AWS Academy to equip students with in-demand cloud computing skills

March 2026

By Claire Huggins

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University College Birmingham is excited to announce that it has become an AWS Academy member, joining a global network of higher education institutions that deliver industry-aligned cloud computing education supported by Amazon Web Services (AWS).

For our undergraduate and postgraduate computer science students, AWS Academy membership provides access to industry-leading curriculum and hands-on learning using real-world tools and technologies. Through their studies, students will develop practical, in-demand digital skills while gaining insight into how cloud platforms are used across modern organisations. Students can enrol in courses that teach in-demand cloud skills, allowing them to solve business challenges based on actual industry scenarios and help prepare them to pursue industry-recognised AWS certifications and in-demand jobs.

The University's designation as an AWS Academy member institution aligns closely with the priorities outlined in the West Midlands Growth Plan; the plan emphasises the development of higher-level digital skills, productivity growth and inclusive economic opportunities across the region.

By embedding industry-aligned cloud computing curriculum into our programmes, we are strengthening the regional skills pipeline in areas critical to growth, including digital innovation, data and advanced services, simultaneously supporting the plan's ambition to equip local talent with the capabilities needed for high-value, future-focused employment.

"Becoming an AWS Academy member institution is a significant step in strengthening how we prepare students for the modern workplace," said Rosa Wells, Dean of STEM.

"Cloud technologies now underpin a wide range of industries, and this trend will greatly benefit our students. It ensures our students gain practical, relevant experience alongside their academic studies, while reinforcing our commitment to delivering high-quality education that responds to employer needs and regional skills priorities."

"Our membership with AWS Academy will ensure our students continue to develop the technical skills needed for their long-term career success, both here in the UK and around the world."

Sean Preston Deputy Dean for Learning and Teaching (School of Computing, Engineering and Built Environment)

Beginning later this year, the AWS Academy curriculum will be embedded in our Computer Science BSc (Hons) and Computer Science MSc programmes. Students enrolled on participating courses will gain access to cloud-focused modules, hands-on learning activities and AWS Academy resources as part of their studies.

"We pride ourselves on providing our students with an exciting and rewarding learning journey that's underpinned by real-world and industry experience," added Sean Preston, Deputy Dean for Learning and Teaching (School of Computing, Engineering and Built Environment).

"Much of the technology we use utilises cloud technologies, and our membership with AWS Academy will ensure our students continue to develop the technical skills needed for their long-term career success, both here in the UK and around the world."

Kanwal Rauf, Head of Department of Computing added:

"Becoming an AWS Academy member represents an important step in strengthening our digital and technical provision. It allows us to evolve our curriculum in line with rapid technological change, ensuring students engage with contemporary tools, platforms and ways of working."

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