Learn software development online
Online software development courses can help you sharpen your programming skills without leaving home. Explore software development learning pathways, coursework, and career options on edX.
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 skills in order to test, adjust, and maintain products throughout their lifecycle.
Software development vs. software engineering
Software development and engineering share many necessary skills. However, there are some differences between the two specialties:
| Software development | Software engineering |
|---|---|
| Primarily involves writing code and creating applications or features. | Applies engineering principles to the entire software lifecycle. |
| Is more flexible, creative, and iterative. | Is more structured. |
| Involves writing and debugging code, implementing specific features or modules, translating requirements into software, and collaborating with designers and product managers. | Involves system architecture and design, performance optimization, testing strategies and automation, maintenance, and compliance. |
| Emphasizes coding, problem-solving, and adaptability to new languages and frameworks. | Emphasizes scalability, reliability, and lifecycle management. |
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.
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What can you learn in software development courses?
In online software development 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 | Soft skills |
|---|---|
|
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While software development programs can use many 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.
Explore software developmentHow to get started in software development
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.
“I have always been interested in technology, but I had never learned how to code. edX changed it all. I discovered CS50x, and thanks to David J. Malan and all of his students, I could start from the ground up.”
— David Lechón Quinoñes | CS50 Introduction to Programming with Python | Munich, Germany
Paths for learning software development
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.
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 2024 to 2034, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
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:
Computer network architect
These professionals create and deploy interconnected systems, such as local-area and wide-area networks, which may be physical or cloud-based.
- Median annual salary (2024):$130,390
- Projected employment growth(2024–34): +12%
- Required education: Bachelor's degree
Computer systems analyst
Also known as "systems architects," computer systems analysts evaluate companies' integrated technologies, including information systems, to find potential areas for improved efficiency. They may help deploy new technologies or improve existing systems.
- Median annual salary (2024): $103,790
- Projected employment growth(2024–34): +9%
- Required education: Bachelor's degree
Software developer
Software developers write the code that allows computer programs to function properly across various devices. Depending on their specific roles, these professionals may create, test, or upgrade applications.
- Median annual salary (2024): $133,080
- Projected employment growth(2024–34): +16%
- Required education: Bachelor's degree
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Last updated: October 3, 2025