ALX - AWS Program Prospectus
Program Overview
The ALX - AWS learning program is a 15-week cloud computing course in partnership with
Amazon Web Services. This program has been designed to equip participants with the ability to
build & leverage modern applications using AWS cloud technologies. In addition to the AWS
specialization, participants will also engage with the ‘ALX Foundations course that will see them
learn critical skills such as effective communication & collaboration, project management, data
analysis & visualization, and critical thinking.
The depth of expertise in technical training, when combined with ALX’s reach and experience in
educational delivery at scale throughout Africa, creates an opportunity to upskill millions of
young people on relevant technologies. Upon successfully completing the program, participants
will gain certifications in two main tracks: 1) Cloud Practitioner Essentials & 2) Solutions
Architect.
1. Cloud Practitioner Certification
This course is designed for participants who seek an overall understanding of the Amazon Web
Services (AWS) Cloud, independent of specific technical roles. Participants will learn about
AWS Cloud concepts, AWS services, security, architecture, pricing, and support to build their
AWS Cloud knowledge.
Some of the course objectives include:
● Summarize the working definition of AWS
● Differentiate between on-premises, hybrid-cloud, and all-in cloud
● Describe the basic global infrastructure of the AWS Cloud
● Explain the six benefits of the AWS Cloud
● Describe and provide an example of the core AWS services, including compute,
network, databases, and storage
● Identify an appropriate solution using AWS Cloud services with various use cases
● Describe the AWS Well-Architected Framework
● Explain the shared responsibility model
● Describe the core security services within the AWS Cloud
● Describe the basics of AWS Cloud migration
● Articulate the financial benefits of the AWS Cloud for an organization’s cost management
● Define the core billing, account management, and pricing models
● Explain how to use pricing tools to make cost-effective choices for AWS services
2. Solutions Architect Certification
The AWS Solutions Architect Certification builds on top of the Cloud Practitioner essentials. It
verifies participant knowledge of the AWS Cloud and their know-how in building a
well-architected infrastructure in AWS. Tested concepts include topics such as distributed
architecture, serverless, and containerized applications.
Preparing for and attaining this certification will showcase:
● Knowledge and skills in computing, networking, storage, and database AWS services as
well as AWS deployment and management services.
● Knowledge and skills in deploying, managing, and operating workloads on AWS as well
as implementing security controls and compliance requirements.
● Knowledge and skills in using the AWS Management Console and the AWS Command
Line Interface (CLI), Understanding of the AWS Well-Architected Framework, AWS
networking, security services, and the AWS global infrastructure.
Basic Program Requirements
Technical requirements
● Basic computer literacy (using a web browser, operating an email account, downloading
files, etc.).
● Basic coding & networking skills.
● An active email account.
● Access to a functioning computer & reliable internet connectivity.
● Access to Google Office productivity apps (Docs, Sheets, Slides – freely accessible to
anyone with a Google account).
Curriculum Overview
The AWS program will last for 15 weeks with participants moving from fundamental to
intermediate/advanced levels. By the end of the program, participants will be certified as AWS
Cloud Practitioners & Solutions Architect.
Here’s a brief breakdown of the week-by-week content:
Track Week Module Time in
hours
(weekly)
- Week 0 ALX Onboarding 10
Cloud Week 1 Cloud Practitioner Essentials 8.5
Practitioner
Week 2 Foundations & Introductions to Services 11.5
Week 3 Cloud Quest 11
Week 4 Catch up & Exam Prep 10
Solutions Week 5 Solutions Architecture 10.5
Architect
Week 6 Storage & Databases 10
Week 7 Networking 8.5
Week 8 Catch up 10
Week 9 Cloud Architecture 11
Week 10 Database Migration 10.5
Week 11 Step Functions & Security I 9.5
Week 12 Security II 7.5
Week 13 Exam Prep 10
Week 14 Solutions Architect Exam 2-10