Learn software development online
Online software development courses can help you develop or sharpen your programming skills, often without having to leave the comfort of your home. Explore learning pathways for software development in our guide, including information on coursework, available career pathways, and more.
Why learn software development online?
Discover new opportunities
Learning software development can help you build in-demand skills that can qualify you for new roles.
Learn at your own pace
On your computer, tablet, or phone, online courses make learning flexible to fit your busy life.
Earn a valuable credential
Online courses often provide credentials that prove your expertise to potential employers.
What is software development?
Software development involves creating, building, and maintaining applications, frameworks, and other projects. It's more than just having a great idea. It's knowing how to grow an idea into a real-world application or framework, test it, and fix any bugs that pop up.
Successful software developers must have strong problem-solving stills to test, adjust, and maintain their product throughout its lifecycle.
Browse online Software Development Certificates
Find new interests and advance your career opportunities
Stand out in your field
Use the knowledge and skills you have gained to drive impact at work and grow your career.
Learn at your own pace
On your computer, tablet or phone, online courses make learning flexible to fit your busy life.
Earn a valuable credential
Showcase your key skills and valuable knowledge.
Certificates
Related Topics
What can you learn in software development courses?
In software development online courses, you can explore software from inception to testing to maintenance. These programs often cover the basics of software development or dig deeper into specialized topics like full-stack application development, AI, or security.
Enrolling in a software development course can help you build the essential technical and soft skills you will need for a career in the industry, including:
Technical skills
- Programming languages like JavaScript, Python, and SQL
- Linear algebra
- Back-end and front-end development
- Security protocols
- Algorithms and data structures
- Memory management
Soft skills
- Problem-solving
- Creativity
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Accuracy and precision
While many software development programs may explore various programming languages, you may also benefit from a course focused on a single programming language.
Explore online programming language courses like Georgia Tech's Introduction to Python on edX.
What jobs can you get in software development?
Enrolling in a software development degree program can prepare you to pursue many in-demand roles. Some of these positions only require a bachelor's degree and are projected to grow faster than average from 2023-33, per Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projections.
With a master's degree in a software-related field, you can often pursue higher-paying roles with leadership responsibilities.
Below are a few careers in software development that you can consider, with salary and employment growth data from the BLS:
How to become a software developer
To work in software development, you may need to complete a bachelor's degree program in computer science or a related field. Some employers may require that candidates have a graduate degree, like a master's in software development, especially for management positions.
While college degrees can offer a path to job opportunities, you can also consider independent study options to build the skills and knowledge you'll need for the industry.
Steps to becoming a software developer
Path 1: Earn a relevant degree
- Take relevant classes. Many people major in computer science or engineering to become software developers.
- Learn to code. Software developers must be fluent in a coding language to develop applications.
- Complete an internship. You can gain crucial workplace experience and make professional connections through a software development internship.
- Compile a portfolio. During the hiring process, you can demonstrate your skills by collecting examples of successful work.
- Apply for jobs. You can start applying for jobs once you've completed your degree program and can demonstrate your experience and expertise.
- Continue your education. Because software and technology advances rapidly, you may benefit from taking courses or earning a master's in software development to stay up to date with industry trends.
Path 2: Independent study and development projects
- Learn to code. Explore courses in key programming languages like Python, Javascript, or C++.
- Explore development tools. There are many tools that can help you learn software development on your own, including online courses on edX.
- Create an independent project. Software developers who learn independently must demonstrate their skills by ideating and completing projects.
- Take online courses in software development. Online professional certificates and course programs in various software development topics can help you build new skills, adopt the latest tools and strategies, and brush up on knowledge you developed throughout your independent studies.
- Network with peers. Join forums and networking groups to discover new tools, trends, and job opportunities.
More opportunities for you to learn
We've added 500+ learning opportunities to create one of the world's most comprehensive free-to-degree online learning platforms.
FAQ about learning software development
Last updated May 23, 2025