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Bachelor of Science

Cisco Specialization,
Cloud and Network Engineering Degree

3rd Party Certifications Included in this Degree

OVERVIEW

Power Your Future with Skills Backed by the Leader in Enterprise Networking


 

Earn your Bachelor of Science in Cloud and Network Engineering with a Cisco concentration and gain hands-on expertise in managing Cisco-based infrastructures—the backbone of countless enterprise networks. With Cisco holding the largest market share in enterprise networking, this degree positions you for in-demand roles across industries.

In this program, students will learn to:

  • Design, configure, and deploy Cisco-based network architectures
  • Install and manage switches, routers, and firewall appliances
  • Secure enterprise networks using Cisco security protocols and tools
  • Troubleshoot connectivity, performance, and infrastructure issues
  • Understand and implement cloud integrations within Cisco-managed environments
  • Apply AI-based automation and orchestration for network optimization

In addition to coursework grounded in real-world applications, students earn industry-recognized Cisco certifications, demonstrating job-ready skills from day one. The program blends foundational cloud and network engineering with deep Cisco specialization, preparing graduates to thrive in hybrid infrastructure environments.

61% of graduates in similar programs finish within 

36 Months*

WGU lets you move more quickly through material you already know and advance as soon as you're ready. The result: You may finish faster.

*WGU Internal Data

Tuition per six-month term is

$3,915

Tuition charged per term—rather than per credit—helps you control the ultimate cost of earning your degree online. Finish faster, pay less! 

Average salary increase

$13,785*

 Graduates of our School of Technology graduate programs report an average salary increase of $13,785 after completing their WGU degree.

*WGU Internal Data

Ready to Start Your WGU Journey?

Next Start Date: October 1

Start Dates the 1st of Every Month After October 1

COURSES

Cisco Cloud and Network Engineering Courses

Program consists of 32 courses

At WGU, we design our curriculum to be timely, relevant, and practical—all to help you show that you know your stuff.

The B.S. Cloud and Network Engineering program is an all-online degree that you will complete through independent study with the support of WGU faculty. You will be expected to finish at least eight competency units (WGU's equivalent of the credit hour) each six-month term. (Each course is typically three or four units). There’s no limit on the number of units you can complete each term, so the more courses you get through, the quicker you can finish your program.

The Cisco specialization prepares you for a deep specialization in Cisco networking—ideal for careers in enterprise IT, telecom, and government systems. The experience and knowledge you gain in this program will help ensure you are prepared for Cisco-focused roles, boosting your résumé and preparing you for the next step in your career.

Pathway To a Cybersecurity Master's Degree
The coursework that you complete in your Network Engineering and Security degree can be applied to our Master of Science in Cybersecurity program which shortens the path to a master's degree in cybersecurity by 2 courses/6 credits.

 

Networking
Operating Systems
Network and Security
Information Technology Management
IT Fundamentals
General Education
Cloud Technologies
Cloud and Virtualization
Web and Cloud Security
Business of IT
Data Management

32 Courses

Program consists of 32 courses

At WGU, we design our curriculum to be timely, relevant, and practical—all to help you show that you know your stuff.

Skills For Your Résumé

As part of this program, you will develop a range of valuable skills that employers are looking for. 

  • Automation: Integrate Python scripts, modules, packages, and libraries to automate networking tasks and processes.
  • Cloud Computing: Design a hybrid network environment that incorporates both a traditional network and a cloud-based network. 
  • Computer Networks: Deploy cloud solutions for storage, networking, and security, as well as design and troubleshoot networks.
  • Data Analysis: Evaluate the relationship between two quantitative variables through correlation and regression. 
  • Information Systems Security: Execute operations and incident response with tools, policies, forensics, and mitigation techniques.  
  • Python: Apply Python principles and syntax to manage variables, data structures, and operators and to perform IT tasks. 

“Success looks like having the opportunity to get up every day and enjoy the work one does. I can genuinely say, WGU and the degrees I earned from WGU have afforded me the opportunity to do something I love!”

—G. Theresa Quitto-Dickerson
WGU School of Technology Graduate

WGU vs. Traditional Universities
Compare the Difference

Traditional Universities

 

AVG. cost
For 3RD PARTY IT CERTIFICATIONS

$350*

Included with your tuition cost

TUITION STRUCTURE

Per credit hour

Flat rate per 6-month term

SUPPORT

Schedule and wait days or even weeks to meet with one of many counselors

Simply email or call to connect with your designated Program Mentor who supports you from day one

EXAMS

Scheduled time

Whenever you feel ready

SCHEDULE

Professor led lectures at a certain time and place

Courses available anytime, from anywhere

TIME TO FINISH

Approximately 4 years, minimal acceleration options

As quickly as you can master the material, typically less than 3 years

TRANSFER CREDITS

Few accepted, based on certain schools and specific courses

A generous transfer policy that is based on your specific situation

*The cost of valuable industry certification exams can range from $150 to $400. At WGU, we offer vouchers for certification exams, so the cost is included in your tuition price. Students may have to pay additional fees for membership to complete the certification requirements.

Traditional Universities

 

AVG. cost
For 3RD PARTY IT CERTIFICATIONS

$350*

AVG. cost
For 3RD PARTY IT CERTIFICATIONS

Included with your tuition cost

TUITION STRUCTURE

Per credit hour

TUITION STRUCTURE

Flat rate per 6-month term

SUPPORT

Schedule and wait days or even weeks to meet with one of many counselors

SUPPORT

Simply email or call to connect with your designated Program Mentor who supports you from day one

EXAMS

Scheduled time

EXAMS

Whenever you feel ready

SCHEDULE

Professor led lectures at a certain time and place

SCHEDULE

Courses available anytime, from anywhere

TIME TO FINISH

Approximately 4 years, minimal acceleration options

TIME TO FINISH

As quickly as you can master the material, typically less than 3 years

TRANSFER CREDITS

Few accepted, based on certain schools and specific courses

TRANSFER CREDITS

A generous transfer policy that is based on your specific situation

*The cost of valuable industry certification exams can range from $150 to $400. At WGU, we offer vouchers for certification exams, so the cost is included in your tuition price. Students may have to pay additional fees for membership to complete the certification requirements.

Why WGU?

You Aren't On Your Own

WGU has Program Mentors who work with you from the day you start, all the way through graduation. They help you chart your courses, answer your questions, and ensure you can go through your program. You're not alone when you choose an online degree at WGU.

Flexibility You Need

Students choose WGU for their online degree program because of its flexibility. Whether you already have a full-time job, have responsibilities as a parent, or just have a busy schedule, WGU can work for you.

Strong Alumni Network

When you enroll in an online master's degree program at WGU, you join an impressive network of alumni all around the United States.

Accredited, Respected,
Recognized™

One important measure of a degree’s value is the reputation of the university where it was earned. When employers, industry leaders, and academic experts hold your alma mater in high esteem, you reap the benefits of that respect. WGU is a pioneer in reinventing higher education for the 21st century, and our quality has been recognized.

IT CERTIFICATIONS

3rd Party Networking Certifications Included


 

In the Cisco specialization, you wil have the opportunity to earn 9 industry certifications, including multiple Cisco certifications. These third-party certs give you experience and knowledge in the Cisco realm so you are qualified for additional roles and opportunities.

The cost of these certifications is included in your tuition, helping you save money as you enhance your skills. Earning certifications before you’ve even finished your degree gives you the knowledge, skills, and credentials that will immediately boost your résumé.

Both tracks include the following:

  • Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
  • Cisco Cybersecurity Operations Fundamentals (CBROPS) 
  • Cisco DevNet Associate (DevNet)
  • CompTIA A+  
  • CompTIA Project+ 
  • CompTIA Cloud+
  • ITIL®*^ Foundation Certification
Linux Professional Institute logo
  • LPI Linux Essentials

COST & TIME

When We Say Affordable We Mean It

By charging per six-month term rather than per credit—and empowering students to accelerate through material they know well or learn quickly—WGU helps students control the ultimate cost of their degrees. The faster you complete your program, the less you pay for your degree.

Tuition Calculator
Pay less by completing your program faster
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A Bachelor's Degree Is Within Reach

There is help available to make paying for school possible for you:

The average student loan debt of WGU graduates in 2023 (among those who borrowed) was about half* the national average.

Most WGU students qualify for financial aid, and WGU is approved for federal financial aid and U.S. veterans benefits. 
 

Many scholarship opportunities are available. Find out what you might be eligible for.
 

*WGU undergraduate students have approximately half the debt at graduation compared to the national average, according to the College Board and WGU Data (2023).

FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE

A Different Way to Learn: Degree Programs Designed to Fit Your Life—and All the Demands on Your Time

At WGU, we understand that you have professional responsibilities, family obligations, and personal commitments. That’s why we offer a personalized, flexible approach to higher education. You'll be challenged. You'll put in hours of hard work. And you'll get a solid, career-focused education that fits your life. Complete your coursework online, anytime and anywhere your schedule allows, and move through assignments and assessments as quickly as you're able.

"A WGU degree means doors that were previously closed have been opened, creating access to opportunities. Earning my degree from WGU has served as the 'True North,' compelling other family members to pursue their degrees at WGU as well!

—Jerry Davis
WGU School of Technology Graduate

CAREER OUTLOOK

A Bachelor's Degree in Cloud and Networking Sets You Apart

As more more organizations utilize cloud systems in their tech infrastructure, experience and knowledge surrounding cloud and network security will be critical. This program features a deep specialization in Cisco networking—ideal for careers in enterprise IT, telecom, and government systems

In this program you will gain broad foundational skills in cloud computing, security, and infrastructure. The Cisco focus of this specialization helps you be prepared for specific roles in organizations that utilize Cisco systems, ensuring you are well-qualified for working with these systems in your day-to-day responsibilities.

Return on Your Investment

On average, WGU graduates see an increase in income post-graduation

Average income increase from all degrees in annual salary vs. pre-enrollment salary. Source: 2023 Harris Poll Survey of 1,655 WGU graduates.

Survey was sent to a representative sample of WGU graduates from all colleges. Respondents received at least one WGU degree since 2017.

13%

The market for computer network architects is projected to grow 13% through 2033.

—U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Learn About Careers for Cloud and Network Engineering

Some of the job titles and industries a graduate of this cloud and network engineering degree program are qualified for include:

Job Titles

  • Network/Cloud/Infrastructure Engineer
  • Systems Administrator
  • Network Administrator 
  • Network Engineer
  • Cloud Security Engineer
  • Cloud Platform Engineer
  • Infrastructure Engineer
  • Network Technician
  • Network Analyst

 

Diverse Industries

  • IT
  • Telecom
  • Government 
  • Energy
  • Healthcare
  • Manufacturing

Major Employers

  • Northrup Gruman
  • Boeing
  • Verizon
  • Comcast
  • Salesforce 
  • Cisco

ADMISSIONS

Admission Requirements Unique to the Bachelor of Science in Cloud and Network Engineering

Students must be able to use key Calculus principles, rules, and applications while in the B.S. Cloud and Network Engineering program. Students must meet the following admission requirements for admittance to this program:

1.    Possess a high school diploma or its equivalent.

2.    Demonstrate readiness through completion of one of the following:

Option 1: Submit all transcripts documenting completion of college-level coursework with a minimum of 2.75 cumulative GPA or higher, AND successful and verifiable completion of a precalculus (or higher level) course from a WGU approved third-party provider with a grade “C” or better.

Option 2: A high school cumulative GPA of 3.0, or higher, AND a B grade, or better, in a high school honors, IB, or AP level advanced mathematics course.

If no previous Precalculus course has been completed by the time of application, students can complete this course through WGU Academy, prior to matriculation. 

NOTE: You do not need to take the ACT or SAT to be admitted to this program. Learn why we don't require these tests.

Get Your Enrollment Checklist

Download your step-by-step guide to enrollment.

Get Your Questions Answered

Talk to an WGU Enrollment Counselor.

Transfer Credits

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