Importance of cloud computing skills for BCA graduates in today’s tech industry

​According to the International Data Corporation (IDC), worldwide spending on public cloud services is forecast to reach $805 billion in 2024. This is expected to double in size by 2028, achieving a five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.4%. Therefore it demonstrates the widespread adoption and rapid growth of cloud computing.

BCA with cloud computing is essential in today’s fast-paced world of technology because it influences the way companies carry out their processes and the provision of services. Pursuing a degree in computer science as an undergraduate is insufficient without adding knowledge about cloud computing if you plan to participate in this field actively.​

Also read: Career in Cloud Computing or Cybersecurity

Understanding cloud computing

Cloud computing permits companies to stock, manage, and access data and applications online instead of using actual machines. The main advantages of choosing this include flexibility, scalability, and cost efficiency. Some of the renowned cloud models include Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS) and Software as a Service (SaaS).

Through cloud computing, companies are able to simplify processes, foster teamwork, and boost data protection for businesses. The need for costly equipment and other costs involved is reduced, allowing companies to focus on developing new ideas as well as expanding instead. In the age of digital transformation and modernization of IT infrastructures, one can hardly escape embracing cloud computing models.

Key cloud computing skills for BCA students

To remain competitive, BCA students should focus on developing the following cloud computing skills. Some of these skills for BCA students are as follows:

Understanding cloud service models:

1. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): It is the management of virtualized computing resources over the internet.

2. Platform as a Service (PaaS): It is the utilization of platforms that allow developers to build applications without having to worry about the underlying infrastructure.

3. Software as a Service (SaaS): Here, software applications are accessed through the internet on a subscription basis.

Proficiency in leading cloud platforms:

1. Amazon Web Services (AWS): A fully comprehensive platform which offers cloud services encompassing computing power, storage capacities and other functionalities. It is ideal if you want to take advantage of features like scalability and flexibility – perfect for small enterprises and startups.

2. Microsoft Azure: An integrated cloud service platform for developing, deploying and managing applications. It syncs seamlessly with all Microsoft platforms. 

3. Google Cloud Platform (GCP): A series of cloud computing services that offer services for application development as well as computing and storage. This platform, leveraging Google’s services, excels in AI, ML and data analytics.

Cloud security fundamentals:

Cloud security involves implementing measures to protect data, applications, and infrastructure from cyber threats. Measures should be put in place to ensure the protection of data and applications on the cloud. It includes understanding compliance standards and data privacy regulations. These standards comprise of GDPR and HIPAA, along with data privacy regulations. 

Virtualization techniques:

Virtualisation converts physical servers, storage, and networks into virtual resources to maximise efficiency and flexibility. This involves the transformation of servers, storage devices, and networks into virtual forms. Usually, such a process is carried out to optimize the utilization of resources. 

Networking skills:

Cloud networking also involves designing and managing networks to support cloud infrastructure. For this, the knowledge of virtual private networks (VPNs), firewalls, and load balancing is essential. The goal is to establish a good network, seamless connectivity and enhance security.

Integrating cloud computing into the BCA curriculum

To ensure that BCA graduates are well-prepared for the industry, educational institutions should include cloud computing in their curricula. This can be done through:

1. Specialized courses: Providing courses for electives in cloud architecture, services, and security.

2. Practical exposure: Offering practical experience in labs and projects through cloud platforms.

3. Industry collaboration: Engaging technology firms in the provision of internships and workshop opportunities relating to real cloud applications. 

Online Manipal’s contribution to cloud computing 

Online Manipal, under the esteemed Manipal Group, provides access to UGC-entitled online degree programs from various Manipal universities like Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) and Sikkim Manipal University (SMU). 

The online Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) program from MUJ is designed to equip students with the latest developments in computer technology, emphasizing the technical skills required in the IT sector. 

Learners have the opportunity to upskill by choosing electives in new-age domains like cloud computing, data science and analytics, and cybersecurity. Additionally, they receive exclusive access to the Google Cloud Computing Foundations curriculum, ensuring they are well-versed in contemporary cloud technologies.

Career opportunities for BCA graduates with cloud computing skills

1. Cloud solutions architect: These are people who design cloud-based solutions for clients.

2. Cloud developer: They develop application software that can work on any device connected to the Internet without installation.

3. Cloud security analyst: This expert ensures that a company’s cloud is safe and meets legal standards.

4. DevOps engineer: DevOps engineer helps organizations streamline their software development processes through continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) while utilizing software development tools like AWS.

5. Cloud Data Engineer: Cloud data engineers manage and optimize cloud-based data pipelines. They also play a role in ensuring efficient data storage, transformation, and retrieval. 

6. Site Reliability Engineer (SRE): SREs apply software engineering principles to manage IT operations, ensure system reliability, overlook system scalability, automate operational tasks, monitor system performance, and address potential issues before they affect users.

The future of cloud computing

The necessity for BCA in cloud computing has been demonstrated by a robust foreseeable future of cloud computing. In the tech industry, cloud computing is no longer considered a niche skill but a must-have one. As more and more companies move to digital-first modes of operation, the need for cloud experts keeps increasing. 

One thing about the new business infrastructure is evident — enterprises across all industries, including healthcare, banking and finance, e-commerce and entertainment, are fast adopting cloud services. 

Just enrolling in a BCA with cloud computing is not something that could give you an advantage when it comes to seeking employment. Companies are ditching their traditional IT functions and focusing on professionals who can work on cloud-based platforms and manage distributed computing environments, which has led to the evolution of typical IT roles. 

You will notice this if you seek jobs in software development, IT administration, cybersecurity or data science. Cloud computing is now among other usual requirements for prospective employers and those seeking these positions.

You may also like: How do Google Cloud Computing Foundations help the career of BCA students?

The bottom line

Due to the integral role cloud computing plays in technological advancement, a BCA in cloud computing can help one remain competitive and relevant. In this regard, Online Manipal comes into play by offering readily available quality education programs designed specifically to meet various market demands. 

Keen tech aspirants should take advantage of these accessible resources if they really want to improve their mastery of cloud computing, excel in the tech industry, and raise their job prospects.

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