g., OpenFog Reference Architecture). Network Function Virtualization (NFV). SDN (Software Defined Networking). Recommendations of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). - Cloud Governance
Data Protection & Privacy on the cloud. Regulatory Compliance & Legal Aspects. - Emerging Topics in Cloud Computing
State-of-the-art research. Contemporary focus on Cloud Computing.
Through this module, you will develop a mastery of cloud computing principles and technologies, design and implement effective cloud strategies, gain expertise in cloud security practices, and support digital transformation initiatives. This robust curriculum ensures you are well-prepared for roles such as cloud architect, cloud security specialist, IT consultant, and digital transformation leader.
Learning objectives
Upon completing this module, participants will be able to:
- Assess core principles, frameworks, development methodologies and tools for the adoption of Cloud Computing solutions to support and enable digital business transformation.
- Critically analyse the governance and security challenges associated with cloud-based systems to identify and evaluate candidate cloud security architectures and deployment strategies.
- Evaluate and assess the intersection and impact of Fog and Edge Computing in relation to Cloud Computing.
- Critically appraise the wide range of existing and emerging cloud services (e.g., storage, machine learning, compute, analytics, quantum computing, etc.) and develop strategies to leverage such services for digital business transformation.
Module leader
Grace Herbert, National College Ireland
Grace draws on a strong background in cybersecurity and computing, alongside extensive experience at the National College of Ireland, to design and lead the development of innovative modules across key emerging technologies. She has led the development of the Cloud Computing and Internet of Things modules and co-developed the Blockchain Technologies and Quantum Computing modules in collaboration with Lorraine Gorimani.
Each module is grounded in critical thinking, technical rigour, and real-world relevance, equipping students with a robust understanding of both foundational principles and strategic applications. Grace is committed to advancing educational innovation and empowering learners with the knowledge and practical skills needed to navigate rapidly evolving digital landscapes.
Explore more learning opportunities
Expand your knowledge with our comprehensive master’s programme.
This cloud computing module provides critical skills for implementing innovative IT solutions, paving the way for careers in IT management, cloud architecture, cybersecurity, and digital transformation leadership.
Beyond cloud computing, our Digital4Business master’s programme and micro-credentials offer a diverse range of modules designed to equip you with cutting-edge skills and knowledge. Discover how you can enhance your expertise and advance your career by exploring the full spectrum of courses available at Digital4Business.
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Part of the Digital4Business ecosystem
This module is a core module in the Digital4Business programme, a €19.9m EU-funded online master’s programme that is shaping the digital leaders and strategists of tomorrow. Discover how cloud computing drives business innovation and efficiency, and acquire the expertise needed to lead in the digital era.
FAQ
Minimum B2 English proficiency, plus 2 years' work or education in an English-speaking environment. IELTS: 6.0; TOEFL PBT: 600; TOEFL CBT: 200; TOEFL iBT: 100. Alternatively, proficiency may be assessed via a test or interview
Relevant EQF Level 6 qualification required in a relevant field including but not limited to: computer science, IT, engineering, maths, business, or economics. Without this you will have an interview and assessment to evaluate certifications, qualifications or professional experience.
This EU co-funded programme is open to all EU27, EEA, UK and Ukrainian nationals with a passport or valid ID from one of these countries.