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Explore top online software engineering courses

Breaking into the software engineering field doesn't have to be daunting. Explore edX courses and programs built for learners starting out, changing paths, or advancing their skills.

Key takeaways

  • Software engineering is a broad field that can lead to lucrative careers across industries.
  • Many learners start with programming languages, data structures, and algorithms before moving into more advanced areas.
  • edX delivers online software engineering courses and programs from top schools and industry leaders, with opportunities to earn a credential upon completion.

Popular online software engineering courses with certificates

What is software engineering?

Software engineering is a branch of computer science that applies engineering principles to design, develop, test, and maintain software.

Beyond writing code, it involves solving problems and building systems that people and organizations can rely on, designed to scale, stay secure, and evolve.

While most software engineers hold a bachelor's degree in computer science or information technology (IT), it's not the only way into the field. You can start by learning core programming skills through courses, and then build on them as new tools and technologies emerge.

Why learn software engineering?

  • Build skills you can apply immediately: Learn the engineering principles behind designing, developing, and maintaining software that you can apply at work or use to switch careers or start your own business.
  • Work across industries, not just tech: Software engineers build and maintain systems across all sectors and industries, from healthcare and finance to retail and beyond.
  • Enter a field with strong demand and earning potential: Join a high-growth field through 2034 with a median salary of $131,450, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Browse online Software Engineering 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

Jobs that use software engineering

Building up your software engineering knowledge and skill set can help open doors to a variety of careers. Find common jobs below, with salary data from the BLS.

Software developer

Software developers design computer applications and programs and oversee their maintenance. They may also recommend application upgrades to their clients.

  • Required education: Bachelor's degree in computer science, IT, or a related discipline
  • Median annual salary (2024): $131,450

Why learn software engineering online with edX

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Hear what other learners have to say

"Given enough time, you can work through any problem that comes your way. I have seen many new software developers in the field panic because they are not able to solve a problem immediately, or because they spend an entire day on a project but come up empty-handed. That is okay, and what's more important is that you try your best, research, and communicate with your team during meetings to navigate the problem together."

— Jordan Black, software developer and PhD candidate in machine learning, game design, and player psychology, University of North Texas

How to learn software engineering

If you're exploring a career in software engineering, one of the hardest parts is knowing where to begin, which skills matter most, and the educational option that makes sense for your goals.

edX offers online software engineering courses and certificate programs that fit around your schedule, with options for different experience levels and both broad and highly specialized topics. Learners can choose from programs offered by institutions recognized by employers worldwide, including Harvard, MIT, Google, and IBM.

When you complete an edX course or program, you can earn a verified certificate that shows you have built skills through a rigorous, reputable learning experience.

Consider these steps to start preparing for a career in software engineering:

1. Research career paths and choose a specialization

Since software engineering is such a broad field, it helps to start by finding a specialization that aligns with the kind of day-to-day work you want to do. Each specialization may require a different mix of tools, technologies, and workflows:

  • Web development (front-end, back-end, or full-stack development): JavaScript, frameworks like React, and API design
  • DevOps: CI/CD pipelines, automation, and infrastructure management
  • Data and machine learning: Python, SQL, and data modeling
  • Cloud engineering: Platforms like AWS or Azure, along with Docker and Kubernetes

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Frequently asked questions

How do you become a software engineer without a degree?

It may be possible to start building software engineering skills without a degree, but some employers may still prefer or require a bachelor's degree, depending on the role. You may be able to enter the field by building relevant skills through online learning and stackable credentials.

On edX, you might start with a Professional Certificate to develop job-relevant skills or a MicroBachelors® program to earn transferable college credit in foundational subject areas. As you learn, working on projects can also help you apply your skills and show employers what you can do.

What programming languages do software engineers use?

Software engineers typically use languages such as Python, JavaScript, and Java, alongside specialized languages such as C++, Go, and Rust for systems and cloud infrastructure. They may also use SQL for database management and HTML/CSS for web design and structure.

What do entry-level software engineers do?

Entry-level software engineers may work with mid-level and senior-level software engineers to design, develop, test, maintain, and update software applications and programs. Entry-level professionals typically manage more routine tasks as they familiarize themselves with the company's codebase and develop their programming skills.

Is it hard to become a software engineer?

With training and persistence, you can learn many of the skills you need to become a software engineer, including programming languages, data structures, algorithms, testing and debugging procedures, database knowledge, software frameworks, and cloud platforms.

A short software engineering course might help you discover if this career path would be a good fit for you. It may also help to become familiar with common development tools and environments as you build your skills.

What is the difference between a software engineer and a software developer?

Though the terms are often used interchangeably, there may be distinct differences between the two, depending on the company and the role. Software developers build applications or programs that meet the needs of clients and end-users. Their work may focus more directly on building, updating, and improving specific applications, features, or user experiences.

Software engineers may take a broader systems approach, helping design and maintain the underlying architecture, infrastructure, or long-term scalability of software. Their work looks at the big picture instead of focusing on a single application or program.

What can you expect from a software engineering program?

Software engineering programs cover a variety of topics related to software design, development, and maintenance. Courses often emphasize programming and coding languages such as Java, Python, C/C++, and JavaScript, though the curriculum may vary by program type and institution.

Typical coursework may focus on:

  • The software development life cycle
  • Best practices in software design and web development
  • Software testing, verification, and validation
  • Software project management
  • Algorithms
  • Computer architecture
  • Data structures
  • Computer networks
  • Operating systems
  • Database design
  • Artificial intelligence
How long does it take to learn software engineering?

The time it takes to learn software engineering varies depending on the learning path you choose to pursue. If you decide to earn a bachelor's degree in computer science, for example, it can take at least 4 years of full-time study. However, you can start learning the basics from short courses that only take 2-6 weeks to complete.