Learn R programming

What you can learn in R programming classes

Online R programming courses can introduce you to the language and help you learn new skills and master key concepts.

Introductory classes and courses

If you're still exploring programming languages, start with a stand-alone R class. You can learn about the language's advantages, primary uses, and potential drawbacks in just a few hours. Researching reputable sources can also provide you with this information.

Once you've decided to learn R programming, explore edX's free programming courses. The lack of financial burden means you can try different courses and complete ones that meet your needs.

Intermediate certificates

Once you've mastered the basics, explore certificates on edX to further develop your skills. These programs can help you specialize in R and explore new opportunities.

IBM's Applied Data Science with R course teaches you how to create visualizations and use R libraries. Upon completion, you earn a professional certificate from IBM, an advantage if your résumé lacks relevant work experience.

Advanced certificates

An advanced certificate in R programming can teach you much about functional programming, object-oriented programming, and debugging and profiling. Coursework may also cover lesson choices within functional programming.

In addition to technological knowledge, online R programming courses can help you develop many transferable soft skills, such as problem-solving, perseverance, and memorization.

How to get started in R programming

1. Decide why you want to learn R and create a roadmap.

Before taking any R programming courses online, consider why you want to learn R over other programming languages. Research your options and make a list of pros and cons. You can also ask coworkers working in computer programming for their opinions.

These are important first steps for many reasons, mainly because you want to make an informed decision. Creating a learning roadmap keeps you accountable as you take introductory, intermediate, and advanced R courses. You can also adjust your roadmap before paying for a costly course, certificate program, or degree.

2. Take introductory classes and courses.

Taking introductory R programming classes and courses teaches you the language's foundations. This is an essential step if you want to build your skills and tailor them toward your career goals. Make sure to take advantage of your class or course's learning resources and reach out to instructors if you're struggling.

This is a great time to make your first connections within the R community. Professional contacts can offer many benefits, such as educational and career resources. The latter is especially important in a competitive job market.

3. Build your skills and gain experience.

Now that you know the basics, it's time to align your R knowledge skills with your career goals. When comparing intermediate and advanced courses, note which R skills they emphasize. In these classes, you might master:

• R programming for bioinformatics
• High-dimensional data analysis
• Inference and modeling
• Linear models and matrix algebra

These classes, like the following two steps, may provide you with the knowledge and skills to pursue entry-level R programming careers. Gaining work experience in a relevant industry can help you further build your skills.

4. Earn a college certificate.

To get your first R programming job, you might need to do more than take courses and earn professional certifications. College certificates offer many advantages over a four-year degree, including lower costs and less time to completion. Certificate programs also emphasize the skills you need for career success.

Online certificates may charge a fee. Before signing up, determine whether successful completion awards college credit. Earning credit now can reduce the time you need to finish a four-year degree and potentially save you money on your education.

5. Earn a college degree

Typical computer programming careers require a college degree. Although you may not find a college offering a bachelor's in R programming, a computer science bachelor's with a concentration in software engineering can help you reach your goals. Research programs' curricula to find those with many R electives.

Undergraduate education offers more benefits than the degree you receive at the end, such as coursework emphasizing soft, transferable skills. You can also explore other programming languages to complement your R education. Take advantage of your school's networking opportunities and career resources to start your job hunt on the right foot.

How long does it take to learn R programming

You can learn some R fundamentals in about a week by taking a free online course. These introductory courses emphasize data analysis, management, and visualization. You may need extra time if you're unfamiliar with computer programming.

Even if you feel comfortable with statistics and programming, mastering R can take many years, depending on how long you study each week. Fortunately, you can learn R programming at your own pace with online resources.

*4-6 years (bachelor's); 12-36 months (master's); 4-8 years (doctorate)

Jobs that use R programming

Below, find roles that make use of R programming, with salary and job outlook data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

Computer programmer

Computer programmers use R, C++, and other programming languages to create new software, add functionality, and test programs for bugs. Some of their responsibilities overlap with software programmers. Successful computer programmer job seekers offer employers advanced analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

• Median annual salary (May 2024): $98,670
• Projected employment growth(2024-34): -6%
• Required education: Bachelor's degree

Data scientist

Data scientists use their R programming skills to visualize and analyze data, present findings to stakeholders, and develop algorithms and models. They work in different industries, such as computer systems design and insurance. Some senior-level positions require a master's in data science or a doctoral degree.

• Median annual salary (May 2024): $112,590
• Projected employment growth(2024-34): +34%
• Required education: Bachelor's degree

Network and computer systems administrator

Network and computer systems administrators ensure network security, develop and configure networking software, and troubleshoot problems. Knowing R helps these professionals create visualizations and draw conclusions from network activity. Top employers include computer systems design and education services organizations.

• Median annual salary (May 2024): $96,800
• Projected employment growth(2024-34): -4%
• Required education: Bachelor's degree

Your next steps on edX

1. Choose an introductory class or an R programming course.
2. Develop your skills and improve your résumé with a certificate or degree.
3. Become a more effective manager by enrolling in an executive education program.

Last updated June 24, 2025