Oglethorpe University to Offer Amazon Web Services AWS Academy Authorized Cloud Computing Courses

Atlanta, GA (03/04/2019) — Oglethorpe University has been accepted as a member institution for AWS Academy, an Amazon Web Services (AWS) program designed to help students acquire the skills and credentials needed in the cloud IT workforce. Oglethorpe joins Georgia Institute of Technology as the two AWS Academy member institutions in the state of Georgia.

AWS Academy offers an institutionally embedded pathway for students and educators to gain AWS Cloud computing skills and knowledge that prepares them to compete for the rapidly growing cloud computing careers and pursue industry-recognized AWS Certifications. AWS Academy courses are specifically designed for higher education institutions.

"Cloud technologies are increasingly helping organizations transform their businesses, and employees with cloud skills are in high demand," said Dr. Beth Concepción, assistant provost and director of Oglethorpe's Atlanta Laboratory for Learning. "Through the AWS Academy, our students will gain technical skills to position them well for their careers today and in the future."

As an AWS Academy member institution, Oglethorpe will be certified to offer an authorized AWS Cloud computing curriculum. Beginning in 2019, Oglethorpe will offer two courses: Cloud Foundations (summer 2019) and Cloud Computing Architecture (fall 2019), taught by certified instructor Dr. Brian Patterson, associate professor of mathematics and computer science. Both courses lead to a certification for students.

Cloud Foundations is a 20-hour course that provides a detailed overview of cloud concepts, AWS Cloud services, security, architecture, pricing, and support. This introductory course prepares students to pursue becoming an AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner. The Cloud Computing Architecture course, delivered over 60 hours, focuses on technical expertise in cloud computing and gaining the skills needed to pursue certification as an AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate.

Authorized AWS Academy curriculum is developed and maintained by AWS subject matter experts, ensuring it is up-to-date and reflects current services and best practices. Courses are taught by AWS Academy Accredited Instructors who are trained by AWS to help students become proficient in AWS technology, the world's most comprehensive and broadly adopted cloud platform.

"The AWS Academy complements Oglethorpe's current computer science program, while bridging disciplines like business and communications, and offering valuable transferable skills," said Dr. Patterson.

About Oglethorpe University

Founded in 1835, Oglethorpe University is Atlanta's only co-educational small private college, home to 1250 eclectic and engaged students from 33 states and 31 countries.

Renowned for its groundbreaking Core program, Oglethorpe's academically rigorous programs emphasize intellectual curiosity, individual attention, close collaboration among faculty and students, and active learning in relevant field experiences. Oglethorpe joins theory and practice in its A_LAB (Atlanta Laboratory for Learning), an incubator for experiential learning via internships, study abroad, civic engagement, and undergraduate research.

Under the leadership of President Lawrence Schall since 2005, Oglethorpe has entered an unprecedented era of innovation and growth, evidenced by increased enrollment and philanthropic giving, and new strategic entrepreneurial partnerships. Since 2013, Oglethorpe has seen the addition of an award-winning campus center; a residential complex with six state-of-the-art classrooms; and the expansion of arts and athletics facilities. Oglethorpe's partnership venture with LeadAbroad has expanded its global footprint with the development of five global campuses in Barcelona, Paris, Rome, Cape Town and Greece.

In 2019, Oglethorpe will open the I.W. "Ike" Cousins Center for Science and Innovation and the Q. William Hammack, Jr. School of Business.

Oglethorpe is home to the Conant Performing Arts Center, Oglethorpe University Museum of Art, and the Piedmont School of Atlanta. The Oglethorpe Stormy Petrels compete in the NCAA Division III Southern Athletic Association. Website: oglethorpe.edu