Learn Scratch programming

Do you want to learn programming but aren't sure where to start? Scratch programming may be a great way for beginners to enter the industry and set themselves up for professional success.

Learn more about what Scratch programming is, how to choose a learning path that works best for you, and what kinds of career options may be available to those with this skill set.

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Smiling man wearing a yellow hat and stylish eyeglasses, sits at a table in a cafe while learning how to code on his laptop.

What is Scratch programming?

Scratch programming is a visual programming language developed by the Media Lab at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Many institutions use it to teach beginners the basics of programming by dragging and dropping colorful blocks instead of typing code.

Some benefits of learning Scratch programming include:

Quickly learning computational thinking and creative problem-solving to prepare for more advanced coursework
Gaining knowledge to help you get your foot in the door for programming and development jobs in various fields
Learning fundamentals through free, self-paced courses in as little as three weeks

With time and commitment to your goals, learning Scratch programming can take you far in your career.

Browse online Scratch programming courses

Choosing the right Scratch programming program for you

Selecting the right program to learn Scratch programming can be daunting. The following information can help you weigh your options based on your level of programming knowledge and future professional goals:

Courses

Scratch programming courses are excellent for those who are just beginning to explore the world of programming and looking for a friendly way to learn basic concepts like functions, return values, conditions, loops, variables, and abstraction.

Certifications

Certifications can be perfect for career-switchers who want to land an entry-level programming role, as well as those looking to advance in their current technology-related careers. These programs can teach fundamental concepts of visual coding and give you the opportunity to participate in hands-on projects using the Scratch platform.

Executive education programs

Executive education programs allow managers and business leaders to learn Scratch programming and see how it can improve their decision-making and leadership. A Scratch programming executive education program may teach you the basics of the platform and help you understand the business implications of using it.

Degrees

Scratch programming is often introduced to beginners pursuing degrees in computer science, computer engineering, or web development. While these degree programs take longer to complete, they provide comprehensive coursework in programming as well as broader technological concepts.

Jobs in Scratch programming

Learning Scratch programming can help you launch into a programming or development career in any sector that creates, sells, or relies on software applications, websites, and networks.

While many jobs require a bachelor's degree to secure an entry-level position, learning Scratch programming can serve as a foundation for further education that can help you land these roles.

Here are a few positions that having experience with Scratch programming may help you qualify for, with each role's required education as well as salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):

Computer programmer

Computer programmers frequently find employment in the information technology (IT) and software industries but are also integral to sectors that rely on proprietary software to power their operations. Their primary duties include crafting, testing, and refining code and scripts to ensure that software applications and computer systems function smoothly.

Required education: Bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field
Median annual salary (May 2023): $99,700

Web developer

Web developers may design websites in any industry that requires the use of a functional website. You may create applications, menus, and other website features, work with designers to integrate visual and multimedia elements, monitor traffic and functionality, and make adjustments to the site when necessary.

Required education: Bachelor's degree in web development, computer science, information technology, or interactive media
Median annual salary (May 2023): $84,960

Software developer

Software developers can use Scratch programming for prototyping, which will be a fundamental part of this job. You may design software applications and systems, decide how each piece of the application will work together, create models to help programmers properly code the application, and perform maintenance and testing to optimize functionality.

Required education: Bachelor's degree in information technology or a related field
Median annual salary (May 2023): $132,270

Learn Scratch programming online with edX

Learning Scratch programming can help you gain new skills and professional opportunities. Explore edX degree programs, or sign up for an online course to begin your Scratch journey today.

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Frequently asked questions about Scratch programming

Why should I learn Scratch programming?

Scratch programming helps you learn the basics of this skill in a fun and accessible way. Starting with Scratch programming ensures you have the fundamentals of coding down before moving on to more complex concepts.

How long does it take to learn Scratch programming?

You can learn Scratch programming in as little as three weeks if you have two to six hours per week to dedicate to a self-paced course. If you decide to enroll in a degree or certification program, your curriculum may take longer to complete.

How hard is it to learn Scratch programming?

Scratch programming is widely considered to be one of the easiest programming languages to learn, as it is visual in nature and often used to teach beginners the basics of coding, computational thinking, and problem-solving.