App development courses and programs

Apps exist on nearly all electronic devices with screens. Learn how app development courses can prepare you to create helpful apps for different purposes.

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How to learn app development

1. Assess your current skill level

Assess your current skill level before signing up for an app development course. Start by comparing your knowledge and skills to what undergraduates learn in a bachelor's in app and web development program. Typical prerequisite courses include:

Introduction to information technology
Principles of operating systems

Learners comfortable with these computer science topics may want to start at the intermediate level. Intermediate app development courses can help you specialize and qualify for jobs. You can also pursue advanced courses without committing to a degree.

Beginners

If you lack a computer science background, learn mobile development with courses on edX to start your journey. Courses like Microsoft: Mobile and Desktop Apps introduce you to different programming languages and tools.

Intermediate

Once you've learned the basics, you can enroll in intermediate online courses, such as Introduction to User Experience (UX). This program teaches you how to navigate the UX project cycle and collaborate with stakeholders.

Advanced

You're ready for advanced app development courses once you've completed at least one introductory and intermediate course. Options include AI at the Edge on Arm, an in-depth course that teaches you to equip Arm-based phones with AI applications.

2. Take a course

Stand-alone courses lay the academic foundation you need to pursue a college certificate, degree, or app development career. Many feature an asynchronous education, letting you schedule coursework around your job and family. A typical course lasts 4-12 weeks and costs $50-$300.

Whether you're taking introductory, intermediate, or advanced courses, take time to refine your academic and career goals. This is an essential step, as you do not want to commit to a degree or job before exploring different areas of interest.

3. Build a portfolio

A portfolio is a collection of academic and work samples showing your app development expertise. You can start your portfolio with course projects and other academic samples.

Add work samples to your portfolio once you start gaining professional experience. Freelance opportunities are a great way to grow your portfolio. You can also build your portfolio by contributing to open-source projects.

Put your portfolio online, such as on a professional website. Include a link to your portfolio on your résumé and discuss its contents during job interviews.

4. Consider earning a certificate

Certificates are a great way to build your portfolio and improve your résumé. Online certificates take 2-10 months to earn and cost $500-$1,500. With edX, you can earn a certificate in software development, computer science principles, and generative AI for software developers.

Some certificates award college credit that you can apply toward an undergraduate or graduate degree. Starting your education with certificates may help you save money on a bachelor's or master's. Check credit transferability with your desired degree program before starting a certificate.

5. Gain hands-on experience

Hands-on experience is one of the best ways to further your education. If you're in a bachelor's or master's program, explore local internships and on-campus research opportunities. The contacts you make as an intern or research assistant may help you find your first full-time app development job.

Your first job presents many opportunities for professional growth. You may learn a new programming language and reinforce the soft skills that professionals in all fields need for success. These skills include communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

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Frequently asked questions

How long will it take me to learn app development?

You can learn app development in less than one year by enrolling in a college certificate program. Structured courses help you master computer science fundamentals, programming languages, and the latest in-demand skills. You can turn your education into an entry-level position or transfer credit to a bachelor's-completion program.

What qualifications do I need to be an app developer?

Most positions require a bachelor's degree in app development or a related field. A bachelor's degree takes 4-6 years, depending on whether you study full or part time.

Some app development jobs require applicants to have professional certifications. Popular certifications include:

Can I teach myself app development?

Yes, you can teach yourself app development with asynchronous app development courses. Stand-alone courses are a great way to explore the field and find your niche. Sign up for structured courses or certifications once you're ready to learn intermediate or advanced concepts.

Is app development hard?

App development can involve a lot of hard work, such as being on call on weekends and working over 40 hours per week. However, becoming an app or software developer offers many potential benefits, such as competitive salaries, remote work opportunities, and high job satisfaction. App development requires constantly keeping up with trends in a rapidly changing industry, so this career path may appeal to lifelong learners.

Last updated July 15, 2025