Learn virtual reality app development

What do you learn in VR app development classes?

What you'll learn in a VR app development class depends on your specific program. For example, in an independent course, you'll likely focus on a single area of development, such as building 3D environments and models, crafting intuitive menus, or learning to code. Many VR applications use Unity 3D, Unreal, and WebVR, for example.

These classes also vary in difficulty, beginning with the fundamentals of coding and 3D tracking before advancing to intermediate skills like debugging. You can advance to topics like launching applications with connected, cloud-based structures.

Virtual reality app development classes can also help you develop soft skills, like communication and empathy. When using VR, you can place yourself in the shoes of people with different lives. As you develop virtual reality apps, you will also need to communicate with technical and non-technical stakeholders.

How to get started in virtual reality app development

1. Take stock of your goals

Having a clear goal can give you a starting point in your virtual reality app development journey. Do you want to contribute to the visual elements of a VR app? Do you want to code virtual reality software from the ground up, or help developers craft welcoming user interfaces for existing apps? You might want to work on elements of this field or fully dive in, but having your aspirations in mind can help you reach the finish line. Once you've identified your goals, seek opportunities designed to get you there.

2. Explore the world of VR

If you haven't already spent time with virtual reality tech, now is a good time to start. VR hardware can be expensive, but some services allow you to rent equipment like headsets. After you've found a few applications or games that interest you, research the development team behind them, along with the code they used to create the application. This way, you can learn more about the industry and home in on specific areas of interest.

3. Seek guidance from peers and mentors

Independent development — especially for games — is rapidly expanding. More games were published in 2024 on the Steam gaming platform than in any other year. With the field exploding, you can tap into a community of developers, testers, and gamers on sites and apps like Reddit and Discord. Experienced devs may be able to help you with issues you encounter in your own work, and general users can test your work-in-progress builds.

4. Enroll in an online virtual reality app development course

A virtual reality app development course can help you build your skills. These classes offer structure, support, and networking opportunities. You can enroll in virtual reality app development courses online or in person with colleges or independent organizations. Some providers may bundle classes to offer certificates, as well.

5. Pursue a bachelor's degree in a computer-related field

Many employers in the software development space require candidates to possess a bachelor's degree. If you're interested in pursuing a career as a developer but aren't sure if VR is right for you, consider a general software development degree with VR classes integrated in the curriculum. If you're already set on virtual reality app development, you can prioritize institutions that offer specialized programs.

How long does it take to learn virtual reality app development?

The time it takes to become proficient in virtual reality app development depends on your short-term and long-term goals. For example, if you want to sharpen your skills in a specific aspect of the field, like user experience and interface design, a course can help you become proficient in about six months, though you'll benefit from lifetime learning in this subject.

Use your goals as a waypoint for your education choices. If you want to assist others by working as a QA analyst, you'll likely reach a level of mastery by earning a four-year degree and gaining experience in real-world settings. However, if you plan to design and release an entire app independently, this process is likely to take longer and require significantly more professional experience.

Still, many in software development find employment through self-instruction and doing the work. If you have a groundbreaking idea, even if it's a simple VR app or game, dedication and self-learning can help you reach "mastery" without a traditional education.

*4-6 years (bachelor's); 1-3 years (master's)

Jobs that use VR app development skills

Below, find jobs that you can pursue by learning VR app development, with salary and job outlook data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Software developers

These professionals design, code, and test applications for computers and other devices. They work across many industries to create software for gaming, retail, education, finance, and other purposes. Within the VR sphere, they may create games or educational experiences for audiences using headsets.

• Median annual salary (May 2024): $133,080
• Projected employment growth(2023-33): +18%
• Recommended education: Bachelor's degree in computer and information technology; some employers may prefer a master's degree

QA analysts and testers

Quality assurance testers and analysts assist developers by confirming proper app functionality on mobile and desktop platforms. They may manually test software or write code to create automated analysis scripts. These professionals must carefully document any issues they find so developers can implement their feedback.

• Median annual salary (May 2024): $102,610
• Projected employment growth(2023-33): +12%
• Recommended education: Bachelor's degree in computer and information technology

Computer network architects

These professionals create and deploy interconnected hardware and software systems. Many VR experiences, such as gaming and metaverse spaces, operate online on cloud-based systems, requiring the work of computer network architects to design their infrastructure.

• Median annual salary (May 2024): $130,390
• Projected employment growth(2023-33): +13%
• Recommended education: Bachelor's degree in computer and information technology or engineering

Your next steps on edX

The sky's the limit for your virtual reality app development career, but you have to start somewhere. Explore edX's various offerings and start with a course today.

1. Take a virtual reality app development course online with edX.
2. Research available certificates in VR-related subjects, like UX/UI design and coding.
3. Consider pursuing a four-year degree to receive a comprehensive education in VR app development.

Last updated July 7, 2025