Learn AI and Cloud Computing at Harper College

AI and Cloud Computing, two of the most transformative and rapidly advancing fields in tech, are reshaping industries with their innovative applications. These careers are a perfect fit for those passionate about using technology to create real-world change. With Harper College's expert faculty and hands-on learning, you'll develop in-demand skills in machine learning, cloud infrastructure, and cybersecurity, paving the way for high-paying, future-ready careers.

For more information about applying to a program, visit the Get Started page and request more information from Admissions Outreach.

AI and Cloud Computing Programs

Harper College offers a two-year Associate in Applied Science degree program for students interested in studying AI and cloud computing. Entry-level, non-credit classes are also available through Continuing Professional Education and Community Education, which range from single workshops to full semesters of skills-based learning.

Lifelong learning is essential for long-term career success. Get started today by exploring one of the following program options for more information on classes, professional opportunities, career outcomes, and how to apply.

AI Cloud Associate Degree

Harper's AI Cloud AAS degree program provides a strong foundation in applied artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cloud concepts. It prepares students for entry-level positions in roles such as Cloud Analyst and Machine Learning Specialist.

A student works at a futuristic interface that shows relationships between systems

AI Training Courses

Continuing Professional Education courses in AI are designed for professionals and beginners to earn credentials that demonstrate knowledge and skills to employers. Courses range from a few weeks to a whole semester and offer opportunities to learn more about artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.

Colorful computer chip with the letters AI printed on the surface.

Cloud Computing Training Courses

Continuing Professional Education courses in cloud computing are designed for professionals and beginners to earn credentials that demonstrate knowledge and skills to employers. Students will be prepared for the CompTIA Cloud+ certification and gain experience with cloud software such as AWS and Azure.

Cloud computing professionals sit at a desk with lines of code on their displays.

Community Education

Harper Community Education's AI courses offer something for everyone. Courses are designed for students to learn essential skills that can be applied in nearly any industry. New classes are added often, so please visit Community Education for a current list of AI course offerings.

Students raising their hands to answer a question in a classroom on the Harper College campus in Palatine, Ilinois.

Bridge Foundation AI Courses

Bridge Foundation AI courses provide a valuable starting point for students furthering their education or exploring new interests by introducing industry-relevant topics and essential skills. Students will also learn more about potential career and education paths in artificial intelligence.

Two Harper CPE students work on an assignment with their laptops in a classroom on campus in the Chicago suburbs.

Benefits of Studying AI and Cloud Computing

AI is Everywhere: From virtual assistants to medical diagnostics, AI is transforming how we live and work.

Massive Cloud Growth: Over 90% of businesses now use cloud services, and the market keeps expanding.

Job Growth is Expanding: AI and cloud roles are among the fastest-growing tech careers, with demand far outpacing supply.

Cloud Powers Innovation: Cloud computing lets companies launch products faster, scale globally and reduce IT costs.

Ethics and Responsibility Matter: As AI advances, there's increasing focus on fairness, transparency, and responsible use, opening career paths in AI ethics.

AI and Cloud Computing Career Opportunities

With the rapid growth of AI and cloud computing, new roles are created daily. Explore some of the more established career options in the industry below.

Machine Learning Engineer

* Data sampled July 2025. Visit the Machine Learning Engineer career profile for most current data.

$135,116
Median Salary

14.2%
Projected Job Growth (2025-2032)

340
Job Postings

Description:

Conduct research into fundamental computer and information science as theorists, designers, or inventors. Develop solutions to problems in the field of computer hardware and software.

Core tasks:

Analyze problems to develop solutions involving computer hardware and software.
Apply theoretical expertise and innovation to create or apply new technology, such as adapting principles for applying computers to new uses.
Conduct logical analyses of business, scientific, engineering, and other technical problems, formulating mathematical models of problems for solution by computers.
Design computers and the software that runs them.

Quick facts:

Machine Learning Engineer is a common job title that falls under the broad category of Computer and Information Research Scientists.
Based on national attainment data, the majority of Computer and Information Research Scientists (36.22%) hold a Bachelor's degree.
Computer and Information Research Scientists have a salary range from $47,798 to $210,038.

Data Analyst

* Data sampled July 2025. Visit the Data Analyst career profile for most current data.

$111,621
Median Salary

14.9%
Projected Job Growth (2025-2032)

535
Job Postings

Description:

Develop and implement a set of techniques or analytics applications to transform raw data into meaningful information using data-oriented programming languages and visualization software. Apply data mining, data modeling, natural language processing, and machine learning to extract and analyze information from large structured and unstructured datasets. Visualize, interpret, and report data findings. May create dynamic data reports.

Core tasks:

Analyze, manipulate, or process large sets of data using statistical software.
Apply feature selection algorithms to models predicting outcomes of interest, such as sales, attrition, and healthcare use.
Apply sampling techniques to determine groups to be surveyed or use complete enumeration methods.
Clean and manipulate raw data using statistical software.

Quick facts:

Data Analyst is a common job title that falls under the broad category of Data Scientists.
Based on national attainment data, the majority of Data Scientists (36.22%) hold a Bachelor's degree.
Data scientists typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, computer science, or a related field to enter the occupation. Some employers require or prefer that applicants have a master’s or doctoral degree.
Data Scientists have a salary range from $64,578 to $176,810.

Cloud Architect

* Data sampled July 2025. Visit the Cloud Architect career profile for most current data.

$99,272
Median Salary

2.6%
Projected Job Growth (2025-2032)

738
Job Postings

Description:

Design and develop solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions.

Core tasks:

Direct the analysis, development, and operation of complete computer systems.
Direct the installation of operating systems, network or application software, or computer or network hardware.
Research, test, or verify proper functioning of software patches and fixes.
Collaborate with engineers or software developers to select appropriate design solutions or ensure the compatibility of system components.

Quick facts:

Cloud Architect is a common job title that falls under the broad category of Computer Systems Engineers/Architects.
Based on national attainment data, the majority of Computer Systems Engineers/Architects (40.91%) hold a Certificate.
Computer Systems Engineers/Architects have a salary range from $47,350 to $169,035.

Python Developer

* Data sampled July 2025. Visit the Python Developer career profile for most current data.

$129,320
Median Salary

8.8%
Projected Job Growth (2025-2032)

3630
Job Postings

Description:

Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. Update software or enhance existing software capabilities. May work with computer hardware engineers to integrate hardware and software systems, and develop specifications and performance requirements. May maintain databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team.

Core tasks:

Analyze information to determine, recommend, and plan installation of a new system or modification of an existing system.
Confer with systems analysts, engineers, programmers and others to design systems and to obtain information on project limitations and capabilities, performance requirements and interfaces.
Design, develop and modify software systems, using scientific analysis and mathematical models to predict and measure outcomes and consequences of design.
Develop or direct software system testing or validation procedures, programming, or documentation.

Quick facts:

Python Developer is a common job title that falls under the broad category of Software Developers.
Based on national attainment data, the majority of Software Developers (79.73%) hold a Bachelor's degree.
Software Developers have a salary range from $77,025 to $178,141.

Related Resources

Flexible Learning

Choose between on-campus, hybrid, and online learning options to tailor your academic schedule to your unique needs.

Writing Center

The Writing Center offers personalized support to help students strengthen their writing skills across all types of assignments, from brainstorming and outlining to drafting, revising, and refining grammar and citation practices.

Tutoring Center

The Tutoring Center offers support for over 200 courses, including Accounting, Chemistry, Computer Science, Math, and Physics, with regularly scheduled drop-in or appointment-based sessions for enrolled students.

Career Support

Take advantage of Harper's comprehensive career services, networking opportunities, and the Job Placement Resource Center (JPRC) as you transition to the workforce.

Basic Needs Support

Access resources and referrals for food, transportation, childcare, wellness, and housing through Hawks Care to eliminate barriers to enrolling in courses and achieving your academic goals.

Tech Programs Built with Industry Experts

Harper’s Business Industry Leadership Team (BILT) collaborated with professionals from Walgreens, Luminaire Health, Navistar, Intelliguards, and CCS Technology Group to develop programs that equip you with the skills, certifications, and connections to succeed in your career.

Contact us

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On Campus Hours—C103 (Summer Hours):
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The office is closed on college holidays.